When the Storm Begins. 28

As the morning sun beamed down on the Sadunese rain forest, Aoules woke up shaking from a horrid nightmare. He dreamed he was free, but how can that be true? Queen Ladia would never grant him his freedom. Aoules sat up and looked around. He was in a field of what looked like purples and yellow bluebells, and his wrist was free. No chains, no cuffs, nothing. He was free. How can that be? Exactly what had happened? Still, a bit dazed, Aoules got on his feet and shook out the cobwebs that lay scattered in his memory. The last thing he remembered was the usual beating. It had hurt, but he was used to it after all his years of bondage. He was beaten two times a day, every day, rain or shine. But last night was different. He was beaten, but it was like Ladia had something she had to do and the beating was getting in the way. Questions, questions. Too many questions and not enough answers. But then that was his life. Wasn't it?
Sitting cross-legged, Aoules thought back a few hours trying to make sense of this page of his life. It really wasn't much to think about. Like his father before him, Aoules was born a slave. As a matter of fact, all Griffins for the last three hundred years were born into slavery. No one knew why, but that's the way it was in Aspana. Tote that bundle, plow that field, trade or be traded. If one was lucky enough to stay with a master, and his service was worth it, you might be granted your freedom. But that hardly ever happens. But I'm getting off track. Where was I? Oh yeah.
Aoules had been in service to the Harpys. It was unbearable. but he used to it. Aoules was in the service of Queen Ladia, one of the meanest bitches in all of Aspana. No matter what he did, it was wrong. As far as she was concerned, he couldn't even wipe his ass right. He was one of her private slaves meant to come and go at her commands. He made her food, cleaned her suite, and he was there for her sexual pleasure. It's not that bad if you could stand the smell which Aoules couldn't. Oh and there's one more thing I forget to mention. Though she looked female, she had one of the biggest cocks he had ever seen. Yes, there is no male and females in the Harpy species. Harpy's only need a mate of their own species to reproduce. Anyone one will do for pleasure.
Once Aoules was done cleaning and feeding Ladia, she took him to bed and had her way with him. Drained and exhausted, Aoules left her bedroom staggering and went back to his nitch for a few hours sleep. But he was forgetting his nightly beating. As the first strike of Ladia's whip hit Aoules, he screamed and jumped out of his bedstraws. With a row of laughter, Ladia ordered Aoules, held down while she beat him. Again and again, the whip came down stripping lines of flesh from his back. Though it hurt, Aoules didn't make another sound after his wake up scream. He just grit his teeth and took the beating. Once it was over, he made the shift to his Griffin form and crawled to his sleeping nitch where he passed out.

As the mourning sun crept over the horizon, Stormcrest stood over the sleeping form of Queen Ladia. She was beautiful he thought. With her vibrant red and blue feathers and her golden crest. One would think she was magnificent until they spent time with her and learned how cruel and horrible she really was. With a frown, he looked to the left and picked up a knife from her dinner tray. He took a step closer to her and looked down at her as she snored the night away. He didn't have to be there. He should've been miles away with Nereus on the way away from the Dragons. Instead, he found himself here in the crags and caves of Drachena where the dark things call home.You might ask how Beno found himself here amongst slaves and Harpys. It is a relevant question, he should be back somewhere in the east hunting Dragons with Nereus and the rest of the clan. Well, it seems he heard a desperate cry for help while he slept. He wasn't sure who it was from, but he knew someone was in real pain and they really needed help, so he opened his mind to the call and let the feelings flow through him.
It was from someone named Aoules. He was a dark-haired young man, a slave in the service of Queen Ladia, a Harpy who ruled her perch in the faraway land of Drachena. A dark and desperate place where Harpys ruled over lonely cliffs filled with sad and brutalized slaves desperate to be free.

As Stormcrest woke up from his night of dream revelations, he looked all around for Nereus, the leader of his clan. When he couldn't find him, he felt it was a chance for him to fly east and see if he could find some way to get Aoules out of his dilemma.
From the Griffins cave, Stormcrest flew east pass Tinpa and the capital city of the Pantheren nation. At the coast, he turned south-east and he started his ascent to the high mountains of Drachena.
Though Drachena was in the eastern sea of Aspana, it really was a cold barren place with very little vegetation and no safe beach to land a ship. It was surrounded by high cliffs and dangerous currents that made it impossible for shipping. Though rich in minerals, Drachena wasn't much by way of a center of trade. They usually ate whatever they caught and that included the slaves at times. Being carnivores, the Harpys did their own nightly hunting while the slaves were responsible for their own food. They kept small farms with potatoes, carrots, radishes, and onions with whatever their queens left as meat. As to other supplies, there were things that came to the Harpys by way of raids on ships and travelers that managed to get to close to the east coast of Sudan.
From the coast of Sudan, Stormcrest made the shift to Beno and started his way into the jungle. Sudan had a lot of wildlife which included many different types of insects, small monkeys, and a few Human Settlements. Beno avoided the Humans, he didn't need any trouble from them. With his mind deeply connected to Aoules, Beno followed his pain through the jungle. Pass the Hippogriffs and the dog like Grinda's. Around the swamp where the deadly Aligors swam and through the valley of the dry moisture sucking Breo. Beno stopped out beyond the walls of Trevan, the Human colony and watched as they set out new traps through the jungle to keep the monsters away.
From Trevan, Beno started on his way up into the mountains. He kept hidden because he didn't want the Harpys to know he was coming. Halfway up he doubled over screaming as Aoules as was being beaten by Queen Ladia and her warriors. He knew he had to hurry before they killed him.
Groaning to himself, Beno shifted forms and Stormcrest took off running up into the mountain. This wasn't how he expected his day to go. All he wanted was to get back to Domina where the rest of his family was. He never thought he would be here carrying out the wishes of two ancient gods.

Last night as he slept in the Griffin cave, he had what he thought was a dream. Tyree and Nurisha appeared before him and called him out of his dream.
"Beno," Nurisha called as she knelt down to face him, "Wake up my Son."
"Where am I?" He said rubbing his eyes.
"You are here with us," Tyree said. "We have something we want you to do."
As Beno looked up at the great gods Tyree and Nurisha, he blinked and rubbed his eyes. He jumped up and took a step back.
"Am I dreaming?"
"Yes, you are," Nurisha smiled. "But this is real. We are here talking to you."
"W, What do you want?" Beno bowed down keeping his head down.
"We have a task for you," Tyree said. "Get up off the ground and face us."
As Beno climbed up on his feet, the two gods shrank themselves down to seven feet and approached him.
"Now isn't this better?" Nurisha reached out and touched Beno on his cheek. "There's someone we need you to free. He's a Griffin just like you."
"Me?" Beno said surprised. "Why me?"
"Just find him," Tyree said as they started to fade away. "He's in the land of the Harpys. A place called Sudan, then find Sakura. He will need you."
As they disappeared, Beno woke up. He sat up and looked around. He was still in the Griffin cave.
"Was that a dream?" He said to himself.
[No, it wasn't,] Tyree whispered into his head. [Now go!]

As the fourteenth hour rang, Ranjer stood beside Ferel as they watched Mulu pay homage to Xuthulu at his altar. It was a bloody mess as one by one each sacrifice was lead to Xuthulu's altar where their life was given to the hungry god. Watching the slaughter wasn't easy for Ranjer. As a vampire the smell of blood was enticing. But it was also sicking. He couldn't even for a second dream of living that way. He knew about his parents and what they had done, and he knew he could never live like that. Watching Mulu take lives one after another, he knew he had to do something to stop him.
Slowly Ranjer inched his way away from the carnage. As he reached the side door, he took a last look at the crowd of Demondogs and Hyenen and disappeared. He ran as fast as he could through the temple and out into the back part of Mancora.
Though most of Mancora's citizen were in the temple, there was still a  number of Demondogs and Hyenens on the streets. Guards, warriors, slaves and masters, Though Mulu was master of Mancora, there was still some that opposed his rule. From the temple, Ranjer led Ferel back into poor part of Mancora. Males and females ran and ducked into hiding when the saw them. Not many would take a chance hiding the fugitives when they knew what Mulu would do if they were caught.
As they made their way through the shabby huts, a lone Hyenen came out from one of the huts and approached them.
"Who are you stranger? You are not like Mulu and his warriors. Why are you here?"
"I am here to find my friends," Ranjer said being honest. "They were captured by Mulu. Can you help us free them?"
"Mulu holds all power here in Mancora. There isn't much we can do except follow his commands or be punished."
"Mancora was not always like this," Ferel explained. "We were once hunters and artist. We kept cattle to feed our people, crops to trade. My father had a blacksmith forge, he made tools for all of our neighbors. Life was so peaceful, until the Amins took control and made us into killers.".
"Then we have to do something to stop him."
"Like what?" The villagers asked. "We have no weapons. No magic that can compare with Mulu. What are we to do?"
Ranjer stopped and stared out at the warriors on the city gate. He could shift forms and be out of here in the snap of his fingers, but that would leave Quynn and Sky stuck here in Mulu's hands. He just couldn't do that. Jandar and Rage would never forgive him. He would have to find a way to get them free.

As the sun started to make its way over the horizon, Palas pushed himself for another burst of energy. Tigaress was just over the next mountain range and down in the valley. He was almost there. He had been flying all night with only one rest stop for water and some wild fruit. As he sat there eating the pineapples and bananas he gathered, something moved just outside of his visual range. He stopped eating and put down the pineapple to get a closer look. It could just be his mind playing tricks on him. He was exhausted and he needed sleep, but that would have to wait. This was an important mission, Astan would be counting on him.
Climbing up on his feet, Palas walked on into the jungle. He could hear monkeys and wild birds chirping and squawking. From the sounds of the chirping, Palas knew they were wild unintelligent creatures, nothing like his people, but there was one thing he understood. They were scared. There was something out there they were afraid of.
Flexing his talons, Palas slowly made his way into the jungle. His eyes were sharp and use to the darkness of the night. As he walked, he caught a scent. It was heavy and musky. Palas didn't recognize it at first, but it was familiar, like something out of his nightmares. Suddenly there was an ear-piercing screech. Palas jumped, then spread his wings and flew up into the trees. As he clung to the tree, he searched the jungle and the trees around him. Everything was quiet. No more monkeys or birds. He couldn't even hear the sound of wind in the trees. Then something black jumped at him from the trees. Palas pulled himself back out of the way just as a black hand with long sharp claws scratched deep lines in the tree Palas had been perched in. As he took off into the air, he looked back and saw a huge black winged monster coming after him. But that can't be. He must be seeing things. Making a sharp left, he took another look behind him. There it was, coming up on him fast. But this time he recognized it. It wasn't a monster, it was a full-sized Vampire Bat with twelve to fifteen feet of wings and deadly claws and fangs.
Palas and his clan had come up against them in the past and lost friends that were deeply missed. That had been a horrible time for the Avians and their peaceful life. The first turn of what would be the end of a magnificent species.
With a flip in the air, Palas took off to the east. He held his wings in tight and dived down toward the jungle with the bat hot on his tail. With a sudden opening of his wings, he braked and slashed out with his talons slicing deep cuts in the Bats wings. With a screech, the Bat turned slapping down sending Palas rolling off to the side head over heels. Shaking his head, Palas pulled himself out of the roll and turned east again. As he streaked his way east, two more dark shadows came out of the sun flying straight at him. With three great Bats on his tail, Palas for a minute felt fear break its way through his heat.
"This will not do." He said to himself. "I have faced Gorillas, Warlocks and all the things in Domina's dark jungle. These Bats will not bring me down!!"
With another flip, Palas turned and with a loud squawk, dived at the center Bat. As his talons came out, Palas was on the Bat ripping at its wings until it couldn't stay in the air. With a scream, the Bat fall and Palas was on the next Bat with a rage in his heart.
"Your kind killed my brothers," He shouted as he ripped into the Bat tearing it apart. "I will not let you harm anyone ever again!!"
With a jump out of the way, Palas turned to face the last Bat.
As he faced it, he realized this Bat was much bigger than the other two. It had a wingspan of close to twenty feet. No burst of rage was going to take it down.
"Are you ready to die little one?"
"It will take a lot more then you have to kill me," Palas yelled as the rage again started to build inside his chest. "I will kill you and ever Bat on this jungle if I have too."
As Palas dived at the Bat. he let out the loudest, strongest scream.
As he dived at the Bat, a sonic burst of energy ripped its way out of his mouth and went straight for the Bat. Like a twenty foot sledgehammer, it hit the Bat in the face crushing its skull. As it fell, Palas watched surprised at what he had just done. With a grim shrug, he took off heading back on his way to Tinpa and the Tigaress royal family.

Chaos reigned all throughout Ladia’s aerie, Beno made his way out through Ladia’s private exit. With the elder queen dead, all her young daughters fought over the right to take over while the slaves took that as a chance to escape. From the queen's gate, Beno headed into the jungle. He knew Aoules was in here, he would use his pain to lead him right to his exact position. With his senses open, Beno followed the pain trail right to a clearing near the cliffs where he found Aoules just about to take to the morning skies.
Shifting quickly, Stormcrest called out to Aoules to stop him.
[Myumbo my friend. I am Stormcrest. It’s good to see you free.”
Aoules turned to look at Stormcrest. Who was this new Griffin? Could he have something to do with this situation?
[You did this?] He asked. [You got me out of there?]
[Yes.] Stormcrest bowed to him. [Ladia is dead and all her slaves are free.]
[Why?] He asked him confused. [Why would you do that? I don’t even know you.]
[Does that matter?] Stormcrest made the shift back to Beno. “Someone very important wants you to help me. Besides, you and the others deserve to be free, I’m glad I could help.”
[What if I don’t want to help?] Aoules looked at Beno with a frown. [What happens then?]
“You go on your way, and I go on without you.” Beno stepped up closer to Aoules. “I’m not here to force you into anything. I need your help. If you don’t want to help, you’re free to go anywhere you want.”
Aoules made the shift to his Human form and moved over to the edge of the cliff. Helping the Gorilla could get him killed, but he knew he should have died long ago from Ladia’s torture and crazy bed games. Besides, this one had done him a service he could never pay back for freeing him. The least he could do was serve him loyally.
“Alright,” He said. “I owe you my life. I will help you. Where are we going?”
“Mancora.”

Death, Dishonor and Courage. 27

As an evening wind blew through Mancoro, Ranjer stepped out of his hut, pulled his cloak closed and looked up toward the main house. Hyenen and Demondog warriors ran around like ants preparing for the oncoming battle. Rhinon and Elephant hulks stomped their way around the outer gate as the perimeter guard. Perched every fifty feet around the city wall, a tall menacing red-eyed Ravens sat staring out into the jungle.  Everything was set and ready. Hyenen against the Felines. All they were waiting for was the word from their master and they would be on their way to the final battle.
Ranjer walked out and up toward the main house. He had to find a way to stop this before it was too late.
"I would see your master." He said to the guard at the front door. "We have matters to discuss."
"Come this way." The Demon smiled and waved Ranjer in. "The Master is waiting for you."
As Ranjer followed him, he thought about what he would say. Should he try and talk Mulu out of his mad plan, or should he pretend to go along with him?
From the front alcove, the Demon led him back to the dark house and into Mulu's study. The room had two rows of glass tubs with noxious fumes and two cauldrons. Ranjer held his nose as he passed a cauldron with a skeletal leg hand from its edge.
"Have you made up your mind?" Mulu sat forward on his throne and stared down at Ranjer with glowing eyes and jagged teeth showing. "Are you with  me or not?"
On his right, Ranjer saw the leg in the pot moved, on the left six Demon's stood guard. Ranjer really wasn't given a choice. It was either join him or die.
"I will be with you," Ranjer said with a bow. "At your service. What will you have me do?"
"You can get my prisoners ready for the altar," Mulu said as he grabbed a small furry animal from a cage as his side and popped it in his mouth. "Tonight they will die as my sacrifice to Xuthulu. I will get enough power to rule Aspana and all the lands beyond!!!  Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!!!!!!"
As Ranjer turned to leave, he could hear Mulu's mad laughter ringing all through the house. He couldn't help but of how insane he had to be. There was no way he could allow him to get control of Aspana. If he did, he'd be knocking at our door next.
As Ranjer left Mulu's hall, he couldn't stop thinking about Quynn. He knew he was out there somewhere but where? He could be anywhere. Aspana was huge covering a length of ground from north to south and east and west. There had to be some way to find them. At home, it would be as easy as a simple call. All he would have to do is call out to them.
[Quynn!!] He sent out. [Cousin where are you!!!]
As minutes slipped by, Ranjer headed for the back pits of Mancora and Mulu's doomed sacrifices. Suddenly a familiar feeling came to him. It was a feeling he knew very well for many years.
[Ranjer?] Came a sudden answer. [Is that you?]
[Quynn? Where are you? Is Sky with you? Are you hurt?]
[No.] Quynn answered. [We're both OK. We've been taken captive by a crazy Hyenen.]
[MULU??]
There were a few minutes of silence and confusion. Quynn didn't understand how Ranjer could know about Mulu. He was far away back home in Taggitia with no knowledge of anything here in Aspana. Unless!
[Cousin, where are you?] Quynn sent nervously.
[I'm here.] He said. [Just outside of Mulu's house. Your father's sent me here to find you and bring you both back home.]
[We're somewhere in Mancora. Imprisoned in deep pits. Our magic's been stripped away. We can't use it. Can you get us out?]
[ I'm not sure.] Ranjer sent. [Right now I have Mulu's ear, but that could change. I know there are spies watching every move I make. so help won't be easy,]
[Then what can we do?] Sky asked.
[Mulu plans to sacrifice you to his crazy god. He'll have to send guards to take to his altar. We wait until they come for you.] Ranjer told them. [Then we'll make our move. Stay calm and be ready.]
[What about the other pits,[ Sky sent, [Can we free them?]
[If we have time. yes,] Ranjer said as he looked around to see two guards coming his way. Standing, he shouted down at the prisoners.
"Such disgusting beast. You should be glad to be Mulu's sacrifice. Only the best are privileged enough to be sent to his alter to die!"
 "If it's such a privilege, why don't you agree to become a  and take our place."
"Sorry," Ranjer smiled as he turned to walk away. "That's your destiny, I have other things to do."
As Ranjer walked pass the guards, he gave them a nod
"It will be good to see these melca die underneath Mulu' blade. Ha ha ha ha ha!!!"
Walking quickly, Ranjer wanted to look back, but he didn't dare. He couldn't take the risk that they would report his action back to the Demon Lord. From the first pit, Ranjer moved on to the next pit. There he found a grey-haired Lion man. Something told him this land was ruled, Animal men.
"Who are you?" Came from the green-eyed lion in the pit.
[I am Ranjer Zlenka.]  He bowed carefully. [Friend to Quynn and Sky. We are here to find a way to get you free.]
[I don't know anyone by either name, but I appreciate the help.] Msia sent. [What should I do?]
[Just wait and prepare your self. I'm sure we'll be fighting our way out of here.]
As Ranjer turned away from the pit, he looked to the next one and wondered who could be in there.
In a few steps, he was standing on the rim of the pit. He looked down thinking he would find an animal king or prince. Instead, he found.....
[Deja?] Ranjer looked down on the young werewolf in shock. [What are you doing here?]
[Ranjer?] She stood up and hurried to the edge of the pit. [Get me out of here!]
[Cousin you'll have to wait. I'll be back for you I promise. Just hold on.]
As Ranjer turned away, he could still hear Deja crying. He knew he had to get her out of that pit.
Werewolves don't do well in closed in space. From the pits, Ranjer walked quickly. He wasn't sure
if any of the guards had seen or heard what he said to Msia or Deja. If they had, he would be walking into the monster's jaws. As he walked he kept an eye on the Hyenen and the Demondogs. They all watched him with suspicion like he might attach at any minute. Then out of nowhere, something grabbed him and pulled him between two huts. Ranjer pulled his hand away and summoning a fireball when a voice said.
"Me sorry, me need help."
When Ranjer looked at the person that grabbed him he found himself staring into the dark eyes of a Hyenen warrior.
"What do you want?" Ranjer said quietly as he looked the warrior up and down. He was dressed like most of Mulu's warriors, ragged pants with rusted armor. What was different was the look in his eyes. They were dark but there was a hint of sadness there too.
"Me not want to fight." He said with pleading eyes. "Me want to go home. Me not like Mulu. Help please."
Ranjer looked at the Hyenen. He looked tired and weak, not like the rest of Mulu's troops. If he was going to help this Hyenen, he would have to work a spell over him.
"My name is Ranjer. What do they call you?"
"Me Ferel." He said with a weak smile. "You help Ferel? Ferel help you."
"I think I can help you." Ranjer smiled He took a deep breath and started his spell.

FROM DARK TO LIGHT.
FROM WRONG TO RIGHT.
FROM THE WEAK TO THE STRONG.
PLEASE HEAR MY SONG.
GIVE AGILITY AND STRENGTH
AND SPEED AND WISDOM.
BLESS MY FRIEND.
AND GIVE HIM THESE GIFTS
GIVE HIM PEACE AND COURAGE.
MAKE HIM HONORABLE AND TRUE
TO SEE THE TROUBLE THROUGH.

As the magic spun around Ferel, he lifted his arms and put his hands up to cover his face. For a minute fear overwhelmed him until the spell took hold and his true courage came out. His fur went from a shaggy mottled coat to fine brown neat coat, His scars faded and his muscles bulged as his eyes began to clear. When the magic faded, Ferel stepped forward a new Hyenen.
"What happened?" He asked. "What did you do?"
"I gave you what you needed to survive this war," Ranjer told him. "Now do  you still want my help?"
"You made me smart?"
"Yes," Ranjer said. "And fast, and strong. Do you still want my help?"
"Yes." He nodded. "I need your help to destroy Mulu Amin. He stole me and all the young ones from our village. He beat us and said he would kill our parents if we didn't join him. He lied. He killed our parents shortly after he sent us to his training place."
"Then we have to get the captives in the pits free." Ranjer looked back around the corner of the hut to where the pits were. Now there were four guards standing watch. One at each pit. To free the captives, they would have to find a way to either replace the guards on watch or take the place of the guards that come to take them to the altar. Lucky thing Mulu had put Ranjer in charge of taking care of the captives. It would be his job to deliver them to their final destination. "Follow me my friend."
From the dreaded pits, Ranjer and Ferel walked west through the city and out of the western gate to the monument that Mulu built in Xuthulu's honor. With Ferel in tow, Ranjer made his way out of the gate and down the long road that leads to Xuthulu's temple. Out in front, four warriors stood guard, each armed with a spear and dressed in rust-covered iron armor.
"How do we get in?" Ferel asked.
"We don't." Ranjer smiled. "Just follow me and keep your eyes open."
Straightening his cloak, Ranjer started in toward the temple with Ferel right behind. When he reached the gate, he stopped.
"What do you want Human?" A guard asked.
"I'm here to see Mulu."
"Wait here." The guard said as he turned and walked into the temple Minutes passed as they waited. The guards kept pointing at Ranjer and gibbering and laughing.
"What are they saying?" Ranjer asked Ferel.
"The big one thinks you look delicious," Ferel said. "He wants to take you out back and kill you."
"I don't think he'll like the way I taste." Ranjer smiled. As they laughed, the warrior returned.
"Mulu wants you to bring his captives here to the temple."
With a nod, Ranjer and Ferel turned and left the temple. From behind a curtain at the side of the altar, a voice spoke to a Demon.
"Follow them." It said. "Make sure they follow instructions."

The road had been long and the battles were many as King Yonas Kinya road back through the gates of Tinpa. He was tired and his body ached, all he wanted was to soak in a hot bath and let Aryonna rub his tired muscles until he purred. but that's not going to happen. He knew that the minute he stepped back into the palace, he would be deluged with things he had to attend to that can't wait. Being king wasn't all ways easy. There were good times when being king was great but this wasn't going to be one of those days. Astan was still missing and there had been no word from Sakura. The war was on. Yonas and his warriors had met Mulu's forces in the south at the borders of Zabti, the Zebran plain and Obleau River. They fought until the Elephant warriors had come in and broken the stalemate that sent Yonas and his forces int a brief retreat. Pulling back to the eastern side of the river, Yonas had to wait for the Rhinon forces to join him before they could double back and rejoin the battle.
With the Hyenen attacking from the south and the Demondogs coming in from the west, Yonas had to send the Rhinons and the newly joined Chimps to the west while he pushed down into the southern land leaving the east in the hands of G'ania Gazini and his Pantheren forces. Though the Rhinons are mighty warriors, they had a hard time battling the Elephants. With the Hyenen's holding on to the south, the Tigarens had a tough job keeping them from taking any land north of Domina, the Goren's city
Worn out, Yonas walked into his private suite dropping pieces of armor as he walked. When he reached his sleep furs, he spread his arms and fell right into a comfortable spot. Moaning with delight, Yonas closed his eyes and smiled.
"Don't you dare fall asleep," Aryonna said smugly. "I've been dealing with Merchants, Senator, Generals and the city tax collectors ever since you left. The Pantherans are waiting for you and so is the city builders. There's no time for sleep."
"Alright, alright," He moaned as he pushed himself up. "Can't I just get an hours sleep?"
""You know there's no rest for the crown." Aryonna ran her hand along the curve of his back down to his backside. "You deal with the crowd and I'll give you a little gift when you get back."
"You promise?" Yonas smiled then kissed her hand. "I'll hurry."
"Yes my lord." She said as she dropped her silks and stepped out of them. Her perfume was almost intoxicating. "Did you find Astan?"
"No," Yonas said. "Sakura is still searching for him. Why don't you get dressed and we can do this together."
"Ok," She smiled. She walked to her closet and picked through her gowns and wraps until she found a blue-green gown. With the gown in hand, Aryonna took it to her dressing table and slipped into it. Dressed, Aryonna sat down and looked at her reflection in the mirror, then fixed her makeup and rubbed a deep red lip gloss over her lips. Smiling at the results, she stood up and turned to King Yonas. He gazed at her, then walked over and took her in his arms and kissed his Queen.
"Is that a promise of things to come?" She wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed their bodies together. She could feel the heat coming from his body and it felt good after the weeks she spent while he was away.
"Yes my love," His eyes burned with there love. "Tonight we will celebrate our union with passion."
"Then you should hurry." She kissed his lips and smacked his bottom. "The representatives from Panthera are waiting for you in your office. G'ania must think there is trouble we can't handle to have sent so many warriors."
"Yes," Aryonna walked to her dressing table and picked up a bottle of perfume and sprayed it on herself. Like small fairies, the fragrant vapors spread out and filled the room. With a single scent, Yonas was again ready to make love. As Yonas came up behind her, he wrapped his arms around her and gave her a passionate kiss.
"Are you sure you want to do this?" Aryonna smiled as she reached into the front of his kilt.
"Yes," Yonas said breathing heavy. With a sweet smile, his Queen turned to face him.
"Answer the door."
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK.
"You witch woman." Yonas smacked her bottom then turned and went to answer the door. As the door opened, Yonas looked out and saw Kapor, his younger brother bowing to him.
"Myumbo brother, It's good to have you home. How goes the war?"
"Not quite to my liking brother," Yonas said as Kapor made his way into the royal sleeping chamber.
Kapor and his brother were identical twins from the stripes on their backs to the birthmark on their shoulder. Though Yonas was the older, Kapor never held any resentment towards his brother. He was happy in his station. Being king was a bit too much attention for him. "The Hyenen have taken most of the south lands leaving only Basolo free from Mulu's grip. The gorillas have joined the fighting under our banner with Goren Baba as their leader. The bring bad news of the Avian demise by there former chief. I'm hoping there is another Nesting land somewhere in the north. What's been happening here?"
"Where do I start." Kapor flopped down in a cushioned "We have Seals that attack by sea and Forest Elephants by land. Believe it or not, this is the only break we've had since the war started We're having a hard time keeping our gates close."
"Are the Royal guards still in place?" Yonas asked.
"Yes, but they are tired," Kapor said. "Actually I should say exhausted. Oh, and Zakia Manzi wants to speak with you."s
"Show him into my private study."
Getting to his feet, Kapor turned and made his way out of the king's private rooms to let the royal mage in. With a bow at the door, the mage followed Kapor into the study.
"Myumbo my king," Zakia said with a bow.
"Greets my old friend. What can I do for you today?"
"I am sorry your majesty," Zakia Manzi said with a troubled.look on his face. "But something is wrong here."
"What is it?" Kapor asked.
"I don't know." The Mage said. "I feel danger whenever I think of any of the royal family. Something is going to happen here. I don't know when or to who, but if we don't act soon, one of us will die."

As Kapor arranged extra guards for the king, six Pantheren warriors were stopped at the city's main gate. The leader, a dark-furred older warrior slid his hand into his saddlebag and pulled out a rolled up piece of parchment. Getting down from his horse, the warrior stepped forward to present his orders to the gatekeeper.
"Myumbo." He called up to the gatekeeper. "I am Assos Drern, general in the house of Duma. We have been sent here to protect your king."
"I haven't been informed of any change in the king's guard." The gatekeeper shouted back."You will have to wait until I can confirm this order."
"Will this help?" Assos said as he passed his written orders through an opening in the gate."They come straight from my regant G'annia Gazini."
"That may be." The gatekeeper said as two more Tigarens came out of the gatehouse to join them "But I don't take orders from your regent. I answer to my king and no one else."
"Take this to the palace." The gatekeeper said handing the parchment to a young Tigaren. "We will be here waiting for an answer."

Tired, Zakia made his way through the palace, something in his mind screamed danger. It got loader and loader until he felt like his head was about to explode, There had to be some way he could learn what the danger was. He had walked the length of the palace trying to get some kind of clue as to what the problem was. So far all he knew was that it involved the royal family. Whether it was Yonas or Kapor, Zakia wasn't sure. All he knew was that the danger was real and it might take one of their life.
While Zakia made his way to the front entrance of Kinya palace, a young Tigaren warrior bowed to him as they passed each other. Just as Zakia came face to face with the young Kyan, his mind exploded with intense pain. Zakia fell to the ground and screamed the Tigaren warrior ran off down the hall. As Zakia rubbed his head and climbed back on his feet, he turned to look down the. Whatever was causing the pain in his head, it had something to with that young warrior. Zakia closed his eyes and cupped his hands. He whispered a small spell into his hands. As he opened them, a small speck of light drifted up and flew after the boy. As it went after the boy, Zakia saw the hall with its line of past kings of Kinya. There was Asam the Brave and Wilm his father. Gar, Tiga, and Nortm Then Yonas and his father Kerr the Avenger who almost wiped out the trade of slaves all by his self. As the boy stopped at Kerr's portrait, he looked into Kerr's eyes thinking how brave he had to be to save all those people armed with only a sword and his ragtag armor.
"What are you looking for, boy?" asked a heavy set Tigaren.
"I have a message for the king," Kyan said.
"Well, what are you waiting for!" The fat Tigaren stuck out his hand to take the rolled up parchment. "Give it here, I'll see that the king gets it."
Kyan took two steps back not sure of what he was supposed to do. The older Tigaren advanced thinking to snatch it out if the boy's hand.
"No!" Kyan said as he pulled his sword and held it to defend himself. "This message is for the king and I will give to only him, not you."
The older Tigaren thought for a minute of trying to take it from Kyan but then he looked at how Kyan held his sword. It was steady and in a practiced grip. Kyan looked ready to fight.
"Go on boy," the older Tigaren waved him off. "Be on your way."
Kyan nodded and went on to the pair of guards that stood at the entrance to the king's study.
"I have a message for the king," Kyan said.
With a nod, the guard turned and walked down the hall and entered a room guarded by two more silver garbed guards. He wasn't gone for long. When he came out of the room, an elf dressed in deep blue pantaloons and matching top came out. The guard pointed Kyan and together they walked down to the stairs.
"Myumbo," Kapor said. "I am Kapor Kinya, brother to the king. I hear you have a message for us."
"Yes my lord," Kyan said with a nod. "But I have sworn to give it to the king."
"Then, follow me," Kapor said as he turned and started down the hall.
As they reached the king's study, Kapor turned and ushered them in. Kyan bowed as he made it to Yonas's desk.
"Myumbo," Yonas said as he stood up to greet Kyan. "What can I do for you, my friend?"
Before he opened his mouth, there was a flash of light and Zakia Manzi appeared.
"Zakia! What is the meaning of this?"
"He is," Zakia said. "I think young Kyan here holds the answer to our problem."

Treachery. 26

In the dark chambers of Xuthulu's domain, something screamed as he ripped loose the chains that were holding his prisoner. He kicked out and swung low forcing the two things that had been dining on his bowels away from him. Slowly he stepped down away from the place where he had been tortured for the last 400 years. He was free now and he had no plans to let Xuthulu capture him again.

Now was his time to escape. But to escape, he would need to get his magic back. He knew he couldn't hide anywhere in Xuthulu's hellish domain. He would need to jump out of here and start a new life somewhere where his hellish tendrils could not reach.
Walking through Xuthulu's dark swamp he could feel things in the murky water nipping at his toes. He kicked out throwing them off his feet. These things would be as him as long as he moved through the water. Soon they would start to get bigger. Then he would have a real problem Moving over to land, he stepped out and moved on looking for a suitable weapon. He knew his journey would be long and deadly.There would be many threats out searching for him once they realized he had escaped. As he walking he looked around and found he was on some kind of old battlefield. The were dead dark things, Xuthulu's warriors and some other race he didn't recognize. They were tall and man like but different. They had human parts, but some had parts he didn't recognize. It was more alien the anything he had ever seen.
As he kicked over the first one, he found armor and weapons. He took a set of chainmail made of some dark unrecognizable material. Being naked, he donned the strange armor and stretched feeling strong and invigorated. There was a sword but it was old and broken. Moving on he searched until he found something he could use. He found a long sword and a knife that he knew he would have no problem using.
As he picked through the dead on the battlefield, a loud scream ring out from somewhere up ahead. He pulled his sword and hunched down behind a large pile of the bodies and watched all around him. As the screaming continued, he watched as a tall hulking long armed creature came out ripping arms and legs from the dead bodies.It made a pile which it wrapped in the torn uniforms of the dead, then it sat down and started to gorge itself on the dead bodies. Keeping his breathing shallow, He hid among the dead. He knew one sound would be all it took to attract the beast.
As he waited, He thought about how he had gotten himself into this mess. He searched back through his memory for any clue to his past actions. What was his name? Where did he come from? How did he get into this place? As he searched his memory, the name Veridon kept coming up. Was that his name? It felt so familiar to him. He said it to himself over and over again until he convinced himself it was his name. Veridon Palak. Yes, that was his name. He was a warrior from the planet Daprion. He was here because Xuthulu had come to his planet and wiped out almost every living thing.

Veridon had come home and found the village where he lived in flames. He ran in through the gate to see the houses and shops all smashed to the ground. He couldn't find anyone alive anywhere. Not at the school or in the aisle of shops.
Panicking, Veridon ran for home. Being one of the elders Veridon and his family had a house on the hill in Elder's circle. As Veridon entered the circled he stopped. There were bodies littering the courtyard. Men, women, and children. All dead and torn apart like they had all been attacked by wild animals. But Veridon knew that hadn't been the case. This could only be the work of Xuthulu the damned. That murderous monster had been beating and attacking the barrier that they had erected to keep him and his minions out for months. Somehow he must have found a way in while Veridon had been out on his mission to find help for his world. Veridon had slipped from dimension to dimension looking for anyone strong enough to take on the bloodthirsty god. But now he was home and it was too late.
Running as fast as he could, Veridon ran up and found the men of his house guard scattered all around the house in pieces on hanging from the gate around his house. Seeing this horror, Veridon was afraid to go into the house. Niyhe, his wife had been taught spells that would let her transport herself and the children to safety. By where on Daprion would be safe from a god? Xuthhulu could find them no matter where they hid. But he had to know for sure. Maybe they were still here wounded but not dead.
Hurrying into the house. Veridon ran up the stairs two at a time until he was standing in the bloody corridor outside of his main bedroom. There he found his worst nightmare come true. Setion, his chief lieutenant ripped apart as he lay outside the bedroom. He and five of his men had stayed to try and protect his family. Hurrying to the door, Veridon pushed it open and fell screaming to his knees. They were all dead. His entire family from his mother to his youngest daughter Maira. On his knees Veridon wept. He remembered his family from days in the past. The births of his three children. How young Rayon hardly ever cried in the night or little Eyon when he same down with Moroski and had a temperature of 105.5. He almost died but Veridon found a healer that brought his temperature back down to a safe place. And Maira's infectious laughter. How he loved holding her and listening to her laughing.Wiping away his tears, Veridon climbed back on to his feet and turned away. From the front of his devastated house he sent out a probe that scanned all the nearby villages, towns and encampments. There was nothing living no matter how far he searched. Daprion was dead and it was all because of that damned Xuthulu. He would pay for this god Veridon s wore then and there that he would find a way to kill that murderous god.

As the long armed monster lurched it's way closer, Veridon gripped his sword in anticipation. Waves of stench drifted Veridon's way as the thing moved closer. As the  thing got to Veridon's pile it groaned and tilted its head. Veridon looked up into its monstrous maw. Jagged blood covered teeth with bits of flesh growled down at him. Veridon jumped as the thing swung down at him. Body pieces flew everywhere as it kicked it's way toward its prey. Veridon ducked and leaped as the monster came at  him. He swung his sword cutting into its arm. It screamed as it made a fist and slammed down at Veridon. Jumping safely away, Veridon spun in a pirouette and pulled his second blade and hacked at the beast's neck and legs. As it fell, it reached out throwing some kind of web out to entangle Veridon's legs. With a gigantic yank, the monster pulled Veridon off his feet. Veridon fell face first into the bloody mud of the battlefield. Lurching to it's feet, the hulk howled and started moving toward Veridon. As he heaved himself up, Veridon slashed out with his short sword and cut the webs off his legs. Jumping to his feet, he stabbed up with his swords and sent his blades into the hulks chest. Cutting wide, he sliced through the beats heart. Leaping away, Veridon rolled as the beast fell just barely missing him.
As he looked down at the dead monster, Veridon knew this was one of millions of Xuthulu's minions. His only hope of escape would be if he could find and retrieve his chest piece and armor. Only then would he have the power to leave this place and go after Xuthulu for his revenge.
Concentrating, Veridon activated his link to his mystical armament. There, he looked out to see a shining beacon. There was his weapons. They were a long ways away, but they were his only chance. Cutting away the hulks furry clothing, Veridon started on his way towards the mountain and his revenge.

Asleep in his tent, Ivran Ja'dam tossed and turned for hours. The last time he faced the Hyenens things hadn't gone so well. He lost his closest friend and two entire squadrons of warriors in the battle. He couldn't afford a rerun of that. He had to be sure that he was on the winning side and the only way to do that is weigh my enemies and decide who has a better chance to win.
 [Do you not trust me?] A voice said with a deep barrel of laughter. [Forgive me for intruding on your dream but I see the dilemma. I am Xuthlu master of the darkness and evil. I know your heart Ivran Ja'dam. I know what brings joy to your heart. You want eternal life and a place with the gods. And only I can get this for you. But you must give me what I want. You must trust in my power]
"And what is that?" Ivran asked. "What can I give to a god that he doesn't all ready have?"
"I'm sure I'll think of something." Xuthulu's voice boom over him. "Right now have your warriors ready to fight."
"Why should I trust you?" Ivran asked. "You could be just some mage looking for an army to back him up as he made his bid to take control of Aspana."
"Would you feel better if I should you my true nature?"
"What would that prove?" Ivran turned his back to the voice and started to walk off. "I can make illusions too."
As Ivran Ja'dam started to move away, thunder and lightning flared all around him.
"What kind of dream is this?? He thought.
"This is how a god reveals himself. Your magiks won't work on me."
Ivran sighed.
As he turned the sky lit up to show a monstrous oozing tentacled creature reaching out to him. Ivran screamed as he was lifted high into the air and brought in for a closer look.
"Do you believe me now?"
"YES!!" Ivran screamed as he woke up sweating and letting his waste go in the bed then crashing to the floor. Getting up on his knees Ivran bowed before his new god.
"H,how can I serve y you?"
[Just have your troops ready when I call.] Xuthulu said with a devious stare that only Ivran could see. [You are mine now and everything you have belongs to me, and I will use you as  see fit.]
Humble and down Ivran shook as Xulthulu passed. He was right, He thought. He was was his in any he wanted. He would do anything and give him all he wanted and all he had to do was ask.
With a kick as he passed, Ivran fell over and rolled through a puddle of his waste Ivran stood up shakiness as pieces of waste fell aside. But it wasn't always like this. There was a time long ago went things were different. A time when he would stand up for himself, A time when he feared nothing
[Go get cleaned up.] Xuthulu said [There are things we have to do.]
"Yes, Master."

Slowly Ivran shook himself then looked around his royal bedroom. There were clean clothes there for him to be dressed in when he was ready. His crown and the jewelry he wore normally was there on his dressing table. Throwing his legs over the bedside he got himself up and moved to the dressing table. He looked at himself. He didn't much like the image he saw reflected back to him. There were lines that ran all over his face and down his neck. his hair was still a silvery white but his skin tone had darkened to almost black. His eyes were baggy and deep grey which were unusual for an Elf almost five hundred years old. He had done every spell and use any alchemist concoction he had ever heard of to cheat death and prolong his life. Not much had worked, He did add a century, but he was looking for more than that. For his help, Xuthlu had promised him almost god-like abilities. He promised an extraordinarily long life and magic no one else had ever controlled before. That intrigued Ivran. An ability no else had ever had before, That could be useful.
As Ivran looked at his battered aged face he thought about the fact that Sorel had seen when they first met. He had been just past his first mark and a student in the castle of Roman the Dark. He had just returned from a mission for his master and found him busy talking with an astonishingly beautiful woman in a dark cloak.
"And you say the boy knows nothing about what his father is up to?" Roman sat forward and leaned on the heavy arms of his throne while he listened.
"Not only does he not." She said. "He cares only for his games and his women. He knows nothing of an Elves responsibility to honor."
"Is that so?" Roman stood up and stepped down confront the elven maid. He looked over to see Ivran standing in the outer room almost out of earshot and smiled.
"Then he must be taught."
"I am sending his father on a mission that will take some time. Have the boy report to Santar Hybar in Katar. He owes me for his position in Katar's leading circle. He will train him."
"But what of the boy's father?" She asked. "Is he to know?"
"If and when he returns." Roman said without lifting his eyes from his food. "It will be too late."
He took a sweet cherry from a dish of fruit on the table and popped it on his mouth and started to chew.
"You will not speak of this again. The father is not to know any of this. Do you understand?"
"Yes."She said as she bowed and turned to leave his throne room.
"Myumbo." Roman called out to Ivran. He sat down at the table and called out to anyone listening. "You may come out now, she is gone."
"Master." He said with his eyes down. "I did not mean to intrude."
"If I didn't want you to hear, you would be dead," Roman said without lifting his eyes from his food. "She was not important." He picked up his wine glass and held it out as a servant ran in to fill it.
"I am all that you have to worry about."
"I understand Master," Ivran told him.
"You may report now."
"We have taken all the lands to the east and south," Ivran said nervously while his hand moved to the weapon at his side. "The north and south are proving to be more courageous."
"What do you mean?" Roman asked through a mouth full of food."The Great Bats in the priesthood of Welicia are keeping to their promise. They will seize the mountain passes all through Welicia and Dryad. They are the secret to our success. They will keep our city safe while we reach out and destroy the northern lands. Hestifera and Nickidemus can keep Dryad for all I care. They can keep it until the day I come back and rip it from their powerless hands."
As Ivran started out of Romans dark chamber, Ivran thought about Sorel and what they would do when he returned to her and their bed. He hardly had been able to keep his mind off her for the whole ride home. Her sweet lips and those tender thighs had been all he could think of as he made his way further and from her warm embrace.
As the master talked and the bulge in his pants grew larger and larger, Ivran shook himself one of his erotic thoughts. It wasn't safe for either him or Sorel if he was caught not paying attention as the master was talking. Many had made that mistake and very few have lived to regret it.The fate of Baxter his last apprentice still haunted the memories of Roman's great house. Ivran had learned it was better to protect his thoughts and keep them buried deep in his mind.
As Ivran came back from his sexual dream, Roman smiled. At last, his apprentice had made a mistake. Now Roman had all he needed to gain complete control of him. Sorel, what a sweet memory she would be.

Friends and Enemies. 25

In the dark main house of Mancoro, it's master sat brooding over recent events. Things had his way in recent days. Msia Duma was back in his pit where he belonged. Though he found the dragon egg and was accepted by the dragonet, it hadn't done much good. He still wasn't powerful enough to beat Mulu in a battle of magiks. The Demon Hyenen still held Aspana's fates in his hands.
Getting up off his throne, Mulu made his way out of his private study and down through the house. He took the beautiful bone staircase down to the houses ground floor. From there he walked on through the main hallway and out of the house. The night was cool but things like temperature didn't bother the Demon Lord. His body was used to the Underworlds heat, so Aspana was nothing to him.
As he left the house, all movement in the courtyard stopped. The Hyenen's dropped to their knees and bowed to their master. Looking from left to right, Mulu was pleased with what he saw. Not having the nerve to interrupt the Demon lord earlier, Gurresh hurried to catch up to him.
"Was your mission successful?"
"Yes, Master," Gurresh said. "The girl is in the pit you assigned for her."
"Very good," Mulu said. "And what of the other's?"
"They are all here," Gurresh said pointing out back into the darkness. "They were placed in a pit in the dark. Each one in a separate prison."
"Show me where they are."
Nodding Gurresh hurried on to the back of Mancoro. They passed the one-room huts and moved on to the section where the thatched hut was built. From there Gurresh led him through the bigger houses of the dead Hyenen elders. Behind them, there was a line of six deep pits dug into the ground.
As Mulu stepped up to the first pit, Msia stood up ready for whatever Mulu had planned. Mulu laughed at Msia's defiance.
"The weak fool, he thinks he still has a chance to defeat me." Mulu slammed his hands together creating a loud thunderclap. "There's is no hope for you Msia. The prophets have seen it. I will be the next lord of all of Aspana."
"You have brought the war to our lands" Msia shouted up at Mulu. "But that will not make you the lord of Aspana. You can try, but I have faith in Mother Nurisha. She will not make you master sending the people into a hundred years of despair."
"Gods have nothing to do with it." Mulu laughed. "I am beyond the gods. I rule my destination with no help from any higher power."
At that exact moment, thunder erupted in the sky and a bolt of lightning crashed down striking the ground next to Mulu. Mulu gazed down at the burned patch of grass next to him.
"See! Not even your gods can destroy me!!" With that said, Mulu turned away laughing and walked away.
"We will see Evil one. We will see."

As the lightning struck the ground, Sakura woke up screaming. He had been dreaming that he and Astan were being chased by Demondogs. No matter what they did they couldn't get away from them. Neither Astan's magic or Sakura's strength made any difference, they just kept on attacking.
Running as fast as they could, Astan sent bolts of power back to try and slow down the  Demondogs chasing them. Sakura's blade flashed striking them down as they came into his range. Then something grabbed Astan and pulled him away from Sakura. Sakura stopped then dived back with Oblivion cutting into a mad frenzy. But there were too many of them. In a few minutes, they pulled him down. That's when he screamed waking himself up.
As he looked around he realized he had no idea where he was. This wasn't the campsite where he had fallen asleep. He was in a deep pit to high and wide for him to climb out. What had happened? Where were Dar'yl, Quynn, and the others? Where was he? As paced from side to side, a familiar scent drifted down to him. As Sakura drew it in he became angry and started to growl. He had smelled this scent before. Out on the savanna and many times in the jungle around Tinpa. Hyenens and the smell were overpowering. Now he knew where he was. He was in Mancoro, the Hyenen city.
[Yes Love. We have been captured by Mulu Amin.]
[Astan? Are you here too? Are you alright?]
[Yes Love.] Astan answered. [I'm in a pit not far from you and I'm not hurt.]
[Good.] Sakura sent him waves of love. [Becaue I'm not sure what I would do if anything happens to you. And I'm not sure how your father would take it either.]
[My father?] Astan sent confused. He knew Sakura had gone to Tinpa, It had been him that sent him to help the city. But he hadn't expected his father to question Sakura. [What do you mean?]
[I mean your father knows all about us.]
[Oh no!!] Astan moaned into Sakura's mind. [This could mean trouble.]
[No Love. All he wants is for you to be happy. He has no objections to our union as long as we rule with justice and patience. He wants us to bring our lands together. For us to rule as kings.]
Relieved, Astan sent waves of love out to his mate. He wanted Sakura to know that he was happy with the choices he had made. But now they had to concentrate on finding a way out of their prison. Mulu wouldn't leave them alone for too long. By tomorrow, he would be back with torture on his mind. To get out, it would take a mixture of both their talents. Astan's magic's and Sakura's strength.
Astan had tried using his spells to transport him somewhere else. But I didn't work. He could do minor spells, but nothing major which means he couldn't fight Mulu from the pit. But maybe there was another way. Something simple. Something Mulu might not expect.

On the northern side of Mancoro, just outside of the city wall, a grey gorilla sat high in a tree watching the movements in the city. He had been there all day and he'd seen many Demons and Hyenens as they made they way in and out of the city. Nyo was very nervous. He knew Astan was in there somewhere as was Mulu Amin. He moved higher in the tree to keep out of sight. Being caught now would be disastrous to their play. Not that he felt he had to worry very much. It seemed the Demons and Hyenens were to busy fighting each other to look up into the trees.
He had seen Mulu many times going from his house to various parts of the city. He had even seen him stop and beat a group of his Demons to true death. Mulu was malicious, even to his own followers. As it grew dark and lights flared on throughout the city. Nyo watched as a stranger arrived at the gates of Mancoro. From his smell, Nyo couldn't tell this wasn't a Demon or a Hyenen. He had a wild smell and a dark cloak, he was tall with very broad shoulders. At his side, Nyo could see an ornate sword hanging from his belt. There were no features showing. The one thing he did know was that this one was powerful. He had to be or there was no way he would walk into the heart of the Hyenen land alone.
From the gate, the stranger climbed down off his saddle and called out for the master of this city to come out and meet with him. A few minutes later dressed in his battle armor, Mulu Amin with his head held high came walking out to parlay with the stranger.
Moving quietly, Nyo slid down the tree to try and hear what they were saying.
"All is ready," Mulu said. "I have captured the Tigaren, the Pantheran, and a few other enemies."
"You have done well Mulu." The strangers gravely voice said. "When will they die?"
"Their deaths will come when you bring me the king of the Tigarens. He is the only power left that can threaten us."
"He will be here within three days." The stranger said. "Then Aspana will be ours. No one will have the power to stop us!"
As the two allies broke into laughter, Mulu turned and made his way back into the city.
"Myumbo you monster." The stranger said as he climbed on his mount and started off. "Soon I will be rid of you and your Demon and Hyenen warriors. Then we will see who laughs."
With Mulu and the tall stranger gone, Nyo hurried down out of the tree. He had heard what they had been talking about. The stranger was going to go after King Yonas. Somehow they would have to stop him. But how? That could have been almost anyone in that dark cloak. How was he to figure out who the danger would come from? Leaping back into the trees, Nyo moved as fast as he could. He had to get back to the campsite. Palas was his only hope to warn the king before some spy got to him and slipped a knife into his back.

As the moon rose high into the night sky, Pitch dropped down out of the clouds to land in the jungle out beyond the city of Mancora. Aggar climbed down off his back and the dragon shifted back to his human form
"Where to from here?" Aggar asked.
"Mancoro is west of here about ten miles." Akani said. "Its an easy run for us in our animal form."
"What do we do once we find it?" Aggar said as he put his pack on his back.
"We go in and get Msia."
"You really think it'll be that easy?" Aggar folded his arms across his chest, "Mulu will be there and so will his warriors Demon and Hyenen. And who knows what else."
"That won't matter." Akani said. "My dragon is all we need."
"You're being overconfident," Aggar said. "Dragons are very powerful beings but they aren't unstoppable. There are ways to kill a Dragon and I'll bet Mulu knows that. Don't forget he holds Inferno and he can do the same with you."
"You don't know what I can do Aggar." Akani was upset. He didn't like the idea that Aggar didn't trust his newly acquired Dragon abilities. As the new Dragon of sound, there was no other dragon like him. A battle with Mulu would prove his strength his nights."
Aggar couldn't believe what he was hearing. Akani know that the strong always defeat the weak. He thought his new dragon made him powerful. More powerful then Mulu, but he didn't really know how dangerous the Hyenen witch doctor was. But with all the battles and wars Aggar had seen, he knew to never be overconfident in battle. Drake Tyr taught him it was always best to know your enemy.
His weapons and his weaknesses before you engage him in battle. He had to find a way to show Akani his error.
"Face me Akani," Aggar said as he pulled out his knives. "Now attack me!"
As Akani turned he started his shift to Pitch. With a roar, he took a deep breath and aimed for Aggar.
With incredible speed, Aggar dive at Pitch's feet then he leaped up and grabbed his neck. He wrapped his legs around his neck and put his knives to Pitch's weak spot
"Now do you see what I mean?" Aggar said. "You thought your dragon could overcome any enemy, but you were wrong. I slipped in under your guard and had your life in my hands. Now imagine I had Mulu's magic. Who knows what he could do. Your dragon is still young. He needs experience. he needs to grow and learn his limits before he battles an enemy like Mulu."
[You're right.] Pitch sent. [Then what are we going to do? We can't leave Msia in Mulu's hands.]
"We need to find help. There has to be others out here looking to get in Mancora. We find them and band together. Shift back and let's get moving."

As Nyo leaped down from the trees and ran into their campsite, Hayami jumped holding his spear up to challenge the intruder. When he saw Nyo he lowered the weapon and greeted his old friend.
"What did you  find out?" He asked.
"A lot," Nyo said. "Come, we should get to Palas. We all need to hear this."
 Palas sat having a breakfast of fruit and dried meat they had taken from Goren in Domina. As Nyo and Hayami hurried over he put down his mugs of hot coffee to listen. When Nyo was done with his report, Palas stood up and threw the hot brew into the fire.
"I'm the only one that can reach Tinpa in time," Palas said as he stretched his wings to get ready for a long flight. "I'll have to be fast and strong. There might be opposition out there waiting to stop me. I'll take food and drink for two days.
"Be careful my friend," Nyo said placing a hand on Palas's shoulder.  "King Yonas life might be in your hands. Hayami lets breakdown camp, its time to go find our friends."

In Tinpa, Yonas Kinya had just returned home from the war. The Tigarens with the help of the Rhinons and the Zebrens had pushed the Hyenens from their borders to back in the dry lands when a message came telling Yonas that he was needed back at home. On his way back to Tinpa, he met up with a group of warriors from Panthera with written orders from their Regent to escort the King of Tigar home and to be his personal guards. King Yonas didn't see the point, but it was wartime and Tigara could use all the help they could get, so he accepted and took them home with him.
Big mistake.

In the outer study of the kingdom of Ja'dam, Sky stood looking at Quynn and Dar'yl as he explained what he thought was about to happen.
"That's not Cormac's father in there," Sky said as cool frosted breath came out o his mouth.
"Then who is it?" Dar'yl asked fingering his sword.
"I don't know. It's some kind of shadow."
"Does Cormac know?" Quynn asked.
"No, I don't think so."
"Then get ready. He come's."
As the doors opened, Cormac came out with a strange look on his face,
"What is it?" Quynn asked
"I'm not sure," He said. "He wants to see you, but while my back was turned, Father sent for his weapons. He's never done that before."
Just then, a small group of guards came running in with their weapons all pointed at Quynn, Sky, Dar'yl and Cormac.
"WHAT IS THE MEANING OF THIS?" Cormac shouted angrily. ""These are guest in our house, put away those weapons!"
"I'm sorry my Prince but this is the king's orders. He wants you and  your friends brought before him in chains."
As Dar'yl reached for his sword, a guard grabbed Cormac and slipped a dagger to his throat.
"Make another move Lion and he dies."
"Put it away Dar'yl," Quynn said. "For now we will do as they say. Give them your weapons.

From the king's study, they were taken down into the belly of Ja'dam's dungeons and stripped of all their weapon's. Cormac didn't have much to say. He was embarrassed by the way his guest was being treated.
"This has never happened before," He said. "My father is a gracious host. even to suspected enemies, he keeps them under a constant watch, but he's never put them in chains or thrown them in the dungeon."
"Cormac." Sky as he came over to the confused man. "I think you should sit down. We have something to tell you."
After Sky told him what he thought, Cormac jumped and slammed his fist down into the bed. What Sky had said could mean only one thing. Ja'dam had been invaded and his father had been taken. It was up to him to go out and find him and bring him home.
"First we get the intruder off your throne, then we think about finding your father."
"How do we get out of here?" Cormac asked.
"The king wants to see us remember." Sky smiled. "I think we can give him a cold welcome."

After a two day waits, King La'darein Ja'dam had his guards bring Cormac, Quynn, and Sky to his audience chamber to see him. Cormac stood proud with his head high as the guards taunted him poking him with the butts of their spears never once using the tips fearing how and what he might do.
As they were led into the audience room, King La'darein sat scowling on the throne with a blue-skinned bald regally dressed stranger there at his side.
"Who are you?" The bald man asked.
"Who are you?" Cormac said boldly. "You're not one of our people and since when did you become an adviser to the king?"
"You will answer his questions." King La'darein said firmly. "And you will stand aside Cormac."
"Or what?" Cormac pushed his way forward. "You're not my father. You're not king here. You're an invader sent here to destroy my people and I won't let you. Sky, now!!"
Quickly Sky inhaled while Quynn, Dar'yl, and Cormac came close with their chained hands held up. Sky let out a short burst of cold. Sent out to freeze the chains. With a single motion, they all slammed their manacles together to shatter them like fragile pieces of clay pottery. As Sky, Dar'yl Quynn and Cormac took positions to attack, King La'darein jumped to his feet screaming for his guards. Like soldier ants, the guard came running in to defend their king. Looking at the armed soldier, Quynn shouted a quick spell, in a flash Dar'yl and Cormac's weapons appeared at their backs in their usual places. Feeling the weight of his sword on his back, Dar'yl roared his battle cry as he pulled the sword and charged forward into battle. With the two warriors ready for battle, Quynn and Sky let loose with bolts of energy and freezing cold as they entered the fight.
As the battle broke out, the bald blue-skinned man hurried down and grabbed a fallen warriors weapon and charged at Cormac.
"You think you will be Ja'dam's next ruler but you are wrong!" He raised his sword to attack. "Ja'dam will be ours and the Dark Elf's with fall!"
"Never!" Cormac yelled as he brought his weapon up to block. Swinging around with his short sword, Cormac aimed low for a swipe at the blue man's chest. Jumping back, the blue-man dodged the attack.
"I am Xanthor of Xuthulu's first circle," The blur man said as he grew three feet to tower over Cormac. "Get ready to die little man!"
As Xanthor's sword crashed down barely missing Cormac, Sky turned from battle and shouted something no one understood at Cormac. Before he could react, Cormac shot up in height match the size of his opponent.
[End the battle Quick.] Sky sent. [The spell will only last minutes.]
With a smile, Cormac dived into battle. His swords moved with a speed he had never had before. He blocked Xanthor's strikes and came back to cut into his arm and leg. Feeling the pain, Xanthor stumbled back surprised at Cormac's skill and speed. Reaching his hand out, Xanthor shot three bolts of energy at Cormac and dived in to attack. With astonishing speed, Cormac brought his blade up and in three quick motions sent the energy bolts back at Xanthor. like crossbow bolts, the three bolts hit Xanthor in his chest, head and shoulder knocking him back and out of the battle.
With a victorious cheer, Cormac turned to the man on the throne who had invaded his home to pose as his father. Looking grim with his sword raised, Cormac started up the steps of the throne. As the spell wore off, Cormac returned to his normal size. A warrior hurried up to step in front of the king to defend him. With one blow, Cormac knocked him aside and stood in front of the trembling king.
"Where is my father?"
"He is here," The king laughed. "But you will never get him free!"
As Cormac raised his sword to strike, Dar'yl grabbed his arm to stop him.
"Cormac." He said. "This is your father. Something evil has control of him. Let me try. I maybe able to free him."
Nodding, Cormac stepped back out of the way as Dar'yl took his place in front of the king.
"What is your name Demon"
"You think I will share that with you?" The Demon laughed. "That would give you power over me?"
"You don't have to give anything to me." Dar'yl smiled. "But I will get what I want from you and you will release King La'darein."
"And what  power do you have that will make me obey you?" The Demon smiled as  his eyes glowed red. "I will never release him.  His soul is so sweet and warm. When it is time, I will bring the rest of  my brothers here to feast on these worms."
"I don't think so." Dar'yl took a deep breath as his mane started to glow white. As he stared down into the king's eyes he roared. The king started to shake and scream. Cormac leaped forward to save his father. Quynn grabbed him and pulled him back.
As the glow faded from Dar'yl's mane, he stepped away from the king and turned around.
"It is done," He said. "The king is free."
"Hurrying to his father, Cormac grabbed him by his shoulders and lifted him into a hug.
"Father, are you alright?"
"Cormac? Where am I?"
"Home safe father. The nightmare is over."
"No," He said. "I'm afraid it's not."
"What do you mean?" Dar'yl asked.
"Who are you?" The king asked getting to his feet. "Why are you here in my house?"
"I brought them here Father. They just saved your life."
"You have my thanks Friend lion, but my warning is for you and your people."
"What is it your Majesty?" Quynn asked.
"The monster that held me prisoner is after the northern lands first." He explained. "There is something up there he has an alliance with. Its a dark hearted beast who wants you Lions and Tigars slave under his claws."
As Dar'yl stood back, Sky stepped up.
"That has to be Mulu Amin," He said frowning. "Only he his that much hate in his heart. He has to be the one the Regent warned me about."
"What do we do?" Cormac asked.
"We head to Mancora." Dar'yl said. "You Cormac, stay here and help your father get your people ready in case the war makes it to Ja'dam."
"But I could go and fight with you."
"No,"Quynn said. "Dar'yl is right. Your place is here with your people. If we need your help. I will come for you."
"Are you sure?"
"Yes," King La'darein said with his hand on his son's shoulder. "We have a lot to do. Our border posts need to be examined and re-enforced. We have a lot of work to do. but we can offer your friends a good meal and a bed for the night."
"Diola lle." Quynn bowed.
"Lle creoso a'baramin." King La'darein said in reply.
"What's that mean?" Sky asked.
"We are welcome in his house." Quynn laughed.

That night there was celebration in Ja'dam. The lights and music went on until late in the morning hours. King La'darein and Prince Cormac stayed up until way pass the 5th hour in the morning when they declared it to be time for sleep. The city guard were set in place as the rest of Ja'dam turned in for some sleep. With Sky at his side, Quynn was shown to a suite where they could lay down and rest while Dar'yl took a place on the royal balcony where he would stay up and be on guard.
As the 6th hour passed a dark demon appeared outside the city gate. With an evil grin, he worked his hands onto a spell that put everyone in the palace into a deep sleep. Then he spoke his spell.

WITH EVIL INTENT AND DARKNESS IN MIND.
FROM JA'DAM TO MANCORA I CONJURE A SPACE.
A SPACE TO PLACE THE TWO I SEEK.
PLACE THEM IN A DARK PLACE.
AND DO IT WITH  ALL HASTE.

As dark magic spun and weaved in the air over Mulu's head, a blast shriek out like a bolt of lightning and flew into Ja'dam palace. In seconds the sleeping forms of Quynn and Sky floated out of the palace and went out to Mulu where it stopped and floated suspended. Mulu raised his hand and guided the sleeping bodies through a portal that lead to Mancora.
"I could destroy Ja'dam," Mulu said as he turned and stepped up to the portal. "But my Demondogs deserve something to kill. I will return later."

As Dar'yl lay quiet dreaming of running through sun-soaked fields with a Lioness dressed in a tan skirt and top Nurisha appeared at his side and bent over to whisper in his ear.
"Be wake my handsome warrior." Her sweet voice sent feelings of thrilling dreams into his mind. "I have work for you tonight."
"What is it Mother Nurisha? Dar'yl said as he smiled and hugged his pillow.
"You are needed in the western mountains." She said as she blew on his tingling ear. "Take no one with you. I will lead you back when the mission is done."
"What is my mission?"
"Free the Griffins from their prison."



Quynn rolled over and opened his eyes, he didn't recognize his surroundings. He looked up and saw the twilight. The moon was high above his head. He was in some kind of pit or crevice. The walls were over ten or fifteen feet high. Too high for him to climb, but it should be no problem for his Dragon. Stepping forward for more room, Quynn took a deep breath and started his shift to Dyrgyn. With a roar, Dyrgyn announced his entrance into the world. With one mighty leap and a sweep of his wings. the dragon was at to top just about to crawl out. As he reached up and over the rim of the pit there was a strong flash and Dyrgyn slammed into a force field that sent him rolling back down to the bottom of the pit. As Quynn sat up back in his normal form his head ached with pain. What was that up there? He had never felt such pain in his life.
Well, climbing out didn't work, he wondered who else might be trapped here. Folded his legs and made himself comfortable He closed his eyes and reached out to read the area at the top of the pit. His mind flared up with pain. He saw the six pits but it hurt too much to go beyond them. As he checked the first pit, burning pain ripped through his mind. Quynn backed away from it. Then he felt a cool stream of comfort radiating out from the third pit. It felt familiar. As he reached for it, he knew it coulld only be Sky.
[Sky? Are you here? Are you hurt?
[No Quynn.] He answered.[Just a little dazed. Where are we?]
[My guess is Mancora. I think Mulu came in the night and somehow took us away.]
[What about the others?]
[They could  be in the other pits but I doubt it.]
[What do you mean?]
[I don't think Mulu would even consider Nyo and Hayami worth bothering with. I think Astan and Sakura are in the other pits.]
[If there's one of us in each pit, that makes four.] Sky sent. [Who could be five and six?]
[I don't know.] Quynn sent. [You're better at this than me. You check them out. I'll try and find a way out.]

Watching from above on a different astral plane, Nurisha stood up in her sparkling gown of stars and mist. She turned to Tyree and Aramis who sat on the side calmly watching.
"What can we do to help?"
"Nothing," Aramis said looking from Tyree to Nurisha. "I know it hurts you to see this happening in Aspana. As the god of life, I feel it too. But we have to let them solve their own affairs."
"But its not just them." Nurisha cried. "There is something dark down there pushing them on. I don't know who it is, but there is something evil and dark down there, I can feel it stabbing into me."
"We will keep watch," Aramis said as he hugged her close. "I know what it would do to you, my Love. I will not let Aspana fall."
As the cloudy scene of the little piece of Heaven faded away, a dark bit of laughter could be heard drifting through the ether

The Wrong Side of the War. 24

The night was quiet as Ranjer winged his way across the ocean towards Aspana. His was a mission of mercy. He was supposed to be here looking for his cousin Quynn. The son of his brother Jandar and the Dragon Rage. They were here at the request of some dream Sky had. Sky's dreams. Ranjer and Quynn had learned long ago to trust Sky's dreams. Sky's dreaming ability had gotten them out of many dark situations in the past. As a matter of fact, it had been Sky's dreams that had brought them together in the first place.
With very little to go on except for Sky's dream, Jandar had sent the two off to save the southern lands. His only real hope had been that somewhere down on the southern continent there were Dragons that Quyyn might find to aid him in his battles. But for now, all he would have is Ranjer and Sky and the lessons his fathers had drilled into all of them.
From the northern ocean, Ranjer banked south looking for the lights of any Elven, Fairy, Human or Were settlement. Though the jungle seemed thick, there had to be settlers here somewhere. At least Sky thought there were. That is what brought them here, A war, but who was out here fighting who? And is this something they should even get involved in? With all the wars and battles the Dragons had been in, Ranjer wasn't sure it even made sense for them to even get involved down here. But the Dragons had sworn to protect Keanna, If there was the conflict here, and innocence was in danger, of course, they would get involved.
As Ranjer made his way south, he saw many small battles all across the savannah and through the jungle. There were a few cities under siege, but Ranjer kept moving south. As of now, the war wasn't his business, finding Quyyn and Sky main objective.
As Ranjer flew south, he felt a strange buzzing in his ear. At first, it was just an annoyance until it started getting stronger and more powerful. What the hell was it? He had never felt anything like it before. Then out of nowhere, he felt a sudden tug down and a voice calling out to him.
Like an arrow, Ranjer started down heading straight for the lights. As he got closer he realized it wasn't the lights of a settlement that he saw. It was the lights of war.
[Help us.] he heard. [Stop the Tigaren's!]
Amazed at what he saw, Ranjer dived in shouting a spell he had learned over the past year. Suddenly the skies grew gray and the winds began to rage. Streaks of lightning flew from the clouds right into the charging Tigaren army. One by one the Tigaren's where thrown about like toy dolls. Some were strong and shook it off, but many lay where they landed and never got up again. As Ranjer flew overhead a Tigaren in bright armor thrust out his weapon and called forth a blast of heat that just missed the young Vampire. Feeling the blast singe his side, Ranjer pulled up and did a turn that had him crash into the jungle just beyond where all the fighting was going on. As he tumbled through the jungle Ranjer did a quick shift and came charging out to attack the Tigaren's in the form of a small man-sized Dragon With a bellow of overheated smoke, Ranjer attacked. The first Tigaren was surrounded by smoke and fell overcome by the fumes. The next three were slashed and torn to pieces as Ranjer did a mid-air flip and dived at a group charging in at a bunch of Hyenen's backs. With his wings spread, Ranjer moved through the Tigaren's like a piranha. He snapped and ripped into the enemy with a ferocity that only a Vampire or Werewolf could.
With the sound of a bellowing roar, Ranjer looked out to see the Tigaren army retreat. As he looked up at the top of the hill, he saw the Tigaren chief putting his sword back into its scabbard.
[We will meet again Mnyama.] The Tigaren said with a strong mind blast. [When we do, one of us will surely die. Until then, Watch where you go. We Tigaren's have many allies that will be looking for you, so beware.]
As the Tigaren's ran off into the jungle, Ranjer slowly made his way down to the Hyenen camp. There was something about these Dog men that Ranjer didn't trust. They all had a sly look about them. Valkar had once warned him about anyone with that look. He said never trust them. It might be wise to listen closely to his father's advise in this strange new land.
As Ranjer started out for the Hyenen camp, a tall Hyenen dressed in bone armor walked out to meet him. On his head, he wore the skull of some horn-headed animal with bone plates covering his chest. On his lower parts, he wore a  black and green kilt. One would think his armor weak, but Ranjer had a feeling it was stronger than Dwarven enchanted gold.
"Myumbo." The Hyenen said walling out to greet him.
"Friend I hope," Ranjer answered with a smile. "But only time will tell."
"Then I will greet you as a friend and hope we continue as such." Mulu Amin bowed his head never taking his eyes off of Ranger. "I am Mulu Amin, Demon chief of all of Aspana. I bid you welcome to my lands and I hope you will join in to take Aspana as my own."
At that moment alarms went off in Ranjer's head. He had made a huge mistake. Somehow he had dropped into Aspana and fell into the wrong side of the war. His father had been right. The Hyenen were the invading army. He should have been fighting on the side of the Tigaren's but now here he wf as sharing a camp with what might turn out to be his worst foe. Where the hell was Quyyn when he needed him.

It was cool and dark as Astan woke up from the horrible nightmare. He had dreamed that Mulu had captured him, Sakura and Msia and trapped them all in a dark cave that sucked away every spell they tried to use to escape. Msia tried a power bolt that bounced back and slammed him into the cave wall. Then Astan tried using flames to propel himself up and out of the cave pit. But instead of propelling him, it lit him on fire and Astan woke up as the green flames began to engulf him. Breathing heavy, Astan sat and looked around the camp. The dream had scared him right down to his core, but he knew somewhere out in the darkness, Mulu was waiting for him.
Looking out into the dark jungle, Astan looked across the camp to where Nyo sat snoring in his sleeping covers by the fire. An alarm blared out in Astin's head. Something was wrong. Nyo shouldn't be asleep. He was supposed to be on watch protecting the camp from intruders.
With his staff at his side, Astan pushed away from the covers and got to his feet. His senses were alert ready to warn him of the slightest movement anywhere around him.  He could hear the sound of Owls hooting in the night as crickets dances all around. The roar of a night hunter rang out as he made his way through the darkness The fresh smells of the jungle filled his lungs as something else caught his attention. Feeling an attack about fall on him, Astan turned back towards the camp as something heavy fell hitting him in the back of his head. Astan fell into the arms of the Demondog as he dropped his club at his feet. With an evil smile, the Demondog turned and headed home to bring his prize to his master Mulu Amin.

"There is one more thing you need before we head to Mancoro." Aggar said as they moved through the thick jungle.
"What?" Akani asked.
"You'll find it here,"
"In there?" He pointed into the dark cave. He could hear strange sounds coming of the darkness. He wonders what could possibly be in there.
"I might be our salvation." Aggar smiled. "You should hurry. Mulu's getting more dangerous by the minute.
After a deep swallow, Akani started on his way in. After a few feet, he turned and looked back at Aggar. He stood and shoed him on. Moving on, Akani looked to his left, then right for any sign of danger. Hi stared ahead trying to see through the darkness, but could barely make out anything three feet in front of him. Strange, Akani thought. Jackals had excellent night vision. he should be able to see clearly in here, but he couldn't see anything.
[You will see only what I want you to see.]
Akani stopped. Did he really hear that? It must be his imagination.
[I am not a part of your imagination. I am your future.]
Akani started to shake. Whatever was in here didn't fear him. He had to push his fear back and continue on. Whatever was in here was important. Aggar wouldn't have sent him in if it wasn't
Ten more feet. Twenty, Thirty feet, then forty. It was getting cold in here. Akani pulled his vest tighter to himself.
[You don't fear me.] The voice said.[That is good. We will do many good things together.]
What could it be talking about? It talked as if Akani was going to join with it. That wasn't possible.
[It is more than possible. We are the future.]
Puzzled, Akani moved on. He went straight ahead then made a right turn.
[STOP!] The voice said as lights flared out revealing a small chamber in the cave.
[I am here.] Came from his left. [Pick me up.]
Looking down, Akani saw a clutch of broken eggs. Beneath the shattered shells, something was pushing its way out. He knelt and brushed the shells aside and found an unbroken egg laying there pulsing with life. Akani thought it was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen.
[I am Flicker. Are you not for me?]

As Aggar sat outside waiting, he wondered exactly what would be coming out of the cave. He had heard the voice calling out to Akani, though he wasn't sure if Akani heard it. Now he understood that his job was to help the subjects get to, and get used to being a Dragon. It couldn't be easy sharing one's body with a Dragon. He had heard some went mad unable to get used to sharing their body.
Just then, Aggar heard a noise coming from the cave. He got to his feet and took a few steps toward the cave and looked into the cave. Suddenly there was a loud screech and something came flying out of the cave. Aggar dived to the side just in time to get under the wing as it took a swipe at him.
Getting back to his feet, Aggar reached behind him for his knives to be ready for the beast next charge. As Aggar waited, something else came flying out if the cave.
[Be still Aggar.] Pitch said. [I won't let it hurt you.]
As the bat thing squeaked, it did a turn then came flying at Aggar with its claws ready to rip into him.
Landing in front of Aggar, Pitch rose up on his hind legs and let out loud roar. A field of cold appeared in front of the bat. It tried to change directions but it was too late. It slammed into the freezing field and froze solid then crashed to the ground and shattered into a million pieces.
[We should go Aggar.] Akani said as he shifted forms. [There is a lot to do if we are to free Msia.]

It was late as Deja sat eating her dinner. She had Rabbit stew made from vegetables she had picked as she walked and her night's catch. She had been ducking battles all day trying to stay ahead of the Hyenens and the Demondogs. She was bone tired and not sure if it was safe to sleep and she missed her father very much. Last time she had seen him was back in the Canin village where they had split up. She had gone out to help the Canin's while Aggar went on to the Pumen village. The Canin had fought bravely and she didn't worry about them being invaded anymore. They knew how to fight now and they could always call out to her for assistance and she would come running.
As she finished off the last of her stew, she thought about Tof back at home. Had the talks with their Human neighbors gone well, or were they now at war at home again? From here she couldn't get much of a read on Tof. He was too far away. But usually, she could pick up his thoughts from ten miles away. She guessed it had something to do with her emotions. She never dared to call it love, since he was married to Lady Keya Thorn and that might bring scandal on the family name. But she had hopes and dreams and it couldn't hurt to have her private dreams. At least that's what her mother always told her. At that thought, Deja wondered if her mother knew her secret. Could she have seen the way Deja looked whenever Tof was around? Or maybe she had caught one of Deja's dreams. Mother was always the better at reading Deja then father or any of the rest of the family except Jandar and Ono.
As Deja wrapped herself for sleep, she heard footsteps from the jungle coming in her direction. In two swift moves she had her weapons out and water on the fire. Shifting to half wolf half woman she slipped off into the jungle to hunt whatever was hunting her.
In the dark of the night, Gurresh slipped from tree to tree keeping an eye on his query. The master had ordered she be taken to Mancoro tonight for an audience. An audience, Gurresh laughed. That wasn't what it really would be. It will be more of an interrogation. Mulu would ask the questions and if she wanted to live, she would answer quickly and truthfully. The master would know a lie if she told one. Honestly, Gurresh expected her to lie. But that would be it. One lie and that would be it. After she felt the punishment, she would not try it again. Not many would. Gurresh had seen what Mulu called punish. It was horrible. Mulu would use his magic to hold her high up over a pit of lake Vipers, then with each question, he would slice off a strip of her skin. He would start in the back, then move on to her front. By then the questions wouldn't be important. He would be doing it more for his own enjoyment. Most people don't last very long.
Looking closer, Gurresh couldn't help but notice how lovely she was. She had beautiful auburn hair braided and lashed together to sit in a bun on the back of her head. Her ears were dainty and pointed with no earrings. Her eyes were lovely with a sparkle that he could see from high up in the trees. Her mouth looked red naturally, He knew she wasn't wearing any kind of rouge. Rouge would not be a smart thing to wear in a foreign land. The makeup would give her a scent that would be easy to follow. She was dressed in some kind of leather that hugged her body showing her perfect form. Though her hair was strange color, Gurresh thought she was quite beautiful and would make someone a fine mate if she managed to live long enough to take a mate.
As Gurresh watched, he heard a snap come from out in the jungle. It was probably one of the others in the raiding party. As he looked down, he saw her jump up and douse the fire. Then she was gone into the jungle. Carefully, Gurresh made his way down out of the trees. He would have to hurry and catch up with the other. The woman looked dangerous. Though there were five warriors out there hunting her. She was alert to their presence. They would need his help to catch her.
Taking his Hyena form, Gurresh started into the jungle. His night vision was clear and had been enhanced by the master. He followed her scent which was different than the Hyenen and the rest of the jungle animals. To him, her scent was sweet like a like jasmine in full bloom. She was heading straight in towards the Hyenens who was lurking just beyond the clearing just ahead. Suddenly her scent change. It seemed more dangerous. She must have shifted to a more deadly form. From her scent, Gurresh could tell she was ready for battle. But if he could smell her, so could the others. and though they had been ordered to bring her safely back, those idiots might make a mistake and kill her.
As Gurresh ran, he could hear the sound of battle just ahead of him. Doubling his efforts he bore down and made the last hundred feet and dived through the trees to find the woman on the ground with five Hyenens standing over her about to deliver the killing blow.
"STOP!" He growled showing his teeth. "This one is under the protection of our master. He wants her alive. Hurt her and you will pay for your disobedience!"
"Look what she did!" Mwani lifted his head showing the cut on his neck. "She did this! She almost ripped my neck open! I will kill her!"
"No, you won't! You will obey Mulu Amin's orders and you will bring her to him and you will do it now!"
Mwani took a step forward with his fist raised. Gurresh knew he planned to attack them both if he had too. He raised his hand and looked Mwani straight into his eyes.
"Do what you have to." Gurresh said. "But revenge won't make you feel better. It will only make you more like Mulu. Is that what you want?"
Mwani thought about what Gurresh had said. He was right. He was sick of being a bully, one of Mulu's henchmen. It was time he moved on started to live his own life in peace.
"Take her." He said defeated. "Do whatever you have to. I'm not going back. There's a whole world out there and I'm going to find my place. Myumbo."
Mwani turned and started to walk away then stopped.
"Gurresh." He said. "Do yourself a favor. Walk away. Don't go back to Mancoro. There's nothing for you there but misery. Take her and find yourself somewhere away from Mulu and his war. It's not worth it."
As Mwani and the others started away, Gurresh reached down and helped Deja up to her feet.
"Thank you." She said. "I must be moving. My father is somewhere out there looking for me. I have to find him."
She turned to walk away and Gurresh grabbed her arm and pulled her back to face him.
"You misunderstand me. You're not free to go. The master is waiting for you. I have to bring you to him and that's what I'm going to do."

It was early morning as Quynn and Sky opened their eyes to a brand new day.  Dar'yl was sitting at the fire thinking about the past day's events. Quynn stretched then looked around the camp. He didn't see Sakura there anywhere. He turned and kissed Sky good morning.
"Morning Love." He smiled. "You sleep well?"
"Not really." Sky answered. "I kept dreaming about Sakura. He was lost and we couldn't find him."
With a glum look on his face, Quynn reached out to touch Sky.
"Are you sure it was a dream? He's not here in the camp.
Sky's face turned a sudden gray. At that moment he knew it wasn't a dream. It was Sakura reaching out to warn them of his abduction.And that's exactly what had happened. Sometime last night while they were sleeping, the Hyenen snuck into camp and took Sakura. How they did it was a total mystery. Dar'yl was on watch and there was no way he would have allowed his king to be taken away. Sky knew that as sure as he knew Quynn loved him. Now the question was, what do they do now?
"We go after him." Dar'yl said upset. "We can let him stay with Mulu. We have no idea what that bastard will do."
"Yes, we do." Sky said. "He'll kill him. That's why he's been after Sakura and Astan. He knows they are the only real threat to his reign as Aspana's master sorcerer."
"What about us?" Quynn asked. "We are not children. We are strong too."
"Yes, we are." Sky said. "But we are not native to Aspana, that might make the difference."
"I don't understand." Quynn said scratching his head.
"He means only a true king of Aspana will be able to destroy Mulu Amin." Dar'yl said as he looked into their eyes. He knew he would have to explain it to them plainly so they would understand. "The last time I was in Timpa, Zaki Manzi took me to the side and warned me about a possible future event. He said for me to take good care of Prince Sakura and to find Prince Astan. With Msia gone, only they can defeat Mulu Amin. He knew this might happen and he was preparing me. We must find Sakura even if we  have  to storm the gates of Mancoro."
"It might take some drastic action and I don't know if we all will survive." Quynn smiled. "But I have an idea. We should hurry to Mancoro."