The Elementals of Sacred Lake: Book 3: The Hole of the Undead

By Michele Skaggs

Horror. Destruction. Death. This is what the Undead Army will bring to the Underground.

To make matters worse, tempting threats from the past have come to haunt the Elementals. Will they be able to resist the pull these beings inflict on each of their hearts or become corrupted in the end?

This time the Elementals must go on their most dangerous quest yet--into the Hole of the Undead, for the only thing that can stop the zombie-like creatures is removing the Dark Crystal from the altar within. This perilous journey will take them to the outer core of the earth. If they manage to make it past the Undead Army, will they be able to withstand the City of Illusions?

The city is a place of death and decay, inflicting madness on even the brightest of minds. Frightening hallucinations shall try to trap everyone mentally, forcing them to relive their worst moments. Will they be able to see through the deceptions, or succumb to the painful memories, instead?

Within the city lurks another dark evil...one of the most wicked beings ever created. They long to be free and will do anything to escape the torturous Hole. Will they succeed or remain trapped forever?

You can find out what happens in the most gripping book yet in the Elemental series.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Newman Springs Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Oct 26, 2021
• ISBN: 9781636928333

Book preview

Chapter One

Lucas

The Demon Takes Over

Staring at the calendar, I read today’s date: June 23, 2004. I’ve got about two months until school starts again, so less than sixty days to work on myself.

Standing in front of the witch’s mirror, I flex my muscles. Disappointed in the lack of improvement from them, I frown. I’ve been working so hard to appear stronger than Zander Rivers, but he’s still beating me. I can’t stand that guy.

Closing my eyes, I dig deep into myself. Finding the thread that connects to my demon side, I tug on it. Sensing my muscles grow, I open my eyes to see a demon now.

I smile evilly. I’m wrong. Zander will never beat me. I’ll always be stronger than him, better than him.

Gazing at my red-orange eyes, they watch me back through the glass. I lean my face closer to the mirror to study the green pigment around my eyes, which is fading fast. It disappears, and that’s when I punch the mirror. Glass shatters around me.

Gasping, I come back to myself, banishing the demon. Confused, I stare down at my hands. Did the demon part completely take me over? Is that even possible? It’s just a power, not a real demon…or is it?

What the hell? I mutter.

What’s wrong? Jezebel questions.

Shaking my head, I say, Nothing. Zander Rivers just gets on my nerves.

Come, I made us some tea, the witch tells me.

Walking over to the table, I sit in one of the chairs. Balling my hands, I think more about Zander. Why does he have it made?

Are you sure there is nothing wrong? the witch asks.

Slamming my fist on the table, I yell, We need to take out Zander! He’s a disgrace to us!

Jezebel sets a cup down in front of me. Now, Luke, calm yourself. Zander is only playing his friends. He’s really on our side. If the other Elementals knew where his true allegiance lies, they would stop him, thus causing problems for us. The Elementals need to be able to trust Zander.

Brushing the dark, sweaty hair off the side of my face, I scoff. And here I thought you were on my side this whole time.

The witch sits down across from me. You’re like the son I once had. Of course, I agree with you. Zander is a disgrace to us. She sips her tea. Master says we need him though.

Sometimes I think Master doesn’t fully understand what’s going on.

He does. It is you and I who don’t understand. His mind is—

Whacked! I shout over her.

She slams her cup down on the table. Shut up! Do you want him to hear you? He comes to you a lot now, even more than he does Zander.

I flick a speck of dirt off the surface of her table. I’m not afraid of him.

You should be.

I eye her down. Are you? I think you are ever since he made Zander hurt you.

She tucks her purple hair behind one ear. I fear no one.

Master would tell you that you should fear him.

I know what he would say, foolish boy! she screams. Now shut your mouth before I use my magic to make you.

Knowing I should do what she says, I obey. I’m losing my pride in doing so, but there’s no need for her to turn me into something horrible like a spider or a rat. I highly doubt I remind her of her son anyway.

After a long silence, I say, I still think we could do this without Zander. We don’t need his help carrying out Master’s plans.

I think we do, Jezebel replies.

Setting my fingers on the table, I tap them on the wood repeatedly. Why is that?

Think about it. He is our only spy on the other side.

We could always torture information out of that spider, Jeremy.

That foul pest would never talk, no matter what we did to him. You know that.

I sigh. I guess you’re right.

I am right. She pauses. Do you even know what Zander has done?

I shake my head, now interested. No. What?

He required a spell from me some time ago.

What spell?

A spell to make the Fire Elemental steal the Dark Crystal.

I jump out of my chair, causing it to fall over. No way! He’s the one who made Ashton Embers steal the Dark Crystal?

Jezebel nods.

Putting the chair back in order, I sit back down. I was supposed to be the one to do it. I worked so hard getting Ashton and Melody apart. I thought if I made Ashton hurt enough, I could get him to do the evil deed.

Jezebel rolls her eyes. You had a human try to break them apart, and he failed every time. In the end, it was Sethos who succeeded in that.

And who told Sethos to do what he did? Oh yeah…me, I remind her. So I did succeed in breaking them up. What have you succeeded in recently?

The witch tightens her fists. All my plans have failed only because Melody got in my way.

I’m thinking about stealing Melody’s necklace from her.

Why do you need her necklace?

If she doesn’t have her earth powers, then she’ll have no choice but to listen to what I have to say. I know she probably doesn’t want to talk to me after what happened in Mystic Cavern, but maybe she will, to get her necklace back.

It won’t work.

Like you know the outcome. It could. You never know.

Your plan on getting Ashton to be evil didn’t work, she brings back up. He would never be evil unless it meant saving Melody.

Ignoring her, I question, What kind of spell would make Ashton do an evil deed?

"The Spell of Hypnotic Control, Jezebel answers, after sipping more tea. Zander used the spell on Ashton when everyone was asleep. Zander told him to become invisible and to steal the Dark Crystal from Zaltic."

Hanging my head down, I mumble, I still don’t understand why you don’t trust me to perform spells like you do Zander. I’m magical. You should let me.

You were born a normal human. You were bitten by a demon to get your powers. You have to be born magical to be able to use spells.

But I can. Look, if I wasn’t magical at all, I would’ve died when the demon bit me. You even told me that. Which means, I wasn’t born a normal human. I had some magical blood within me since my cousin is the Air Elemental.

Still, you were not born fully magical, so it won’t work for you the same way it works for Zander.

Feeling jealous over the Water Elemental, I grit my teeth. He’s so perfect! Melody likes to be around him. He has awesome water and snake powers. He is Master’s favorite. How I envy him. I wish I was him.

Ashton and the Dark Crystal pop back into my head. Putting my thoughts of Zander to the side, I ask, Wait… How did Ashton know where to get the Dark Crystal at?

Zander discovered its whereabouts. Not even Master knows how he figured it out.

Does Ashton remember stealing the crystal? I point to my own head. Can he remember?

Jezebel hesitates. Well, he should never be in the Realm of Winter again. If he did go back there, it could jog his memory. He would probably be devastated about it, if he did find out.

All because he somehow betrayed his friends and gave evil a weapon?

No, because he killed the ice wolf guarding the Dark Crystal and set fire to the tree that hid the crystal, the Tree of Vitality. The witch smiles at the thought of it. Zander was nearby to say the words of sacrifice, so Master got his earth powers and more energy.

I gasp. Is the Dark Crystal placed yet? Did Zander go down into the Hole?

"He is not doing the honors…She is," Jezebel distastefully puts, blinking her blue eyes.

By the tone of her voice, I know who she’s talking about. "She’s back?"

"Was. She might have already reached the destination."

That was fast.

Well, speed is the only ability she has left. That’s why Master chose her for the job.

Do you think the crystal will have enough power to help Master rise?

More than likely, no, but we still get something out of it. Those goody-two-shoes shall have to deal with the Army of the Undead pretty soon.

I chuckle darkly. Good. Soon we’ll rule over them!

Jezebel laughs with me. Yes! Once again we shall!

Sensing the demon stir within me again, I grab hold of the table to keep it down. I feel it push against me multiple times. Finally, I overcome the demon, shoving it back down.

Jezebel frowns. What is it?

I shake my head. Nothing. Just my stomach…probably something I ate.

The witch raises an eyebrow.

Turning away from her, I look at the mirror. One of my green eyes turns a red orange. The demon within it winks at me. I squeeze my eyes shut and reopen them to find my regular eye color again. Sighing, I wonder what’s happening to me. Am I truly turning into a demon?

* * * * *

Melody

Glaring at Leo in front of me, I moved away from him. This isn’t happening right now.

Leo put a hand up. Kassie, wait.

I shook my head, backing up more. No. I cannot even bear to look at you. How could you do this to me, to us?

You don’t understand.

That’s right. I do not. The idea is absurd. I never thought… I sighed. You need to leave.

No, just let me explain myself.

Feeling sick, I held my stomach. There’s nothing to explain. Leave, Leo, before I wake the others.

Leo’s face fell. Kassie, no…Please.

Tears spilled from my eyes, as I commanded the ground underneath Leo’s feet to crumble.

Leo stepped back. Kassandra, honestly, just let me speak.

Devastated and angry, I caused the rocks at the top of the volcano behind me to roll down toward us. They headed for Leo at a fast speed.

Fine! he shouted. I’ll leave! He then swung his arm out in a half circle, causing my avalanche of rocks to levitate with his telekinesis. I thought you of all people would understand, but I guess not!

And I thought you would never betray me, but I should’ve seen it coming! I screamed.

You’re impossible! Leo turned, stomping away.

My anger consumed me, and I found myself screaming again. The earth quaked loudly, and the rocks in the air exploded to dust.

Thrashing around in my bed, I sit up fast. When I wipe the sweat from my face, I notice my hand. My nails are long and black.

Gasping, I fall out of bed. I scramble over to my dresser and pull out a syringe filled with holy water and golden sap. Shoving my sleeve up, I inject the concoction into the demon mark on my shoulder.

Groaning, I slide to the floor. I rest my head in my hands.

Are you all right, Melody?

Moving my head up, I find a silver cloaked ghost levitating in front of me. Yes, Leonidas…I’m fine.

You don’t seem fine, nor did you look it a minute ago.

I shrug. I’m stressed, and when that happens, the demon comes out more.

He sets a ghostly hand on my own. Maybe you should give the spirit powers a break for a while. You have been pushing yourself too hard.

Trust me, my stress has nothing to do with practicing spirit.

Want to talk about what is stressing you out?

My thoughts turn to two people—Ashton Embers and Dustin Skye. I definitely don’t want to bring them up.

Why? I question my ghost friend. So I can hear you lecture me some more? No, I think I’ll pass. You know what’s been stressing me out.

You need a distraction.

I grunt. Tell me about it.

Leonidas’s essence fades in and out a few times.

I frown. Is something wrong?

I’m only low on energy is all.

I squeeze his hand tighter. Take some of mine.

Leonidas pulls his hand from mine. No, I’ll be fine. You need all the energy you can get right now. Stress eats away at it. I do have urgent business to attend to. I shall see you when I can.

I raise an eyebrow. When you can?

Leonidas just disappears.

Groaning, I climb back into bed. Craning my head to the ceiling, I look at Jeremy who’s sitting in his web.

I didn’t know you were friends with Leonidas, the black-and-blue spider says.

Yeah, I’ve been able to see him for years now, I reply. You know him then?

I knew him a long time ago.

Oh.

And before you ask, no, I cannot tell you more about him. That’s for him to someday tell you.

I sigh.

Jeremy chuckles. Things are about to get interesting.

What does that mean?

Nothing. Anyway, are you okay?

I gulp. No. This isn’t the first time I’ve woken up with demon features. One day I fear I’ll wake up being a demon entirely. Is that possible? Do I have demon magic, or is there something else growing within me? Could I become a demon for real?

I don’t know. I have never dealt with a Demonater before, but I shall find out for you. I promise I’ll help you, Melody. Just try to get some rest.

Okay, Jeremy. Closing my eyes, I try to go back to sleep.

Chapter Two

Dustin

Wishes on Stars

This movie is killer, my friend Damien comments beside me.

My other friend, Dallin, shoves a handful of popcorn into his mouth, his eyes glued on the screen.

The woman on TV screams as a ghostly essence enters her body. Her voice turns distorted and deep, while her eyes change to a darker color. Her body begins to bend in unusual ways.

Clutching the dog tag around my neck, I think of where I was a few weeks ago…Mystic Cavern. That place was strange. It made me uncomfortable. Then there was that weird ghost—no, entity. I have no idea what to even classify it as. It wasn’t a shadow soul or living spirit, and I could see it, for some reason.

I remember how it felt to become possessed by that weird entity. It was one of the worst feelings. I could sense its foulness, its evilness inside me, spreading over my soul like a blanket of darkness. It was like being trapped in a cage, unable to move, watching the entity do whatever it pleased in my body.

I know that entity watched Carson Skye die. It watched my great-grandfather die too. It showed me images. I don’t like to think of what I saw. I refuse to tell anyone about it, even if I still have haunting dreams of that night sometimes.

Something clatters in one of the back rooms. The noise makes me jump. Slowly I turn my head to see a pair of red eyes in the darkness of the hall. After I blink a few times, the eyes are gone.

Dude, are you okay? Damien asks me. You look freaked out.

I shake my head. I’m fine.

Is it the movie? Dallin questions. We can watch something else.

No. I’m just tired. I’m going home. I stand up, walking toward Damien’s front door. I’ll see ya guys later.

Damien frowns. All right. Later, man.

Shutting the door behind me, I head across the street, hopping Melody’s fence. I creep through her backyard. I don’t want her to spot me if she’s home. I’m trying to avoid her.

Traveling through the woods beyond Melody’s house, I come to the giant rock in between the archway made of two trees. Putting my hand on the green symbol on it, I walk into the Golden Meadow once it disappears. Continuing to Sacred Tree, I kneel before the pool of water at its roots. After chugging some water, I jump in, shooting down Sacred Waterfall. Swimming out of Sacred Lake, I journey to the Field of Light.

I’m instantly greeted by Knixon and Chase.

What are we doing tonight, Dustin? Chase asks, combing his brown hair.

I sigh. Nothing. I’m going to bed.

Wow…not wanting to play video games for once.

I glare at the sky fairy. I don’t know what his problem is. He acts like he doesn’t believe in me. I did what I was supposed to do, and I remember everything now. I’ll prove to him I’m the right Elemental he’s been waiting for. I know why he doesn’t think it though. I haven’t seen the future since I got my memory back, just one time is all. Zaltic said he was going to help me, but ever since the Dark Crystal was stolen, he has been busy.

Lying in my hammock, I stare up at the night sky. That’s when I see a shooting star. I close my eyes.

I wish I could see the future again tonight.

What did you wish for, Dustin? Knixon questions.

Opening my eyes, I look at the bright stars. If I tell you, it won’t come true.

I think it still would. I wished for hay to fall out of the sky.

I laugh. Yeah, okay.

Hey, a wish is a wish, the Pegasus says, sitting on the ground beside my hammock.

It won’t come true now since you told me.

It will if I believe it will. It’s called faith.

I wished for more magic sand and look what I found! Chase exclaims, as he flies a pouch over to me.

I give Knixon a sly smile. He got his wish because he didn’t tell anyone what he wished for.

Neither did you, and you still haven’t gotten yours yet.

Right as I’m about to argue back, my Oracle Watch glows white. Again, I grin at my guardian. Looks like I’m about to now. I hit the top of my watch.

The light soars out of my watch to become a hologram in front of me. In the hologram, Melody and I are standing inside the Elf and Pixie Workshop watching Ashton face off against skeletons.

Zaltic appears, running to help Ashton.

Skeletons? Melody questions.

They are skelars! Zaltic answers her. Part of the Undead Army from the Hole of the Undead!

I got this! Ashton screams, making Inferno, the Sword of Explosion, appear.

Ashton smashes both skelars to pieces and then spits on their bones. While he walks away, the bones start putting themselves back together.

Uh…Ash, Melody says, pointing to the reformed skelars.

He spins around. But how?

The Undead Army is already dead, Zaltic informs us. They are using the power of the Dark Crystal to be somewhat alive. We cannot kill something that’s already dead.

Great! Ashton yells. Then what do we do?

Both skelars go for Ashton again, and that’s when the hologram goes dark.

That’s all? I complain. I finally get it to show me something, and it’s hardly anything! What’s wrong with this dumb watch?

It isn’t the Oracle’s fault, but that of the holder, Knixon points out.

And what am I doing wrong? I question annoyed.

Something is bothering you, Chase explains, his gold-brown eyes appearing more serious by the minute. I think you have some hidden regrets within yourself. When you let go of them, you’ll be able to see the future more.

I scoff.

The Oracle is the light of future truth, Knixon reveals. Only a light equal to the Oracle’s can reveal the future truth. Your light is darkened by your emotions right now, so it isn’t equal to the Oracle’s.

In confusion, I stare at the Pegasus’s blue eyes. I have no idea what you’re talking about.

He sighs. Since you won’t listen to your guardian, I guess it’s up to Zaltic to explain it to you better. Hopefully, he can get you to understand what I told you.

Yeah, I mutter. Looks like the Dark Crystal is on the altar in the Hole now.

Knixon nods. Indeed, it is.

Suddenly, a strand of hay floats out of the sky, landing in Knixon’s mouth. Ha! he says, eating the hay. He stretches out his white feathered wings and then lies down.

Shaking my head, I lie back down to stare up at the night sky. That’s when I see a lone cloud high above me. It’s large, as if it could hold a whole other world. There are tiny flickering lights on it. Maybe it is a whole other world up there. Abandoning the thought, I gaze at the stars again.

Chapter Three

Melody

The Army Rises

Melody, look down by the Hole! Ashton exclaims.

Shh! Be quieter, Ash, I whisper, as we approach the giant hole in the ground before us.

The massive opening is terrifying. I never thought an aperture such as this one could frighten me, but it does. It’s as if the darkness that inhabits it is seeping out around me like a dark fog, producing negativity within my mind. It must be caused from the evil magic that created it.

I now realize what Ashton was talking about. Two gremlins are sleeping on the ground. But once we get closer to them, I see blood everywhere, and I know they aren’t really asleep.

I cover my mouth. They’ve been murdered! I fall to my knees beside them.

The gremlins’ throats have been torn out and their stomachs ate into. Their green bodily fluid pools around their figures. They may be evil, but I feel bad for them. Who could have done this? Gremlins are evil like the other beings in the Forest of Misery. It doesn’t make sense.

Melody, calm down, Ashton whispers. It’ll be okay. Come here, he tells me mentally.

Gasping, I open my eyes. Glancing at my window, I see my best friend peering in at me. I wipe my tears away.

I’m sorry I took so long to where you fell asleep, Mel, Ashton says. But I’m ready to go to the Underground now.

Fixing my hair, I get up.

Ashton opens my window, helping me out. Are you all right?

Yeah, just had a bad dream, I breathe.

Was it of the future?

I rub my arms, focusing on banishing the gruesome images from my mind. I don’t know yet.

Ashton nods, knowing I don’t want to talk about it. He grabs my hand, leading me to the woods behind my house.

* * * * *

Entering the Underground, Ashton and I head to Peaceful Forest. We stop at Peaceful River, sitting at its bank. I listen to the calming sound of bubbling water, as I watch the dark-turquoise-blue river flow over small rocks protruding from its surface. It looks enchanting, sparkling like starlight underneath the moon.

Ashton throws a pebble into the river. I miss us.

Staring at the back of Ashton’s head, I think of how much I miss us too. He used to be my definition of happiness until he ruined everything. Now he has become my definition of heartbreak, sadness. Whenever I heard the word love, Ashton’s face would come to my mind. It still does, but it now brings a stab of bitterness with it.

Ashton flips his head around, glaring at me with eyes that match the forest around us. I need to ask this again. Do you like Dustin?

Wh—no! I stutter in shock.

Come on. It’s obvious.

I don’t respond.

He grunts. I take that as a yes. Dustin is the reason there’s not an us.

I frown. That’s not true.

Yes, it is! Ashton exclaims. Dustin told me everything you had said right after he came back.

What did he tell you? I mumble.

That you have mixed feelings about him and me. You told him you didn’t know who you loved more.

Sounds about right, I admit in a whisper.

Ashton leans closer to my face. Well, choose me, not Dustin.

I level my eyes with his. You hurt me.

His expression changes to pure honesty when he says, I promise I didn’t want to kiss Melissa. Something happened to me.

And I feel like you’re being honest about that, but, I turn away from him, you still hurt me.

Ashton moves back into my line of vision. How do I hurt you?

Every time you see Melissa, you act excited. You always have to talk to her. I can’t get back together with you when you like her, also.

But I don’t, Ashton assures me. I’m never excited to see her. When I’m not with you, I think about the next time I’ll be with you, and that makes me excited. I think about you twenty-four seven, even when we’re together, like right now.

You’re thinking about me, because you’re talking to me.

Oh, Melody, he mutters, running a hand through his red hair. I hope you’ll change your mind and be with me again.

My face falls. Don’t get your hopes up. Besides, if you think I like Dustin, that should make you not want to be with me.

"It’s more of a reason why I need to be with you. Then you can only think of me and not him."

Hearing a noise, we both look up to spy Jester flying our way.

Ashton stands. What’s up, Jester?

Out of breath, the black pixie says, Ashton, will you come to the Elf and Pixie Workshop? Their furnace has stopped working. Your assistance would be great.

Sure, Jester.

Thanks! The pixie flies off.

Ashton helps me up. Would you like to come, Mel?

Umm…, I mumble in thought. Actually, I need to go see somebody.

I’ll see you later then.

Later, hater.

Ashton laughs, heading off to the Elf and Pixie Workshop. Once he’s out of sight, I travel through the trees behind Peaceful River. Walking into the Field of Light, I spot Dustin collecting light energy. He is holding his arms up at the sky. Two silver beams are radiating down from the full moon above. They are connected to Dustin’s outstretched hands, becoming absorbed into his body through his palms.

Ever since we got into a fight a week ago, Dustin’s been avoiding me. He’s rude to me when we’re around our friends, but behind closed doors, he’s always asking me to get back with him—well, until a week ago. That’s when we both told each other we no longer have feelings for one another. I lied. I do still have feelings for him. I only told him I didn’t because that’s what he said to me.

Creeping up behind Dustin, I yell in his ear. He jumps, turning around to blast me with his light magic. I dodge it, giggling.

Damn it, Grace! he curses. I could’ve hurt you!

Now hysterically laughing, I manage to say, You should have seen your face! It was priceless!

His cheeks go red in embarrassment. What the hell is your problem?

I get a hold of myself. Calm down, Skye. It was payback from when you scared me, remember?

A smile spreads across his face, and he chuckles. Man, I got you good. You fell headfirst into Peaceful River.

Exactly, so I had to get you back. At least when you scared me, I didn’t use my powers on you.

Sorry. He rubs the back of his head. I thought you were something evil.

Well, you don’t have to worry about evil ever coming back here because Secret Cave collapsed.

Dustin scoffs. They’ll find a way in eventually. It’s only a matter of time.

I become suspicious. Has your watch shown you evil does get in again?

No…, he mumbles.

Dustin…

He sighs. Even if my watch did, I wouldn’t be able to tell you unless it was important enough to where you needed to know right away.

Dustin…

Drop it, Melody.

Fine, I pout.

Dustin sits in his hammock, and I do the same beside him. Immediately, I feel the temperature on my body rise from being so close to him.

Get a hold of yourself, Melody.

Dustin’s necklace catches my eye. Hey, Dustin?

He turns his stunning eyes on me. Yeah?

I force myself to look at his necklace again. That necklace you’re wearing—is that Carson’s? You know, the same one around his skeleton’s neck back in Mystic Cavern?

Dustin nods. He’s my ancestor, so I took the necklace. Look at it now, though.

Grabbing the rectangular charm, I find it reads, Dustin Skye. Didn’t this used to say Carson’s name instead? I ask.

Yeah. After I put it around my neck, it changed to my name. Cool, huh?

Yeah, it is.

We sit there in silence for a minute.

Dustin grabs my hand that’s holding his necklace. I let the dog tag fall, and he laces his fingers through mine. I can’t help but to move my head up. I find him staring at me with his sparkling crystal-blue eyes, which seem to light up in the night. Succumbing to my ridiculous desire, I gaze back.

Will I ever be able to breathe freely when I look at him?

My eyes trail down to his lips, and I must turn away before my necklace reveals my secrets to him.

Swallowing, I switch my attention to Dustin’s necklace again, so I can think of something else other than his good looks. That’s when I remember something.

Dustin! I exclaim, shaking my hand from his. Let’s go to the library!

He seems surprised. Why?

We can try to find out what the mermaids meant. Remember, right before we went into Mystic Cavern, they told you to look up your family’s history?

You’re right! Let’s go!

* * * * *

Inside the library, we head for the S section. Eventually, we come to find Dustin’s family history book is missing from the shelf.

I wonder what happened to it, Dustin says.

We can ask King William and Queen Eileen. They would know. For now, I have another idea. I go to the H section.

Why are we in this section for?

"I bet anything about Mystic Cavern and the prophecy would be in The History of the Underground. Maybe it says something about why it’s bad for Air Elementals to go into the cavern."

You’re probably right.

Spotting the dark-green book with gold letters, I pull it off the shelf and open it. Finding a section titled Hidden Mysteries, I blow off the pile of dust covering the first page.

There are many hidden mysteries throughout the Underground. Created by six, hidden by six. Made by evil, concealed by evil. Formed by good, secluded by good. To read these secrets you must speak the password.

Password? Dustin questions, confused.

Shrugging, I flip through the pages anyway only to find they’re blank.

Suddenly, I hear my ghost friend, Leonidas, whispering to me. I glance around the room, but he’s nowhere in sight. Closing my eyes, I listen intently, opening my mind a little.

Julshu, he softly says.

My eyes flutter open, and I say, Julshu.

The pages that were once blank now have words on them. There are different riddles about unknown places, but I don’t understand what any of it means. Ignoring the riddles, I come to a part about a cave behind Sacred Waterfall.

I point to it. Here, Dustin.

There is a secret about Sacred Waterfall. Behind it is a cave, which is the entry to Mystic Cavern. Inside the cavern is an ancient prophecy meant for a certain group of Elementals. Knowing this prophecy will help them defeat their enemy. Light shall be able to reveal the riddle’s words. Be warned, everyone who has tried to reveal the prophecy has perished.

I gasp. Leonidas never told me illuminating the prophecy could’ve killed you! What if you would’ve died?

Dustin smiles.

What?

Those other two skeletons in Secret Cave were Carson and my great-grandfather. They died trying to read the prophecy, but I didn’t. This must mean I am the Air Elemental Chase and Zaltic have been waiting for, which also means they’ll train me more on the Oracle.

The whole library begins to shake, causing a nearby book to fly into my head. I pick it up to see it’s called The Book of Dragons.

Come on! Dustin panics. We need to see what’s going on!

As I put back the books, the power goes out. Dustin lights up the place with his hands. His golden light casts a faint glow over his body, causing his blond hair to light up like the morning sun.

Shit! Dustin curses. Why would the power go out? There’s no storm or anything. Asher, Harmony, and I just gave the electric rod more power.

Maybe things are messing up tonight, I suggest. Earlier, Ashton had to help the elves and pixies because their furnace quit working. I wonder where the king and queen are at.

They’re probably trying to figure out why the power went out.

There’s another boom, shaking the tree once again.

Dustin and I run down the stairs now.

Halfway down the spiral staircase, Dustin pauses.

What is it? I ask.

Where did you say Ashton went earlier?

To the Elf and Pixie Workshop. Why?

Damn, I thought you said that.

Why? I persist, now worried.

He shakes his head. I’ll tell you on the way. Let’s hurry! Ashton’s in trouble!

When we’re outside, Dustin dumps growing powder on me and then himself. As we start to head off, we fall to the ground from an explosion in the earth beneath us.

Looking up, I spot a red-and-black striped tiger, with red eyes, moving toward us. Its face is menacing, much different in appearance than a normal tiger’s.

Five feet away, the tiger lifts a paw high in the air.

Let’s move, Melody! Dustin yells, pulling me up and away with him. It’s going to strike again!

Glancing back, I watch the tiger slam its paw on the ground. That’s when Dustin and I go flying from dirt blasting underneath our feet. It’s like we’re on a minefield, and the tiger is the one who is in control. Every time its paw hits the ground, sections of the earth blow up.

Melody, get up and help me! Dustin commands.

I scramble back to my feet, grabbing Dustin’s hand. Using our free hands, we hold them out at the tiger and concentrate on using our elements together. I think about how I want the earth to blow up under the beast’s feet like it did to me.

Ragged pieces of earth break apart under the tiger, stabbing its underside in the process. The wind howls against the tiger and then starts swirling around it.

The tiger breaks free of our magic, running for us, with a deadly look in its blood-colored eyes.

What? Dustin and I exclaim together.

Right before the tiger reaches us, my pink barrier goes up around me and Dustin. I don’t see how it’s going to help if the tiger devours us—well, until something else happens. My barrier turns to more of a golden pink color, and I realize it’s Dustin who must be causing it.

The tiger reaches our barrier of light, but it can’t penetrate it no matter how hard it tries. Neither magic nor physical attacks can break through our amazing light.

I gaze at Dustin who is staring at me, amazement in his eyes.

How are we—

I don’t know, I cut him off.

Zaltic comes into view. Desco, leave them be! The ice wolf’s markings on his body light up blue, and he transports Desco somewhere else with his powers.

The barrier around Dustin and I disappear. We run off to the Elf and Pixie Workshop. Once inside, we see Ashton fighting two skeletons.

Zaltic reappears, running to Ashton’s aid.

Skeletons? I question loudly.

They are skelars! Zaltic answers. Part of the Undead Army from the Hole of the Undead!

I got this! Ashton screams as he makes Inferno, the Sword of Explosion, appear.

He smashes both skelars to pieces and then spits on their bones. While he walks away, the bones start putting themselves back together.

Uh…Ash, I say, pointing to the reformed skelars.

He turns back around. But how?

The Undead Army is already dead, the white wolf informs us. They are using the magic of the Dark Crystal to be somewhat alive. We cannot kill something that’s already dead.

Great! Ashton yells. Then what do we do?

The two skelars head for Ashton again.

Jester flies above us. "Stand back! I’ll use the Breaking of Bones Spell!"

We nod, stepping back.

Jester throws up his hands, chanting, Break and crack the bones of thy back. Shred and grind, thy ligaments unwind. Nothing but dust shall remain. Blow it away with the winds of rain!

We watch as the skelar’s bones crumble and break into dust. Then a light misty wind rushes through the workshop blowing the dust out the open door.

Zaltic hangs his head down. Great, the Undead Army has risen. We need to get the Dark Crystal back.

Chapter Four

Dustin

If Only the Past Could Change

Zander runs into the workshop, fiddling with Solaina around his neck. What did I miss?

Everything like always! Melody shouts, stomping outside.

He appears shocked by her anger toward him.

Zander, dude! Ashton exclaims. You should’ve been here! We were fighting skelars, and then Jester cast a spell that crumbled them to dust!

Skelars? Zander questions, fixing his shaggy black hair.

Skelars are part of the Undead Army, Zaltic explains.

While Ashton and Zaltic fill Zander in, I go search for Melody. Walking out the door, I see her standing a few feet away. I approach her.

She spins around fast, revealing a red necklace. Can you believe him? Zander’s never here to help us when we need it! He was probably off being evil like always! He doesn’t even care!

I go to touch Melody’s arm, but she pushes me.

"Then there’s you! She growls. You knew Ashton was about to be in trouble, and you didn’t tell me! Worst of all, you and I could’ve been killed by that tiger!"

Grabbing Melody’s wrists, I swing her around, pinning her against the side of the workshop. Calm down! I’m sorry! It isn’t like I exactly know when what I see from the Oracle will happen. You of all people should know that since you see the future, too.

She whimpers and her necklace goes purple. I know.

The third thing I ever saw from my watch was Ashton trapped in the House of Shadows.

Melody gapes at me, her necklace switching back to red. You knew he was going to be captured, and you didn’t tell me?

I groan. I was trying to make a point.

She gives me a dark glare. You didn’t do a very good job at changing the details that led up to Ashton and the House of Shadows. I had to do most of the work. No wonder I ended up getting premonition dreams. You must not be fit to do the job.

Pressing on Melody’s wrists, I grit my teeth. I am too fit for the job. I didn’t have a clue where the House of Shadows was. I didn’t even know what details to change. I still really don’t know. That’s what Zaltic is going to help me with, hopefully. Besides, I’d like to see you change every detail.

I may not have changed every detail, but I’ve always made sure the worst doesn’t occur, unlike you.

Oh, whatever!

Still, you should’ve told me…

You know I can’t tell you what I see, unless I know it’s the right time to!

Her necklace changes to blue. I know… I’m sorry. I’m just mad at Zander. What if we still can’t trust him?

Melody, you’re usually the one trying to convince us evil can change.

She hangs her head down, her dark-brown hair hiding her eyes.

Zander had the evil vow he made taken off him by the king’s magic. I’m sure he was busy earlier. In fact, I don’t even think he was in the Underground yet.

Melody’s eyes meet mine, taking on a soft pink glow. Are you sure?

I sense a warm sensation fill my body upon her gaze, making me swallow. I’m ninety-five percent sure.

Okay…, she trails off.

I suddenly realize how close I am to her. How did I get in this position? If I lean forward any more, her body will be touching mine. Just the thought causes my pulse to quicken.

I’m aware of how warm the skin on her wrists are against my hands, and that alone drives me mad. My eyes betray me, moving to rest on her lips. No matter how hard I try to not think of how my mouth feels on hers, I can’t help it. I want Melody’s kiss once more.

Zander, Zaltic, and Ashton emerge from the workshop.

Dude, what are you doing to Melody? Ashton asks.

Melody wiggles out from my hold.

Nothing, Ashton, I grumble. I was calming her down.

Ashton’s eyes dart to Melody. Mel, are you okay?

Melody takes a deep breath. Yes, why?

You look tired.

Dustin and I used a lot of mana fighting a tiger.

He steps closer to her. If you want, you can have some of my blood. It’ll make you feel better.

Melody sighs. Quit trying to get me to drink your blood. It’s sick. Ever since Jeremy brought it up again, you won’t shut up about it.

Ashton shrugs. It could create a magical bond between us, one that could never be broken.

Melody stifles a laugh.

Zander chuckles. We aren’t in some sadistic vampire movie.

So… Zaltic, Melody says, changing the subject. What’s the deal with that tiger?

Desco is called the Tiger of Demolition, the white wolf answers. He can destroy anything he slams his paws on. I was worried when I saw you and Dustin battling him.

Thanks for helping us. Where did you take him?

Somewhere far away from here. It’ll be a while before he manages to make his way back.

Remembering something, I become excited. Zaltic, I know for sure I’m the Air Elemental you and Chase have been waiting for!

I know.

I frown. Then why haven’t you or Chase started training me?

We shall soon. Things had come up.

When do you think you’ll be able to?

How about tomorrow night?

I smile. Sounds great!

Very well then. Meet me in the Field of Light at nine p.m.

Hey, Zaltic, Melody says. I know you said you’d tell us more about the Hole of the Undead and the Undead Army when we met up in a couple weeks, but I was wondering if you could now?

The Hole of the Undead is actually a huge tunnel, the wolf says. It leads down to the outer core of the earth. Cypherus was born from it.

So, he just rose out of the ground one day? Zander questions, his gray-blue eyes widening.

Yes. First, there was a powerful earthquake that lasted for half a day, and then Cypherus rose out of the earth. With help from the witch, Cypherus forged a whole other world inside the hole he rose out of. They stole the Dark Crystal for its extraordinary power and then made the City of Illusions and the Undead Army. To this day, everyone in the Forest of Misery deposit their dead into the Hole of the Undead. That way, if the Undead Army were to ever rise again, they would have new members. Nowadays, we are probably outnumbered compared to them.

Melody gulps.

Ashton faces her. Don’t worry, Mel. You don’t need to be scared. I’ll protect you.

I can protect myself, Ash. I’m not scared either. She faces the wolf again. You had told us it takes months to get to the City of Illusions. How did those skelars already get here?

Desco brought them, Zaltic tells us. He’s undead, too, and his other power is teleportation.

Melody frowns. Can’t he just teleport back here then?

Not where I took him.

Well, we shouldn’t need to worry about any other attacks for a month or two, as long as Desco didn’t bring more than just those two skelars with him, I acknowledge.

I bet he did, Zander says.

Zaltic hangs his head down, and I can tell that’s a yes.

Melody pets Zaltic’s head. I’m going to get some rest, but I know it’ll be okay.

He nods. Good night, dear.

Ashton hugs Melody. Good night, Mel. I love you.

She smiles. I love you, too, Ash. Good night.

As Zander, Ashton, Jester, and Zaltic head back in the workshop, I watch Melody start for Peaceful Forest.

Remembering how she was staring into my eyes earlier, I grin. I hurry after her. When I get close, I slow down, matching my pace with hers.

Melody stops. What do you want, Dustin? I know you’re following me.

Walking in front of her, I make eye contact. I want to ask you a question.

What?

Do you still like me?

Melody gazes at me for a long moment and then busts up in laughter. No, why?

I scoff. You’re so rude. It was only a random question.

I told you a week ago I don’t like you anymore, so why ask me if I still do?

Just seemed like it is all.

Her eyes narrow. How?

You were staring at me hardcore earlier.

Melody gives me a look of disbelief. I can highly assure you I wasn’t.

Wanting to push her even further, I ask, So, you love Ashton, huh?

Of course, I love Ashton! she snaps.

Geez, touchy.

Just because I love him, doesn’t mean I still have the feelings I used to have for him.

You’re fast at jumping to assumptions of what I’m thinking.

Only because I know you and how you think.

Whatever you say, Grace. So I have deciphered from your defensive anger that you really do still have feelings for both Ashton and me. It makes me wonder—do you like the whole population of guys?

Shut up, Skye!

Hey, I’m just saying.

She rolls her eyes. I don’t like Ashton, and I definitely don’t like you!

Well, I think you only like Ashton because he comforted you when you couldn’t have me.

You’re so full of yourself! You think you’re God’s gift to women!

I wink. Maybe I am. After all, I’m dead sexy. Many have told me that.

More like dead geeky! You’re such a conceited jerk!

I’m far from geeky, I contradict. And I’m nice to you.

Not when we’re around our friends. You’re usually a big jerk to me then. The only time you’re nice to me is when no one is around.

I don’t believe that.

Her mouth falls open. You tried to push me out of a tree yesterday!

Good thing you’re the Earth Elemental then, right? I joke.

She shakes with rage. I can’t believe you!

Rosco, go away! a girl screams.

Who was that? I ask, examining the area around us.

Sounded like Emma! Melody gasps. I heard her shout Rosco’s name! Come on!

Following Melody to the front of her tree house, we see Emma, Hunter, and Rosco hovering in the air.

Emma, please come back home! Rosco pleads.

Emma shakes her head, her brown curls swishing. My home is here, not with you!

You only want to be here because Hunter is! Emma, he does not even love you anymore. I do, so be with me.

Never! Emma shouts, rapidly beating her wings. Her anger causes the green light that traces her body to flash fast.

You’re wrong, Rosco, Hunter quietly says.

Rosco turns to Hunter. Excuse me, little brother?

You’re wrong, he repeats. I do love Emma still.

Rosco laughs. Is that so?

Melody runs up to the fairies. Rosco, what are you doing here? Wait—how did you get here?

I tagged along with the skelars, he answers. I had to see my beautiful Emma again. I have missed her so.

She is not your Emma! Hunter growls.

Why are you getting mad? Rosco questions Hunter, glaring at him with red eyes. She is still not yours anymore, right?

Hunter doesn’t say anything.

Rosco smiles not so evil for once. It is a smile that could be as bright as his white-blond hair. That’s what I thought. Anyway, I’ll leave you alone for now. But do not fret, my dear Emma, for I shall be watching you from afar. With that, he flies off, deep into Peaceful Forest.

Melody groans. Great, he must be staying here.

He’ll more than likely hide in Peaceful Forest for the time being to watch Emma, Hunter predicts.

Emma flies closer to Hunter, staring at him with her brown eyes. Hunter, do you really love me?

Yes, I do, the dark-haired fairy replies.

Melody’s face instantly lights up. This is awesome! Then you should get back together!

Melody, could you and Dustin give Emma and I some time alone, please? Hunter asks.

Melody beams at him. Sure, Hunter. She grabs my hand. Come on, Dustin!

* * * * *

For two hours, Melody and I hang out so she can give Hunter and Emma their time alone. After she decides it’s a good time to return to her tree house to sleep, I lie down in my hammock.

Knixon, who is lying on the ground, looks up at me. How was your day?

Grinning, I say, It was good. I forgot how much I like hanging with Melody. I even miss her right now. It’s weird.

Do you still like her? Chase asks from above in the tree.

Hell no! I exclaim. She can’t be with me because she still loves Ashton. It seems like she would choose him over me. She’s too complicated for me. She’s just a good friend, you know?

I don’t think Melody would choose Ashton over you, Knixon claims.

Why is that? I question in interest.

If it came down to it, I don’t think she could choose. That’s why she refuses both of you. Maybe, in the future, she’ll be able to, but not right now. You and Ashton just follow her around like idiots. You need to look at what she’s doing to you two. She knows she has both of you, so she’ll keep dragging you two along.

Melody isn’t like that.

Honestly, I feel as if she doesn’t know what she’s doing.

I agree, Chase butts back in.

In the future, she’ll still choose Ashton, I assure them.

Knixon and Chase sigh and then tell me good night.

I gaze up to take in the bright candescence of stars. As I begin to drift off into oblivion, I start to think about Melody again. That’s when another smile spreads across my face.

What is she doing to me?

Maybe Knixon and Chase are right. I do need to talk to Ashton.

* * * * *

Glaring at the witch, I sent strong gusts of air at her. My power didn’t even cause her to budge. She must’ve been using some type of spell to hold her in place, or it could’ve been the weight of the black water around her keeping her still.

Switching to different magic, I hurled light at her. Every beam and ball were just counteracted by the witch’s magic.

Ashton and Melody joined in with their powers to help me. It was a bad idea because the witch absorbed our magic forming a giant ball. She clapped her hands together, and the ball erupted. The explosion sent me flying through the air, and I hit my head.

I felt myself slipping into an unconscious state until something grabbed hold of me from the inside, squeezing me. I sensed something take control of me, almost as if they shoved my soul to the side.

My eyes became wider, as I realized someone really had took control over me, had possessed me. An evil darkness was dimming my vision.

Hello, Jezebel, I said to the witch, only with a feminine voice now. It has been a long time.

The witch’s purple eyes immediately returned to blue. H-h-how are you here?

I smiled. Thought you could get rid of me so easily, did you?

What do you want?

Soon, a group of warriors shall come to you. You will help them.

The witch scowled. And if I refuse?

I slid my finger across my throat. Then death shall be in your near future.

The witch said nothing, vanishing.

The evil within me laughed. You know, Dustin, I need to make something perfectly clear for you. You will not win this war. Evil shall always prevail in the end.

The evil presence lit up my hands, moving them closer to my eyes. I could do nothing but stare at the golden light. I tried to speak but failed every time.

You are helpless against me, you see? the sinister voice stated. Not even your light can stop the darkness that is me. The Air Elemental should never be able to become possessed. Your light should chase away any evil within yourself, but I’m a different kind of evil entirely. No light can diminish me.

She forced me to walk toward a cavern. That’s when I heard Melody.

Dustin! she screamed. Dustin, don’t go! I need you!

I turned around to see Ashton and Melody were tied to a rock. I wanted to go to them, but my captor wouldn’t let me.

No, Dustin, the evil said. Not even her and the growing demon within her can defeat me. She made me face the cavern again.

Dustin! No! Melody screamed once more. Dustin! Come back! Don’t leave me here!

Feeling my entire body being shook, I open my eyes to see Melody staring down at me.

You’re okay! I pull her down beside me.

She gives me a strange look. Are you?

Staring at her for a moment, I realize I had a nightmare. I sit up. Oh, yeah. Just had a bad dream.

Of?

When I was possessed inside Mystic Cavern.

Melody sets a hand on my back. You still dream of it?

Yes. I don’t know why.

Because it bothers you.

I guess. So, what did Calder want? He talked to you forever.

She rolls her eyes. What do you think he wanted?

You keep putting it off.

I’m not. I just don’t know where else to look. I’ve checked every book I can think of and nothing. I’ve been trying to figure out his powers for weeks. It’s frustrating.

I put an arm around her, pulling her closer to me. Hey, I know you’ll figure out his powers. You always figure everything out, eventually.

Keyword eventually. She smiles, resting her head against my chest.

I set my chin on top of her hair, breathing in her earthly scent. I don’t know why I do this to myself. I should be putting as much distance as I can between us. It’s like Melody is a magnet pulling me back toward her.

She clears her throat, flinging herself away from me. She stands. Dustin…

I look up at her beautiful face, holding her stare. The way her dark eyes gaze at me is chilling. It’s like she sees all of me, right down to my soul. Out of everyone, I think Melody knows me the best.

Ashton barges through Melody’s front door. Are you guys ready?

Aggravated, I grunt. Sure am. I get up, shoving past Ashton.

What’s his problem? Ashton asks Melody behind me.

She sighs. Nothing. Let’s just go, Ash.

* * * * *

Once we’re out of Sacred Lake, we go our separate ways so I can meet up with Zaltic.

At nine o’clock on the dot, I enter the Field of Light. The clouds have blanketed the sky, causing the scenery around me to appear darker than usual in the night. I can just barely make out the ice wolf sitting in the center of the field. His fur moves in the new wind that has just came about.

Are you ready, Dustin? the ice wolf asks.

I nod.

Zaltic walks up to me. He flips my hand on his head, and in a flash, we’re transported into a different time.

We are in the future, Zaltic tells me.

Watching the future me walk up a deck, I realize I’m at Melody’s grandparent’s house. Hearing my future-self knock on the door, I hide behind a tree to get a better view.

Melody opens the door, and she looks horrible. It appears as if she hasn’t showered, slept, or even changed her clothes in days.

Melody, please talk to me, I beg.

No! she shouts in tears. You knew! You knew, and you didn’t tell me! You didn’t change it! I bet you never even tried! I mean, hell, after it happened you ran away for a while! You wanted this to happen!

I shake my head. There was nothing I could do, honest. I should’ve looked more into it, but I didn’t think I had to. I thought I had it under control. I thought I could stop it from coming true.

You’re a liar, Dustin Ray Skye!

Melody, please—

Go away! she screams.

Don’t do this. I accept what happened was my fault.

You’re wrong, she chokes out. It’s mine. Everything is my fault. I killed—

I put a hand over her mouth. It isn’t your fault.

She pulls away from me. Yes, it is. You don’t know what I did. You don’t know what I said…

I would if you would just tell me.

I can’t. I won’t. It hurts too much. Just leave me alone, Dustin.

But, Melody—

I don’t want to see you anymore. I don’t want to ever see you again.

Melody looks like a zombie. It’s as if the life has been sucked out of her. What could possibly happen to make her like this? She’s the Earth Elemental. She’s always full of life, happiness, and love.

So, that’s it? I yell. You’re going to shut me out like you did your whole family? Like you did to all your friends? The Underground needs you! I need you! We can’t defeat him without you!

No one understands what I’m going through. And my family doesn’t care. They never cared about… She sighs sadly. Besides, I just can’t be around anyone anymore. They bring back memories of… She pauses again, still unable to say the name. It’s just everything I do, or anyone I’m with reminds me of… She sighs again. My brother—he even left me for some dogs.

I cry. You don’t think I care? I feel the same as you do right now!

Man, what the hell is wrong with me? I don’t ever cry. I don’t even remember a time I have.

Goodbye, Dustin, Melody tells me. You may not have been there for me when I needed you most, but I think you did try the best you could. We were just not meant to be friends like we were in the past. I love you, so that’s why I’m letting you go for good now. It’s best for both of us.

Melody—

She puts her hand up. No. I can’t let myself be around you anymore, so just go now.

I wipe my eyes. Then I glare at Melody.