Dragon King

By Devon E. E. Sala

In the third book of the Draca Saga series, it all finally comes to an end, Karunel Cynecylnn comes up against his tyrannical grandfather to fight one last battle. But going there is no easy. With the help of his friends and a person from the Kingdom's past, Karunel might just do it.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Devon E. E. Sala
• Release date: Nov 21, 2017
• ISBN: 9781370238910

Devon E. E. Sala

Devon E.E. Sala hails from a place called England where they live with their two cats.

Book preview

Chapter 1

Valhalla, home to brave warriors fallen in battle. Day and night they feasted with the Aesir, Odin. Many Draconish Kings found themselves at Odin's side and King Aeron was of no exception. Even if it had come as a surprise to him.

Today of all days everything was the same. The same drinking and the same old songs sung largely out of tune by large drunken warriors. Odin on the other hand wasn't there as usual, he had business elsewhere but on this day, his son, Thor did have a presence in his fathers great hall. It was rather fortunate as also today, Valhalla would be getting a rather unwelcome visit.

The grand doors to Valhalla opened, revealing three figures walking in.

Out! Thor roared, standing up very quickly. You wrenches have no business here.

Skuld of the Norns raised a bony finger to him. There is one not meant for here, she said.

Thor marched forward, pulling Mjolnir out ready for use. The Norns were never to step foot inside Valhalla but yet here they were and Thor knew that he was going to have to chase them out before his father returned.

Out! he roared again. You wrenches are not welcome in here. You are the only ones who shouldn't be in here.

And this is your fathers hall, not yours so you cannot send us away, Verdandi stated, moving towards the tívar. And there is one not meant to be here. He goes by the name of Eamonn Jarlath.

Thor shook his head. Eamonn is meant to be here, he died in battle, he stated. May have fought Thor's brother but he still died with honour. Thor mighty proud of Eamonn's fight.

He should not be dead, Verdandi stated.

Thor just laughed at her. He took a sword to the heart, of course he is supposed to be dead.

The crowd of Einherjar parted so that Eamonn himself could walk through. Personally he had never thought that he should have ended up in Valhalla at all. Especially after all he had done. He did have a sneaking suspicion that Thor had snuck him in here somehow.

He is needed, Uld told them.

By whom? Thor demanded.

His cousin, Skuld replied.

Eamonn hated his cousins. He especially hated being referred to only as Jarl Dedlock's son. She had always refused to tell him just who his father was and that got to him. He had to find out his fathers identity but that was going to be difficult being stuck in Valhalla.

His cousin needs him there in order to ascend to the throne, Verdandi added.

I am not helping them, Eamonn growled at the Norns. They can all fester and die in Dedlock Space for all I care. I may hate my mother but I am not going to help my cousins kill her.

The Norns laughed. Rather creepily in fact and it made the Einherjar rather on edge.

Begone foul wrenches, Thor ordered. You are not welcome within Thor's fathers halls.

And we do not care, Thor, Verdandi replied. And we are going to be taking Eamonn Jarlath with us.

This was going to become a stand-off and the Einherjar's were getting pretty excited by it. There were many chants of fights and many shouting of insults towards the Norns.

Thor pointing Mjolnir towards them. Not going to happen, he warned. Thor shall not allow that to happen.

Instead, Eamonn walked up to the three Norns and folded his arms, glaring at them. There was much anger in those young eyes of his.

You know, he stated. You know who my father is. Tell me, tell me and I will go with you.

Once again the Norns began laughing. The sound of their laughter grated on the ears of all those gathered around the hall as it echoed.

Indeed we do, Uld said.

Before your birth, before your conception, Skuld added.

Tell me! Eamonn was growing very impatient.

The Norns laughed once again. This time however, they all looked towards Aeron.

Not me, the blue elf protested. I was faithful to my wife.

You are his uncle, however, Verdandi told him.

What? Aeron asked, glancing over at Eamonn.

That was impossible, he couldn't see any way that could have been. He knew all his nephews, didn't he?

The black sheep of your family, Verdandi told him. Swalam.

Still he stared at Eamonn. Soon it really did hit Aeron.

I see it in him now, he said, realising the resemblance. I do see a young Swalam in Eamonn. Just not in blue.

Eamonn looked towards the late King. This was a shock even for him and he just wasn't ready to believe it just yet.

So I'm a Cynecylnn? he wondered.

Indeed so, Aeron told him with a nod. Since you are to see my son again then and I know that Wulfmær has taken them off him. He produced a bag of dried berserker mushrooms. He may well need these at some point as he battles my father.

I understand, Eamonn nodded.

Come along now, Eamonn Jarlath, all three Norns said at the same time.

Cynecylnn, Eamonn was quick to correct them before looking towards the elf he now knew as his uncle. I will go by Cynecylnn now. Eamonn Jarlath died.

Aeron smiled at him. And make sure you don't take after your mother, he told him. Or really your father for that matter. Wouldn't want you wandering off for years on end, fathering children with very dangerous women now would we?

Eamonn shook his head, no he wouldn't be like his parents, he would be Eamonn himself. He would be his very own person.

Back to feasting! Thor bellowed.

They were done here.

Aeron walked over to to the tívar. You must tell my son, he asked of Thor. He will not believe Eamonn but he will always believe you.

Thor nodded and thumped his chest. Thor shall tell brother this, he bellowed.

But instead he just went back to feasting, he wasn't going to tell Karunel just yet as there was plenty of time while the Norns did whatever they were going to do to Eamonn.

Chapter 2

There was that dream again. For Karunel it had been the third night in a row that Eamonn had featured in his dreams. It was the same strange world as the previous dreams but it wasn't a place that Karunel recognised. It felt so real though, as if he were actually there. No red in the atmosphere so it wasn't anywhere in the Blot Nebula. Nor did it appear to scream Dedlock Space either, it was a pretty lonely looking planet.

There was also something else about the planet.

Help me, cousin.

Which was a strange thing for Eamonn to say, even in a dream as strange as this one was.

I know this place, another voice stated.

After the first two dreams, Karunel had decided to call on the help of the Meistroli twins, Ryuu and Yume. He had been reluctant to do so as he really hated them infringing on his dreams. But since since he was inviting them then they weren't really infringing.

You sure, Yume? Karunel questioned.

Positive, Yume replied with a slight nod. It's the Norns world and they really hate visitors.

In his dream, Karunel shivered. He was probably shivering back in bed as well so no doubt Makoto would have noticed that as well.

Yeah, they'll do nasty things, Ryuu grinned. They'll make you see things that you do not wish to see. They'll make you want to turn back instead or make you go insane if you don't.

But it is him, Yume then said.

It is? Karunel didn't believe that for one moment.

Eamonn was dead. He'd died and wasn't coming back, nor would Eamonn refer to him as cousin either.

He's alive, Ryuu mentioned. Would you believe it?

That actually hit Karunel like a tonne of bricks. Eamonn, alive? That was just impossible. Maybe it was just a way for the Norns to get him to go out there. Like that would work.

Isn't it time for you to wake? Yume suddenly asked.

Yeah it probably is... But Karunel didn't want to wake up just yet as he wanted to find out more about this planet.

Then wake up, Karunel, Ryuu said. Don't forget the customary sighing of bugger.

The white-haired twins clapped their hands together and Karunel awoke with a start.

Bugger... he sighed and wiped his face.

Are you alright?

Sure enough his fiancé had noticed that he had been dreaming about something.

Was it about Eamonn again?

The Prince nodded. Eamonn is alive, he told Makoto. The Meistroli twins confirmed it themselves.

Is that possible? Makoto asked.

Karunel wasn't so sure as he got out of bed and put some clothes on.

You know how weird things can get, especially where the Norns are involved, he replied. And they did threaten us with not being able to die. I didn't believe it possible at first but maybe, just maybe its might be true after all.

Makoto got out of bed as well.

Oh, and you are going to go and find him then? the young blond man asked.

Of course, Karunel was quick to reply. But first I have to find Master Dracorgor.

Makoto didn't say anything. He could as Karunel was quickly out of the room and even ignoring Zadð who had come out for breakfast.

He has things on his mind, Makoto assured the young teen.

Zadð just looked towards him.

He believes Eamonn to still be alive.

The young teens eyes widened. Is that possible?

To which Makoto just shrugged. I wouldn't know, but stranger things have happened when the Norns have been involved.

Zadð nodded. So he's heading out then.

You know him...

Can you stay here with me?

Makoto managed a smile. If you wish then.

Having finally found Master Dracorgor, Karunel told him everything that had happened in his dream. When the Meistroli twins arrived, they too backed up everything that Karunel had already stated.

Indeed, Master Dracorgor nodded. But I warn you that the home of the Norns is not somewhere you would want to go.

I understand, Master Dracorgor, the Prince replied. It's still something that I have to do. He's calling for my help and there's questions I have that need answers and I'll only find out by going there.

Master Dracorgor nodded. And both your heart and your head are telling you to help him, so go and help him.

Karunel didn't need a second suggestion. He knew what he had to do and he knew that his uncle, Wulfmær would be very willing to help as well. Wulfmær was also very likely to know where the planet was as well.

And no, you two cannot take time off to accompany him, Master Dracorgor then told the Meistroli twins, much to their disappointment. Your classes are very important.

Yes, Master Dracorgor, the twins sighed.

I'll be contacting my uncle then, Karunel stated before leaving the Academy Heads office.

Be wary, Master Dracorgor warned again.

And it had been noted.

Karunel was rather glad that Makoto had offered to stay behind at the academy with Zadð. At least then he was only going to have to worry about his own safety and not that of his fiancé as well.

It was a few days before Wulfmær arrived, having travelled through the Odingate to get to the colonies. Once aboard The Alchemist, Karunel told his uncle all about the dreams and why it meant that he had to head to the Norns planet.

You do realise that this may well be nothing more than the Norns setting a trap for you, Wulfmær warned.

But Karunel just shook his head. It is Eamonn, I know it, he told his uncle. And I am not going to allow his mother or her goons get to him first. We are not going to fail him this time.

Something that Wulfmær could fully understand. Especially since in Karunel's dreams, Eamonn had been calling out for the blue elf to come out to rescue him. Maybe it was nothing more than his nephews guilty conscience at not being able to rescue him the first time when Jarl Dedlock had captured him, doing who knew what to him.

Do you know where their planet is then? Karunel then asked.

I do, his uncle nodded. It is in fact very easy to get to.

It is?

Wulfmær nodded. But extremely hard to leave if the Norns don't want you to, he then warned.

That was just a risk that Karunel was going to have to be prepared to take.

Go for it, a voice told him.

The Prince looked towards the source. It was his friend, Salazar Bräck. He also noticed that Zaðar Nosfveiðr was there as well, no doubt he had been visiting his cousin, Rag again.

I am, Karunel quickly told him. There is no fucking way that I'm going to leave Eam behind again. This is a second chance so there's no fucking way that I'm going to leave him to his mother a second time. This time I know for certain he's still alive.

Salazar nodded in agreement, he could remember himself just how frustrating it had been to see Eamonn shot down like that and not be able to find the wreckage until it was too late.

I agree, he then said. I don't want to go though thinking that again.

Karunel turned to his uncle. How long do you think it'll take us to get there?

Eight hours hadn't been a bad estimate. Wulfmær had admitted that it had only been an estimate but it was a little over eight hours before they arrived in orbit over the Norns planet.

The planet was situated in an area of the known galaxy where there were no other habitable planets for many systems. Karunel wasn't really surprised by that fact. The Norns were rather solitary and quite a bit paranoid after all.

So this is it, Karunel mused, staring at the viewscreen with his hands in his pockets. Solitary and remote, just like them.

Two life-signs, Rag mentioned.

One of them is the planet caretaker, Caer, Wulfmær mentioned. Which means the other is...

Eamonn, Karunel interrupted.

Wulfmær looked towards his nephew. Possibly, he replied. But not for certain.

But Karunel knew differently. It was most definitely Eamonn, he could feel it.

I'll have a shuttle prepared, Wulfmær announced. Rag, you keep an eye on all life-signs and make sure that we are going the right way. Things down there might not be quite what they seem, who knows what it might do to our tracking equipment... or our communications for that matter.

Understood, Wulfmær, Rag nodded.

Karunel was all too nervous as a shuttle was prepared for them. As the left the hanger bay of The Alchemist, he grew ever more nervous. Which only grew as they made their descent down to the planets surface.

Wulfmær landed the shuttle near a well-kept palace. A strange thing to find on the Norns planet, Karunel thought to himself. No doubt they weren't even living in there, it was probably only there for show.

But a show for who?

Rag, life-signs? Wulfmær asked.

There is one directly in front of you, came Rags reply. And one appears to be in a building.

Wulfmær looked around. There was an old man up ahead digging in the palace gardens.

He only glanced at the group very briefly before returning to gardening.

Outside is the caretaker, Caer, Wulfmær said.

Understood.

The caretaker just ignored them as they walked up to the main doors of the palace. It all looked quite magnificent and in a way it was quite a shame that no one could really come out here to visit.

No one lives here, Zaðar stated, suppressing a yawn. Yet it's less dusty then a vampires lair.

The caretaker glared at him.

I think he took exception to that, Karunel told him. He for one does live here after all.

Pff! Zaðar remarked, rolling his eyes. He's just the caretaker, enslaved by the Norns.

As they entered the palace, Karunel found himself rather reminded of Saima Palace. Everything seemed so orderly and antiqued.

So what did he do to get on the wrong side of the Norns anyway? Karunel wondered.

Fuck knows, the silver-haired vampire hunter replied. I wouldn't want to know anyway. Besides, it's probably none of our business anyway.

True, Karunel thought.

Where is the second life-sign, Rag? Wulfmær asked.

The red elf was rather disappointed that the life-sign indicator on his own computer had malfunctioned once they were on the planet itself, but at least they still had communications.

It is nearby, Rag answered. The two life-signs are human and elven.

Caer is human, Wulfmær mentioned.

Karunel's heart instantly sank. Then it couldn't possibly be Eamonn in that case.

You sure Rag? Zaðar questioned his cousin.

Positive.

And the Princes heart sank further. Unless of course Eamonn really had been a dark elf, rather then human. What he had seen of the dark elves in Dedlock Space, he had yet to know the full truth about them.

At the top of the grand staircase, a figure emerged. A blue elf in fact and one who looked rather familiar. Like a blue...

Eamonn? Karunel asked.

You came, Eamonn said.

You're blue.

Eamonn nodded.

"You didn't look like this in my dreams.

You wouldn't have come else. You would never have come out here if I'd appeared to you as a blue elf.

There was something else that was bothering Karunel as well about the way Eamonn looked.

And you look younger then you were.

Eamonn's blue eyes stared at him. I feel younger too.

You actually look quite like a young Swalam, Wulfmær mentioned.

My father, Eamonn explained and looked towards Karunel. You can ask Thor if you don't believe me.

The two briefly stared at each other.

Of course I don't, the Prince stated. Because that would make you my...

Cousin.

Karunel shook his head. Just because you've made yourself to look like a blue elf, a Draconish blue elf, it does not mean that any of us are going to buy it.

I'll have to disagree with you I'm afraid, Karunel, his uncle told him. Seeing him with blue hair and blue skin has made me realise just how much he does look like Swalam. I had never thought about it until now.

Karunel looked towards Eamonn. It was all just so unreal. Eamonn had certainly been dead but to find him alive again and looking like a Draconis blue elf was just so very weird to the Prince. Actually it was just like the Norns to do something like this. Maybe Eamonn's appearance was nothing more than a trick of the Norns and once they left the planet then Eamonn would return to looking just like a human as he had when he died.

Eamonn began to walk down the stairs. So are we going to leave this place of horrors then? he asked. You don't want to stay here any longer then needed.

Something which Karunel quietly agreed with. The sooner they got away from the Norns planet the better.

And no other reason to stay here, Wulfmær agreed. The shuttle is ready and waiting for us.

Caer once again watched them as they left the palace, heading towards where they had landed the shuttle. It was still there and hadn't vanished under a Norn prank. Even once they were free of the planets atmosphere, Eamonn had stayed blue. He even stayed blue as they left the ship and headed up to the bridge. But perhaps they were still within Norn influence.

Captain Kellow, what have I told you about drinking on the bridge? Wulfmær warned, noticing the empty can beside the Captains chair.

The Captain just shrugged and put the can in the bin beside his chair.

So who's the blue elf? he then asked to avoid further remarks about his drinking.

Eamonn stared at him.

Is that Eamonn? Rag realised.

Wulfmær nodded. We have yet to understand other than the fact that he has stated his father is Swalam Cynecylnn.

The rest of the ships crew looked towards Karunel, but he just shrugged at them. What did he know about what his uncle got up to?

So the Norns told me, Eamonn said. And now people keep telling me I look like a young Swalam and the Norns told me that I had to come back to help my cousin.

As he said that, he looked towards Karunel.

And they would sprout bollocks like that, the Prince stated.

When they told me that I was to help my cousin ascend to the throne I quickly assumed it was to help my Dedlock cousins overthrow my mother, Eamonn began to explain. I am very relieved that it's not them after all.

Karunel was rather relieved too, but he didn't show it. He was getting the impression that Eamonn no longer liked his mother as he had appeared to do so before, that was the body language that the young teen was giving off as he wouldn't say it out loud. And Karunel really couldn't blame him., maybe death had brought back the old Eamonn. The Eamonn before Jarl Dedlock had him tortured into obedience.

Should we return to the academy? Captain Kellow sniffed.

Karunel nodded, Master Dracorgor would no doubt want to see Eamonn as soon as possible.

As you wish, the Captain then said.

It was too easy, Karunel remarked as they entered hyperspace. There's no bloody way that they'd let us leave this easily.

Be thankful they're letting us leave at all, Salazar pointed out. I was expecting them to hold us here for a few years in some kind of warped nightmare.

Karunel glanced at him. And how do we know that this isn't the case now? he wondered. They could be tricking us right now.

Zaðar laughed at him. You are so negative, Rune, he told the Prince. You always think the worst.

Why shouldn't I?

For the rest of the journey, Eamonn had gone very silent. He just seemed to zone out and withdraw into himself. That worried Karunel even more than the fact that there were some at the academy whom still wanted to strangle Eamonn for his betrayal. Galar in particular.

We're almost at the academy, Karunel told Eamon.

But Eamonn didn't seem to take any notice of him. It was only when they left the hanger and were confronted by Master Dracorgor that he finally took any notice of others again.

Ah, you do look different, the Academy Head noted. Very blue indeed, I could have sworn that you were Swalam Cynecylnn himself.

To that, Eamonn laughed.

Everyone who knew my uncle has been saying that, Karunel sighed.

Ah indeed, Master Dracorgor smiled. They do say that Swalam once had a love interest with Jarl Dedlock, so that really would not surprise me.

Can't we have this more private? Karunel then asked.

He had noticed that there were students nearby. They may well have been out of earshot but it was still something that he didn't feel comfortable about talking so openly.

You office?

Master Dracorgor smiled at him. He didn't have to say anything at all and they made their way to the Academy Heads office. There were of course whispers from many students about the new blue elf.

Do you not have studies to do? Master Dracorgor questioned the students.

Without even looking at them and giving his usual stare, the students ran off. Master Dracorgor opened the door to his office and led them inside.

Now young Master Jarlath, I do hope that you are planning to stay with us this time.

Eamonn nodded before glancing towards Karunel.

I would prefer to be known as Eamonn Cynecylnn now, he told the Academy Head. I don't want to be known as Dedlock and I have no claim to the Jarlath name any more.

Master Dracorgor just nodded.

What? Karunel said. You can't do that.

Eamonn eyed him.

I believe that it is well within his rights to take either his fathers or his mothers name as he wishes, the Academy Head stated.

No fucking way am I having anything to do with my mother, Eamonn stated, folding his arms and glaring at Karunel. There is no Dedlock in me. Not any more.

And young Master Cynecylnn, you should be more supportive of young Master... Cynecylnn's wishes, Master Dracorgor told him. I know you are feeling guilty about not being able to help him before when his mother kidnapped him, but now this is your chance to alleviate your guilt.

Karunel noticed that Eamonn was once again glaring at him.

Now young Masters Cynecylnn, the Academy Head looked between the pair of them. You are cousins, I can see it so very clearly now. You are of the same blood and side by side you both shall fight your grandfather.

Again, Eamonn was looking towards Karunel.

You'd really mark yourself out as a target for Sigmon? Karunel questioned him.

I was already a target as a Jarlath and as a friend of yours, Rune, Eamonn pointed out. I see no difference.

Karunel just nodded. That was true.

And young Master Cynecylnn, your room is ready and waiting just as you had left it, Master Dracorgor smiled. All that needs to be said has been said. You may leave now.

As they left, Makoto was waiting for them. He took one look at Eamonn and smiled.

So it is true what they have been whispering then, the young blond man said. Eamonn has shown his true colours.

Or not so true colours, Karunel was quick to remark.

Makoto gave his fiancé a deathly glare. It is his true colours, he truly is a blue elf, he replied. I have no doubt that sometime after his birth and before she a... she gave him up she had a spell, a very powerful spell placed upon him. That is why he looked as he did, when he came back from the dead, the spell was broken. Jarl Dedlock didn't see something like that happening.

Karunel sighed as Zaðar and Salazar went their own ways. Instead of going to the dorm room that he was sharing with Makoto and Zadð, the Prince instead decided to follow Eamonn to his dorm room.

I know you are following me, Karunel Cynecylnn, his cousin said. A fact that neither were finding it easy to come to terms with. You have the sneak skills of a giant in chain mail armour, dragging his giantess wife, also in chain mail armour. I have something to give you.

Karunel wasn't sure if he wanted to find out what it was, but a small part of him did. It was telling him that it may well be worthwhile but he didn't want to listen to that part of himself. However, without even really thinking about it he stepped foot inside Eamonn's dorm.

It was just as messy and disorganised as he remembered it. Just how his own dorm room had once been.

The door shut behind him and on turning around, he saw that Eamonn was leaning against it. Had he just stupidly walked into a trap?

Your father gave me this to give to you, Eamonn then said and pulled the bag of dried berserker mushrooms out from under his shirt.

Karunel's eyes widened. The other bag that his father had given him he had never seen again after Wulfmær had taken them from him. Perhaps his father had meant for him to have them after all, but for what reason? All his father had told them was that he would need them in his fight against Sigmon.

It was somewhat creepy to have been given them by Eamonn.

Your father expects that they'll come in use, Eamonn said.

Probably in dealing with Sigmon, Karunel replied. This time my uncle is not going to know about them. He took the others my father gave me away and I never got them back.

Eamonn nodded. I didn't bring them to you just for them to be taken away again.

Karunel just groaned at the thought. Not going to happen, Eam, he promised. Strangely. Now you promise not to betray me again.

Eamonn nodded. I doubt the Norns would be pleased if I did, he thought. I am not going to make the same mistakes again and I am not going to allow Jarl Dedlock to capture me again.

No more flying fighters for Draconis Dynamic?

Eamonn nodded.

I'd better head back or Mako will be wondering where I've gone to, the Prince then thought. He always worries like that.

Eamonn just nodded as Karunel left.

Sure enough, Makoto had been wondering where his fiancé had been. Except for the bag of dried berserker mushrooms, Karunel had told him everything.

So how is he? Makoto asked.

As fine as can be, the Prince shrugged. I can see some of the old Eamonn in him. It's just strange to see him in blue.

Makoto managed a smile. You are still torn between him as your your friend, his betrayal and now being your cousin, he mentioned.

I guess, Karunel shrugged. I am never going to get over that fact am I?

Makoto just continued to smile at him. You will, he assured him. It will just take time.

Chapter 3

Zaðar sat outside the smoking ruins of yet another vampire lair to catch his breath. It might not have been Heolstor's tomb but at least there were several less vampires in the galaxy. At least until other vampires created more anyway, it was a never ending problem.

Why would vampires hide out here? Titilayo wondered. This planet is too far from the more populated parts of the galaxy, why live so far from your food sources?

Fuck knows, Zaðar shrugged. Some kind of vampire cult I expect. Some vampires do see themselves as supreme beings.

Tavan walked up behind Titilayo and wrapped his arms around his girlfriend.

And they're the ones most likely to get staked by us, he told her before kissing her cheek. Sometimes they just make it so easy for us.

Zaðar laughed. Always good practice, a good kill before we get to more intelligent vampires.

So those are the ones you had your students go after? came Áed's voice.

No, not really, Zaðar replied with a shrug. I am trying to get Jarl Panesar to allow them to go out into the colony when they're at the governors palace.

Áed nodded at that. Master Dracorgor will get her to see sense, he said. I hope.

They should be thankful they're even allowed to leave the academy, Yejide remarked.

Áed rolled his eyes. Come on, there's nothing wrong with them, he told her, sounding a little annoyed. I've known them for years.

Not the time for this, Zaðar warned them.

Picking up his backpack, Zaðar began to walk back towards their ship. Now was the time to leave the planet and head back to the planet. Personally he just wanted to see how Eamonn was getting along and to see how his girlfriend, Nhutalu was doing. Plus he really wanted to get away from Áed and Yejide, their lovestruck fighting really bugged him sometimes.

And you have to go back to the academy, he then told them. Master Dracorgor won't want you missing lessons.

Yejide groaned.

We need to plan our next move anyway, Tavan added, agreeing with his brother. We're still looking through Enitan's disk. Seems he made it a little hard to decipher just in case it fell into the wrong hands.

Zaðar looked towards him. Well from what we have already discovered, every other vampire clan would want to kill him for giving a Nosfveiðr such information and if it is true, killing vampires that were fighting that very Nosfveiðr he gave it to.

Firyt, Tavan thought. Do you think it's true?

Enitan is always so full of surprises, his brother replied, trying not to sound impressed. He certainly lives up to his name as a man of story.

Áed was quickly aboard the ship, as was Yejide. The others however weren't as quick to do the same.

I can't believe they're still together, Zaðar remarked.

Titilayo laughed and began to head for the ship.

Well that's Yeji for you, she remarked. Always knew that she's go for someone completely incompatible with her personality.

The brothers found themselves laughing as well as they boarded the ship.

Set a course for the academy, Tav, Zaðar told him.

Tavan nodded and set about his task.

Back at the academy, Eamonn stepped outside his room for the first time since he'd arrived. A week ago to be precise. Karunel and some of the others did visit him and bring him food but that was pretty much it for him.

As he stepped out into the hallway, he noticed some of the younger students hanging around. All boys of course since he was on the boys floor. As soon as they saw him, they started to whisper amongst themselves. Rumours about him no doubt.

Fuck off, he told them.

They just stared at him and so he began to walk towards them.

I know you are whispering about me and if you don't want me to go all dark dragon on you, you had better start shutting the bloody fuck up.

That did more than frighten them, it made them run away from him. Either way it was just what Eamonn wanted, he didn't want people whispering about him while he was around. He knew that they would continue to do so behind his back but he knew that there was nothing he could do about that. However it was when they said it in front of him that annoyed him the most.

That was quite over the top, wouldn't you agree, young Master Cynecylnn? a voice told him.

A voice who need no introduction.

Eamonn looked over and saw Master Dracorgor nearby. Just how long had the Academy Head been there?

I don't like them whispering rumours about me, Eamonn protested.

And they will do so whether or not you are around, the Academy Head told him.

When I'm around, it's incredibly rude.

Indeed it is and I shall be having words with them myself. I hope that you will refrain from making such threats like that in future.

Eamonn sighed. No, Master Dracorgor.

And I don't wish for your friends from Ollmarw Academy to find themselves alienated by your actions, Master Dracorgor then added. Am I understood, young Master Cynecylnn?

Yes Master Dracorgor.

He didn't want them to become alienated because of him, sure that wouldn't be the case. Then again, there were those like Drachir Siðven who were always going to cause trouble.

Master Dracorgor smiled and went on his way. There was nothing more that he needed to say to the young teen.

Eamonn however was very glad to see the back of him. He could have done without the usual lecture from the Academy Head, but there was a truth about his actions causing problems for the others. He would see to it that it wouldn't be a problem for them.

Hey Eamonn, a familiar voice called to him.

Chiam, he realised.

The young olive-skinned teen had appeared from further up along the boys hallway.

Glad to see ya again, Chiam said. A little blue though.

Eamonn placed his hands in his pockets as he stared at the younger teen.

At least you and the others had the nerve to escape Dedlock Space, he then said.

It was in fact the first time that he had seen any of those from Dedlock Space since he had died. Eamonn hadn't really wanted to see any of them, but that would be impossible once he left his dorm room.

You took one of my ships though. You know that would have blown up if I'd left the security activated.

Chiam smirked at that remark. Áed knew that you wouldn't have turned it on, he replied. He reckoned that you would turn it off to allow us to escape Dedlock Space if we wanted to.

Eamonn nodded. There had been that purpose and he was rather surprised that more hadn't come with them. The ship had plenty of room for even more people but instead it had just been Áed and Zaðar's vampire hunter students. Their defection was perfectly understandable.

How are you settling in? Eamonn asked.

Fine, Chiam shrugged. Still getting looks from some of the others here. Like they're expecting me to suddenly turn evil and start torturing them or something. But other then that, just fine.

You'll get used to it.

Personally, Chiman didn't want to have to get used to it, it should be the others who should get used to their presence. To him, he felt he should be treated just like any other student at the academy, regardless of his origin.

Finally out of your room I see, came Karunel's voice. I was beginning to think that you were going to become a hermit or something.

Chiam suppressed a smirk.

But Eamonn just glared at the Prince.

I do see the family resemblance now, Chiam then mentioned, looking between the pair of them.

The two blue elves glared at him.

Bite my smooth blue arse, Karunel remarked.

Were you wanting something, Chiam? Eamonn asked him.

Chiam just shook his head. Nope, just coming back from dinner, he replied. Any ideas when Zaðar and Áed are back? I wish they'd tell me what they were up to.

Eamonn stepped back, he knew what they were doing but Zaðar had yet to ask him to join them, or at least what he already knew. He did find that strange since he knew that Zaðar had taken Áed along. Which just made Eamonn realise he was untrusted by all of them. Still he wouldn't say anything to Karunel or Chiam to prove Zaðar right.

All secrecy, Eamonn instead remarked. I'm sure you two have your own big secrets.

Both were silent to that. Rather unsurprisingly in fact.

Figures, Eamonn said, raising an eyebrow and grinning at them. Like my adoption, secrets do come out eventually.

Karunel groaned. Some secrets should always stay secret. Not that he had any devastating secrets anyway. He just wanted to know what Zaðar and the others were up to.

Nah, Chiam replied. Not every secret comes out, I doubt we'll find out what they're up to. Bloody pink-haired bastard.

Why does everyone use my hair when they call me names? Áed sighed in annoyance.

As he'd approached them, he had started hearing their conversation about what he and the others had been up to. Unfortunately he heard what Chiam had called him and he really wasn't happy about it.

Heh, you always show up at the worst possible time, Chiam complained. Where the fuck have you been anyway?

Áed said nothing. He couldn't say anything about where he had been but he knew that Eamonn would suspect where.

Killing vampires, came Zaðar's voice.

Which was the truth.

He and Tavan had arrived a little after Áed had.

Killing vampires? Chiam wondered. Then why couldn't I have come as well?

The two silver-haired vampire hunters glanced at each other.

Master Dracorgor won't let you leave for anywhere other than the governors palace on Tortuga, Tavan told him. It's exactly the same for the others as well.

Chiams eyes turned towards Áed who was grinning at him. And what about him then?

Since he's been here before, so Master Dracorgor will allow him to leave, Zaðar explained. I'm sure in time that Master Dracorgor will allow you to come with as well. I did make you my next in charge when I wasn't around.

It was very unlikely that Edward would want Chiam to be told anything so in all reality, that just wasn't going to happen. Not unless they were on a completely unrelated vampire hunt. Tavan thought that that could at least keep Chiam from demanding on coming out when on the quest again.

Yeah and that means I'm stuck here with the rest of your students in a place with no vampires, Chiam continued to complain. Bollocks really.

Well Master Dracorgor wouldn't like us bring vampires back here and the parents certainly wouldn't be happy if a student got bitten here, Zaðar stated. Well who knows in Holdstock Woods anyway.

Chiam folded his arms as he glared at the vampire hunter. I'd stake any vampire before that could happen.

Eamonn laughed at that and it was only then that Áed realised who the second blue elf was.

Fuck me, is that really you Eam?

Eamonn turned and smirked at him. You really are slow aren't you, Áed?

Oh sod off.

The others laughed at Áed's expense. Tavan used that as an opening to sneak off to his room.

For Áed however, the mocking laughter caused him to storm off to his own room.

Maybe just hurt his feelings, Chiam thought.

Karunel just shrugged his shoulders, and what did he care about Áed's feelings?

So is Master Dracorgor going to let you out as well? the olive-skinned teen then asked Eamonn.

The younger blue elf shook his head. I doubt it, he replied and looked towards Karunel. I don't think any one here trusts me any more and that includes the staff. I have no chance.

Wonder why... Zaðar remarked.

Karunel elbowed him in the ribs.

You don't have to stop him from saying things like that, Rune, Eamonn told him.

The Prince looked between the pair of them. Just don't, alright? he told Zaðar. He then looked towards Eamonn. You know I don't like you teasing my cousins.

Zaðar sighed and looked towards Eamonn in a somewhat forced apologetic look.

No hard feelings, Eamonn told him. I would like to speak to you in private though.

Zaðar guessed what for and nodded. Come to my room then.

Karunel just looked rather puzzled as they headed off.

Everyone seems to be abandoning you, Chiam remarked.

The Prince quickly glared at him. Bite my royal dragon arse, he replied. People do have other things to do.

Chiam was grinning at him. You really are as short-tempered as they say, he remarked.

And Karunel really didn't look at all pleased with him. And you have a really big mouth, don't you?

The olive-skinned teen just shrugged at him. I blame the fact that I saw my parents being killed by vampires.

They were?

Chiam nodded. I still see it when I go to sleep.

The Prince was shocked to hear of that. Still, he felt that Chiam shouldn't be using his parents deaths as a reason to have such a big mouth. On the other hand, he couldn't help but feel sorry for Chiam for having seen something so awful.

Which is why you joined Zaðar's group.

Chiam nodded.

He has a very large extended family, Karunel then told him. Hard not to come across another Nosfveiðr when travelling within the Kingdom.

Chiam actually managed a smile. I wish I could do that with the Chamak'Taj name, he admitted. Shame my family on Netomiquiztli won't think the same way.

But the Nosfveiðr extended family did so you'd start with a bloody huge disadvantage.

He quickly noticed the disappointed look on Chiam's face.

Though you could cheat and marry into the Nosfveiðr family instead. Kethoro's available.

She scares me...

Karunel burst out laughing at that. Oh she scares everyone, it's no wonder about that because she's such a bitch, he said, still laughing. Just don't tell her that if you want to live.

Chiam looked over at him. Is it true that your destiny is to kill your own grandfather? he suddenly asked.

Biting his lip, Karunel nodded. So I'm told.

That's harsh.

Something felt rather off about telling someone from Dedlock Space about the destiny the Norns claimed he had. As Master Dracorgor would no doubt tell him, just because someone was born and raised in Dedlock Space it didn't mean that they were a bad person.

We're not spies you know, Chiam told him.

I never said you were, the Prince protested.

Chiam just shrugged. But it's what you're thinking, what you all think, he replied.

I try not to, Karunel assured him. But I bet you still think of all the rumours you've heard about us.

Chiam suddenly looked very guilty.

Master Dracorgor would tell us that it's only natural to be prejudiced towards people you don't know, Karunel then told the young teen. We tend to dislike what we don't know because it frightens us. That's what Master Dracorgor says.

A few younger students walked past them. While they had been talking about something else, they still stared at Chiam as they walked past.

"It's like we have a fucking huge sign over our heads saying, evil Dedlock Space kids, Chiam complained. It's getting really tiring and I really wish they would stop with the staring."

They probably won't, Karunel admitted. They still gawk at me because of who I am.

Chiam managed a smile at that.

Come on, they have some very good vampire books in the library, Karunel then suggested.

Chiam suddenly looked bleak as he shook his head. Not a good place for him to go because of a certain person.

The librarian keeps giving me nasty looks every time I've been near there, the young teen explained.

Mr Siðven is an arse, The Prince then told him. Just ignore the wanker.

Sure Karunel had had dozens, if not hundreds of run-ins with the wanker librarian. It was all a part of being at the academy and of course a lot of it was that he never could get along with Galar's cousin, Drachir Siðven. They were both nephews of the librarian but Galar had always stated that their uncle was very biased towards Drachir.

Well I guess it'll be fine if you're there, Chiam sighed.

Umm... Karunel began to say, but decided that he didn't have the heart to tell Chiam that the chances of being thrown out of the library while in his company was rather high.

Plus it also felt rather strange to be talking so well with some kid from Dedlock Space. Karunel just kept reminding himself that in truth, Chiam really didn't have anything to do with either Jarl Dedlock or Lady Heolstor.

For Chiam, the library was the largest that he had ever seen. He stood there staring up at the ceiling high bookcases with his mouth wide open. It was something he had never thought possible. After all, who read books these days?

Close your mouth or you'll end up swallowing a fly, Karunel warned him with a grin.

Chiam closed his mouth.

Funny seeing you two here together.

Karunel saw that the voice belonged to Nhutalu Ajawklel, Zaðar's girlfriend. She was holding a couple of large books under one arm, one of which was quite easy to see was on vampirism. No surprise there.

Chiam looked at her and rolled his eyes.

Oh? the Prince wondered.

Nhutalu looked towards Chiam.

Ignore her, the olive-skinned boy stated and began to walk away from her in annoyance.

Saying nothing to Nhutalu, Karunel went after Chiam.

What was that all about? he questioned the young teen.

Chiam sighed, he didn't want to talk about it but he was probably going to have to.

On Netomiquiztli, some of the more prestigious families like mine are well rather backwards, he began explaining. My uncles had a marriage arranged for me to some girl I never met. They also had it instilled in my sister and I that love could only be between opposite genders and anything else was just wrong. An abomination.

Karunel sighed. He knew there were plenty of people like that in the Draconis Kingdom as well. That would make him being King fun if he ever managed to take the throne.

At least you got away from an arranged marriage, the then said. It goes against everything that marriage stands for. It stands for love, not financial, territorial or power gains. Love.

Chiam nodded.

So was that what Nhutalu meant by seeing us here together? the Prince then asked him.

Again Chiam nodded. I got into a fight with Aonghus over it and called him disgusting for it, he admitted. Then Zaðar hit me as well. Sometimes we just shouldn't listen to our family.

Karunel actually smirked at him. As much as they like to claim they are, they're not always right, he said before noticing Mr Siðven. Into the reference library, Siðven's doing his rounds.

He pushed the young teen into a smaller room. This was where the books that the students couldn't take out of the library were stored. The better vampire books could be found here.

Ha! Here are the good vamp books, Karunel said with a grin. Can't take them back to your room though.

Bugger, Chiam thought.

Karunel just shrugged. But it's good to get away from your room and get lost in here instead, he pointed out. "Plus he have lost Mr Siðven."

Chiam took one of the books from the bookcase and began flicking through it. There did seem to be rather a lot of information on the Sons of Wheldon contained within the book.

So did you apologise to Aonghus? Karunel then asked him.

Chiam nodded.

That's good then.

To which the young teen just shrugged.

Oh there's more?

Yeah, Chiam nodded. He kissed me, dared me into it.

Karunel raised an eyebrow.

And I enjoyed it too...

But you don't like him in that way? the Prince realised.

Chiam shook his head. He doesn't mind, he said. Just as long as I'm not homophobic or anything.

You remind me of Salazar actually, well almost, Karunel mentioned with a smile.

I met him at Ollmarw, Chiam replied. I'm nothing like him.

The Prince took a book from one of the bookcases.

This is more you, he told Chiam. History of Draconish Vampirism, nothing on Dedlock Space though.

That's fine, Chiam shrugged. Never would have expected that a Draconish Prince would know so much about vampires.

Karunel gave him a cheeky grin. Well that just comes from having a vampire hunter for a best friend.

And I still say that I am nothing like Salazar, the olive-skinned teen repeated. He seems to shag any guy or girl he can. I'm not like that.

For fun usually, sort of like a dare, Karunel grinned at him. Seems the same to me.

Chiam glanced at him. You sound like a bitter ex, he remarked. My sister had a boyfriend like that once.

Ex, but not bitter, the Prince replied. We're still friends after all and I have a fiancé who I love more than any thing else in the Kingdom.

Chiam placed his hands behind his head as he looked at the table of contents for the book Karunel had shown him.

About Aonghus, Karunel began. You shouldn't use him just to find out about yourself. That's just selfish and you really should think about his feelings as well.

Chiam rolled his eyes. He was the one that wanted to kiss me and I did, he protested. It was what he wanted, not me.

Karunel eyed him.

Karunel, you are so crap at giving out love advice. The voice belonged to that of Morgan Jarlath.

Karunel and Chiam both looked behind them. The black-haired, red-eyed girl was stood over them looking very disproving.

I am not! the blue elf protested.

Morgan placed a hand on Chiam's shoulder. So this Aonghus, how do you really feel about him?

Chiam thought for a moment but all he could think of was kissing Aonghus.

What are you thinking about him? she then asked.