Trio-Book Two: 'Dark Dragon's Dawn'

By Kevin Lee

What if someone came along and offered you the chance to 'take the road less traveled', the chance to live a dream?

Such was the case for Neil Baxter, Zach Thomas and Tony Merello in Book One of the TRIO series, 'Heroes'. Now the story continues in Book Two 'Dark Dragon's Dawn'.

Helana has been banished, and peace has returned to the new world of Avalon. A royal wedding is about to take place as Neil and the princess Tasha are to be wed and hence become the new King and Queen, beginning a new chapter in Avalon's Monarchy! However, Helana had an apprentice, a young lady who has her own agenda for the throne of Avalon. Her plot involves the alliancewith another race, Dragons,and to use them to assist in her quest for the throne. She hopes to acquire theaid of one particular dragon, The Dark Dragon, once a creature of destruction, now a statue of stone.It can only be freed witha long forgotten spell and used only once before in its entrapment. A rare eclipse is about to occur,and it can provide the necessary energy to make the spell work andHelana's former apprentice is counting on the wizard Malcolm touse the same eclipse to achieve his own agenda. For if he does, then the door is opened for her.

A magic forgotten is invoked

A dark malevolent force is freed

The purest of magic's is hunted

And a friend returns...

As shadow spreads over the landit is time to Return to the Adventure and Return to the Magic.

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Mar 12, 2008
• ISBN: 9781452072845

Kevin Lee

KEVIN LEE is originally from the small town of Sturgis, Saskatchewan in Canada. He struck out for a career in radio right out of high school. It was on those long ‘overnight’ shifts that he began to work on his writing ‘urge’ when there wasn’t really a whole lot to do. He found that he really enjoyed putting his imagination down on paper and kept working at it while at home during his days off. One idea always turned into another and before he knew it, several short stories were done! He thought of taking it one step further and proceeded to give writing a novel a go! The process turned out to be long and tiring at times, but at the same time quite enjoyable! He found himself writing certain passages, taking a day off and then coming back to it and adding further to the developing story. Before he knew it, his first draft of a novel was done! He always had an interest in science fiction and fantasy with J.R.R. Tolkien and Terry Brooks being a couple of his favourite authors. It was from them that he found the inspiration to create his own ‘work’ and attempt to keep anyone who would read his material hooked as they had hooked him. The result was a couple of different ideas that eventually evolved into TRIO – Book One – ‘H*E*R*O*E*S’. It came together piece by piece until what you will soon read came to be. As the ‘TRIO’ and company continue on their travels in Book One the hope is that you will become as attached to the characters and their adventures as he did writing about them. You can look forward to reading further adventures in the not too distant future. Enjoy! Drop in on Kevin Lee’s website anytime to see what’s going on in the TRIO world and for all updates on the books, TRIO merchandise you can purchase, photo’s, various links and more! www.kevinleeauthor.ca

Book preview

© 2010 Kevin Lee. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 4/10/2012

ISBN: 978-1-4343-0521-3 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4520-7284-5 (e)

Contents

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

Chapter Seventeen

Chapter Eighteen

Chapter Nineteen

Chapter Twenty

Chapter Twenty One

Chapter Twenty Two

Chapter Twenty Three

Chapter Twenty Four

Chapter Twenty Five

Chapter Twenty Six

Chapter Twenty Seven

Chapter Twenty Eight

Chapter Twenty Nine

Chapter Thirty

Trio Book Three ‘Ascension’

A Magic forgotten is invoked,

A Dark malevolent force is freed,

& the purest of magic’s is hunted,

As shadow spreads over the land

It is time to return to the Adventure

And return to the Magic

For Tamy, who has shared my dreams and adventures right alongside me and who continues to share those with me

A special thank you to: John Kromer for his artistic contribution to the cover of Trio Book Two

Ryan Crouse for his artistic contribution to the map in Trio Book Two

DREAM OF AN ADVENTURE

AND YOU MAY FIND YOURSELF LIVING IT

Prologue

Merlin, the greatest wizard to ever live, had gathered everyone from all the races of magic from elves to dragons for a chance at a new beginning for those who practiced the fading art of magic. The great crossover to a New World he had discovered in his search for a new sanctuary was to be that fresh start and to assist in the transition of adapting to their new home; Merlin had trained a new apprentice and sent with him a book of magic along with three amulets. The book contained spells that only his apprentice and any successors would have the privilege of knowing. The amulets when placed together within the staff of whoever was guardian would give that person enough power to stop those who were bent on creating havoc by using dark magic.

Schredrick stood on the mountain trail and stared up at the stone statue. It was a statue of an enormous dragon, tenfold the size of any other. It had been a dragon of pure evil that had somehow manifested itself and rallied those who practiced the dark arts. The battle had been a long and costly one. Several villages were destroyed including both dwarf and gnome castles. He had waged a long campaign against the creature and had finally succeeded in succumbing it to the power of his and another’s magic. He intended to use the statue as a warning to those who may entertain thoughts of destroying this world that was now their home. There were those however who thought it best to do away with it.

I hope you are right when you say that thing will never breathe again, snapped an elf captain. He looked up. We should have finished it off.

I have my reasons captain for leaving it here. Not to worry, the magic that is required to release the Dark Dragon could only be achieved when there is enough energy in the land. That can only happen when the eclipse we experienced 300 years ago occurs. It is the only thing able to provide that source of energy. Even then captain, there are other conditions.

Still, shrugged the captain. Our king would like to see you when you are done here.

I will be along shortly, nodded Schredrick. The elf captain departed and the wizard stood alone below the statue. He remembered something and called after the elf.

Captain!

Yes? queried the elf as he turned.

Have you been able to locate those five sorcerer’s who were at the root of the uprising?

The elf shook his head. Not as yet sir. Perhaps, he pointed up at the statue, the dragon did away with them.

Perhaps. Thank you Captain.

The elf vanished into the swirling mountain mist and Schredrick stared up at the towering mass of stone. Perhaps you did, he whispered. He shook his head and walked off after the captain. There were so many unanswered questions and no one, or anything to satisfy their curiosity.

Time has fostered along, and the dawn of the new eclipse approaches the horizon.

What if someone came along and offered a chance to live a dream?

What if,

It was for you?

TRIO%20new%20map(a).jpg

Chapter One

The mist swirled around the woman and her two guardians as they made their way up a path intertwined in the mountains. It had barely been used other than by the occasional troll hunting party. No one else ventured this far into the mountain range that bordered the western region of the Rathgar Plains. The troll kingdom of Swindon was the only ‘settlement’ in the entire area. The woman had factored it all in and the isolation played a key role in deciding where to construct her own ‘kingdom’. The mountains provided the perfect vantage point when the time came to strike out at the rest of the lands and do what her teacher, Helana, had failed to accomplish, conquer and rule all of Avalon.

Rakia came to a stop as the path opened up into a valley. The mist thinned as the prevailing wind blew it aside allowing the sun to break through in cracks and expose them to its light. She smiled at the sight before her. Towering above the trio a giant statue of rock in the shape of a dragon loomed large. It was a sight that had awed her each and every time she came before it.

One of the accompanying soldiers grunted, Ugliest thing I’ve ever seen.

Perhaps, commented Rakia with a shrug. She turned to look at him. But that atrocity nearly became the master of this land 500 years ago. Rakia looked back to the statue. The Dark Dragon lost the war with the wizard Schredrick and the others. It was turned to stone as its punishment for attempting to overthrow the monarchy and rallying all those who practiced the dark arts to worship it.

So why do you keep coming back here? asked the other guard.

In two days, a rare eclipse will occur with both suns and moons. With all four aligned, it opens a window if you will, she tried to explain, To permit the release of the Dark Dragon.

One guard scoffed at the idea. Impossible, you’ve been listening to one too many old legends spread by the elves and dwarves. It is a fool’s tale.

Rakia raised her right hand, spoke several words under her breath, and then hurled a ball of blue light at the guard. It slammed into his chest and sent him flying back against a wall of rock.

Impossible you say! Do you think it impossible that I can fling you around like a sack of troll dung? Her arm came up again and another blast of magic struck at the man. She twisted her wrists and the man flew across the clearing and into the side of the statue. He crumpled to the ground and tried to wave her off.

I believe! I believe! No more!

Then DO NOT EVER question me again, and then it is you who will be the fool. I am just as strong as my teacher, even more so, and without the use of her foul demons. UNDERSTAND?

He nodded quickly and Rakia lowered her arms. The guard relaxed, slumping to the ground in obvious pain. The other guard stepped back and away from Rakia and she whirled on him.

Do you question me also?

He shook his head. No my lady. You have my devotion to your cause.

Good. Now pick him up and let’s get back to the castle before the trolls start ripping the walls down looking for the morning meal.

The guard went and lifted up his fallen comrade and got him to lean against him for support. They trailed a safe distance behind to avoid angering Rakia any further. The uninjured guard did have one question that was beginning to arouse his curiosity. He decided to risk her fury in order to understand.

I do have one question my lady. Both guards stopped as Rakia turned around to face them.

Yes?

How do you hope to awaken the dragon? What is it this eclipse can do?

Rakia merely smiled and continued on down the path. She gave her general her answer as she strode along.

In two days the eclipse allows the only opportunity to counteract the spell Schredrick had cast. It provides the necessary life energy the lands themselves cannot provide. However, the spell will not work unless something that is good is also awakened.

Something good?

She sighed and stopped to face them. It is a condition of the magic. It was meant to make reviving the dragon almost impossible, as you said earlier, she sneered. The guard flinched in pain. The Dark Dragon is evil, and evil can only be awakened if good is also.

Then how can the counter spell you intend to use, work?

Because general, I am putting my trust in the wizard. He will attempt to awaken the good I need in order to revive the evil.

But, what? Or who? The general was really confused and had no idea what the witch was talking about.

You forget so quickly. The good I need was one who was killed on the assault on Livinia.

And you think the wizard will try and bring him back?

That’s exactly what I am counting on you fool. This eclipse will permit him to do so! By resurrecting the good, I will revive the dragon to do my bidding and in turn, conquer this land. That was something that my teacher had failed so miserably at. Rakia turned again and walked on. Come! We have a lot of work to be done before the eclipse occurs!

The injured guard leaned in close and whispered to the other, Do you really think she can bring that rock back to life?

I have no doubt she will try. You best believe it too, or next time she’ll snap you in half like a twig and feed you to the trolls.

Two fairies skimmed along the edge of the crevice, zipping in and out of every little crack, investigating to see what they could find. They were no bigger than a hummingbird in their true form, and they glowed with their natural luminous light. These particular two had ventured in from the land of fairy to explore, looking for fun or trouble if you were to believe any story told by a dwarf. Fairies sometimes stepped out of their realm to find a mate or to have a look around. They often became bored with things and would go looking for something to do outside their world on Avalon. On this day, the two were a little curious to see what the mountain range and the trolls were up to.

They chattered between themselves, giggling, and plotting little pranks to pull on the ugly, hairy and smelly trolls. The mist was unusually thick this morning and they had to be a little more cautious to avoid a sudden collision with a mountain wall face. Doing so usually caused a lot of pain and it took time to shake it off so they would rather avoid it altogether. The path for the most part was clear and they followed it through turn after turn. It dipped downward abruptly and they merely coasted with the air currents to give their miniscule wings a breather. As they toured along quickly, still plotting their tricks for the trolls, both almost failed to notice several large bulky forms perched on a ledge in front of them. The duo pulled up just short of a collision and flew in behind the coverage of a few boulders as one of the creatures turned its head to investigate the noise behind it.

The Dragon snorted, its eyes scanning the rock surface, unable to see anything. Satisfied that nothing was there, it turned its focus back to the valley below. It shifted, trying to get a better view of the dragon master. This dragon was not alone. Surrounding the whole valley was an entire regiment of dragons, all sitting, waiting on the edge. Some larger than others, some bulkier, a few had spikes running along their backs, some did not. All of them were there though to do their master’s bidding.

Rakia tilted her head and could not help but smile at the sight above. Dragons, everywhere, all around her spanning the whole valley! It gave her a rush, the feeling of control, of power. She had worked long and hard at the magic to attain control of the massive beasts. It had not been an easy task, but the sight she saw high on the ridge made all of that effort worthwhile.

Rakia stood in the center of the valley, her personal guard next to her and off to her right near a pile of rock was the trolls, most of who had come from Swindon at her beckoning. Of course not all the trolls had come some had stayed behind after having enough of witches with their dealings with Helana. Rakia had used their strength to hollow out the valley, expanding it to her liking and creating her own ‘kingdom’ in the process. Her ‘castle’ was built partially into the mountain, an idea she had harnessed from the dwarves and the remainder jutted out like a blemish on the side of the rock. She was determined to distance herself from Helana and leave her own signature on the land.

Rakia stared at the throng of dragons, a grin on her face. I HAVE A TASK OF FOR ALL OF YOU! I NEED YOU TO SEEK OUT THE UNICORNS THROUGHOUT THIS LAND AND DESTROY EACH AND EVERY ONE!

A dragon, mostly gray with red patches over its body leaned forward and hissed in their own dragon tongue.

Why do you ask this of us?

Rakia enhanced her voice with magic and spoke calmly. The unicorns are the only ones who can interfere with my objective of awakening the Dark Dragon. If they are out of the way, then they can do no harm.

What you ask will take time, they are hard to find.

Then burn every bush, every forest if you have to! I want them out of the way! Do you understand?

Each dragon acknowledged with a nod and the gray spoke again. It will take time.

Just do it as fast as you can.

It will be done, master. The dragon bowed and the rest snarled in agreement.

The two fairies looked at one another, their eyes wide with fear and worry etched in their expressions.

What do we do? asked one.

We must tell somebody!

But who?

Why not the wizard, he would know what to do. He’s pretty smart.

Yes! Him!

Shhhhh, quiet, they might hear us, pointed out the other sprite.

Rakia strutted over to the trolls. I have another task for all of you. I need several of these large boulders moved to the Dark Dragon statue. My general will instruct you on which stones and where to place them.

A troll bowed, as you command master.

She turned and returned her gaze to her dragon army. The evening after next the Dark Dragon will live again! I expect all of you to be there! Now, find the unicorns and let none escape your fire!

Each beast let out a howl, and lifted themselves into the air flying off in pairs to do her bidding. By spreading out the search would go quicker and the hunt would be more effective. Rakia watched the sight, smiling in satisfaction. The dragons would force the unicorns into hiding if they weren’t destroyed and that would pose a problem for Malcolm. It would be that much more difficult to invoke the same spell his predecessor had cast on the Dark Dragon before. Thus her ambitious plan to assume the throne of Avalon should succeed. Malcolm would have no means of stopping the dragon, or her and she would rule with it at her side.

Both fairies came out of hiding and flew into the mists. They did not have much time to find the wizard! First, they would have to return to the fairy realm. By doing so it would provide a short cut to the elf castle Cambridge. They would be there in a fraction of the time instead of flying through the mountains!

One of the little sprites whispered the incantation they needed. "Doorway to our realm we seek! Open for us we ask! To home we must go! Tis Alisha and Eden! A SASHA SEE LA KEEE’OR’

A small white circle appeared in front of the two and they promptly flew right into it, and both circle and fairy vanished in a flash. Rakia lifted her cloak over head and stared up at the mountain. Something felt out of place. Kneeling, she touched the ground with her left hand. Fairy magic, it had just been used. She felt its presence nearby but it faded as fast as she had detected it.

Fairy magic, but so little. Mmmph, no matter. Little sprites probably out for some mischief, nothing more. Rakia dismissed it then and walked off towards the gate to her castle. There was still some reading to be done before the eclipse took place. Each word had to be perfect, each sentence pronounced correctly. The spell she required would not work otherwise. A quick glance up brought another smile to her face. Already the moons and suns were beginning to align.

Chapter Two

Neil Baxter sat down on the blanket, and wiped the water from his face. A swim in the pond was refreshing and made him feel good all over. Not to mention that the exercise did him good. He wasn’t getting any younger so it took that little extra effort to keep in shape. He did have to admit though that since his arrival on this new world of Avalon that he didn’t feel like he was getting old at all, but instead, invigorated with a new infusion of youthful exuberance. Perhaps it was the opportunity to have a new life away from the routine he had been living as a lawyer back in Seattle, maybe it was the scenery, or maybe it was Tasha. The princess had brought out emotions within him that he had long thought gone. She made him smile every time she came into view. Neil glanced out at the water and watched her swim towards shore and he smiled then. It was contagious and he couldn’t stop himself. It was hard to fathom that in a few days he and her would be husband and wife.

He loved her with all his heart and more, and eagerly awaited their wedding day. It was only a year ago his life was going absolutely nowhere. He was divorced, and bored with his work. It was then a strange man showed up to ‘make you an offer you will find very hard to refuse’. The man had set in motion a turn of events that gave him and two others a chance to begin anew. For him it was the door to get out of the rut he had been in. He, Zach Thomas and Tony Merello came to the new world to help those in need. In doing so he had not only begun a new phase of his life but had found true love. Everything was going well and he had to pinch himself to make sure he wasn’t dreaming.

Tasha stood, and climbed out of the pond. She was beautiful, and each day he saw her Neil felt his love for her grow. Tasha took notice of his smile and stopped at the edge of the pond.

What are you looking at with that stupid grin? Tasha slicked her hair back and smiled back at him.

Oh, only how terrific you look all wet.

She sprayed the water from her hands at him and giggled. Is that so? What’s the matter tired already?

Nah not even close. I just wanted to sit back and take in some of the ambiance of this place. No matter how many times we come here I can never get enough of the peacefulness. The waterfall and the sounds it makes, the trees leaning over the water, the bird calls. Now if the wood nymphs would just let me sleep without spraying water on me once in a blue moon, it’d be heaven.

They’re only having fun with you, besides, I think it’s cute. Tasha sat down and leaned in to give him a kiss.

Then how come, they kissed, then how come they never spray you with any water?

I don’t know. Maybe it’s because I asked them not to, she teased.

Well then, could you use some of that diplomatic influence you have and ask them to ease up on me too?

Tasha paused pretending to be thinking about his request and then smiled as she answered. Nah.

I’ll remember that when you need my help, he kidded.

She kissed him again. Then I’ll just have to use my charm to make you change your mind.

You know me all too well. The two of them laughed as they shared a few more kisses.

It wasn’t that long before the very same wood nymphs appeared from out of the forest and begin to prance across the pond’s surface in their spectacular little dance. Neil and Tasha sat back to watch the scene unfold.

The petite fairy creatures, no bigger than a person’s hand, moved through the routine with grace and the synchronism of a well choreographed ballet. Each of the sprites moved just above the waterline, touching it only when the dance permitted. Neil was amazed each and every time they performed. They never repeated the same dance, ever, at least as far as he could tell. Their creativity and movement was mesmerizing and amidst the backdrop of the waterfall it was like the scene out of a dream. As fast as it had started, the dance was over and the nymphs fluttered in separate directions. Some flew into the trees, others dove under the water and the remainder disappeared behind the waterfall.

Wow, amazing, he sighed.

Our own private little performance, doesn’t that make you feel special my love? My king to be?

King, mmmm, now there’s something I thought I’d never hear someone call me.

Does it make you feel uncomfortable?

Only a little, he gave her a kiss on the cheek. I’m sure I’ll get used to it in time.

I can hardly wait. In three days we will be husband and wife, king and queen.

King and Queen, has a nice ring to it, Neil smiled.

What do you think Zach will say first? Tasha snickered, You know he’s going to have some fun with it.

Oh that is one thing we can rely on. He’ll bleed it for all it’s worth, for as long as he can. Speaking of which, isn’t he due back pretty soon from Aberdeen?

Tasha nodded and stood up. Later today at some point I believe. At least I think that’s what Malcolm said.

Going in for another swim?

Yes I am. Are you coming? Tasha winked and then dove into the water with a resounding splash that echoed off the trees. Neil smiled, again, and went in after her. He never could say no to that smile of hers. It was his one true weakness.

A light breeze moved over the open plain, the grass stirring at its touch. A trio of riders approached the forest at a gallop, dust whirling behind their horses as they moved along. The two suns glared down with not a single cloud to hinder their light and warmth. The riders rode up to the forest’s edge and brought their mounts to a stop near a large tree which stood out from the rest. One man climbed down, and strode over to the particular tree in question. He reached into his tunic and brought out a small shiny object. Sunlight reflected off of the handmade medallion, making the man blink. Kneeling down, he placed the medallion on the marked grave, next to the sword embedded at the foot of the tree.

Zach Thomas bowed momentarily and then stood once more.

For your act of bravery in the line of duty kid, sorry it took so long to get here, but it took me a while to get the hang of the dwarves forging methods. It’s hard to believe a year has passed by Tony. We still miss ya, oh by the way, Neil and Tasha are getting married this weekend. Wish you could be here for it. It should be quite the party, or so I’m told by Riane. Apparently most royal weddings are huge. Other than that, there isn’t a whole lot else to report on.

The two other men dismounted their steeds and ambled over to Zach. The two dwarves were somewhat scruffier in appearance and both brushed dust off themselves as they moved to stand next to their friend. Their well worn clothing and awkward hats along with the dust falling off of them gave them the distinct look of someone in dire need of a bath. Axel and Ruskin looked up at Zach.

Are ya done yet? My stomach’s tellin me tis about that time again, grumbled Axel.

Yer always hungry, chortled Ruskin. He rubbed his new beard, glad that it had finally grown back after Adeena’s prank which had left him beardless a lot longer than he had anticipated.

We’ll eat in a second. Be polite guys, say hi to Tony.

Both dwarves sighed and looked down at the grave. Hi Tony.

Yer aware he canna hear us, right? checked Axel.

I know, just go along with it. Humor me, okay? said Zach.

Ruskin sniffed at the air. Something wasn’t right. Do ya smell th’burnin smell? Like smoke, or something, or am I that hungry?"

Smoke? questioned Zach. He glanced at the forest. Everything seemed in place.

What th’heck are ya mutterin bout now? scoffed Axel. Then the other dwarf caught a whiff of the aroma. Wait a bit now, he be right, there’s a stench in th’air. Somethin is burnin.

Are you two kidding me? You can smell smoke, or whatever? All I can smell is you two.

Over that way! pointed Ruskin.

A cloud of smoke was indeed rising and there was movement on the ground near it, and in the air. The trio saw streaks of flame shoot down to the ground igniting more grass fires. There were three bulky forms floating in the air and below them a herd of what looked like horses were running at breakneck speed away from the spreading fires. The fleeing beasts were moving erratically and doing their best to avoid the fire balls that appeared to be aimed at them.

What the hell is going on? asked Zach. He couldn’t make sense of what he was seeing.

Dragons, whispered Axel. An’ they be a long way from home. They never travel far from th’lair, not ta mention cross inta elf lands.

Ruskin squinted to get a good look at the animals in flight on the ground and realized what they were. I’ll be an ugly troll! That there’s a bunch o’unicorns! Them fire breathin monsters are tryin to kill’em!

Unicorns? There are unicorns here? asked Zach incredulously.

Of course there be, but they keep ta th’forest most of th’time. They don’t venture far from cover, replied Axel. What, ya never seen one before?

No I haven’t seen one before, retorted Zach sarcastically. I’m not from around here, remember. The only unicorn I’ve ever seen was in a kid’s book, or in some old song we used to sing as kids. So tell me why the dragons would be trying to kill them?

Ruskin shrugged. Can’t say fer sure. This be a first for me as well.

Well we’ve got to help them out, mount up guys! instructed Zach. He made for his horse and the two dwarves stared after him.

You wanna go up against a dragon? Yer daft! There is no way ta stop a dragon with what we have! shouted Axel. He could think of other ways to end his life foolishly and this one was the least appealing.

Then we’ll have to lead those unicorns to the safety of this forest. Now move!

Zach clambered up on his horse and gave it a swift kick. He was off galloping towards the unicorns with Axel and Ruskin staring in disbelief. Neither could believe he was dumb enough to risk facing a dragon without the proper armory.

Always has ta be th’hero, drat it, come on then, before he gets himself fried, beckoned Axel.

Better him than us, quipped Ruskin with a smirk.

Just hurry it up an’get up on yer horse!

Aye, I’m comin.

The two dwarves were racing after Zach moments later. For someone who only a year ago couldn’t stay on his horse Zach had mastered riding quite well. The dwarves were having a tough time of it just to try and keep up. All three approached both dragon and unicorn from behind so that the surprise would hopefully work to their advantage.

How were they going to get the unicorns to the safety of the forest? Just how were they going to pull it off? Those questions flew through Zach’s mind as he raced on and he decided their best option was to distract the dragons, even if it was only for a short period of time. Zach yanked his crossbow out from its resting place on the side of his saddle and aimed the already loaded weapon at the closest dragon.

What th’hell is he doin! barked Ruskin.

Zach let the arrow go and it slammed into the behemoth’s foot. The dragon let out a howl and stopped in mid-air to see what had caused the sudden influx of pain. The other dragons, distracted, paused in their pursuit of the unicorns to see what all the commotion was about.

Oh shit, muttered Zach. He brought his horse to a quick halt and stared up at the dragon who in turn glared back at the small insignificant man on a horse.

Drat it! Well don’t just stand around! Get movin ya fool! bellowed Axel.

Ruskin was already galloping towards the unicorns and Axel began his pursuit right behind him. Zach didn’t need any further convincing and reined his horse around. A good hard kick and his steed was racing away from the angry dragon.

The injured beast snarled in its dragon tongue, I will take care of that one.

We will finish the unicorns, hissed one of the others.

Zach’s heart was pounding as he held on to the reins for dear life, now was no time to lose his balance and fall off! He had to get to the nearest cover and do it fast! A quick glance back over his shoulder confirmed at least one of the dragons was in pursuit. The dragon’s maw opened and Zach went wide eyed with fear. A giant fireball erupted from the beast’s jaws and Zach yanked hard on the reins to pull his horse in another direction to avoid the blast. His horse sensed the encroaching heat and didn’t need a whole lot of encouragement to follow his rider’s direction. The fireball exploded into the ground sending debris in every direction. Zach felt the vibration of the ground and the searing heat all over his body and didn’t need any extra incentive to stay clear of any further attacks. One of those fireballs would turn him to ash instantly!

Axel and Ruskin had their own difficulties. They had come up alongside the unicorn herd and despite their best efforts were not having any luck in directing the herd towards the nearby forest. Axel pushed his ride hard and managed to get to the front and the one unicorn that seemed to be leading the rest.

This way, this way ya bloody white horse! He was waving one free arm, frantically trying to beckon them to follow. No response. The dwarf cursed under his breath and reached inside his cloak to grab his flask. With a brief moment of regret of having to waste good ale, he took aim as best he could and threw it at the animal to get its attention. The unicorn neighed instinctively as the flask sailed by its head and turned to see who, or what this latest threat was.

Axel waved and pointed towards the forest like a mad man. The unicorn seemed to understand and bobbed its head. At least that’s what it looked like to Axel. The stallion veered off and led the herd in the direction of the forest. The two dragons in pursuit of the unicorns had begun to close in and it was going to be a race to see if the unicorns would reach cover before the dragons caught up. Axel had no intention of being the dragon’s next meal so he urged his horse on even harder and his brother Ruskin was right behind him doing the same to get more speed out of his poor steed.

Zach was racing off in the other direction to another part of the forest away from the herd. At least he had one dragon following, and had managed to give the unicorns some much needed time to get safely to cover, at least he hoped so. With the first step taken, it was now a race to get himself under some protection and away from the ever improving aim of the dragon’s fire strikes. His horse dodged another blast, and the forest just didn’t seem to be getting any closer. Another glance over his shoulder saw the dragon closing in at full flight. A quick idea hit him and it was worth the attempt to get a few more minutes to race towards a different part of the forest that looked closer.

As the dragon was just about on top of him, Zach yanked back hard on the reins and his horse squealed in pain as they came to an abrupt halt! The dragon, caught completely by surprise, flew right over and on before realizing its prey had just been overshot. The dragon began its own process of trying to stop and turn around and Zach veered off to the forest again at full gallop with a grin. By the time the dragon recovered and had altered his course back after him, Zach was within reach of the forest and the safe confines of the trees.

Zach entered the forest and he and horse worked their way around trees in an effort to hide amidst the growth. The dragon let out a howl and flew over the forest in an attempt to locate the insignificant creature that had gotten away from it. Zach watched it fly over and for a brief moment, felt a sense of relief. That changed mere seconds later.

The dragon, now frustrated and angrier than before flew back over the forest and opened its jaws to let loose its dragon fire. Zach heard the roar and felt the heat from above. Looking up, he saw the fire begin to tear across the tree tops and his relief was now turning to terror! Now instead of being turned to ashes instantly, he would die a more agonizing slow death amidst burning brush, smothered by the thick smoke already billowing down through the branches towards him.

Son of bitch, that thing’s gonna burn down the whole forest! Looking wildly around, Zach gave his horse a kick to keep moving. They had to keep going to stay ahead of the fire before it cut off their only route of escape. His idea to distract the dragons had suddenly gone from bad at its best, to an extremely serious situation.

The dragon hovered above the tree line and watched as its fire spread. It let loose another volley and it spewed forth like a stream from a flamethrower, engulfing the shrubbery as it took hold. The dragon snarled with satisfaction as the fire quickly moved from tree to tree. It tore across the forest, its expanse mushrooming with each passing second. This ‘man’ would not escape its wrath.

On the other end of the escape plan, Ruskin was the last to enter the forest behind the unicorns and not a moment too soon. A volley of dragon fire exploded mere feet behind him and he lifted his arms instinctively to protect himself from the debris. The cover of the trees helped somewhat but another fear quickly took hold.

Axel! We won’t be lastin’ long in ‘ere if them things take ta spittin at the forest!

Yer right! replied his brother at the front of the herd. Come on then ya one horned horse, that way! he pointed, on towards th’ lake for ya!

The unicorns appeared to understand and were galloping on through the trees as if they weren’t even there. The dwarves however, had a more difficult time of it since they lacked the finesse of the unicorns. Instead of avoiding branches they often ran into them, or through them, causing themselves a great deal of agony with each passing branch. However, the thought of being barbequed at the hand of the dragon fire was enough to dull the immediate pain. As expected, the dragons let loose the fire upon the forest and both looked up to see the flames take hold and begin to spread. Now it was a mad dash to get to the shores of the lake and the safety of the water.

Along the edge of the Norcross River, the elves border patrol paused to observe the rising smoke in the distance. There shouldn’t be any, and the appearance of it was reason for concern. On the other side of the river the site of smoke wouldn’t be an issue for the elves, but this was on elf land. That alone was enough to alert the castle.

Sasha, go! Alert the Queen and Malcolm! Tar and I will ride to see what’s going on, stated Vasilis.

Yes sir! Sasha nodded. He gave his horse a swift kick and the elf guard was racing towards Cambridge castle.

Come on Tar, if there is smoke brewing on elf land there is definitely something out of order.

Agreed sir. You don’t think a dragon has ventured this far north do you?

A dragon? If a dragon has dared to cross over the elf border, then something is seriously wrong.

Vasilis and Tar galloped in the direction of the smoke and Vasilis hoped that Tar’s suggestion of a dragon was the furthest from the cause of the smoke. If it was a dragon, neither of them was prepared to deal with such a creature. Unarmed against a dragon could only end in disaster, for themselves. A more hopeful cause of the smoke was something less dangerous and easy enough to extinguish. As the smoke cloud expanded skyward as they approached that thought began to appear very unlikely. What had appeared as one cloud at first from the distance Vasilis saw there were actually two large clouds of smoke and flying nearby was not one, but three winged creatures. Both elves felt their hearts leap into their throats as they realized the cause was indeed what they had feared, dragons.

Chapter Three

Inside Cambridge Castle, Malcolm looked up from the book of magic and frowned. He felt odd, as though something felt out of place and he gazed towards the window. Shar, who was standing next to him noticed his expression and followed his gaze.

What is it Malcolm?

The wizard smiled. My, you are perceptive today. Picked up on my mood change did you?

Um, no, you were frowning, she grinned. Usually when you do that something is bothering you.

Am I that predictable? Malcolm sighed. Shar nodded with a smile. Very well then, but yes, something is wrong. I detected a change in the environment, somewhere nearby. All is not as it should be.

Magic?

Malcolm walked over to the window and stared out towards the Norcross River. Magic, yes, to a certain degree, however, it is not magic as you or I know it. It is not a spell but more like a presence of magic, similar to that of fairy magic.

Are the fairies up to no good?

It is not the fairies Shar, but something else. Malcolm’s mind wandered, he had a theory but would not test that thought until he had more proof. A rider appeared on the plain, approaching fast from the direction of the river and the forest. His intuition would surely be proved right again with the news this rider brought with him. One of the border guards are riding in, we will find out from him just what the problem may be.

The wizard was already moving towards the door and down the hall before Shar could react. She quickly ran after him, her own thoughts wandering about what was on Malcolm’s mind. She caught up to him at the stairs.

Do you have any idea then of what it may be if it isn’t the fairies?

I do, but I will need more evidence to confirm my suspicions.

If you don’t mind me asking, what theory are you pondering?

I never mind if you have something to ask Shar, after all, you are my student and if you did not ask questions I would begin to wonder if you were interested in learning anything I had to teach.

Shar smiled, That would never happen. There is nothing I don’t want to learn about.

That my lady, he looked at her, Is very encouraging. Have you been unable to feel the change in the environment yourself?

I can detect nothing. Shar frowned, frustrated at the thought. Am I doing something wrong?

No No not at all, he assured her. Your abilities are expanding it seems with each new lesson. Do not worry, that gift will appear soon enough.

With that the two entered the courtyard as the Rider galloped through the open gate. The elf brought his horse to a stop near them amidst dust and dismounted promptly. Malcolm and Shar waited for Sasha to approach and he did so once he handed off his horse to another elf to tend to the animal.

Sir, there is a large dark cloud of smoke above the nearby forest to the south. We came across it in our patrol.

Do you have a source of this smoke? asked Malcolm.

I do not sir, Vasilis and Tar rode on to investigate. I was ordered back here to report to you and the king.

Very good Sasha. Go on and inform the king, tell him as well that I will be going to investigate on my own and determine the problem first hand. I will be back as soon as possible with answers.

Yes sir, Sasha bowed. He ran off into the castle and Malcolm looked over at Shar.

Interested in joining me?

That was my next question.

Malcolm nodded with a grin and motioned for her to stand close and he began the incantation that would send them to the mysterious smoke in question. In a flash of light both disappeared and in the blink of an eye reappeared near the forest in another flash. It took only a moment for both to adjust to their new surroundings and it did not take long to find the source of the smoke. To their amazement hovering at the tree line were the bulky forms of three dragons. Two were focusing on one area of the forest and another was off some distance targeting another location. All three were hurling dragon fire at the forest top. The two elves, Vasilis and Tar were attempting to and doing so rather poorly, attacking the two closest dragons with their arrows but the beasts were completely ignoring them. The wizard felt it was rather foolish to attempt to attack a dragon without the proper weaponry but more importantly was the fact the two dragons were intent on the forest. What was in there that demanded that much attention? Something was definitely out of order here. Whatever was in the forest the dragons wanted to see destroyed and were spewing fire stream after stream into the trees.

Malcolm felt the anger within him grow with each passing second. The dragons had blatantly broken their pledge to stay within their own boundaries and secondly were adamant on eradicating something, or someone, another broken pledge he had administered upon the dragons a number of years earlier.

The forest fire was out of control and if Malcolm did not do something about that soon, the damage would be extensive. First, the fire had to be stopped immediately and then he would turn his attention on the dragons and contend with them and find out just what exactly was going on.

Zach coughed and squinted to see through the thick smoke. Flames seemed to be everywhere, above, beside, behind and in front of him. Escape appeared to be impossible! Of all the times he had come close to getting shot back home in the line of duty as a police officer, not once did he ever think that he would ever have his number called. Now, as he glanced back and forth through the haze the realization that this might be ‘the time’ was front and center.

There has to be a way outta here, there just has to be! Panic surged through his body and he hated how it felt. He refused to give up. It was just not in his nature to do so. With another kick he urged his horse forward, slowly and cautiously around burning brush and trees.

Malcolm stepped forward and spoke a spell that would diffuse the fire. The amulets glared to life in his staff and the wizard took aim at the nearest forest. One of the dragons whirled around in midair and took sight of the man with the glowing staff.

It snarled in its dragon tongue, BE GONE WIZARD, THIS IS OF NO CONCERN TO YOU!

Malcolm was caught off guard by the arrogance of the beast and turned his attention to the dragon and away from the fire. He was just as defiant as the dragon in his reply.

YOU HAVE BROKEN YOUR VOWS AND HAVE CROSSED INTO ELF TERRITORY! THAT IS ABSOLUTELY FORBIDDEN!

BE GONE OR FEEL MY FIRE!

WHO COMMANDS YOU?

I SAID BE GONE! The dragon opened its maw to send forth a stream of fire but Malcolm was just as quick and sent the magic of the amulets directly at the dragon with a few carefully spoken words. A bolt of blue light exploded forth and slammed into the dragon’s underbelly. The dragon was sent reeling backwards and tumbled to the ground in an enormous roar that must have echoed across all of the lands. It crashed into the plain sending dirt and debris in every direction and collapsed dead in a heap. A giant gaping hole had burned into the dragon and the stench of parched flesh filled the air. The smell was so horrid that Shar had to cover her face to keep from vomiting. Malcolm shook his head, disappointed in the creature and its lack of cooperation. He looked up and focused on the second dragon.

Upon seeing the destruction of its fellow brethren, the other dragon had already given up its task and was flying off. It wanted no part of the wizard’s magic! The target of its fire was undoubtedly dead by now, consumed by the fire it had started so as far as it was concerned, the task it had set out to do was accomplished. It was time to go and save itself.

Malcolm sighed and watched it go. Two down, and one dragon left to contend with. The third would have to wait for the time being. At present the fire in front of him was beginning to rage out of control and whatever the reason the beast had started such an inferno was likely still hidden somewhere within. There was no time to waste and extinguishing the nearest blaze was the priority. He spoke a series of words and the amulets flared to life once again. A blue beam shot forth and took hold of the fire. The orange glow turned blue and spread throughout the trees.

Axel and Ruskin took notice of the change and watched the blue fire spread above them. Someone had alerted Malcolm! At least that was what they assumed, since the wizard was the only likely person who was capable of extinguishing this kind of fire with his magic. His timing was perfect; it was beginning to get a little too warm for comfort. Both dwarves pulled back on the