Tempest Rise

By Alaina

Dr. Lysette Nolan is a prominent pediatric surgeon in Lon Tesse and the niece of Regent Dana’s Head of Intelligence. Her uncle invites her to the Regent’s summer retreat where she encounters Katar, the heir of Treborel, a mountainous kingdom following the ancient ways of the empathic healers. He's a prince: boisterous, charismatic and daring. She's a modern surgeon: quiet, introspective and curious about his kingdoms alternative empathic healing. Their romance takes them into the heart of a continental conflict where Lysette becomes the target of the enemies psychopathic commander.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Alaina
• Release date: Dec 18, 2012
• ISBN: 9781301128464

Alaina

From the Author:Thanks to all my readers for your support and reviews! Please don't hesitate to email me with any questions or comments: [e-mail] I love hearing from my readers! Don't forget Book 1 of Hypnotic Journey, Archangel and the Rule Series are FREE! FREE! FREE!!About Alaina:Alaina lives a stone's throw from the Mississippi River in Missouri. Her first story was published in the local newspaper at age 6. She hasn't stopped writing since.As the mother of seven children she loved to play video games with her kids. One day it occurred to her to write an adventure that flowed like a video game. She added a touch of romance and Hypnotic Journey was born.The Fantasy Romance- HJ characters are like a family to Alaina. They are foolish, daring, resourceful and full of passion not only for life but for the friendships they have created in this world and the next.Alaina's been a Trekkie all her life, so her next series was Science Fiction. The Treborel Series is a paranormal adventure featuring a two best friend's as the hero's fighting to find the women they love and survive the chaos of a continental conflict while being stalked by a psychotic villain determined to destroy them.Archangel is a pre-apocalyptic series about angels fighting against the rising evil in a desperate attempt to keep humanity alive long enough to reach the end of days.Royal Duty is a new type of series. Each book is a different genre- Science Fiction, Historical Romance, Fantasy, etc. They all share a central theme of a royal heir struggling against their obligations to the throne.In the end, Alaina writes about how friendship and love can be the only thing keeping you alive long enough to defeat your demons. You will find Alaina's stories exciting and steamy, but she's not an erotic author. Her characters still fall in love and have sex, its just not that obvious.You can email Alaina at [e-mail] anytime. She loves to hear from her readers.

Book preview

Tempest Rise

Treborel: Book One

By

Alaina Stanford

©2012 Alaina Stanford

Smashwords Edition

No part of this publication may be reproduced, or stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without written permission of the author.

Dedication

Dedicated to my wonderful, spirited

daughter Samantha.

Life is empty without dreams.

I love you Smooshy!

Chapter One

Prince Katar flashed a mischievous grin at Enda, saying, An heir? Is that all that concerns you? His laughter echoed through the palace library spilling out to ring through the corridor. The mountain Prince winked at Enda, filling her large, blue eyes, filled with delight. She watched as he turned his attention back to the Queen’s Chief Advisor. Katar moved across the library to the elderly gentleman. Placing his hand on Lord Wills boney shoulder, Katar continued, Hanlin, old friend, I can give the crown an heir anytime I please, without the hindrance of marriage. His dark, blue eyes sparkled with challenge.

Locking eyes with Lord Wills, Katar motioned to the beautiful blonde behind him. What do you say Enda? Would you like to bear a Royal Heir for Treborel?

Lord Wills knew Prince Katar was arrogant enough to make good on this threat. Highness! He gasped, and scrambled to his feet trying to mask a portion of the appall he felt at such an outlandish statement. He desperately tried to maintain his composure, realizing his anger would only make it worse. As Royal Advisor to her Majesty Queen Sari, it was his duty to make Prince Katar understand the Queen wished he marry.

He took a deep breath and tried to calmly reason with Katar. "With all due respect to the Widow Waytals, she is not of royal birth, nor is she of Treborelan blood. She is also unable to maintain a respectable reputation at Court. To consider producing a child out of wedlock is bad enough, without compounding the situation with… mixed blood." Lord Wills said to the Prince.

Mixed blood? Katar challenged, with feigned shock. Hanlin Wills, never in my life would I have labeled you a snob, until this very moment. Katar knew Hanlin was seriously concerned with the future of Treborel. Glancing over at Enda, he grinned wickedly at the seductive way the skirt of her dress opened to show a hint of her long legs. She lay completely relaxed and quite amused across velvety comfort of the deep blue couch. She leaned forward slightly reaching for her glass of wine that sat on the floor beside her. This afforded Katar a lingering view of the plunging neckline of her deep green gown. Katar chuckled finding her all that Hanlin had described, as much as it mattered.

Katar continued, How can you soil the name of Lord Waytals, with the mere in formalities of his wife’s birth? Burton Waytals was a dear friend of my father. He gave Lady Enda the title legally on their wedding day. Katar turned and moved back to sit beside Enda.

Finding his muscular arms and boisterous attitude too much to resist, Enda ran her fingers through his dark blond hair and cooed softly at him. I am at your service, my Prince of Scoundrels. My womb is yours. Smiling wickedly at the now pale Lord Wills, she turned and innocently gazed into Katar’s eyes.

Katar took her hand and kissed it. He allowed his lips to linger on the soft skin of Enda’s palm. Katar knew Enda was the reason the Queen’s Advisor had broached the subject of marriage. Enda knew as well as her, her shadowed past created a barrier that would keep her from the crown.

Although she hid her disdain, Enda was greatly concerned. The Princes’ days of bachelorhood were nearing an end. If the Queen forced Katar to choose an appropriate bride, she could quickly disappear from his life. Enda needed to remain close to the young Prince, for more reasons than any could suspect. Yet her need to stay close to Katar was not great enough to consent to a pregnancy.

Enda knew Katar used the threat of a bastard child merely to caution his meddlesome advisor. Her eyes sparkled with delight. As carefree and adventurous as he appeared, Katar would never allow his freedom to be bound by the birth of a child. The Queen would not be blessed with a grandchild, until she ceased her attempts to find her son a bride. Prince Katar had successfully resisted every attempt at matchmaking thus far.

Hanlin announced, as he shot Enda an icy glare. Perhaps it would be best if we continued this conversation in private.

Enda’s eyes flashed with anger at the annoying statesman. She excused herself, and headed toward the tall double doors. Katar watched her leave. He smiled with pleasure at the way her round hips swayed across the room. Enda’s long, golden hair danced around her slender shoulders, as she walked. Katar considered Enda the most exciting woman in Treborel, possibly the most beautiful as well.

She left the door slightly ajar, and moved in front of a large mirror, hanging beside the entrance. She leaned close, and pretended to primp, as a Queen’s Guard walked past her. A slight side step, as he disappeared around the distant corner of the hall, enabled her to peer into the room.

My golden she-devil has gone, Hanlin, speak your mind. Katar’s smile turned to a slight frown, as he focused his attention on Lord Wills.

Lady Waytals has too much influence over you, Your Highness. She is a dangerous viper, who lusts after more than simple position and wealth. Are you aware that her late husband’s estate is being sold at auction, in less than a fortnight? She has squandered her entire inheritance, trying to keep herself clad in those disgracefully revealing gowns. She has run off all your other mistresses and hints to anyone the least bit interested that she’s your fiancée. Hanlin sighed, and collapsed onto the sofa next to Katar, relieved to have the matter out in the open.

Katar answered, in a quiet tone. Enda is aware our relationship is purely recreational. She prefers it that way. When she hints of an engagement, she does so merely to irritate the women who think less of her. I have no intention of marrying her, or anyone else at this time. Katar met Hanlin’s concerned gaze, with a sober stare. As for Enda’s financial concerns, I had no idea she was near bankruptcy. She should have come to me; I won’t let her lose her home. I’m not as selfish and bullheaded as you might think, Hanlin. I won’t let anyone fall into poverty if I can stop it. However, I suppose Enda would be better off chasing someone who could offer her a future. Commander Cap Taylor has a fondness for her. Perhaps I should steer her toward him. He’s very well off, and stubborn enough to keep her from ruling over him.

Rising suddenly, Katar crossed to the elaborately carved mahogany bar, near the high windows, overlooking the Queen’s gardens. Cap’s kept very busy lately, with the extra duties of his promotion to Commander in the Queen’s Air Forces. If he were to marry, it could put an end to our hunting expeditions. Another poor soul sacrificed to the jaws of matrimony. Katar’s voice filled with anger and regret. Moving around the long cabinet to the variety of brandy displayed there, Katar filled two glasses with golden ale. What is it about marriage, which causes men to give up the things they enjoy most in life?

I never had the privilege to marry, Your Highness. However, I suspect one’s priorities change. A man will only relinquish what he feels necessary. Hanlin answered, confused by Katar’s statement.

Our hunting expeditions are our only escape from the hazards of repetitive duty. Their exciting adventures last for several weeks at a time. Now Eades describes them as dangerous. Thomas Rung, who has a new son, complains they’re too long. Neither Tom nor Eades have been on a hunt in over 2 years. Then you have Bosen May, married for ten years. He eagerly comes running every time. He takes more risks on the hunt than anyone else. Leaning across the bar, Katar smiled knowingly, He was never that way before all those years of marriage.

Katar . . . Hanlin began, but was cut off by Katar’s loud laughter.

Cap says Bosen’s got a death wish. I say send his controlling, little wife along with us next time, and his worries will be over. Katar growled.

Hanlin shook his head in frustration, dismissing the horrendous statement. He knew Katar was venting his anger. The Prince was truly very fond of the blacksmith’s wife, Tya May. Hanlin said, Very well, Your Highness. I can see you are not in a receptive mood. I ask only one favor before I leave you to your thoughts. Since you have decided to end your relationship with Lady Waytals, you should know I have approached Lord Sean Nolan of Lon Tesse. His niece, Lady Lysette Nolan, is the granddaughter of Lady Alyssa Moore of Treborel. Hanlin’s eyes grew distant, and a wistful smile lit his face. I knew Lady Moore; she was a graceful, beautiful woman.

Katar was intrigued. Could Lady Moore be a past love of the steel, faced gentleman? It hadn’t occurred to Katar before, but surely Hanlin had romantic intentions at one time. Yet, Hanlin hardly ever left the palace and never kept the company of a lady for more than a short time.

Regaining his composure, Hanlin began again. Lady Nolan is, therefore, a Treborelan by birth, even though she has lived her entire life in Lon Tesse. Her uncle is Foreign Advisor to Regent Dana. Lady Nolan is a Pediatric Surgeon. She will be taking a short vacation with her uncle, at the Regents summer retreat. Then she will begin her practice, in the capital city of Lavose. They will both be at the retreat during the Continental Alliance Summit, which you are to attend.

Katar was already bored at the suggestion of another introduction. He sighed, and said, Treborel has no need for Physicians, Hanlin. She would feel out of place, and inferior to our Empathic Healers.

Katar was tired of the vain, and ambitious, women of the court. When he was a youth, the attempted seductions were exciting and challenging. Now he looked at them as a ridiculous contest to achieve the title of Queen. The courtiers constant primping and idle conversation bored him. Enda expressed no wish to become Queen. Neither did she try to engage him in the latest court gossip. Instead, she was a sensual ornament he could display. He enjoyed Enda’s capacity to bring laughter, at the most inappropriate moments.

Hanlin’s voice broke into his thoughts, If you could meet with her, just once. I think you would find she is an excellent candidate for your future queen. If there is a problem with her career, I’m sure we could work something out, however impractical, and unnecessary, the position may seem. You forget your father surrendered the crown of Latria to marry your mother. He was a great man. He dedicated his life to moving Treborel forward into the next century. Now, the Queen has dedicated her life to fulfilling your father’s dreams of establishing permanent ties with the rest of the planet. She would be in favor of creating a bond with Lon Tesse through marriage. Katar crossed to Hanlin and handed him the small glass of ale. Taking a sip, Hanlin added one last thought, If Lady Nolan is half as beautiful and intelligent as her grandmother, and I think you will be quite pleased.

A dozen reasons came to mind why the undertaking would not succeed. Every nation on the planet considered the Treborelan Empaths an archaic fantasy. Katar fully expected the young Surgeon to insult the ancient art of healing by touch before the end of their first encounter. Most modern physicians condemned it before even attempting to understand the practice. Yet Katar held his tongue. There was no sense in agitating Hanlin further. Hanlin was his father’s advisor, who took Katar under his wing when his father died. The elderly statesman became Katar’s confidant, and friend, on that terrible day, nearly 10 years ago.

Katar agreed with reluctance, saying. "If I find no fault in her, and if she finds me acceptable, I promise, I will consider a betrothal."

Enda glared through the small opening in the door. She clenched her fists in fury and wished Hanlin a horrible death. The solution to her financial situation was nothing, compared to how easily Katar cast her aside. She spent the last three years entertaining Katar and hanging on his every word. She would not let him slip through her fingers so easily, not now. As Hanlin rose from his seat, Enda spun and rushed down the long hall.

Katar frowned in annoyance at Hanlin’s triumphant smile. He gave Katar a sweeping bow and took his leave. Katar’s gaze followed him. His frown transformed into a brilliant smile as Hanlin disappeared through the door. He planned to make very sure Lady Lysette Nolan would not find him acceptable.

Hanlin turned to head down the carpeted hall and caught a glimpse of Enda’s dark green dress as she rounded the far corner. She might be the only element that could spoil his plans for the prince and hurried to catch her.

Hanlin! Katar’s voice boomed behind him. Hanlin delayed his lecture to the promiscuous widow, and turned around, as Katar appeared in the doorway saying, I completely forgot. Commander Connor is arriving this evening from Bantor. I invited King William on a sraeb hunt. Naturally, he declined; it seems the mere idea of leaving the palace, sends him into severe paranoia. He’s sending Commander Connor in his stead. If we can strike up a new trade agreement, maybe our transportation link through Bantor can become a trade route as well.

Perhaps you could convince him to approach King William, about converting to our Solar Gem system. Hanlin suggested. Enda was forgotten, as he followed Katar back into the library.

Katar said, "You read my mind, their plasma energy experiments aren’t going well. It promises to become a clean, efficient system, but I’m afraid the technology needed to contain such a potentially lethal power source may never come to life. If they don’t shut down the project soon, we could see another catastrophic event.

Hanlin defended the new technology, knowing it would do little injury to the Solar Gem System. The plasma wave is merely a mass of free floating electrons. Certainly, someday they will find a field strong enough to contain it. Hanlin hoped it might be possible to combine the two systems since the solar gems were engineered for the conservation of energy.

Katar answered, as he moved to freshen their drinks, That’s the problem. William’s confidence is too high. His advisors are not scientists. First, they must find an energy field to hold it, and experiment on a small enough scale, to be feasible. Even so, just one mistake on anyone’s part could vaporize an entire region, exactly the way it happened before. It’s the recreation of the nucleus of a star, about 20 million degrees of intense regenerating heat. Even on a microscopic scale, it could easily balloon out of control. There was no logical reason why the firestorm stopped at the edge of the Ragal River. Yet if it hadn’t it could have destroyed the entire planet. I don’t think we should risk that again.

That was over a hundred years ago, Katar. Hanlin explained, Scientists claim the deep chasm beneath the River Ragal extinguished of the wall of fire.

Katar shook his head, and handed Hanlin his drink. They sat down in the high back chairs that faced the fireplace. That is mere speculation. The northern continent is still a barren desert. In all that time, not a single sign of life has returned. I informed King William personally of Queen Sari’s, and my disapproval. After all the destruction the last attempt created, the plasma wave should be left alone.

Modern technology has improved tenfold, since then. Hanlin said.

Hanlin, we don’t need the technology. Three million people died because of that modern technology. The solar gem system is safe, clean and has no negative environmental effects. I am not interested in another form of energy, until our scientists figure out exactly why the firestorm stopped at the River Ragal, and how it can be safely contained there is no sense in discussing it. Treborel faces the desert to our north, across the river. It’s understandable the sea halted its progress, but the River Ragal is not wide enough. No matter how deep the chasm, it couldn’t have provided the water needed to extinguish such a large wall of fire. It should have jumped right over the river, and destroyed the entire eastern continent. The Empaths believe our mystical heritage saved Treborel that day, for once I’m likely to agree. It’s a grave reminder of where greed, and carelessness, will aspire.

This conversation is best left to the Continental Alliance Summit. Hanlin answered.

I look forward to it. I’m told Commander Connor is an effective debater. Katar smiled, draining his glass. I’m excited about the chance to hunt with him before the summit.

Hanlin did not want the Prince to disappear into the mountains at such a crucial time. He said, The Summit is only three weeks away. Are you sure you can effectively show the Commander a proper hunting excursion, in only two weeks?

A sly grin appeared on Katar’s face, as he answered, You should take the Queen’s helijet transport when the time comes. I’ll take the hunting party through the Western Chasm. We can meet at the Regent’s Retreat, a few days before the Summit.

Hanlin shook his head in disagreement, Regent Dana is expecting a Prince, not a barbarian, wearing animal skins. Don’t forget Lon Tesse’s protests against our annual sraeb hunts.

I promise, no presents oozing with blood. Katar tossed a wicked smile at Hanlin, and then went back to the bar to return the decanter of ale. He glanced out the tall windows that lined the wall. Blossoms of vibrant pink and violet hues lay as if gently scattered on the branches of the giant evergreen trees. The golden rays of the sun pushed its way through the dense layer of clouds for only an instant. Its warmth brushed Katar’s face as the fountains began to flow. He added, The Queen is bullying the gardener again. He’s turned on the fountains too early. A fleeting image of his father appeared before him, as his eyes focused on a bush full of large, white blossoms. His father, Prince Mikel brought his wife the flowered bushes of Latria, when he returned from the Eastern Peace Summits across the sea. The blossoms pacified the Queen during his many absences. She and Katar would spend hours researching the potential plants he would bring home next. If it freezes tonight, she’ll get an earful in the morning I’ll wager. Katar smiled at the thought of his mother, having to face the angry gardener, amidst the cracked and frozen fountains.

Hanlin came to his side, and answered, The Queen’s gardens are her pride and joy. I’m sure she wants them at their most beautiful, when our esteemed guest arrives.

Katar turned away from the windows, and said, The winters here are long, cold, and full of snow. She knows those fountains will have to be replaced if they’re not drained by dusk.

Hanlin frowned at Katar’s attitude, The Queen isn’t the only member of the Royal Family who charges into spring ventures. Are you sure the sraeb have emerged from hibernation?

I warned Commander Connor, we might not find a large male. He wasn’t concerned. I have the distinct feeling; he considers sraeb hunting a national sport, instead of a necessary population control device. Katar shook his head in disgust. I love being deep in those mountains. Hunting is a duty I enjoy, but it’s more than just the hunt. The enjoyment I receive from being away from civilization is just as great as the necessity to keep the sraeb population from reaching a crisis level again. I don’t want to torture the giant beasts. I just want them to stay few, and scattered. Sraeb are far too dangerous to allow uncontrolled reproduction to occur.

Hanlin reasoned, The odds of killing a female, and leaving her cubs to die this time of year are high.

"Yes, but too many people have died due to the overpopulation of sraeb. Fifteen years ago, the plague nearly wiped out all of the elk. They are the sraeb primary food source during Frenzy. Yet even now, the herds are still weak and diseased. I’m afraid they will never recover sufficiently, to keep the sraeb satisfied. Even with the assistance of the Healers, almost half of the herds have stillborn calves, year after year." Katar said.

Hanlin said, Perhaps it is time to approach the situation from another direction.

We’ve been through this before, Hanlin. The female sraeb can have two or three cubs each spring. Short of slaughtering hundreds of cubs every year, we go in and kill the largest of the males. During mating season, the younger males are killed by what larger males have managed to elude us, and the situation is rectified. Katar rose, frustrated, and drained the last of the amber liquid from his glass. I’m needed at the stables. Cap getting gathering the provisions, we leave at dawn.

Please inform Commander Taylor there will be need for another horse. I will be accompanying you. Hanlin announced much to Katar’s dismay.

You hate the woods. Katar answered, the surprise evident in his voice. He turned to stare at the reserved Advisor.

I would hate more to have to explain why my future King was delayed, or unable to attend, the first Continental Alliance Summit. Following Katar to the double doors of the study, he added, I know you to be a man of your word. Nevertheless, the mountains tend to transport you to another plane of existence. You become lost in an ancient world, forgetting about your present obligations.

The nights are cold, and dark under the trees, Katar answered, ignoring the reprimand. Hanlin’s expression was unwavering. Alright, pack warm clothes. We’ll clean up when we reach the lodge. You are a man of determination, my friend. Katar smiled; amused at the length his mother’s advisor was willing to go to fulfill his promise. Exactly how far Hanlin would go suddenly concerned him. Turning back to Hanlin, Katar asked, Did you approach Lord Nolan about a courtship?

No, Your Highness. I merely mentioned I would like to introduce the young lady to you. I’ve learned not to push you too hard. Hanlin answered, cautiously.

When there are wedding plans to be made Hanlin, I will attend to them myself. Katar sternly ordered.

Insulted by the Princes’ demeaning attitude, Hanlin moved past him and into the hall. If you will excuse me, I shall inform Her Majesty of our travel plans.

Undaunted by the display of injured pride, Katar left Hanlin to his duties and headed for the Palace’s main entrance. Descending the large stone steps of the palace, Katar glanced at the unusually thick layers of clouds in the sky. The gray swirling mist above continued to struggle with the sun, as it attempted to pierce the thick layer. It seemed only in the deepest of winter; when the frigid temperatures drove the people from the streets in haste did the sky clear of clouds for hours at a time. The brilliant yellow sunlight danced around the clouds, attempting to warm the frozen soil. It was then he longed to live over a century ago before the firestorm permanently clouded the sky, and the upper atmospheric storms raged. The storms kept all but the most powerful low flying craft from the sky. Working his way through the crowded stone walkways, he headed toward the stables that sat beside the massive city gates that opened into the mountains. Katar stood at the stable entrance watching the groomsmen exercise the horses in anticipation of their journey.

Cap stood just inside giving orders to the Stable Master. Katar knew his childhood friend well enough not to question his readiness for their excursion. Katar often wondered if he had become too dependent on Cap’s penchant for details. Yet that one aspect, combined with Cap’s unending humor and high intelligence made him the perfect companion for Katar. Glancing up as Katar’s approached Cap’s dark head disappeared quickly in the darkness of the stables.

The tall, lanky Commander re-emerged tossing Katar a small laser rifle. If we’re going as far as the Western Chasm we’ll need to take a couple of these along. The compound bows are great when you are prepared, but I don’t want my arms torn off in the middle of the night before I can knock the arrow. Sraeb don’t give any warning before they declare dinner is served. His charcoal eyes glimmered. He flashed a quick smile, and he disappeared back inside.

We’ll need a couple of pistols too. Lord Wills has decided to join us and he doesn’t use the bow anymore. Katar added, following him into the stables. Katar surveyed the large pile of supplies recently deposited on the floor just inside the doors.

Can’t be trusted, eh? Cap called over his shoulder.

I’ll check with the Stable Master and see if they can find a horse to put up with Hanlin’s constant chatter. Katar answered, ignoring Cap’s remark.

Too bad Dizzy is about to foal. That muzzle blast last fall left her as deaf as a rock. Cap turned and knocked on the only occupied stall. The chestnut mare snorted in response.

I’ll get the groomsmen to put an extra blanket in his saddle bag. Those old bones might get brittle if the weather turns cold. Cap winked at Katar. His smile quickly turned into a frown as he reconsidered the idea of a sixty plus year old man trekking through the wilderness for such an extended period. Are you sure he’s up to this? I can’t remember the last time Lord Wills traveled any further than the distance between Borel and the harbor. That’s only a day’s ride and we’re going deep into the mountains. There won’t be any Hostels to rest in overnight.

He’s tougher than you think, Cap Katar answered, certain the elderly advisor wouldn’t take on more than he could handle.

Who am I to argue with my future Sovereign? Cap shrugged, surrendering, I grabbed your bow. Bosen and I have the gear ready to go.

Bosen’s coming along? Katar glanced across at him, grinning, What a surprise.

Eades too, he says those three weeks in the mountains with Commander Connor means you will need his services. The expression on Cap’s face changed from amusement to warning.

What is it I don’t know? Katar turned his full attention on his friend, intrigued.

There’s been a lot of talk about Connor’s reputation. Cap answered, soberly.

He’s the Commander of King William’s National Defensive Forces. Someone in control of the King’s Elite Guard isn’t going to have any mysterious past. William is paranoid. I’m sure he had the man checked inside and out before giving him the position. No one, not even William is stupid enough to hire a mercenary to Command his land forces. Katar had heard the ridiculous rumors and dismissed them; surprised Cap hadn’t done the same.

I admit those stories are all very interesting, but that wasn’t what I was talking about. Cap stood his ground determined to make Katar listen. "Connor was up here last fall. He took a group of Bantorians on a hunt in the Northern Mountains. There were ten men in the party. Only eight returned.

"That’s not unusual. If you’re hardheaded, enough to take an inexperienced group of hunters deep into the dense wilderness during Frenzy bad things are going to happen. I’m surprised any of them made it out alive. Shaking his head at the waste of life, Katar glanced at Cap’s dark expression. He could tell there was more, Why didn’t someone warn them?"

You’d think the mere fact every guide in Treborel refused the substantial fee he offered would have been enough to caution him. Not only did he go in without a guide, they were all carrying Laser Rifles, not bows. All except Connor, he had a crossbow.

I guess he wasn’t aware of our hunting guidelines. I can see I’m going to have to educate Commander Connor on the proper use of weapons in Treborel. Laser Rifles are strictly for emergencies, and crossbows are used by children.

I’d be careful how you approach the subject with the Commander. Thomas Rung’s father reported Connor for using snares to capture young sraeb. He apparently took his time using a 40 pound draw weight bow to kill the poor creatures. Cap continued, disgusted at the thought of torturing the large beasts.

"A bow with a forty pound draw