ARACH: An Ardú - The Rising

By M.G. Schoombee

Prophecies are revealed and come to pass. The gods play their games in ancient crystal caves. Unknown and extinct beings join the struggle. New and old friends gather in forgotten realms to fight the darkness rising over our earth. The sun grows weaker day by day preparing for the end of times. A giant wolf regrets the role he has to play. Blood flows into the starving earth. The dead rise to slay those in their way. 

Will Raphael and his warriors be able to fight the massacre of all beings? Will they stop the devouring of our earth? Can the hidden realms and our world stand together? Do they want to? Will they?

Two worlds, one earth, only one hope remains to save us all!

• Language: English
• Publisher: BookBaby
• Release date: Jun 30, 2017
• ISBN: 9780620762939

Book preview

world

1.

Mysteries

Raph dumped his Moonman in the lounge and strolled to the dark cold kitchen to search for something to eat.

Fuck that was a long ass flight from LA, Minos groaned falling into a chair.

At least we flew first class, imagine if we had to fly the other class, Ferin winked.

Yeah, you can thank Matthew for that. He insisted that the most promising new act must fly first class to their first MVA awards, Manny grinned fondling Ferin's award.

You can have it Manny. You started us off on the right path Ferin grinned, I'm just going to chuck it in the dumpster anyway. Means nothing in the long run.

I still can't believe that the pasting together of YouTube videos of our shows actually got a nomination. Other artist must be pissed as hell. How many thousands of dollars did they spend to make their videos and here we come with a copy and pasted home brewed video. You must thank Matthew for us, although Charlotte's logo flashed quite a few times, Selene grinned.

That was the one thing he insisted on, and Stan needed the cash so he could not refuse.

Did BJJ records not buy in?

Nope, it was a deal with Stan, Matthew and me, Manny laughed. They sure are sorry now.

Most promising new act, Vinny chucked them beers laughing, if they only knew.

Not for me thanks. I have to get back. Hopefully my club is still standing. Please let me know if you hear anything from Zoë?

We will Manny, promise. Thanks for everything. You've been awesome, we could not have done it without your help Raph nodded.

Vinny dropped to the floor and downed his beer. That was pretty awesome. LA is pretty awesome. If we make it through all of this, I would not mind living there. Fuck it's a constant party!

Not for me Selene frowned.

Nope Minos agreed. So the offers are streaming in. Recordings, interviews, opening acts, etc etc. What are we going to do first? We don't have a Zoë to shove us in the right direction.

Raph sighed You know we can't do any of those things for now.

I thought maybe just one. Maybe just one talk show. Fuck it's huge to be on Elaine's show, Ferin begged.

What would Zoë say guys? Selene offered.

We have to get on with it. I know, but what is it? We have not heard from her in days. Snakes has probably booked into a hotel and they have been getting to know each other better Vinny grinned.

I'm hoping on him irritating her and her shoving him off of the closest cliff Raph frowned.

Selene's mobile screamed a Guns and Roses tune. Zoë she grinned answering.

Put her on speaker phone Raph gestured.

Hey Sweetz, you are on speaker phone, the whole gang is here. So happy to hear your voice Selene chatted.

Hey Guys.

You sound tired? What's going on? How is Nemue? Raph started.

Hi Raph. Pretty tired, we have been struggling on this side. Nobody knows anything. Ormr has burned a few unhelpful chaps. No change in Nemue. It breaks my heart.

Sorry sweetie. So the dragons know nothing? Nevarra can't help at all?

Nevarra and Ryuu are at an urgent meeting with the clans. They are hoping to get all the clans to stand together and help.

That is good Vinny sighed.

I was wondering if we should ask Jahi Zoë said hopefully.

If the dragons don't know, Jahi won't know Selene offered.

Nevarra said it is your path, you need to find the way, Vinny reminded.

I KNOW she exploded.

Sorry Vinny whispered.

Is Snakes helping you? Raph sneered.

He went to an urgent meeting with Kudlak and the other vampire communities. He is now your ambassador to them. Imagine that?

So you are alone? Ferin worried.

Ormr is here and Nemue.

But we are not Raph decided.

Raph?

Please tell Ormr to prepare the dragons, we are coming to fetch you. It might be your path but you do not have to walk it alone. We have done what we stayed here for, got the fucking ugly awards, Moonmen really.

Watched the show at a pub in our world. You all looked awesome. But that speech Raph. You called them all stupid zombies. What were you thinking? Zoë's giggle lifted the air.

They are stupid fake plastic zombies. They even cheered me. No brains.

Well, we are even more popular now, Ferin laughed.

I saw, a lot of requests for your time.

We need to be doing something else. Manny said he would book a big gig for us and let us know. Our fans will have to be happy with that for a while Minos insisted.

It actually fits in perfect with our image. We disappear and then just pop up every now and then. Very mysterious Selene laughed.

Raph, it's Ormr his gruff voice silenced them.

Ormr they cheered to his giggle.

I heard your plans to come here. Don't. We could not get any help here, stay there. I will bring Zoë and Nemue home. I will let Snakes know as well. It's no use travelling here and it is easier for me to bring them home.

Thanks Ormr, but what do we do next, where do we go next?

Ormr cleared his throat slightly uncomfortable. NO idea. We will talk when we get there.

Ormr? Zoë frowned.

When? Ferin called.

We should be there soon.

Crackling bounced on their ears, as the call was lost.

What does he mean soon? Selene wondered as the front door banged open.

A soft green shimmer filled the lounge, electricity danced off the roof and floor.

What the hell Vinny held out his staff, a spell forming in his mind.

Wait! It's us, Zoë yelled stepping out of Ormr's arms.

Zoë Raph grabbed her, smelling her soft coconut smell. God I've missed you he grinned.

Okay Zoë blushed taking Nemue from Ormr as he stepped forward.

The shimmer hung for a while and drifted off in rainbow wafts.

Ormr sank to the floor, exhausted.

How did you get here? Minos demanded.

We flew from the portal, very fast, poor Ormr must be so tired. We were invisible until now. It was so cool. I think even Nemue enjoyed it.

Nemue offered a small tiny bark. Felix flew to him and perched very close to his heart.

Nemue Selene cried holding his head close.

Ormr, you wanted to say something on the phone but you could not, am I right? Raph hoped.

Can't hide much from you fae Lord Ormr laughed. Yes, I did but too many ears listened and we are not a hundred percent sure who is on whose side yet. That is why I brought them home and to perhaps suggest your next move. O yes, cool speech at the awards he winked.

Fucking zombies Raph grinned.

What is our next move? Vinny pushed.

I would suggest a little visit to Glejaar.

Where is that? Minos growled worrying about flying again.

Not where, who. Glejaar is a druid who lives in Ballyboley Forest.

Ballyboley Forest is haunted, you don't just go there Vinny offered.

It seems haunted to humans, but to those who are awake, it's just another portal to the otherworld. Guarded by the druid. He sometimes gets strange visitors and their mischief haunts the humans, Ormr giggled.

It does keep them away as well Selene smiled.

Aye. Dragons love the mushrooms growing in the deepest heart of the forest, Devil's Rosy-brown Caps. Delicious, many a dragon has nearly been seen foraging for them.

That is probably the flapping sounds that have been heard around there Ferin grinned.

Aye, it is quite a process to get it out. There is a saying that the Devil is hanging onto them on the Other side Ormr laughed.

SO what can Glejaar tell us? Raph interrupted.

He is a dragon expert. History, myths, anything dragon, he knows. As this is Zoë's path, her connection to dragons, the dragon left the message for her, and we have a terribly sick dragon. I figured perhaps he can point us in the right direction, and perhaps I can score some caps he hoped.

Did you let Snakes know? Raph asked suddenly.

Not yet, we left in a rush. I can let him know now if you want.

No, we don't want him to know everything, he might be letting the vampires know what is going on, we don't know who we can trust either.

He won't do that on purpose Zoë frowned.

We know Selene insisted.

Perhaps Raph mused.

Loola struggled down the tree-covered path into the Forest. They have not seen anyone in a while.

Could be the miserable weather we are having Ferin growled, tucking his ears into a hat.

Or it could be the huge dark ominous cloud flying above Loola Minos grinned.

I though you said you were invisible Vinny frowned at Zoë.

I was in the cloud so I thought … she stroked Nemue's head worried, he seems to be getting weaker by the day, I hope Glejaar can help us.

Me too Raph sighed, massaging the soft furry paw we can't lose our dragon.

We are not going to lose him Selene insisted we will get some help soon.

Careful Minos yelled.

Vinny hit the brakes and Loola swerved over the soft sandy path.

Ormr's green and gold scaly tail scraped over Loola's roof as it whooshed from side to side. The tail devoured bark and leaves, the trees protested groaning. It was ominous and choking in the green darkness.

What the fuck Ferin yelled grabbing his sword, why is he a full dragon?

Get out. Get out now Vinny pushed Minos.

What is that? Zoë coughed, a rancid smell covered the forest.

Ormr Raph yelled running forward.

No. Stay behind me. Stay in the shadows Ormr boomed.

You need help Minos stared at the huge hornless goat walking backwards towards them. His gruesome face peeped at them from between his legs, a strange gleam in its eyes. Its huge floppy ears applauded his tail, whipping the leaves and branches around them.

No. I can handle it. Just stay behind me. Don't let the sun show your shadow, stay there.

What is he talking about? Selene's arrow searched for the creatures' heart.

Don't you dare shoot that arrow faery a voice boomed over the trees.

Selene slowly dropped her bow, frowning at Zoë.

Green electricity tickled the trees and shrubs.

Ormr shrugged, his wings and tail disappeared. Glejaar? he roared.

Yes, yes Ormr. It's me, just don't hurt Stinky.

Stinky! Ferin coughed.

Ancient power danced across the path to them. Vinny shuddered as the power echoed over him. A brown-cloaked figure swept down the path, the sand bellowed around his feet. He flew to them on a cloud of dust. Stinky, the shrunken goat rushed forward to the figure.

What the hell Minos hissed.

Glejaar, why do you have a Sigbin? Why did you name a Sigbin, Stinky? Ormr scolded, we nearly killed it. They are dangerous, you can't have them in a forest where humans come.

Oh hush your face, Ormr. I don't need lectures from the likes of you. I recall your pet were not so human friendly either.

Ormr coughed uncomfortable Aye, we will not point fingers now, Druid.

At least mine just drinks their blood, yours turned them into stone.

What are you taking about? Vinny demanded.

Nothing Ormr scolded.

Ah, a young druid apprentice Glejaar chirped, pushing the brown leaf cloak from his face. His dark skin and hair blended with the bark of the ancient trees. His luminous yellow eyes gleamed, how interesting.

I … I am … Vinny stuttered.

Mm, yes you are Glejaar grinned.

What is that and what pet did Ormr have? Zoë pointed to the goat.

A goat he offered, but Ormr had a Skoffin as a pet, very dangerous. Looked like a beautiful cat but it could turn you into stone if it merely looked at you. He had a mishap or two.

Just one, then I send her off where she can be protected.

One? Selene begged.

Just a bad human. Caught him killing animals in the forest, he quoted bible verses the whole time. I found out years later that he might have been a serial killer. Mayflower just looked at him and … well there is a human statue somewhere in a forest in Scotland.

You left him Zoë choked.

What was I supposed to do with him? He deserved it.

Ormr Raph grinned.

Where did you send her, we could use a cat that turns evil vampires to stone? Ferin wondered.

Problem is she does not know who is good or evil Ormr mumbled, but the druid has a Sigbin.

Why did we have to keep to the shadows? Minos grinned moving closer to Stinky.

They suck out your blood through your shadow, at least he was visible Glejaar cheered.

Where did you get it? Minos laughed.

I had to kill an Aswang a few years ago and Stinky was her pet. Could not leave the cute little fellow there.

What is an Aswang? Selene frowned.

Vampire witch, feisty one that. Got a few bite scars to proof that battle he winked.

Did you know what … hmm Stinky was? Zoë sassed.

Nope. Lets just say Ormr has a statue. I had a few bodies, Glejaar giggled.

What? Vinny exploded.

How did you keep it hidden all these years, with all the dragons visiting so often? Ormr frowned.

Dragons don't visit, they just scavenge the Caps. He can turn invisible; you should know that and he listens when I tell him not to kill. Now he listens, he added shrugging.

Okay Selene disapproved.

So who did you bring to visit this time Ormr?

We need your help Glejaar.

Glejaar was silent, his eyes stared into other realms, and he gurgled strange sounds for a while. Raph stepped forward and Stinky moved closer.

Raph Minos warned.

Ah the chosen one Glejaar cheered.

How did you know? Ferin demanded.

I just saw it all Dwarf, the battle on your island. Gunnar, the werewolf battle, those you have lost. I just felt it all he groaned.

Really? Vinny asked.

Yes druid. You need to learn faster, they need our knowledge. Where is the dying dragon?

No, not dying Zoë complained.

Perhaps not, if you do what you were destined to do.

Zoë faltered. The fear strangled her heart. What if she cannot do what she is destined to do. Could she be the reason that her Nemue dies? Could she be the reason that their quest fails? Could her fear kill them all, and help Gunnar win and the earth perish.

That is way too many coulds witch. Fear has killed many a quest and many good intentions. You must always remember, we are placed on a path and given all the needed strength, knowledge and power to handle it. You just have to find it deep inside or ask for what you need from those who walks your path with you.

Will you help me?

Gunnar was here, Glejaar confessed.

What? Raph fumed.

The Aswang I killed was one of his, so he knew about Stinky. Wanted him for his war. A perfect weapon. He is gathering all kinds of evil creatures to do his dirty work for him. Perhaps he even has your Mayflower.

She was not evil.

Perhaps not. No, but what she can do is pretty evil Selene agreed.

What did you tell Gunnar? Raph demanded.

Told him No, of course. Stinky had some vampire blood before they left in a hurry he smiled, I've never liked vampires much. I know some of them are good and trying to change but dragons on the other hand, I adore he chuckled that is why I came to live in Bally. The dragons can not keep away from the Caps.

So you will help us? Zoë begged.

I will sweet witch, your dragon path intrigues me. Who placed the blood spell on you, do you know?

You know about that? Vinny exclaimed.

As I said Druid, you need to learn and fast. A great druid should know everything and can see anything hidden in a heartbeat. Witch?

No I do not know. Do you, since you know everything?

Who ever it was knew you were strong enough, they would not have done such a powerful spell, if you were not worthy. So stop doubting and stop fearing, you are good enough to save Nemue, the quest and everyone here, even the world. You all are actually. Bring the dragon to me now he snubbed.

Minos softly handed Nemue to Glejaar. He was breathing faintly, struggling.

I've got the necessary magick to keep him comfortable here in this world, until you have the real cure for this curse placed by her.

Her? Raph hissed.

Aye, too many beings ask for miracles, she makes too many promises, but if you do not ask in the right way, she can play and change and alter. Gunnar asked her to get rid of Nemue. So she got rid of him with a spell. He won't be able to help until you find the cure. But she kept him alive and placed you on a path to heal Nemue.

Who is she and on whose side is she?

HER. She is on no side. She just grants requests, he grinned.

Do we have to find her? Ferin complained.

No. Definitely not. You cannot find her … Oh apparently you came close to it once, then you closed the entrance to her cave.

The unspeakable evil Selene sniffed.

Evil depends on your view. To a misunderstood creature with bad abilities, Gunnar is a way out of hiding. To a beautiful faery princess - he is evil and must be killed. Everything depends on from where you are looking. Anyway she is neutral, mostly. It depends who asks what.

It sounds like you are defending her. She cursed Nemue, a dragon which you apparently adore Zoë fumed.

Aye, but she gave him a way out, she did not kill him immediately. No. She gave him a chance.

I … whispered Zoë.

Yes, you witch, you are his only chance. You and your friends. The quest to find her, or to kill Gunnar and save the earth, must take a backseat for a while. Your quest now is to heal Nemue because without your dragon, I'm not so sure what chance you stand against Gunnar.

We need Nemue, that is true but we have many other creatures and even the dragons on our side. If Nemue feels the need to rest perhaps leave for the Summerlands, he must not feel that he has to stay Raph cradled his head in his arms.

Nemue howled softly pressing his dry cracked nose against Raph's green silver neck.

The faery Lord Glejaar breathed, impressive indeed. You are correct my Lord, you have many to help, but Nemue is in your heart. You can't lose him now.

No, so do your magick to keep him alive and comfortable and point us in the right direction to find the cure Ferin demanded roughly.

Glejaar carried Nemue deeper into the forest, Stinky glancing at them from between his legs. They followed uncertain. Many passing feet have worn out the path they followed.

How many people live here? Minos frowned.

Just me and some visitors now and then.

Who follows these path then? It seems to be used daily.

Hmm, the unseen follow these paths. The forest is a doorway to the Otherworlds.

Like the station in Dublin? Ferin grinned.

Aye, but the trees tell me you closed that one for the vampires.

Strange circular formations doted the forest floor. Wild flowers grew over hiding it from human eyes. Glejaar stepped on them in a mesmerizing dance. Floating from one to the other and back.

What are you doing? Vinny demanded.

Opening my passage.

How? Selene begged.

You must know the steps to my dance, if you don't you can not enter my realm Glejaar cheered.

We have to dance? Ferin growled.

No, I will do the dance, dwarves are not the best at dancing.

Aye that is true Ferin turned to Lófi for a laugh. He was not there.

Glejaar strolled in between two huge moss covered stones, a third stone balancing dangerously on the others, moss covered and daring.

He disappeared from their view.

Glejaar Zoë called worried.

Just follow his voice boomed over them.

Raph stepped between the stones and disappeared.

Come guys his voice danced from the trees.

Twelve ancient stones vibrated old magick around them. Moss covered lengths reached for a star strewn sky, feet covered in tiny white flowers danced among the stones, and crept up the archaic trees bending low to their touch.

Glejaar placed Nemue on an overturned tree trunk. Nemue complained softly.

Wait I have a blanket Zoë offered.

Nemue licked her face.

Glejaar disappeared into the green darkness of the trees.

I suppose we have to wait Ferin slipped to the moss covered floor.

It smells so old Minos sniffed.

Even older than our world Selene agreed.

This was one of the first realms the creators made. Yes, it is older than your world. Older than many worlds, many realms. Not many have seen it, and even less of them lived to tell the tale. It is powerful and magickal. You need to remember the dance, the dance to your happiness to get here.

He fed Nemue brown gooey muck. Nemue complained struggling to swallow.

Drink it Nemue Ormr demanded roughly.

Zoë glanced at him upset No Ormr, he is not well. Come my sweet Nemue, you have to drink this; it will make you feel better. I promise. If you drink it all, I will give you a huge piece of chocolate. I've got your favourite here she showed the struggling dog the slab of chocolate.

Nemue swallowed the gooey stuff in one gagging gulp and leaned closer to Zoë for his reward. A soft smile spread the doggie cheeks, chocolate drops falling to the tree truck.

Chocolate is bad for dogs Vinny complained.

He is a dragon Raph bragged.

Nemue whimpered softly falling into a deep restful sleep.

He will sleep until the cure. If you do not find it, he will sleep forever Glejaar nodded.

We can just wake him, Minos offered.

Only the cure can wake him now. He will sleep forever if you do not find the cure.

What do we have to do now? Zoë cried hugging Nemue close.

What did your quest say?

Selene re-iterated the dragon's words.

So do you have the golden locket?

Zoë flashed the locket at him.

You are obviously the pure heart chosen by blood and magick. Raph is the one who must breath the words in golden light to break the spell. Okay. Lakes unseen, where waters still and form one, where the door hidden in white can be found - now where could that be?

What is this spell, the same spell put on all of us, or something else? Selene frowned.

I think all spells binding beings to paths or quests they do not want to follow. I think if Raph breaks the spell, all beings will have a choice in the final battle. It will not be your path anymore; it will be your choice that matters. I suppose even the spell on Nemue would be broken.

Wonderful Zoë sighed with relief.

So if your path was to swallow the sun, you will not have to do it, Minos wondered.

I believe so.

Raph nodded smiling at Minos But first we have to find the door, where? Raph pulled them back.

Where waters still and form one …

Yes … Ferin pushed.

I've got no clue.

I thought druids know everything Vinny smirked.

Hmm we do. Some things are hidden, but it will be known, that I promise you. I cannot help you now. I will go and search for the answer.

But you are supposed to point us in the right direction Raph complained. I thought you said he will help Ormr?

I thought he would.

I can't my Lord. Not yet. I did help you with keeping the dragon alive until we can all find the answers.

Perhaps the time is not right for the opening, at least Nemue will be safe until the time is right Ormr offered.

So we have to leave him here? Zoë exploded.

He will be safe, no one can enter my realm.

The creators can, they made it, so She can Zoë fumed.

Perhaps, and to do what? She has already saved his live. She will not come.

What about the others?

They must know the dance.

So what must we do now? Raph begged.

Perhaps go home, Glejaar offered.

And do what? Ferin exploded.

I believe something is waiting for you there. You are needed somewhere else.

Who?

Go home Glejaar merged with the darkness.

Glejaar? Zoë called.

Go home the trees answered.

Are you sure we are going in the right direction Ferin huffed.

I'm just following Snakes' note Raph sighed.

I'm still not sure that it's him. What if it is a trap? Ormr did not let him know we were home, so how did he know to leave a note there? Vinny wondered.

We agreed to come here. If it is a trap, we deal with it. Gunnar will not set a trap in the human world Minos assured them.

There is a house over there Selene pointed, I hope it is them.

A laughing blur of yellow and blue flew past them.

Dust and leaves puffed the air as the blur landed hard onto the forest floor.

Tristan struggled to keep his footing. His laughter played with the trees.

Tristan? Zoë frowned.

This time I kept standing he giggled helping Andrea up.

Her golden fangs flashed in the sunbeams struggling through the dark canopy I'm sure you pushed me to the ground that time she laughed.

Snakes Raph growled.

Hey guys he strolled closer, laughing.

What the fuck are you doing? Ferin exploded

Andrea is showing off her flying expertise. She is not so hot at it he winked.

Hey! Tristan flew into the trees at her punch.

You should be careful, I'm sure he can break Raph smirked.

I'm full of bruises, she kind of forgets that she is a vampire he rubbed his bruised arm.

Are you having a good time? Zoë breathed.

Hey Zoë he blushed, we were waiting for some Scottish vampires to arrive, and Andrea wanted to practice her flying, so I came with. Her mom does not allow her out alone anymore, he explained quickly.

Raph, my dad will be so happy to see you, we did not know that you would be coming as well. The note was for Zoë and Nemue. The dragons told us she left for home. Ooh I can't wait to see his face. She grabbed his hand and marched off towards the house.

Tristan fell in next to Zoë, glancing worried at her face. I'm glad you got my note.

She is a bit young for you, don't you think? she snapped.

What?

Zoë marched off, taking Vinny's arm ignoring Tristan's shocked face.

What did I do? he begged Selene.

Nothing, you should be happy. I think she is kind of jealous, and you know what that could mean.

Aye and this time she will not wait till it is too late Minos grinned.

What do you mean?

We think she and Billy could have had something special, but Zoë was hard assed.

Oh Tristan worried, Were they in love? Is she still in love with him?

No. It could have been. But it never started. Sometimes you have to force things, sometimes you get forced Minos caressed Selene's hair.

So what should I do?

Nothing Selene warned, not yet.

When?

You will know when Minos offered.

Are you guys coming or what? Raph frowned at them.

They grouped in front of the door. Andrea grinned wildly. Black birds flew at them at her loud yell. Her scream lifted the light.

Kudlak rushed out, his sword piercing at Raph's heart. His face turned white and scarlet in turn.

My Lord he breathed, I'm going to kill you he snarled at Andrea, lying on the couch on the porch, in a fit of laughter.

Your face dad, your face she giggled, tears streaming down her face.

Andrea using you to freak my dad out Raph? Don leaned against the door.

Zoë and Selene's breath caught.

My Lord, not Raph Kudlak fumed.

No, please Kudlak, Raph is just fine, I don't like this Lord business much anyway Raph smiled.

Raph Kudlak struggled.

Are you going to let them in or not? a strict female voice demanded.

Please come in, Kudlak offered, this is my wife, Osa he smiled softly.

My Lord Osa bend as low as her voluptuous body would allow. Rusty brown hair cascaded over her vast shoulders. Her gray green eyes smiled at them, welcoming them to her home. No manners at all letting you stand outside in the crawling dark. Come have a seat, make yourself at home. We do not know how long the Scots will be. They work on their own time that bunch, she giggled taking Raph's arm and escorting him to the huge lounge.

Ma you should have seen his face. Oh my gosh, it was so funny Andrea bounced into the lounge.

Not clever, he could have hurt one of them.

Mom!

You - Kitchen - now. You have been having way too much fun with Tristan. Time to get some work done. Go!

Mom.

Andrea Osa whispered.

Andrea stomped to the kitchen.

Zoë followed what can we do Osa?

No, no. You are a guest. Please. Not much to do. Cooked for the Giffords and they can eat. So there is more than enough. Just putting on the kettle for some tea and cakes, that is all she pushed her out of the kitchen.

My mom can handle it, come have a seat Don smiled, clearing the seat next to him.

Zoë sank down blushing.

Osa's laughter filtered through the walls. You will give your father a heart-attack one of these days, she giggled.

Kudlak shook his head, those two. How is Nemue? We wondered if you should bring him here, we can keep him safe and Osa can try and heal him. You have other things to do.

Not well. We left him with a friend who put him in a deep sleep, until we can find the cure. It will keep him alive for now Minos sighed.

Gunnar and his fucking plans. We could all just live happily, but he has to push this new earth of his.

its more Julian's Tristan offered, Gunnar took it over and changed it to suit his needs; Julian wanted it for all beings, when this earth dies.

You sound like a Julian fan? Don frowned.

I am. He is not Gunnar. He is working against him behind closed doors. I do believe he will even assist us, if the needs rises.

Time will tell Raph shrugged.

Not all vampires are bad Don barked.

I know that Raph smiled. You guys have proven yourselves over and over. I just don't trust that Snakes has the real info. Perhaps he was told what they wanted him to know.

He doesn't trust me Tristan shrugged. I was also there, I also proved to you my loyalty.

The Scots we are waiting for, who are they and why are you waiting for them? Ferin cleared the tension.

A vampire clan. They are from Gifford. There is an old ruin of a castle, where strange things have been happening lately. I asked them to investigate. They insisted on reporting in person.

That sounds ominous.

Aye, Kudlak sighed.

But what if it is a trap? Ferin argued.

Why do you and Tristan think everything is a trap? Selene smiled.

Well what if, what ever they found in the castle, now controls them and send them here to kill Kudlak and his family. Why insist on reporting in person?

They stared at Ferin.

Don get the guys to the lookout. I hope we still have time. Thanks Ferin. We are stupid; we should always be on guard. We do not know what they found. Gunnar has been recruiting weird dark creatures. Anything is possible. Thank you.

Great Ferin Raph nodded, what are your plans?

Let's get to the lookout. We let them in one by one. They are not going to like it. Stubborn like an ass those Scots, but we will be ready, just in case.

As Don reached for the doorknob, the door burst open. Three mammoth whirlwinds of red and green kilts fell into the hall, breaking a light blue vase on a pedestal.

What the hell are you doing Osa yelled, that is my mother.

Swords, an arrow, staff and wand greeted the astounded faces.

What the hell Kudlak. What are you up to, you knew we were coming?

This is desperate times Ailig. We need to make sure you are who you are, we do not know what or who you met in that castle Don explained.

I am who I am, how dare you question me? his burnished beard hopped.

Gunnar is recruiting dangerous dark beings, we do not know if you met one of them? Raph tried.

And who might you be? Ruairidh fumed, his wild rust hair hung to his sporran. Fiery blue eyes flashed at Raph.

Ruairidh, show some respect Kudlak warned.

Why? the third Scot, Gleann thundered from a blur of red beard and young eager blue eyes.

He is the one we are fighting for? Andrea beamed at the men.

Ailig rose to beyond the doorframe. He glared at Raph. This scrawny little chicken is the one?

Ferin laughed, Yup he does look a little like a chicken.

Raph shook his head. His long pointy fangs flashed for a second. Darkness fell in the hall. A silver green hand pushed his hair out of his face. It suits me that people think I can not do what I must do he grinned.

Awesome. Ailig Hay at your service faery Lord. So how do I prove that I am me?

Kudlak laughed, no one can be as hard-assed as you he shook his hand.

This long haired hooligan is Ruairidh Hay, my brother and this bearded mess is Gleann his son.

Raph laughed, greeting them.

After many apologies to Osa and remembrances of her old long dead mother, they were seated in the lounge for fresh cakes and tea. If you could call tumblers of whisky, tea.

So what did you find at the castle? Don grinned, must have scared you shitless, to run all the way over here.

Scared? Us? Ruairidh fumed. Do you want me to fix your face for you?

What did you find? Kudlak demanded.

Nothing Ailig admitted. Unless you can hold your breath underwater. No-one can go in there.

Water? Zoë frowned.

Aye Gleann nodded. It's a pretty scary place, eerie and dark but all we could find was steps leading into an underground water hole. Probably an old well."

Did you try and enter? Minos hoped.

Aye, Gleann went further down. He followed till he had to come up for air. As we said unless you can breathe under water or have diving equipment you can't go down there.

What did it feel like? Vinny pushed.

Gleann turned scarlet scary, like someone was watching me, waiting for the next step down to attack. I had to come up for air he coughed.

Of course Ferin assured.

Where can we get diving equipment? Don wondered.

Why? Osa demanded.

To go down there.

Why? she repeated. Why do you need to go down there?"

We need to know what is down there Raph apologised.

Why go look for trouble? Do you need danger in your life?

Osa Kudlak warned.

No, of course not, but Gunnar cursed our dragon, we need the cure and the cure is through water. Perhaps this is the place Zoë hoped.

We heard about the dragon, so sorry Gleann offered.

How do you know? Selene frowned.

The other world and those in the know in this world knows everything you do Ailig smiled.

So the cure is through water? Osa frowned.

Yes - through paths unseen, where the water still and form one Zoë sighed.

Does not sound familiar to me Ruairidh nodded.

Perhaps … Osa breathed.

What? Andrea demanded.

Just give me a few minutes my Lord, I remember something I heard centuries ago, just give me some time to remember. An over a thousand year old brain tends to forget a lot.

You can't be that old Snakes grinned.

Aye, I like you human. In a few days I will celebrate my 1067th birthday.

That is a lot of memories Minos grinned.

Aye, Werewolf. I remember meeting a very old Hag on a beach once. Old woman and her cat. She mentioned a place in the middle of the ocean just off the Irish coast. I don't know. I thought she was just making up stories to stop the vampire from feeding, though I would not have fed on a faery. I don't like fae blood she looked at their shocked faces. At that time I still hunted, it was before I met Kudlak she shrugged.

Old woman and her cat on a beach? Ferin frowned "was this on a very tiny island somewhere in Iceland.

No somewhere in Scotland, I can't remember where exactly.

Is does not matter Raph interrupted, What did she say?

She spoke about a mythical island that only appears once a year I think. An island where a famous Wizard lived all alone. You could only see it through the mists in the morning sun. Then it would disappear, to who knows where. I recall her words, 'the water must still and welcome the one.' It's not exactly what you said, but it's close Osa shrugged.

Welcome the one or form one Zoë thought.

Perhaps the water must welcome and form the one Vinny mused.

The one like Raph? Ferin asked.

Then the water has to welcome him and become him. That just sounds weird Ailig breathed.

Perhaps … Tristan squeaked unsure, look I'm not sure about the waters, but it does say he will breath the word to break the spells, so maybe Raph has to become the waters, what ever that is and then Zoë can find the hidden white door and Raph can break the spell.

They stared at Tristan.

That sounds plausible Gleann offered.

Is that what they told you to tell us Snakes? Raph fumed.

Raphael Zoë exclaimed. Where is this island, do you know anything about it?

Hy na-Beatha Osa remembered. That is what she called it.

We will do some research. Thank You. It is time to leave now Raph rose suddenly.

But? Kudlak complained, you can't leave now, it is dark out there and we still do not know why Ailig insisted on coming here in person and not send a raven.

Raph turned to Ailig, and?

Gunnar was also searching for the Goblin Ha.

What, why did you not tell us when you got here? Kudlak fumed.

Well you kind of interrupted us, Ruairidh warned.

Gunnar was there, Raph hissed.

Aye, we had to hide from them for hours. We made sure they could not get into the entrance Gleann smiled.

How? Ferin demanded, he is not stupid, I'm sure he can figure it out.

Aye, but if the entrance is magickally hidden, no one will find it.

Ailig is married to a witch, a powerful one, Gunnar will not find the entrance Osa grinned. How is the old witch?

Starla is fine, isn't she always? She sends her regards and blessings, dark and light.

Osa burst out laughing, Aye, thank her.

What the hell is going on? Minos ranted. Gunnar was at Ballyboley looking for dark creatures and now he is at this castle? How does he know where we are or is it just a coincidence that he is searching where we are?

Snakes? Raph growled.

I have not seen Gunnar since the werewolf battle. I have been here with Kudlak since I left Zoë and Ormr.

He has been here, we called him to assist in the meeting, Don agreed.

So how? Ferin argued.

Jahi Zoë frowned.

No I bound her to you. You would know if she acts against my binding Raph argued.

Perhaps he is just very clever. He knows Nemue is cursed, he organised it. He knows we will do anything to get the cure. He is just working out were we would go. He knows dragons, he knows Glejaar, and perhaps he even knows Zoë's prophesy Selene said.

How? Minos asked.

When last did you check up on the bartender? Selene asked Tristan.

Tristan paled speaking on his mobile. One of my guys will go out there now to check on him, but Tryan reported yesterday that one of the young dark fae has disappeared, they feared that Gunnar had got to him.

He would have been at the bar, he must know where Silver Racers is, he heard Charlie Raph nodded. If he tortured him, Gunnar now knows that prophesy. So he knows where we will be looking and what we are looking for. He is trying to corner us and kill us without another battle, another battle with more warriors on my side.

He could just tell everyone that you ran away. You disappeared to the human world and deserted everyone Andrea fumed.

He does not know what Osa told us. We will have to make sure we are a few steps ahead of him. Kudlak you have to make sure you protect Osa. I don't believe he will come here. If he does and want Osa, we know someone in this room is a traitor. Raph glanced at Snakes.

I trust him Kudlak offered, what are you going to do now?

Search for this island, why?

If you could possible wait for a day or two, I have arranged a meeting with all the vampires, werewolves and others in the area. They would be so much easier to turn to our side, if they met you in person. We are doing our best and many have joined. But if you could just chat to them, let them see who and what you are, perhaps things will flow more.

When is the meeting?

If you agree, I can change it to tomorrow. Please it is for your … our war.

Raph glanced at the gang, he sighed at their nods.

Fine arrange for as soon as possible. We need to help Nemue.

Raph stared at the hundreds of faces glaring up at him. They had no need to hide. Vampire fangs and werewolf grins flashed at him in the light of the early evening moon.

The fae kept to the back of the clearing, a mixture of fae creatures and beings. Colourful and eager to finally hear from their Lord.

Hi Raph croaked.

Greetings flew over the trees, cawing of birds accompanying the noise.

I'm not going to give special speeches. You know who I am. You know what my warriors have been doing. You know our battles. You apparently know our losses. But … you were not there.

Silence covered the green.

"I do not judge you. Many did not show. Many we hoped for and depended on. That is fine. That is for them to ponder on. We need more warriors. We have been informed that Gunnar is recruiting dark creatures. Creatures who can