The Legacy of the Drevnik: Book One: the Exile

By R. Woll

In The Legacy of the Drevnik: The Exile LanDrin, a young Frost Elf, loses everyone he holds dear. His Uncle, who is like a father to him, killed his parents. His fianc is killed by her father. When his death is ordered LanDrin is forced to leave his home. Only with the help of a dragon and some new friends can he find a way to take back his home. As he tries to find answers to help make sense of his life and his losses, LanDrin finds out that the troubles of his people are only one part of the scheme of the mysterious mages called the Sovershenik. Not all hope is lost, the powerful magic of the ancient Drevnik is found in an unlikely place. LanDrin also learns that the history of his people, the Sovershenik, and the history of the long forgotten Drevnik are all important if he wants to help his people and put an end to the troubles that are engulfing the continent of Tselestial.

The first book in the series, The Exile, follows LanDrin as he journeys to learn the skills and knowledge necessary to free his people. After years of training LanDrin and his friends head to Klan Gorod to join the Fighters Klan and find allies in his fight against an ever growing threat. Along the way enemies arise and plots become known that make LanDrin realize that he and his people are just a small part of the plan that has been unfolding for decades. Behind it all seems to lurk the Sovershenik, powerful mages that rebelled, left the Drevnik, and disappeared into history thousands of years ago.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Dec 10, 2010
• ISBN: 9781456833114

R. Woll

In The Legacy of the Drevnik: The Exile Lan’Drin, a young Frost Elf, loses everyone he holds dear. His Uncle, who is like a father to him, killed his parents. His fiancé is killed by her father. When his death is ordered Lan’Drin is forced to leave his home. Only with the help of a dragon and some new friends can he find a way to take back his home. As he tries to find answers to help make sense of his life and his losses, Lan’Drin finds out that the troubles of his people are only one part of the scheme of the mysterious mages called the Sovershenik. Not all hope is lost, the powerful magic of the ancient Drevnik is found in an unlikely place. Lan’Drin also learns that the history of his people, the Sovershenik, and the history of the long forgotten Drevnik are all important if he wants to help his people and put an end to the troubles that are engulfing the continent of Tselestial. The first book in the series, The Exile, follows Lan’Drin as he journeys to learn the skills and knowledge necessary to free his people. After years of training Lan’Drin and his friends head to Klan Gorod to join the Fighters Klan and find allies in his fight against an ever growing threat. Along the way enemies arise and plots become known that make Lan’Drin realize that he and his people are just a small part of the plan that has been unfolding for decades. Behind it all seems to lurk the Sovershenik, powerful mages that rebelled, left the Drevnik, and disappeared into history thousands of years ago.

Book preview

Prologue

The last of the three suns of Mirr was just setting as four dark brown-skinned, black haired Chaos Elves emerged from a lower tunnel in Fire Mount, the largest volcanic mountain in the southern desert region of Tselestial. The volcano was surrounded by cracked and hardened land that was dotted with other smaller mountains and volcanoes, some near and some far. The suns baked the ground daily in this arid region, adding choking dust to the constant ash filled wind that blew across the landscape.

The four elves looked out of place in the barren land, but it was obvious there was a purpose to their task as they steadily marched upward along the path. The last in the group appeared to be deep in thought as he made his way up to the highest cave in the mountainside. A dark night for dark deeds thought Kaelus. He couldn’t believe that his father hadn’t guessed at what was really going to happen tonight. The Emperor is either blind or a fool if he doesn’t suspect anything. But then father always thought he was smarter than mother. With a grim smile he looked up at the dark sky with only the light of the stars brightening the night, wishing as he had several times before that he had been left out of this ordeal.

The heat from the three suns could still be felt radiating up from the ground as he made his way up the steep slope behind his brother and parents. Hurry up, you’re slowing us down! Or is the brave Weapons Master scared? His brother Magius’ mocking voice brought him out of his thoughts. Magius started to turn away from him and continue up the slope as if he thought Kaelus wasn’t worth any more effort. Tonight was not the night for a fight, but how could he let it pass.

I’m sorry to offend you Mage. I know that foreign concepts like thinking and caution are hard to understand, let alone recognize. Magius spun on his feet so fast that it threw choking ash dust into the air. Through his coughing he thought that his brother had almost moved fast enough to be a fighter, almost. Kaelus would welcome a chance to fight his twin and prove who was better, in his family the Fighters Klan was nothing compared to the Mages Klan, but tonight it wasn’t meant to be.

I will incinerate you both if you ruin this! Mallaga had the look of a viper that was coiled and ready to strike as she hissed the words to her sons. Kaelus could see that she wanted to yell at them, but that would have let the Emperor hear what she was saying. You both know what’s at stake tonight. He, she said jabbing her thumb in the direction of their father, has come close enough to ruining this; I don’t need your help with it. Now shut up and stay with us. Kaelus, you know how important your brother’s role is. Remember your place. As the last word was spoken she turned, her black hair and black robe blending in so well with the dark night that she almost disappeared.

How can I forget it Empress, he thought as he stared daggers into his brother’s back, the two of you never let me forget my place. Even the soon to be deceased Emperor prefers Magius over a mere Weapons Master. His thoughts trailed off as they drew closer to their destination. The cave would have been a deep pit of blackness for any but an elf. To Kaelus’ elven night vision it was quite clear, but even though he could see inside the cave clearly tonight it was almost as frightening as a dark cave would have been to most children. He could see the ridged entrance and beyond that he could see some of the tunnel leading deeper inside the mountain. He knew that if he did mess things up his father wouldn’t be the only one not leaving that place. He had to be careful, because if his mother and brother were right, this power could easily put them in their place. Still, he wondered if whatever gain they thought they would receive was really worth the price.

They entered the cave and followed a tunnel that was smoothed from an ancient lava flow. Kaelus was still bringing up the tail end as they moved into a larger cave with a view of molten lava below where the floor dropped off on one side. Kaelus could see his mother trying to hide her excitement while trying to play at supporting his father in this supposed moment of glory. He still couldn’t believe his father had been tricked into believing any of this. If he’s that gullible he deserves what’s coming. Kaelus almost felt sorry for his father, but then again his father had taught him pity was a weakness. He almost laughed at the irony of it all.

Archus, the Emperor of the Chaos Elves and High Mage of the Fire Element, walked to the center of the chamber and clasped the necklace hanging from his neck with a ruby in it. He holds it like a crutch. Does he suspect anything? Kaelus brushed his worries away and focused on what was happening in front of him. Looking again at the ruby around his father’s neck, he was sure that his mother and brother could both see the glow that he was told emanated from the activated gem. To Kaelus it was just an expensive trinket. It looked like he was blocking everything else in the room out of his mind as Archus, Kaelus’ father, summoned fire to the pit in the very center of the floor. Kaelus blinked to clear his vision as a bright fire burst into existence, the change from dark to light causing his sight to blur and his eyes to water. The fire quickly filled the pit, and with triumph on his face Archus summoned a Fire Elemental.

The fire began to grow in size and warmth, bathing the room in its flickering light. Kaelus backed up a few paces to not only stay away from the heat, but also because he never liked being around too much magic. He hadn’t even wanted to participate in this event, as he’d never been asked his opinion about any part of this. As the flames rose, a head started to form and separate itself from the main fire in the pit as the rest of the body formed below it. It was hard to tell specific features, but there seemed to be circles of a slightly different hue of red and orange that became eyes, and when the area below the eyes opened and closed it looked darker inside what had to be a mouth. Arms and legs sprouted, one at a time, and the Elemental stepped out of the fire. The hard baked earth sizzled as the Elemental put each foot on the ground, blackening the ground even more if that was possible.

What do you want Elf? Came the rasping, hissing voice out of the man shaped Fire Elemental. I have other matters I need to take care of instead of serving you. Even standing still the body of the Elemental constantly shifted like any fire would, while keeping the general form of a man.

Know your place Elemental, I summoned you. If Kaelus hadn’t been paying attention to his father he wouldn’t have noticed Archus quickly glancing at the Empress and his brother, almost like he wanted to make sure they saw everything that was happening. Kaelus liked this ordeal less and less. His father continued on, I seek the ancients who were known as Soversheniks. I have found their ancient writings and demand to know of them.

Archus stood proud, as he always had. He would say the sweat on his forehead was from the heat and not fear, but he managed to stand still without any visible shaking at least. Kaelus knew his father better than Archus would have liked and he knew that the Emperor was afraid, but he would never tell him that. Most other Chaos Elves feared to anger him, he was a powerful High Mage after all and Kaelus fully agreed with the sentiment of his people.

Very well, but be careful what you demand. You may have summoned me, but you dabble with power beyond your own. I must seek out what you ask for. I will return quickly with your answers. Kaelus shook his head, the smile on the thing’s face had to be his imagination. With a burst of flame that left a black circle on the floor where it had been, the Elemental turned into a ball of flame and disappeared into the fire that had spawned it.

How could I be dealing with power beyond my own? I am the High Mage of the Fire Element and the Emperor of the Chaos Elves, who could have more power than me? I will show that Elemental who needs to be careful. Archus nearly spit the last words out as he started pacing back and forth, frustration clear on his face. That was overdone just a bit, but why?

It seemed like just moments later when with a flash from the fire the same ball shot into the air and formed back into the man shape as it landed on the ground, Archus stopped his pacing and faced the Elemental. Kaelus would have said that it was confident, if fire could be said to possess human attributes. It walked almost with triumph, as if it had overcome an enemy or rival, every step causing the ground to hiss and pop. It grew in height as it walked toward Archus, bathing the room in almost blinding light as it stretched towards the ceiling. It looked as if Archus might back down, but Kaelus knew his father would never do that. These would be the Emperor’s last moments. A fool to the end after all, he thought as he backed even closer to the wall and noticed his mother and brother had done the same.

What is it you want to know? The Fire Elemental appeared to leer at the elves. Its stance challenging Archus to make the demands it already knew he would make. When Archus responded, his voice was calm and confident. Whatever was happening, Archus seemed to be accepting it and understanding. I demand the power of the Ancients and what was promised in the writings. Give me the power to dominate this land and its people. Give me what is mine. I am your master, grant me my demands Elemental. With his fists clenched at his sides, Archus looked confident and powerful. Not for long, thought Kaelus with a smirk on his face.

Fool of a Slave, you would demand of your masters anything? For your stupidity, your masters have demanded your death! As it said this, it pointed a flaming finger at Archus, in condemnation and a sentence the rest of the Chaos Elves in the room knew would come.

As the final words were spoken the Elemental opened its mouth wide and a rushing jet of flame consumed Archus, High Mage of the Fire Element and Emperor of the Chaos Elves. The flame was so hot and bright it caused Kaelus to cover his eyes and face with his arms, he feared that he too would share the fate of the already former Emperor. The flames swirled in a circular motion around his father and disappeared. All that remained was the cold lifeless ruby and a glimmering puddle of what must have been gold. When the Fire Elemental closed his mouth again he looked around the chamber until he found the three remaining Chaos Elves. The gaze was so devoid of emotion that it terrified Kaelus, until today nothing ever had. All three were groveling on the ground with immediate promises of fealty to whoever the Elemental wanted.

You, it said pointing at his mother, are a bigger fool than he was for thinking your masters were ignorant. I was told to warn you that if you ever try any foolish games like this with them again your punishment will be much more excruciating than being incinerated. What now would you dare to ask of your masters? The mockery and sneer on the face were clear expressions this time. Though the Elemental had been summoned to serve the Chaos Elves, the Chaos Elves had surely become the servants.

Mallaga rose up to her feet and took a step forward on trembling legs before answering. We want to serve our masters. We know that we can help them conquer this land. What is their will for us? Mallaga said this with fear and a hint of uncertainty, looking as if she was not sure what exactly she was getting herself tangled in. Closing his eyes Kaelus could only think Empress, what have you done?

Spoken like the slave you are. This is what you will do for your masters . . .

*     *     *

Lan’Drin couldn’t believe his good fortune. His father had finally let him come with him and the other hunters on a hunt. He was so excited he could barely keep to the slow pace of the march. It took all of his strength and will not to break into a full out run and leave the boring walking for the adults. This has to be a first, he thought, a ten year old Frost Elf allowed to go hunting. He wanted to jump and yell at the top of his lungs. The only requirement from his mother was that he had to wear a hooded cloak to cover his hair. The silver streaks in his white hair were an oddity among his people. Everybody else’s pure white hair would blend in perfectly if they went and hunted on the snowy terrain outside of their valley. They were supposed to stay in the valley, but his mother still insisted on the cloak. He was glad his skin was a pale snow white like everybody else, he didn’t even want to think of what his mother would have made him wear if that was different too.

The north end of the Frost Elves’ valley home was a beautiful secluded forest with no civilization. The animals roamed free through their loose knit city without problems, but here the elves were roaming in the animals’ home. Lan’Drin was trying to see everything. He had never been out of the city before. He was determined to remember everything in case the next time he wasn’t allowed to go with the hunting party. Borlas, who walked next to him, was the captain of his father’s guard. The position was more ceremonial than necessary since all of the Frost Elves loved their Tsar and had never tried to harm him. Even Lan’Drin recognized how kind his father was to their people. In addition to his normal duties Borlas was Lan’Drin’s escort today, his father’s requirement for him to go on the hunting trip.

Everything is so peaceful, he thought. The pines, the birches, and the evergreens gave off a relaxing aura that made him want to slow down and enjoy the day. They smelled so fresh and clean. The trees seemed to want to reach for the blue sky that had to lie beyond the eternal fog of the valley and the fireball it had with its light and life giving warmth like the suns that he had heard were in the far south during the day time.

Keep up Lan’Drin and quit day dreaming. You’re lagging behind and we don’t need you getting lost, even if it is our valley. Do we Lan’Drin? Borlas was looking back at him as he spoke. Just because we live in this valley doesn’t mean you can’t get hurt, or that there aren’t dangerous creatures. If you’re not going to heed my warnings you and I turn back now. Do you understand? His voice was stern, but Lan’Drin could see the pride in Borlas’ eyes.

I’m sorry Borlas, I’m just so excited! What are we hunting today? Will it be dragons? Lan’Drin already regretted what he had said before it came out of his mouth, knowing he sounded like the over eager ten-year old he was.

Lan’Drin! How can you ask such a thing? You know what your father has taught you about dragons. They are to be respected. We are not barbaric like the southerners who hunt dragons because they fear them. Dragons have done nothing to us, and it is wrong for us to do anything harmful to them. I want you to promise me you will remember that, alright? You may one day come across a dragon, and you won’t live if you try to harm it. Besides, no one has seen a dragon in this valley in a generation or two. Lan’Drin tried to avoid his gaze but knew he would wait until the promise was given.

Alright Borlas, I promise. But just because you haven’t seen one doesn’t mean they aren’t here. He knew his words were petty and foolishly spoken, but he knew he would look even more childish if he took them back.

Lan’Drin loved Borlas like a second father. Even though Borlas at seventeen hundred years old was older than his father by five hundred years he still treated Lan’Drin as a nephew, friend, and like a son even if he would never admit as much even to himself. Borlas had never married or had children, but Lan’Drin knew he was as close to a son as Borlas would ever have. He also knew he was safe today with Borlas by him. Borlas was being a little harsh in his warnings but he was only looking out for him.

Borlas, Lan’Drin heard his father call from the front. Come up here for a moment, I want to decide where we should go. Lan’Drin, stay to the back of our group until Borlas returns. Lan’Drin’s silver flecked white eyes showed disappointment but understanding. He was merely along for the ride today, but he was alright with that. At least they let him come this time.

As all the men were gathered in the first clearing since leaving their city, Lan’Drin decided to just have a look around. He wouldn’t go far, and as long as he didn’t go deep into the woods he was technically still with his father’s group after all. I’ll be back before they even say a few words, he thought as his father’s instructions to stay where he was slipped from his mind.

He had barely gone far by his reckoning, when he heard a pain filled growl or yelp coming from the forest up ahead from what sounded like a large animal. His fear was quickly overcome by childish curiosity. He could barely hear it, so he knew no one else in the hunting party could. He knew he was told something about staying somewhere, but he also knew his father would be grateful that he had helped someone or something. No one else could hear it so it’s up to me to save the poor thing. Being brave and kind like his father was hard work; surely he’d be rewarded for this. So he headed slowly towards the sound.

As he walked he noticed that the animals were absent and that other noises had stopped as he got closer to the creature. The sound of the pine needles crunching under his feet seemed as loud as yelling. Something in his mind was telling him to leave, but he had to be brave right now. The anguished sound seemed to be getting louder as he continued through the trees. This had to be the right direction.

Finally, he came to a large grouping of boulders about twenty feet high, and heard the cry coming from the other side. From the sound of it the thing was big. Trying to be careful, Lan’Drin crept along until he came to the edge of the boulders. He didn’t want to frighten it, so he moved slowly along the rocky terrain until he tripped, falling head first, on a pile of rocks. Smooth, he thought as he slowly got up and brushed dirt, pine needles, and leaves from his pants. He didn’t notice the rumbling growl until he stood and looked up.

There in front of him was a white dragon, its head held high with death in its white eyes. The dragon stood about twenty feet tall. It looked small for a dragon. He always thought dragons would be taller. Maybe it’s a young dragon. It had horns on top of its head that seemed to still be new as well, confirming his suspicions that it wasn’t a mature dragon. Its white scales shone in the light of the ball of fire like freshly cleaned and shined white plate mail. A huge boulder, almost as big as the dragon, was lying on the dragon’s tail. Lan’Drin froze, trying to remember what Borlas had told him this morning but he only remembered the part about not living. I just hope it kills me quick.

Thought you would catch me by surprise did you? The voice rumbled and was deep and resonant. Do you think it’s easy to kill a young White Dragon? Dragons don’t die easily, but I’ll show you just how easy it is to kill a young Frost Elf! The dragon raised its head as it readied to strike. It also pivoted so that the boulder was behind it. The dragon looked fearsome to Lan’Drin

I am not young! I’m almost eleven years old. Besides, I’d be stupid to try and hurt you! I’m not young and I’m not stupid. Young, the nerve of him, calling me young. Father let me come hunting today, that means I’m not young! His anger released the paralysis that had been brought on by fear. He clenched his fists and almost stomped his foot.

Well, well. Eleven years old already are we? I apologize to you ancient one. I did not realize that I had lived only fifty years longer than you. With a snort of derision the dragon bowed its head in mock respect, while still keeping those deathly white eyes on him. Why did you come here then if not to try and kill me? Sarcasm coated the dragon’s words like honey.

I heard a noise that sounded like something was in pain. I came because I wanted to help. Besides, Borlas told me I need to respect dragons. ‘Dragons have done nothing to us, and it is wrong for us to do anything harmful to them.’ That’s what he told me just today. But maybe you don’t want any help. Maybe you like big boulders sitting on your tail. Lan’Drin crossed his arms over his chest like a child pouting, and then realized what he was doing and quickly put his arms down at his side.

I don’t care who Borlas is, although he sounds rather intelligent. The dragon’s expression looked like it had become thoughtful. You’re telling me you came here to help whatever was in trouble? Even though I shouldn’t, I think I believe you. You’re too stubborn to lie, and I could kill you in seconds. Maybe . . . Oh, why not! See if you can push the boulder aside while I try to pull my tail out. The dragon dug his claws in, ready to use all of his strength.

Lan’Drin walked up to the boulder and dug his feet in, putting his hands on the boulder. Alright, I will on the count of three. One, two . . .

As he was about to say three, he heard an ear shattering, earth trembling roar from the sky. Lan’Drin looked up to see a huge White Dragon diving right for him coming out of the fog above. This dragon’s horns were long, and its white claws were as long as Lan’Drin’s arms. He froze with fear again and nearly passed out. The White Dragon landed and immediately pulled his head back to strike. The mature dragon looked to be almost forty feet tall. The claws on the feet dug deep furrows into the ground as it prepared to lunge for Lan’drin.

You’ll die for trying to capture my son little Frost Elf. You humanoids never have learned that we just want to be left alone. If the other voice rumbled, this voice was a deep boom. Such anger and hate filled the voice as it spoke. The white eyes held no mercy.

No sire! He was trying to help me. This one is different! Please, don’t kill him. As he said this, the younger dragon moved his serpentine neck so that its head was between the older dragon and Lan’Drin.

What did you say? He tried to do what? He tried to help you? That’s impossible. All these little things know how to do is try to hurt and kill us. Even though he didn’t sound convinced by the words of his son, the older dragon slowly brought his head down from his striking position. The older dragon lowered his head almost to the ground and looked curiously at his son and Lan’Drin. The dragon is as relaxed as a taut bow string, thought Lan’Drin sarcastically with more than a little fear.

No sire, he came to help me. He actually wanted to help. He was just going to try and push the boulder off when we heard you roar. The young dragon had his head down, seeming ashamed of being in this situation to begin with.

I didn’t want to hurt him, I promise. You better get out of here though, I’m with my father and his group today, and they will think you were trying to hurt me. You need to leave quickly. Lan’Drin looked everywhere; he could hear the other elves coming his way, and quickly.

Alright, you live. For what it is worth, thank you little one.

With that the huge White Dragon leaned back on his gigantic muscled hind legs and bolted up into the air as it easily picked up the boulder from his son’s tail with one hind leg. As he flew off he dropped the boulder like a little toy, but the younger dragon remained for a moment. He looked like he wanted to say something, but knew he needed to leave.

You actually wanted to help me. I don’t know what I can give you in return . . . I’ll be checking in on you to make sure you are alright now and then. You won’t see me, but I’ll be there. One way or another I’ll repay your kindness. Be careful Silver Scales.

Just as the younger dragon left the ground Borlas and half of his father’s group came into the boulder strewn clearing, bows raised ready to shoot at the dragons. No, yelled Lan’Drin, as he jumped in the way of their line of sight, don’t shoot them; let me explain before you do anything! They all looked confused, not sure what to think. Borlas also looked angry, this isn’t going to end well for me, was all that Lan’Drin could think.

Borlas just pointed, and Lan’Drin knew his father was waiting in that direction. By saying nothing Borlas gave Lan’Drin all the warning he needed, he was to do what he was told this time. When Lan’Drin rejoined his father he had retold his story about six times. He had to tell it that many times because the first few times he told it they didn’t believe him. His father was mad, but that wasn’t the worst. Lan’Drin could tell he had betrayed the trust his father had given him. Realizing what he had done was foolish, but knowing nothing he could say right now would change anything, he bowed his head in shame and just stood there. Now I know what that dragon felt like when his father saw him caught under that boulder.

They made their way back to their side of the valley without any other problems. When Lanthas forced his son to retell the story one more time for his wife, Drin, she was furious with her son. No matter how many times Lan’Drin explained that he was just trying to help, he was still in trouble. With tears in his eyes, Lan’Drin was sent to his room until his parents called for him. At least he was supposed to go to his room. He wanted to know just how much trouble he was in, so he knelt by the door to listen and look through the crack between the slightly open doors.

I told him to stay where he was! I called Borlas up to decide where we were going, and before we even got a word in he was gone! I can’t believe he disobeyed. I never should have taken him! Lanthas paced back and forth in his bedroom while his wife sat on the bed wiping tears from her eyes as she followed the pacing with her eyes. Lan’Drin knew he shouldn’t be listening, but he really did want to know how mad they were. The sparse furnishings in the room made everything easy to see. His parents had a bed, a washstand, and two chairs. Lanthas as the Tsar could have had much more, but he wanted all Frost Elves to be equal. Lan’Drin’s room, the kitchen, and main room were the only other rooms in the house.

We are to blame as much as he is; a ten year old of any race isn’t ready to go out on such a dangerous outing. We should have listened to Borlas when he told us not to let Lan’Drin go. We should have listened . . . at least he’s still alive. I wouldn’t have been able to forgive myself if he died. Drin’s face was pained as she looked at her husband. Lan’Drin felt horrible; after all he had been the one to do this to his mother.

They both started as they heard a rumbling and hissing sound coming from the wall opposite the doors. Lan’Drin almost fell into the door he was so caught off guard by what he was seeing. As they stared at the wall they saw what looked like the air rippling and closing behind a white bearded man with a hooded black robe that had red, blue, white, and green rings that circled the hem, one for each color. Power rolled off of this man like he was made of it. He looked at Lanthas and Drin, and a sad smile came to his face. Lanthas grabbed his wife and they both took a step back. His parents looked afraid. Lan’Drin almost ran to get Borlas, but curiosity got the better of him. This man knew something important, he could tell that much.

The time has come for you to know the enemy of your people, and for you to decide if you will work to stop them or allow them to destroy this land and dominate you. Now Lan’Drin was afraid. If his parents were afraid, that terrified Lan’Drin. The man took a step towards Lan’Drin’s parents and they held each other tighter.

Who are you? What do you mean the enemy of our people? How did you get in our house? Answer me now! Lan’Drin saw his father pull his mother closer to him. Lan’Drin knew his father would defend them both until his death, but would that be enough?

You are right to fear what has come, but you have no need to fear me. It is time I told you where you came from, and who you are. It is time that you are told everything. Which means I should start from the beginning . . . Lan’Drin was as scared as he was when he saw the dragon; he couldn’t make himself stay any longer. He ran so hard and was so afraid that by the time he got to his bed he collapsed from exhaustion and fear. Darkness quickly overcame him, and like only a child can, terror was forgotten in dreams of riding a White Dragon.

*     *     *

Kelthas was outraged. What do you mean I have to kill you and Drin? How could you ask that of me?! I am your brother, why would I even think of doing that? Kelthas was hurt and angered beyond anything he had ever experienced. His brother had called him into his house and told him a farfetched story about someone named Keh’Uldav appearing out of nowhere and his strange tales. Now he had actually asked him to kill them both because he said it would keep Lan’Drin safe. How could he even imagine it? He stood dumbfounded in his brother’s room, completely at a loss for words and any understanding of what he just heard.

You heard what I said Kelthas. If you don’t do it Melthalas will, and he’ll kill Lan’Drin too. Do you want all three of us dead when you have the chance to save my son? If you do it our deaths will be quick and merciful. I despair to think what Melthalas would do to us, what he would do to Lan’Drin is an even darker thought. Please don’t let us die knowing our son won’t live. Lanthas had tears in his eyes as he walked up to Kelthas and put his hands on his brother’s shoulders. I would never ask you to do this if it wouldn’t guarantee Lan’Drin’s life. I love you brother, and hope you love us enough to do this. You know we’re telling the truth. Melthalas has been trying for the last several years to depose me and take what little power I have as our people’s Tsar. Somehow he found allies who have given him the power and support he needs. If you don’t do this my family will be gone before the week is ended. Besides, he would let you live if he thought you supported him. Please allow me those two small measures of peace before I die brother.

Kelthas cried and fell into his brother’s arms. He knew Lanthas was right. Melthalas had told him last night he had a choice, life with the new order or death with the old order like his brother. Very well, he sobbed into his brother’s shoulder. I’ll do it for you, as long as you know I would never betray you, and would die with you if I could.

Kelthas felt a tug at his shoulder, and looked up to see Drin standing beside him with tears in her strange silver eyes. We love you Kelthas, even more because you’ll let our son live. We only ask that you raise him to be a warrior like his father and please try to keep him safe from Melthalas as long as you can. We . . . She couldn’t finish, she was crying too hard and the emotions were too much. The emotions were too much for all of them. Kelthas fell to his knees on the floor, his world had shattered. Lanthas and Drin each put a hand on his shoulder as they knelt beside him. Now all he could do with his life was keep the world from falling apart and burying Lan’Drin, like life had buried him.

Chapter 1

As he flew north over the White Dragon Plains the scales of the white dragon glistened like a field of diamonds as they reflected the light from the two moons. The dragon could see the northern wanderers that looked like ants from his view up in the dark sky. The little ones were walking across the snow and frost covered plains below. He didn’t want to scare them so he flapped his wings and ascended into the frosty heavens. It wasn’t necessary because he was already so high, but he wanted to be safe. It must be time for the little humans to find new hunting grounds, he thought, it looks like an entire herd is moving together and not just a hunting party. The dragon didn’t understand why the humans constantly moved their homes, why didn’t they just stay where they were and go hunting like he did away from his home. Then again, he thought with pity as he turned north towards the lone mountain beyond the white dragon plains, humans don’t fly.

The dragon thought the humans lacked any imagination when they named things; because white dragons had once lived on the plains they were called White Dragon Plains. They didn’t name the mountain beyond the White Dragon Plains because they never went there, but he was sure if they did it would have been called something ridiculous like Frost Mountain or Mountain with Snow on it. He laughed at his own humor. His jokes became funnier the more time he spent by himself. The humans didn’t travel to the mountain because they thought it was too dangerous to travel that far, especially to see a mountain with no life near it. If only they knew the truth. There was life, but it was inside the mountain.

The flight over the so called White Dragon Plains wasn’t short for the dragon, but it wasn’t long either. He enjoyed the view as he always did. The moons reflecting off of the snow made the terrain look like a white sea of stars as they reflected in the dark night. Tonight’s flight was perfect. The feel of the ice cold wind as it streamed between the horns on his head and as it flowed down his back and around his wings was invigorating. It was cold this high up in the air, but his frost breath was still colder. Every once in a while he would add his breath to the wind just to add a small frosted chill to the air as it passed over his spine.

As he neared the mountain he was again amazed at how Keh’Uldav had managed to make the clouds at the top of the crater, which helped to create and maintain the illusion that the nonexistent peak was hidden somewhere in their depths. The clouds were convenient for him because he used them to look in on Silver Scales often. His family told him he looked in on the elf too often. Silver Scales was not only different from the other elves, but he could tell the difference by how all the white haired elves treated him. He was also interesting to watch as he grew and experienced life. He felt they were a lot alike, both enjoying life to the fullest. The only elf that didn’t keep her distance from Silver Scales was his mate. She might as well be his mate anyway . . .

The dragon decided he would