The Guardians Book 5: Grand Master

By W. H. Cann

The search for Sorann takes Grogaan and Ellarna on a journey across the galaxy, one not only of great distance, but one of self-discovery, of personal and spiritual enlightenment. The events and trials Grogaan faces during this time, tests his inner calm, his self-control and his adeptness in magic to the limit.

Grogaan and Ellarna face a race against time; They must locate and rescue Sorann from the clutches of the Vadashine, discover the meaning and set in motion the events that will ‘heal the blood of times long passed’ and return to the Gaashox quadrant in time to face the coming ‘Swarm’, an event on which the fate of the galaxy rests.

• Language: English
• Publisher: W. H. Cann
• Release date: Apr 10, 2016
• ISBN: 9781310422843

W. H. Cann

I am an indie author of science fiction and fantasy novels. I live in Pembrokeshire, Wales, am married with two children, and three grandchildren.I have served with the Royal Air Force as a dual trade aircraft engineer after completing a 3 year apprenticeship, run my own business for several years until a back injury prevented me from continuing, and then entered the world of finance. I am currently employed as a Local Government Finance Officer.I have been a passionate reader since early childhood, but was introduced to the fantasy genre at the age of 10 when my father gave me some Conan books and the Thongor of Lemuria series by Lin Carter. I did not actually start writing until my mid thirties, after injuring my back and was off work for a while. It was then that I first penned the drafts of the Science Fiction series The Guardians, followed by the fantasy series The Chronicles of Ferantiana.My favourite activities other than writing are walking, reading, researching family history, watching classic British Sitcoms, good dramas and films, and listening to music.W. H. Cann

Book preview

The Guardians

Book 5

Grand Master

W. H. Cann

W.H. Cann asserts the moral right to

be identified as the author of this work

Copyright 2001 W. H. Cann

Published by W. H. Cann

Third Edition March 2017

Cover Illustration W. H. Cann

Copyright 2015 W. H. Cann

ISBN: 978-1-31-042284-3

All Rights Reserved

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, actual events, or organisations are entirely coincidental.

This ebook is licensed for your personal enjoyment only. This ebook may not be re-sold or given away to other people. If you would like to share this book with another person, please purchase an additional copy for each recipient. If you’re reading this book and did not purchase it, or it was not purchased for your use only, then please return to Smashwords.com and purchase your own copy. Thank you for respecting the hard work of this author.

Contents

Title

Copyright

Contents

Chapter 01

Chapter 02

Chapter 03

Chapter 04

Chapter 05

Chapter 06

Chapter 07

Chapter 08

Chapter 09

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Epilogue

Other Books

Chapter One

Breolis Seven, Breolis System, Fazaal Sector, Gaashox Quadrant

Grogaan was sitting at the head of the large conference table in the operations room of his hidden base on Breolis Seven. Despite the situation regarding his friend Sorann, he was surprisingly relaxed and unconcerned about his fate. He gazed thoughtfully at the three-dimensional holographic star-chart of the Yeasson Quadrant being projected above the table. The image rotated slowly, allowing him to see the systems, planets, and stars from all angles, but it did not make his task any easier.

The faint humming sound of the air conditioning system and the fans in the large computer system built into the desk, was all that could be heard. Whereas most would find it disturbing or distracting, Grogaan found it had a soothing effect on him. It reminded him of being in the cockpit of his starfighter, or sitting beside Lake Mabreese with the wind whistling through the trees. Memories of times gone by flooded into his mind as he looked intently at the image. He longed to walk alongside the lake again, to feel the fresh mountain air on his face and the smell of the land filling his nostrils.

For the first time in a long time he thought of Miranda, how close he had been to fulfilling his deepest desire, only to have it torn violently away from him. He smiled as the memories of her beauty, the happiness they had shared, and the times they had spent together filled his mind. His vow of vengeance had been fulfilled; Kregarast was dead and the Krelathans subdued by the Hebradon Empire. Peace in the Gaashox Quadrant, however, was far from being realised, unlike the peace of mind and spirit he himself now possessed, which was all because of Ellarna’s presence in his life.

With a sigh, he brushed aside the memories and returned his focus to the image of the Yeasson Quadrant. He was disappointed with the lack of information contained in the star-chart, not that he complained about it. He was fortunate to have been able to obtain this one, having discovered the data drive containing it had been retrieved from a destroyed Okarron class starfighter from Olarask.

The star-chart showed the boundaries of all sixteen sectors, but most of those contained planetary data on only a handful of systems and even less on the planets within them. Only two sectors contained more detailed information. As far as Grogaan was able to ascertain, there were forty seven inhabitable planets in thirty one systems. There were areas within these two sectors where information was obviously missing, had been purposely deleted, destroyed by an electrical surge, or simply omitted prior to having been uploaded into the system.

According to the data, a large proportion of the forty planets located in two specific sectors were inhabited by four principle races: The Olarans, Pagerons, Binnasson and the Vadashine. Grogaan was not surprised to learn the Vadashine inhabited the most, and the positioning of those systems almost formed a barrier between the other three races and the rest of the quadrant. There was, unfortunately, no definite point of reference linking the Yeasson and Ladorran quadrants, so Grogaan had no idea which system he would need to travel to in the first instance.

While he sat quietly absorbing the data, Ellarna entered carrying a tray of drinks and snacks.

Are you still examining those charts?

I am, but it’s not getting me anywhere, he replied shaking his head.

I didn’t think so. Well, it’s time to take a break and I thought you’d like some hot chocolate.

Thanks, that’s just what I need. Grogaan accepted the cup proffered and took a few sips. It was strong and sweet, just how he liked it. He slid his chair back a little, lifted his legs and rested his feet on the edge of the table while balancing on the two back legs, using his magic to keep the chair still.

Ellarna sat down and the two drank in silence for a few minutes. What are we going to do now?

That’s what I’m unsure about, replied Grogaan resting his cup in his lap.

Ellarna gazed at him curiously without utterance.

All I know for sure is that Roweyna is behind Sorann’s abduction, but not why. It doesn’t make sense.

Yes it does. If you went in search of Sorann, you wouldn’t be present in any ensuing conflict. Considering the impact you and Kopaz Squadron have in battle, the empress obviously regards you as a serious threat, one that has to be removed by any means possible.

I had thought of that, but ruled it out as inconsequential. The Imperial fleet is large enough to defeat anything the Republic could ever muster. All she needs to do is concentrate her forces more efficiently and then all is lost.

You sound as if you’ve given up hope of ever defeating the empire.

Not yet I haven’t, but something isn’t right. Take Sorann’s abduction; with so little data on the Yeasson Quadrant, its systems, planets and races available, determining his possible location will prove near impossible.

Have your mediations provided anything that might shed some light on his whereabouts?

That’s what’s so troubling about this whole situation. Regardless of how much time I spend meditating or spirit-walking, I’m not seeing any visions or receiving any promptings.

Could it be something to do with being here?

Grogaan shook his head. Location has no effect on a Guardian’s ability to see visions. I’m beginning to suspect the magical world is hindering my ability for some reason, but I have no idea why that might be so.

Perhaps it’s just not the right time to act. You always told me visions appeared only when something had to be revealed at that particular time.

That’s what I was thinking. I also suspect the prophecy has something to do with it.

Ellarna closed her eyes. With revelation the Storm Conjurer awakes, and comes with devastation in his wake, to destroy the dark and awaken the light, to heal the blood of times long passed.

After a moment's pause, she opened her eyes and continued. You are the Storm Conjurer, of that there is no doubt. Even Xarasss believes it, but it's the meaning of that last line that’s eluding us. She gazed at Grogaan thoughtfully. Perhaps this must come to pass before we learn of Sorann's whereabouts. The two maybe intricately linked, more so than we thought possible.

Grogaan smiled. You’ve come a long way in the art of magic. Your insight is becoming remarkable.

The future may be enshrouded in the mists of time, but all will be revealed when the time is right. We will find Sorann and defeat the Hebradon Empire.

Grogaan slouched back in his chair and finished his drink. You always know how to reassure me, he said smiling, but it doesn’t make it easier to ascertain where to commence the search. The data appears to be so unreliable, and I am beginning to suspect this star chart is as well.

What is that system there? Ellarna pointed to the one positioned on the far right.

That is the Birra System, which is the most obvious place to begin. The principle planet is Binnas, and the indigenous people are the Binnasson. If the data is correct, they’re supposed to be a peaceful, shy and reclusive humanoid race. The strangest thing is, they’ve never been conquered, and that intrigues me.

Well, if you think there’s something unusual about the Binnasson, why don’t we commence our search there?

Grogaan gazed at his wife and nodded gently. That sounds reasonable. We’ll leave first thing in the morning. If the chart can be trusted, it’s approximately two days flight inside the quadrant, but we’ll need to find a reference point to cross into it. I also think we had better travel alone.

What of Pakrowask?

He’ll have to remain here. I think the time alone will do him some good, and he can spend it meditating and practising his skills.

Ellarna gazed at him sceptically.

I know what you’re thinking, but there’s no need to be concerned. If I can trust him, so can you.

Are you sure?

Yes. If he returned to serve the empress, all would not fare well for him. Besides, my instincts tell me he’d be in great danger if he accompanied us. Don’t ask me why, because I don’t know at this moment in time.

***

Zaack and Doraant had argued with Grogaan about being ordered to return without him, Ellarna and the Krelathan, and made it clear how unhappy they were about it. Grogaan refused to change his mind on the subject, so eventually they backed down and followed his orders without further resistance. The grief everyone was experiencing over losing Eldaan and Lusiana was still raw and a subject they avoided talking about, but now they faced an extended period of time without their commander and Ellarna, who always seemed to have a positive effect on them.

Loading the fighters onto the ‘Miranda’s Pride’ was a stressful task. They were close to damaging one ship or another on several occasions, which led to minor confrontations and disagreements. By the third day en-route, the tension was so bad arguments became regular and heated, with several individuals almost coming to blows.

The only male pilot who avoided the arguments as much as possible was Parrin, which surprised everyone. It was his and Joeen’s reluctance to get involved with the disputes that helped diffuse many of them. After one particularly heated exchange, they finally came to their senses and strived to maintain a peaceful atmosphere for the rest of the flight, but the tension between them remained taught.

Am I glad we’re back; I don’t think I could have lasted another hour, let alone another day, admitted Doraant as he sat in the co-pilot’s chair.

You and me both, agreed Zaack.

It isn’t going to be any easier back here though.

Why do you say that?

Doraant rubbed his hands over his head and down his neck to ease the tightness he was feeling in his muscles. For one thing, it’ll take some time for the tension between us all to ease, and secondly, there’s not going to be much for us to do.

True. So we’ll just have to make sure we do something to restore the unity, and do so before we face another combat situation. If we don’t, and without Grogaan here, I can’t see us surviving long.

Doraant looked at Zaack through wide eyes. You’re serious aren’t you?

Zaack nodded. This is the worst it’s been since leaving Mabraant after the defeat by the Empire, and not forgetting we’re two pilots short.

Doraant sighed heavily. I know what we talked about and agreed before accompanying Grogaan to Mabraant, but I'm still finding it hard accepting the fact that they’ve gone.

You and me both.

Doraant took a deep breath and exhaled slowly through his nose. I was beginning to think we were invincible, but Parrin was right: Luck can only hold out for so long, and what we do is dangerous.

I know that, and so did Eldaan, but he acted in haste. Zaack took a deep breath and exhaled slowly through his nose. Even so, Grogaan was right about us not getting involved on Exalonia, but how could we not be there to support him. We’re a team whether we’re in space or on land. That’s why I don't like it when Grogaan won’t let us accompany him.

We have little choice in that matter, said Joeen entering the cabin. You know his responsibilities go far beyond just commanding the squadron, and he can’t always include us when he’s got important tasks to undertake. She sat on the systems monitoring station chair and swivelled round to look at the others.

Is that supposed to make us feel any better? asked Doraant.

Joeen forced a smile. Of course it isn’t. Nor is it right that he should go off without us, but as I said, we have little choice.

I guess you’re right. Sometimes I wish he’d never discovered his magical powers. Then we could have continued as a squadron without him becoming a Guardian.

Zaack nodded. I sometimes wish that too, but it’s his magic that gives him that extra advantage. Without it, we’d probably be dead along with the rest of the Mabra Defence Force.

True. We’ve got a lot to thank Grogaan for, admitted Doraant.

And that’s why we need to accept and do whatever Grogaan tells us to do, said Joeen crossing her legs. It’s not because he wants it that way, it’s because it has to be. It’s my guess he doesn't like having to exclude us as much as we don't like being excluded.

I’m sure you’re right. Doraant sighed heavily.

The communications light flashed and Zaack opened the relevant channel. Marderas Control, this is Flight Lieutenant Frerant of the ‘Miranda’s Pride’ requesting landing authorisation.

Lieutenant Doland, Marderas Control. Authorisation granted Zaack: No flight issues or delays pending. Glad you made it back safely.

Thanks Karl. Glad to be back. Zaack switched the comms off. Alright everyone, prepare for landing. Ten minutes later, he piloted the ship into the giant hangar, and as he rotated the ship to line up with the markers, he saw Rosaline waiting in the office overlooking the bay. It seems as if news of our arrival spreads faster than anything else.

That’s because we’re so popular, offered Doraant.

If only, countered Joeen.

Before anyone could exit the ship, Rosaline was standing at the base of the boarding ramp waiting impatiently for news. She watched intently as one by one the pilots disembarked, all of whom were looking miserable and dejected.

Zaack, where’s Grogaan, Ellarna and Pakrowask? she asked worriedly.

Don’t worry Governor, everything’s fine. Grogaan insisted we return while they went searching for Sorann. He said it was too risky for us all to go with him: Reckons it would draw too much attention from species he’d rather avoid.

You don’t look happy about it.

No I’m not, but what can I do about it? Nothing, he said a little too abruptly. Without another word, he walked off without collecting his belongings from the ship, nor did he wait for Francine.

Rosaline watched in utter shock as each of the pilots walked away from the ship alone and in silence. What happened out there? she asked aloud, not expecting to receive a reply.

I’ll tell you over a hot drink, answered Joeen, who had remained a few paces away.

Rosaline turned to see who had spoken. What? Oh, hello Joeen. She glanced over her shoulder to see the last of Kopaz squadron disappear through the door to the office complex. It must be bad for you all to look so miserable.

Let’s get that drink and I’ll tell all.

Ten minutes later, the two women had ordered tea and cakes, and were sitting at a table in the quietest corner of the Olandara Cantina. Rosaline put her cup down, clasped her hands together and looked at Joeen expectantly. So why is everyone looking so miserable?

Joeen sighed. It’s a simple case of having to do what you don’t want to do, object to doing, and only doing so with great reluctance. Suffice to say it’s caused a lot of friction and tension.

I see, but why? Surely . . .

The problem stems from the close bond between the original pilots of Kopaz Squadron, and they don’t like Grogaan ordering them back here while he goes off in search of Sorann without them.

I can understand that, but surely they can appreciate the responsibilities he has as a Guardian.

That’s the point. They do understand, but they don’t believe the search for Sorann is solely a Guardian matter. To them it’s one of friendship and personal responsibility, mainly because some feel partly responsible for his abduction. They also believe they should be accompanying him whenever possible, or at least being in the same or the adjacent star system. All of them are stubborn, sometimes beyond sense and reason, none more so than Grogaan. Unfortunately, none of them truly realise or understand just how painful it was for Grogaan to order them back here.

Rosaline sipped her drink to wash down a mouthful of cake. Their loyalty to Grogaan is unquestionable, and their bond of friendship and trust in each other is exceptional.

Yes it is, and it may be enough to get them though this time, but what about next time, or the time after that? Friendship and loyalty can be stretched only so far before it cracks.

If it's as strong as it seems, then it will be enough.

Joeen smiled, but remained sceptical. She had seen many so-called unbreakable friendships shatter under extreme circumstance, often with devastating effect.

Chapter Two

Sonion, Solari System, Nakari Sector, Yeasson Quadrant

Nine days after leaving Breolis Seven, the 'Ellarna Star' decelerated to sub-lightspeed just inside what Grogaan hoped was the Birra System. According to the data he possessed, Binnas was the only inhabitable planet; the other five were recorded as being barren and desolate, incapable of supporting life. When they reached standard communications distance, Grogaan expected the inhabitants to make contact, but the system remained quiet.

That’s strange, he mumbled.

Not to me, replied Ellarna. I’m sure there are some planets in this galaxy that aren’t technologically advanced and don’t possess any communication systems.

I’d be surprised to discover any planet that doesn’t have some basic technological capability.

Maybe in all other quadrants, but little is known about this one.

Then we might be in for some pleasant or unpleasant surprises. Well, the sensors aren’t detecting any ship activity, technology or major settlements.

Grogaan, however, remained alert, charged the weapons systems and continued monitoring both sensors and communications. Nothing appeared and no one made contact. The sensor readouts indicated at least half of the planet surface was covered by ocean, the rest by forest and grassland. There were a few mountain ranges, which were low compared to those on Mabraant, and no deserts.

At the poles, ice caps covered the land in a bright white layer, gradually changing to the brown and green of forest and grassland. The temperature at the equator was fairly constant at around thirty degrees Celsius, but reached minus forty in the polar-regions. The planet was about fifteen percent larger in diameter than Mabraant, and the gravity five percent heavier.

Grogaan set course for the equatorial region where it would be early morning. Flying low over the vast savannahs, they saw a diverse abundance of wild beasts they had never seen before, not even in holographic storage files. There were no cities, towns, or even tribal settlements often associated with such areas, so they turned round and headed north.

Isn’t it beautiful, said Ellarna, her expression radiant.

It is, almost as much as Mabraant if it was not spoilt by civilisation.

The sparse scattered woodlands of the equatorial regions changed to more dense forests, which were separated by open plains of luscious green grasses filled with an abundance of flora and fauna, and more strange creatures. He headed eastward until they thinned again.

There were many rivers and streams feeding several lakes of varying sizes. Mammals and birds thronged the edges of the lakes, feeding and drinking. Birds took to the air as he flew overhead, revealing a diverse range of species, from small hummingbirds to large birds of prey. The diversity of animal and bird life surprised the Guardians, but they were disappointed not to have located any settlements.

It’s as if the entire planet is void of humanoid life and technology, said Grogaan after checking the sensors half an hour later.

Then you must be right about the charts. This cannot be Binnas, suggested Ellarna.

Unless the Olarans, or worse still, the Vadashine have extended their boundaries this far.

It’ll make our search so much harder if they have.

Yes it will. Even so, I still can’t sense any humanoid life.

So what do you intend to do?

As he turned his head to look at his wife, he noticed a clearing in one of the woodlands where the canopy was not so dense. First, I think we should land and explore a little. We’ll benefit from getting some fresh air and it’ll give us some time to relax and ponder the situation.

That sounds a great idea. It’ll be nice to walk barefoot on lush soft grass again. It seems so long since we last enjoyed being alone and away from civilisation.

You can say that again. Grogaan piloted the shuttle into the clearing, his hands a blur as they moved across the controls. With a final check of the sensors, he shut down non-essential systems and kept the emergency power and start up systems on standby. Opening the main door and using his magic to heighten his senses, he stepped cautiously onto the boarding ramp.

Ellarna followed closely behind.

The air, which was filled with the scent of trees, flowers and grass, smelled so fresh and vitalising. It was a welcome relief from the recycled air of the shuttle. Despite his love of space travel, Grogaan disliked being on board ship longer than was absolutely necessary, believing the atmosphere actually hindered his senses and his magical ability to some extent.

As soon as they breathed the fresh air they knew it was purer than anywhere they had been before, even the few sparsely populated planets they had visited. This was the first where the air had not been tainted by pollution. The oxygen content was also much higher than they were accustomed to, making them control their breathing to avoid hyperventilating.

The effect it had on them was profound. Their senses increased without having to consciously enhance them with magic, and their whole body seemed to be filled with energy and vitality. When Grogaan sensed no dangers in the vicinity, he sat on the grass, closed his eyes and opened his mind completely to the influence of his magic. Ellarna did likewise, having sensed his thoughts more clearly than ever.

After a few minutes, he decided to conceal the ship, even though he believed it unnecessary. Without rising, he used his magic to open the storage compartment, took out the camouflage and sensor nets and draped them over the ship. He was surprised how much easier it was this time. His mental dexterity and manipulation of magic was continually increasing, but something about the planet they were on seemed to enhance his ability to utilise his gift.

They sat quietly meditating for ten minutes, linking their minds and using magic to communicate with each other, letting their thoughts permeate each other’s minds without conscious effort. When they decided it was time to explore, they were surprised how clean and vibrant they felt.

While Grogaan collected the few things they would require from the shuttle, Ellarna walked round the clearing admiring the plants and flowers. She knelt down and picked one of the bright yellow buds, lifted it to her nose and sniffed it gently. She smiled and her eyes widened when she felt a surprising surge of mental agility. As she breathed out, she detected the presence of a small creature that was intrigued by her presence in the clearing. Ellarna looked to her left and saw a small furry animal, not very dissimilar to the Dirigeon she had encountered on Carasona.

Knowing the creature was intrigued and curious did not surprise her, not after all she was learning about magic. Ellarna smiled and greeted the small animal. Do not fear little one, for I intend you no harm, nor to any other creature here on this beautiful world. The animal made a strange sound before turning and scurrying back into the forest.

Well, it seems as if you are becoming quite adept in befriending small creatures.

It was not as strong in ability as the Dirigeon, nor was I able to discern what it said, but it has no fear of us now.

Let’s hope we can convince any other creature we encounter as easily. Shall we set off?

There are two paths leading out of the clearing, one heading north and one south. By their appearance, I would say they have been used recently.

Most probably by large animals living in or near the forest, which I suspect is filled with such paths, said Grogaan as they began walking along the path heading north.

They walked in silence for a couple of hours keeping their senses alert, looking for signs of humanoid activity. They sensed the presence of countless numbers of small creatures and birds, none of which were sentient. There were no obvious threats present within the forest, suggesting whatever animals lived within its boundaries were either herbivores or too small to pose a threat to them.

A gentle breeze blew along the path, keeping the two travellers relatively cool despite the high ambient temperature. They found the walk refreshing and invigorating, and although they said little, they knew exactly what the other was thinking and feeling, which increased the pleasure of being alone.

On a few occasions, a large bird flew across the path, disappearing as quickly as it had appeared. A large owl landed on a tree stump at the side of the path about twenty yards ahead. It turned to look at them for a few moments before flying back into the forest.

I’m beginning to suspect many creatures on this planet are influenced by magic, said Ellarna.

Yes, it does seem that way. That owl landed on the stump specifically to check on our presence.

It was curious about us, just like the small creature in the clearing.

As bird song erupted all around them, both Guardians became aware of an abundance of flowers blooming along the path. There were various shades of diverse colours, adding a swathe of colour to the dark green grass lining the path on both sides.

I can’t recall seeing those there a moment ago, admitted Ellarna as she bent down to look more closely at some of the flowers. The scent is beautiful.

Grogaan turned round slowly, his gaze fixed directly along the path in the direction from which they had travelled. He caught sight of a creature that looked similar to a deer possessing a set of magnificent antlers. It stood across the path with its head turned northward, staring directly at him. The deer stamped its left fore-leg, bowed its head and continued watching him.

After a few moments, Grogaan bowed his head in response and watched the creature with intrigue. He thought of peace and tranquillity while allowing his magic to fill his mind and spirit with power and energy. The buck nodded once more before disappearing into the trees.

At least we now know sentient humanoids inhabit this planet, said Ellarna.

Grogaan turned and they resumed their journey north. Yes, but how close are they?

It should not be too long before we encounter them.

You sound very sure of that.

The buck shares their territory, and they are protectors of his kind.

Grogaan smiled. You’re getting extremely adept in your gift.

Ellarna laughed. Well, I’ve learnt from the best, and not forgetting the Dirigeon opened my mind to new ways of using magic, so I have a special link with nature as a result.

True. Let’s just hope the people are friendly.

That will depend on how they regard our presence.

The forest thinned slightly the farther north they travelled and the ground became more visible, revealing small grassed areas. After traversing a long bend in the path, the two Guardians entered a clearing, which contained a small rock outcrop at the centre of a pool fed by a stream flowing from the west. There were also five other paths leading out instead of the one they expected. The more curious aspect about the paths was that they were equally spaced round the clearing.

Grogaan yawned deeply. I think we should take the opportunity to rest and refill the water canteens.

You’re not tired are you? asked Ellarna, who laughed as she sat on the short dense grass next to the pool.

The after-effects of spending too much time in space.

It is nice to be back on solid ground again, especially on such a lovely planet. Ellarna dipped the canteen into the water, rinsed it out and then refilled it before slaking her thirst. The water tastes amazing, she said gazing round the clearing.

Grogaan refilled his canteen, took a few mouthfuls and agreed with his wife. The two then sat enjoying the peace and quiet.

Do you suppose there’s something mystical or significant about this clearing?

Grogaan nodded. I do. I suspect it’s a place of spiritual significance to the inhabitants judging by the shape of the pool, the equally spaced paths and the uniform way the plants appear between the paths.

In that case, we had better not stay here too long.

That leaves us only to decide whether we continue travelling north, take one of the alternative paths, or return to the ship.

Ellarna kept her eyes closed as she lifted her head, and took a deep breath while allowing her power to enlighten her. You must make that decision. I cannot influence you either way on this matter.

Grogaan allowed his magic to enhance his receptivity to the power of the astral realm. He received his answer in a way he had not expected. We are . . . not alone. He opened his eyes, stood up and turned to face the path leading north-west. Ellarna did likewise, standing at his side.

I sense the presence of thirty, no, thirty five sentient beings circling us at about twenty metres, said Grogaan, whose voice remained surprisingly calm.

How could they have come so close without us being aware of their presence earlier?

That is very puzzling. As he let his magic continue influencing him, he sensed the beings were filled with mixed emotions over the presence of strangers in their land, especially ones who were from a distant world.

Why don’t they reveal themselves, asked Ellarna.

I don’t know for sure, but they are curious and perplexed by our ability to use magic and that we appear to be naturally peaceful, unlike the species who normally visit this world.

Would that mean they are familiar with the Olarans and Pagerons?

They are, and of the Vadashine who they fear the most, replied Grogaan while glancing slowly round the clearing, watching for movement. A few minutes later, he saw three humanoids walk out of the tree line about twenty metres along the path heading north-west. They turned and faced him for a further few minutes before walking slowly toward him. Grogaan and Ellarna remained motionless while maintaining a calm and peaceful demeanour, hoping not to alarm them.

They were male, about six feet in height, of slim build with short brown hair. The three stopped just inside the clearing, watching the two strangers carefully and ascertaining their intent. Grogaan refrained from speaking out, believing it was not right to do so. He sensed Ellarna’s curiosity about remaining silent, having been advised by her former senatorial ambassadors that visitors should always offer a greeting unless it was taboo to do so, as on some planets. He responded by means of their mental link, assuring her that his action was customary among this people.

After having done this, more of the humanoids appeared from the woodland, both male and female, but they remained close to the tree line. Grogaan refrained from taking his eyes from the three standing before him, believing it would be impolite and disrespectful.

The one in the centre stepped forward without utterance, as if in response to Grogaan’s thoughts, his gaze fixed firmly on Grogaan, his eyes bright and sharp.

He was wearing a fawn coloured shirt with images of eagles, bears and wolves stitched in bright colours on the front, the white eagle being the primary and most dominant of the images. There were also several images stitched on the upper sleeves, one of a snake, a cat like creature, and other creatures he did not recognise. The stitch-work was perfect, the detail astounding.

A golden chain with a medallion of some strange design hung round his neck. It was a cross within a circle with the bars of the cross extending outside the circle. Images of small creatures and vines were engraved on the surfaces and there was a precious stone near the end of each cross piece: A diamond at the north, an emerald at the south, a ruby at the east and a sapphire at the west. It was an exquisite piece of craftsmanship and Grogaan wondered what significance the item held.

Grogaan sensed a change in the humanoid’s emotional state, but it was unclear what he was thinking or feeling. Greetings, he said inclining his head. I am Wing Commander Grogaan Learman of the planet Mabraant, Guardian Master and representative of the Ladorran Republic. My wife, Ellarna Rayshon, he said indicating with his hand.

Ellarna offered her greetings.

The leader of the group continued looking at Grogaan without averting his gaze. After a few moments, he looked him up and down a few times before doing the same to Ellarna, and then returned his gaze to Grogaan. He knew what manner of magician the two strangers were, but wanted to test their sincerity and intent. You do not appear to be one who can utilise the power of nature and the realm, and yet you possess great power. You both commune with creatures of the land, even the tiny Folpara. He looked at Ellarna as he spoke of the small creature.

It fears only one creature of the forest, the black fox, its only predator, said Ellarna. It is a difficult creature to commune with.

Does your gift in magic extend beyond conversing with creatures and yourselves without speaking?

It does, said Grogaan, who was surprised at the native’s previous comments. He had not mentioned being gifted in the art of magic, only that he was a Guardian Master, which made him wonder how the native was able to discern he possessed great power.

Show us some of this magic.

Grogaan glanced round to see if there was a suitable object to lift. He noticed a large trunk lying in the longer grass to his left, and guessed it weighed several hundred kilograms, not that the weight mattered. Keeping his attention on the native in front of him, he pictured the trunk in his mind, drew on his power and raised it, holding it steady about two metres off the ground. Grogaan heard all of the natives talking quietly among themselves, but none showed any sign of being overly surprised.

The male stepped closer to Grogaan. How can you do such magic without chanting or waving your hands?

By thought; we channel our magical power through our bodies and control it with our minds. While he spoke, he lifted Ellarna, holding her steady about a metre off the ground. This caused more conversation amongst the natives.

You can perform such magic while talking and without losing concentration; you are indeed a gifted individual. Tell me what else you are able to do.

Both Grogaan and Ellarna became intrigued by these natives of Binnas. It was evident they knew about magic, even possessed some gift in the art, but what were simple tricks to him, appeared to something more to them.

Grogaan lowered Ellarna and the trunk while he responded. We can enhance our physical abilities, sense the thoughts and emotions of other beings, and heal injuries. Some acts take a lot of training and discipline, such as seeing visions and discerning intent.

You are able to see visions? Then you are true magicians indeed. Forgive me for the manner of our meeting, but we are wary of those who visit our world. I am Roklarin and I welcome you. Please, accompany us and be guests at our humble village. We will eat, talk, and share knowledge of our peoples.

Thank you, Roklarin. That is most kind of you.

The group walked along the path heading north-west, Roklarin in front followed by the two who had first accompanied him into the clearing, then Grogaan and Ellarna. The rest of the natives who trailed behind, were continually talking in whispered voices. Grogaan sensed their thoughts even though he did not consciously attempt to do so. They were excited, not only to encounter peaceful visitors, but ones who appeared to be powerful wizards.

As they walked in silence, bird song erupted and filled the air once more. The call of eagles sounded above the rest, the shrill sound reverberating on Grogaan’s senses. He focussed his mind on the sound and was surprised to understand what the call meant. The eagle enjoyed its freedom to roam without fear from predators. It had no concerns over lack of food, or the safety of its mate and young. Grogaan marvelled at the revelation, allowed his desire to catch sight of the bird fill his mind. Moments later, the great white eagle descended and glided low over the forest. It changed course and continued flying above the path they were walking along, heading directly toward them. When it passed overhead, it cried out several times before rising on the warm air current and disappearing from sight.

Roklarin stopped and watched the eagle, his mouth agape in wonderment and awe. He turned as it flew overhead and then looked inquisitively at the two visitors, his expression one of curiosity. Without speaking, he nodded once, turned and continued walking.

Grogaan and Ellarna looked at each other and smiled, their mental bond conveying their thoughts about the incident to each another.

The abundance and diversity of plant life continued. Everywhere they looked, flowers carpeted the ground in a swathe of colour, adding a beauty to the woodland they had never seen anywhere else. They became more attuned to the scent of flowers and the forest, which was almost intoxicating. It seemed as if every plant and scent complimented each other, enhancing instead of confusing the overall effect.

A strange tingling sensation flowed through the two Guardians, their ability to sense even the smallest of creatures increased twofold.