Volume Two of The Kithan Chronicles 

*1*

Flynt’s cry rent the air as he folded his wings, dropping like a stone after Kahreen’s limp, tumbling form. The Angel dragonrider and his mount followed in pursuit, the former releasing a crossbow bolt in Flynt’s direction. The poisoned barb missed its mark. On the deck of the ‘Waverunner’ all eyes were fixed skyward as the deadly confrontation unfolded.

Galen focused inwardly, readying himself to cast one last spell. The mage was tiring, his magical reserves rapidly nearing depletion. All the crew were now on deck and armed, though each knew the weapons would be of little use against their attacker. Galen glanced upward. A light fog had began to settle, but not thick enough to obscure the events happening above. The ship’s captain, Damas, stood near Galen and watched as Flynt plummeted after Kahreen.

“He isn’t going to make it.”

*****

Faster, damn it, faster! Flynt desperately tried to close the distance between himself and Kahreen. The cold air stung at his face, causing his eyes to water. He knew he wouldn’t reach her in time. Kahreen splashed into the ocean, disappearing almost immediately. Flynt braced himself, striking the water moments later, the impact and chill jarring him to the bone. Adrenaline surged through his body, lending him strength as he paddled frantically downwards. The water was dark and he could hardly make out any shapes at all. There wasn’t a moment to loose. He searched about, but couldn’t see Kahreen. Fear gripped Flynt’s soul. Where did she go?

NightStrike circled the area where Kahreen and Flynt had disappeared, searching the water’s surface for any sign of movement. Sooner or later one or both of them should reappear the dragon mused. She would simply scoop them up in her talons, then turn her attention to the ship and those miserable wretches who dared challenge her superiority. She started another pass over the water. As she turned, ferocious blast of wind struck her side with such force the dragon nearly toppled from the sky. NightStrike’s world suddenly turned upside down.

Clouds appeared out of nowhere. Thunder roared and lightning arced, lighting up the night sky as the clouds surged forward, swallowing the dragon and her rider. NightStrike tried to maneuver, but strong gusts of wind battered her, making flying virtually impossible

“I cannot fight this!” NightStrike shouted. “I sense powerful magic at work here.”

“Climb!” the Angel shouted back, as the wind threatened to tear him from the saddle. “Climb NightStrike. Now!”

NightStrike fought and struggled, trying to find a way out of the billowing clouds. But they twisted and turned, circling her, blinding her. She became disoriented losing all sense of direction.

NightStrike was lost.

*****

“Well done Galen!” Lias said.

“I’m afraid the credit isn’t mine to take,” Galen surveyed the clouds churning in the sky above. “This isn’t of my doing.”

“What?” Lias looked surprised. “Then if it wasn’t you…then who?”

*****

Flynt’s lungs were nearing bursting point. He prepared to surface for air when the water around him was illuminated momentarily by a flash from above. He didn’t have time to ponder the event however, as the flash revealed a shape just ahead of him. He swam forward, reaching for the shape. His hand closed around an arm. It was Kahreen. Placing his arm around her waist he kicked powerfully, propelling them both upwards. As they broke the water’s surface, Flynt took a great lungful of air and turned his attention to Kahreen.

“Those bastards!” Flynt growled angrily, seeing the crossbow bolt protruding from Kahreen’s right shoulder. He resisted the urge to take it out, and possibly cause more damage to the wound.

Despite the coldness of the water, Kahreen was hot and feverish to the touch. Her skin was pale, her lips having a bluish cast to them. Flynt placed his ear next to her mouth.

No! She’s not breathing!

Flynt tilted Kahreen’s head back. Pinching her nose shut with his fingers, he placed his mouth over hers and blew hard, filling her lungs full of air. There was no response. He tried again. On the third attempt Kahreen coughed abruptly, expelling the seawater she had swallowed. She moaned weakly, but did not regain consciousness.

“It will be alright,” Flynt whispered softly to her. “Hang in there.” He checked her once again. Kahreen’s breathing was shallow, but she was alive. Flynt looked around. Thunder, lightning, clouds, it looked like a storm was about to break loose over head. But more importantly, the dragon was nowhere in sight. Flynt sincerely hoped the creature had caught one of Galen’s lightning bolts on a most unpleasant place. He finally spotted the ship not too far in the distance.

“Hey!” Flynt shouted. “Over here!” With Kahreen safely under his arm he began to swim side-stroke towards the vessel.

*****

“Captain! I’ve found them!”

Damas ran over to the starboard railing. Taking the sailor’s telescope, he scanned the water. It only took a moment to spot Flynt and Kahreen. The captain offered silent thanks to whatever deities had decided to intervene this night. His crew was alive and his ship intact.

“Come about! Starboard thirty degrees!” Damas ordered the navigator in the wheelhouse. The ship altered course, heading towards the water bound pair.

Damas spared a glance skyward. The clouds were moving away, still as thick and tumultuous as when they first appeared. He did not need to be a mystic to realize those clouds were no natural occurrence. Natural or not, since its arrival, there had been no sign of the dragon, and for that he was glad. He would take full advantage of the moment. It was time to rescue the Guardians and put as much distance between the ship and this place as possible.

*****

“They’ve seen us Kahreen, they’re coming.”

Flynt saw the ‘Waverunner’ alter course to intercept them. He stopped swimming, treading water instead to keep them both afloat until the ship arrived. Kahreen was still unconscious. Her skin was ashen and Flynt could feel small tremors course through her body. He was growing extremely concerned for her well being.

“Come on, hurry up,” he muttered, watching ‘Waverunner’. The ship closed in and Flynt could make out the faces of those on the deck. A thick rope was tossed in their direction. Draping Kahreen over his shoulders as carefully as possible, Flynt gripped the rope tightly as it was pulled towards the ‘Waverunner’. Moments later, with assistance from the crew, the pair were finally back on board.

Amethyst and Mirran were already tending to Kahreen. Flynt slumped to his knees beside the cleric.

“Can you help her?” Flynt’s dark eyes met those of the Elf. “Please Amethyst, help her.”

Amethyst gave a single nod. “Hold her shoulders,” she told Flynt softly. “She has been poisoned. The arrow must be removed.”

“I’ll find something to bind the wound, “ Mirran volunteered.

Amethyst shook her head. “That will not be necessary.”

Whispering quietly to herself Amethyst gripped the arrow and in one fluid motion, pulled it free. Kahreen cried out. Almost immediately blood began to flow from the wound. Chanting softly the Elven cleric placed her delicate hands above the injury. Flynt watched in amazement as a soft muted glow radiated from Amethyst’s palms. The bleeding slowed, then stopped as the edges of the wound started to knit together. Soon it had sealed, the flesh of the injury site pink against the darker hue of Kahreen’s skin.

Amethyst lowered her hands. “I have done all I can, the poison has made her very weak. It is up to Kahreen now.”

Flynt cradled Kahreen in his arms. She had stopped shaking and her color had improved greatly.

“Thank you Amethyst,” Flynt’s voice cracked with emotion. “Thank you.”

“Captain? Captain, you better take a look,” the sailor who had first spotted Kahreen and Flynt pointed off to starboard. “I don’t know what to make of this.”

The air had taken on a shimmer. The shimmer began to coalesce, an indistinct shape starting to form. Damas gripped the bow rail tightly, his knuckles white.

“Ready yourselves! We may not be out of this yet.”

*****

*2*

Damas wondered if he had thanked the deities too soon.

“Hard to port, then full ahead,” he shouted. “Get us out of here helmsman!” ‘Waverunner’ lurched forwards as the ship built up speed.

Damas watched the shimmering air, now astern of the ship. It was growing larger and the captain realized with a shock it was pursuing and gaining on them. ‘Waverunner’ was at full speed, bouncing and slapping the water with bone jarring impacts. Flynt and Amethyst knelt on the deck, holding Kahreen, trying to spare her unconscious form from as much of the turbulent ride as possible.

Yet the shimmering air still gained. It reached the fleeing ship, washing over it like a wave…

…moments later a tired and furious NightStrike burst through the wall of cloud. The storm ended as abruptly as it began, and now the dragon was free, ready to wreak bloody vengeance. The storm had blown her several leagues from her original position, but it did not take long for NightStrike to find her bearings. She closed in on ’Waverunner’s last position, crossing the area over and over again in ever widening circles, but to no avail. There was no ship, no bodies, no wreckage. Nothing at all.

“Gone!” NightStrike shrieked to her rider. “They’ve gone!”

The dragon’s scream of rage filled the air. The ship had vanished, as if it had never existed at all.

*****

*2*

Araman stood at the ornately carved table and nodded in satisfaction as he surveyed the room. Though the chamber was not as elaborate as his own laboratory, it would serve his needs adequately. Before him was a small chest inscribed with runes and a cage containing a small furry rodent.

The Angel’s hands deftly manipulated the chest’s lock. If opened incorrectly, the lock would trigger a booby trap; a tiny barb coated with poison so toxic the victim would be dead before they hit the floor. But such dangers posed no threat to Araman. In moments the chest was opened and he placed it’s contents upon the table. A carved obsidian bowl, arcane tools, a stand in the image of a dragon’s claw, and various sealed flasks and jars

Whispering the words of a spell, Araman unsealed a number of the bottles, pouring a measure of each into the bowl, stirring the contents with a silver rod. Reaching into the cage he grabbed the rodent. It’s squeals of fear were cut short as Araman sliced the rodent open from chest to groin with a small silver dagger. He held the twitching, dying animal over the bowl, allowing its entrails and life blood to mix into the liquid. A sharp aroma reached the Angel’s nose. All was going well.

Tossing the dead rodent to one side, the Angel High Cleric reached once more into the chest. He removed a little box and opened it, almost reverently. Within the box lay a small fragment, the broken shard of something much larger. Lifting the shard with a pair of silver tongs, Araman dipped it into the bowl, immersing it completely as he continued his incantation. He removed the artefact from the bowl and placed it on the dragonclaw stand.

“Now,” he whispered. “Show me what I wish to see!”

A light mist rose from the bowl, snaky tendrils reaching out. The mist wrapped around the artefact, flowed back into the bowl and rose again, forming a vaporous orb in front of the Angel. He had performed this spell several times before, but the results had always been maddeningly obscure. But recently, since the start of the invasion, Araman had felt his powers increasing. This time he felt sure the results would be different.

The High Cleric peered into the mists of the orb, focusing his concentration into it. The mists parted to reveal scenes he had seen on earlier occasions. Snow and ice, the images hazy, as if he was looking at it though a blizzard. Araman knew his objective lay in the icebound lands of the north, but where?

Araman increased his concentration, forcing his will into the orb. Slowly an image appeared. A pass leading between snow swept mountains. The image changed, revealing two tall, craggy spires jutting upwards like horns in the landscape. The image faded. The orb began to dissipate, the mists unraveled, dissolving into the air. Araman relaxed and allowed himself a smile. He would need to consult his texts, but the Angel was already convinced beyond doubt.

He had found it.

*****

It was quiet. ‘Waverunner’s engine had stopped. The ship sat still, surrounded by a light mist, water lapping at the sides of the hull.

“What just happened?” Flynt raised his head. He could just make out the silhouette of a coastline. “More importantly, where are we?”

“My apologies for the abruptness of your journey,” a voice rang out. “I’m afraid there was very little choice.”

The mist gave way as another ship appeared. It was a ship unlike any seen before. Sleek and dark, it appeared to barely sit in the water, almost hovering above the surface. It had no sign of mast or sail, the deck bare save for a raised semi-circular area at its center. Behind this section stood a green robed man. His white hair was tied back into a topknot, a long, flowing moustache, ending well past the chin framed his mouth.

“I had no time to make my presence known,” the man explained. “The ‘Storm of Confusion’ had almost run it’s course and the dragon would have escaped at any moment. I had to get you out of there, and quickly.”

Damas stared at the man as the strange ship pulled alongside. “Who are you?”

It was Galen who provided the answer “Glyndwr! Captain, this is the man we seek.”

“Galen, my old friend,” the green robed man smiled. “I have been expecting you for some time. The prophecy is being fulfilled faster than either of us could have thought. But we can talk of that later,” Glyndwr cast his eyes to Kahreen. “We have more urgent matters at hand.”

The green robed mage turned to Damas. “Captain, if you would follow my ship in, I assure you all will be well. Welcome to my home, Eilean Falaicht, the hidden isle.”

*****

*4*

Within the Great Hall of Andalor Sarmak and Araman were deep in discussion.

“Here,” Araman pointed a long finger at the map.

Sarmak looked at the area his High Cleric indicated, The Ice Storm Peaks, and in particular, a chain of mountains branching off from the main range and pushing into the tundra.

“You are certain of this?” Sarmak asked.

Araman nodded. “Yes lord. Within this area is a peak known as Beinn Morgath dha, the Mountain of Two Spears. I believe this is where the artefact lies.”

“Ten thousand years our people have waited.” Sarmak said. “Now it will finally be in our hands once again. We will make preparations for it’s retrieval immediately.”

Sarmak looked at the map once again. “It must be retrieved quickly, and with stealth.” His finger hovered over a section of the map close to Beinn Morgath dha. The area was identified by a crest of a rampant Gryphon. “ Thorngrimm will no doubt be feeling boxed in, and have his borders guarded.” 

A loud commotion outside the doors of the Great Hall interrupted the two Angels. The door opened and a burly beastman guard hurried in.

“My lord,” it said. “The Lady Caleich is here. I told here you weren’t to be disturbed, but she insists. Your orders sir?”

“Show her in immediately you fool!” Sarmak ordered.

The Angel Overlord was puzzled. He had not been expecting Caleich. She usually sent word ahead of her arrival, and judging by the noise emanating from the other side of the door she was not happy.

Caleich strode in, her thigh high black boots clicking loudly on the marble floor. She was dressed for battle. Her close fitting, armoured bodice was fashioned in the likeness of dragon scales, reflecting blue-black in the light. A long black cloak hung from her golden shoulder guards. Her orange eyes flashed with anger as she approached.

“Every time we get close,” Caleich growled, “they slip through our hands like grains of sand!” She began to pace like a caged beast.

“We had them! Damn it, we had them, and they disappeared!” Caleich appraised Sarmak of the news she had received from NightStrike. “They had help from outside quarters.”

Sarmak considered the information carefully. The Guardians and their companions were proving to be a very elusive quarry.

“How certain are you one of them was injured?” Sarmak asked.

“The rider has no doubts,” Caleich replied. “He saw his crossbow bolt strike the Guardian in the shoulder.”

Sarmak nodded. The toxin used on the Angels weapons could incapacitate the strongest warrior, leaving them helpless. It could take a number of days before the wounded Guardian would be able to travel again, even if the Elven healer who traveled with them nullified the poison.

“Something must be done about this ‘outside assistance’,” Sarmak said.

“How do we do that,” Caleich crossed her arms. “We don’t even know where they are now.”

“They will appear again.” Sarmak assured Caleich.

“What do you propose?” She asked.

*****

Flynt was at Kahreen’s bedside within moments of her crying out. He placed the moist cloth against her forehead. She didn’t feel as hot to the touch any more. Flynt hoped the fever was starting to break. Flynt picked up the goblet from the bedside table, trickling some of the herbal infusion Amethyst had prepared between Kahreen’s dry lips. Soon she began to relax.

“That’s it,” Flynt whispered. “Rest now. You’ll be alright.” He tenderly brushed a stray hair from Kahreen’s face, and placing the goblet back on the table, settled himself down once more into the chair next to the bed.

*****

*5*

The first thing Kahreen felt was a sensation of softness. As reality slowly seeped back into her mind, she opened her eyes and took stock of her surroundings. She was lying in a bed, that much she was certain of. As her eyes adjusted to the dim light she could make out curtains, the decorated walls and ceiling of the room. Kahreen lay still as she collected her thoughts.

The last thing she remembered was the dragon, and the crossbow bolt that pierced her right shoulder. Kahreen sat up slowly. She realized she was no longer in her leather clothing, but dressed in a simple cotton tunic. Pulling the material aside she examined her shoulder. The wound was no longer there, a pinkish scar marking where the arrow had once been.

A soft rumbling sound drew her attention and Kahreen looked to her right. By the flickering light of the oil lamp, resting on the table beside the bed, she could make out Flynt, asleep in a chair, his legs stretched out in front him, his arms crossed. He was wearing a white cotton vest, laced up the front with leather strips, and blue loincloth. He was snoring softly, his head resting on his left shoulder.

“Hey Flynt,” Kahreen called quietly. “Wake up.”

Flynt shifted in the seat, but continued snoring.

“Flynt!” Kahreen said, louder this time.

This time Flynt stirred and opened his eyes. He looked at Kahreen, his sleepy brain taking a few moments to register she was sitting up and looking at him. He shot out of the chair so fast he almost knocked it over.

“Kah?” relief flooded Flynt’s face. “Are you alright? Is there any pain? How do you feel?”

Flynt’s words were coming out rushed. Kahreen raised a hand, motioning him to slow down.

“Whoa Flynt. I’m alright, I feel fine,” she said. “What happened? Where are we?”

“We found Galen’s friend,” Flynt scratched his head. “Well actually he found us. I’ll tell you all about it, but first,” he raised a finger and backed towards the door. “Just give me a second.”

Flynt opened the door and ran out. Kahreen could hear his feet thumping on the floor, accompanied by his shouting voice.

“Kahreen’s awake! She’s awake. She’s alright!”

*****

Amethyst completed her examination of Kahreen as Flynt stood nearby.

“The worst is past,” the Elven cleric said. “I can find nothing wrong with her.”

“I feel great,” Kahreen said, and in truth she did. Despite the ordeal she had been through she felt surprisingly vibrant and energetic. “Thank you Amethyst for all your help.”

The door to the room opened and Mirran entered carrying a bowl on a tray, resting atop a wad of light blue material. Resting the items on the table she walked across the room and drew the curtains open, allowing the natural light in.

“There,” Mirran said. “That’s much better than that gloomy lamp.” She looked to Kahreen with a smile. “I’ve brought some broth for you, and a change of clothes. I’m sure you’ll be wanting to have a look around now that you are feeling better.”

“Thanks Mirran,” Kahreen replied as the portly woman placed the tray on her lap. Kahreen inhaled the delicious aroma of the broth. She didn’t know how famished she was until this moment.”

Mirran turned her attention to Flynt. “You need something to eat yourself.”

“I’m alright Mirran,” Flynt said. “I’ll grab something later.”

“Nonsense, you’ve earned your rest,” Mirran ushered Flynt towards the door. “Besides you must give a lady some privacy when she is getting dressed.” Flynt cast a glance at Kahreen, who just shook her head and smiled.

Mirran finally got Flynt out the door. “Don’t worry lad, she’ll still be here when you get back.” She closed the door and turned back to Kahreen.

“He’s quite something, your Flynt,” Mirran told her. “After that dreadful beast injured you, you fell into the ocean. Flynt dove into the water straight after you. He kept you afloat, he did, until we could get the pair of you out, and let Amethyst tend to your wound. ”

Kahreen had stopped eating, listening to Mirran with rapt attention.

“Today is the first time he has really left this room,“ Mirran continued. “He tended to you, refusing to leave your side. He can be as stubborn as a minotaur when his mind is made up.”

“How long was I out for?” Kahreen asked.

“Three days,” Amethyst informed her.

“Three days!” Kahreen was just beginning to realize just how sick she had been. And Flynt had been by her side through it all.

“I’ll won’t turn my back on you…I’m here whenever you need me.” Kahreen remembered the words Flynt had spoken in the Dragon Spine Mountains.

Your Flynt. Kahreen smiled warmly as she returned to her meal.

*****

“I haven’t had a chance to see this place fully,” Flynt said. “It’s amazing.”

Kahreen had to agree. The pair were following a path through a lush garden within the inner courtyard of a large, impressively built villa. Kahreen wore the blue tunic Mirran had provided her, tied at the waist by a black belt. The fabric felt light and comfortable against the warmth of the day.

“Mirran told me what you did,“ Kahreen said. “After I was wounded, how you helped me in the water, and stayed with my bedside as the fever ran its course.”

“It was nothing,” Flynt replied, looking away. “You were hurt and in danger. I just…”

Kahreen reached up and kissed Flynt on the cheek. He looked at her in absolute surprise.

“Thank you for being there for me,” she said.

An awkward silence rose between the pair. Kahreen tactfully broke it, turning the moment into a pleasant memory.

“So what do you know of this Glyndwr?

Flynt shrugged. “Not all that much.” He outlined how Glyndwr had come to their aid and brought them to this isle.

“He’s an old friend of Galen’s, “ Flynt said. “He’s a mage, and I think a powerful one at that.” He pointed to that sky. “See that slight shimmer? Glyndwr uses a spell or something that hides the island from the outside world. You wouldn’t even know this place existed. We should be alright here, for now.”

Kahreen saw Flynt frown, his face serious.

“What is it Flynt?

“The dragonrider. He was an Angel.” Flynt said.

“An Angel? Are you sure?” Kahreen asked.

“I don’t know how I know, I just do,” Flynt’s expression grew more troubled. “It was his face Kah, the look on it. “I’ve seen looks of hate before, but this went way beyond that. I could almost taste his loathing for us.”

Kahreen’s hand strayed to her shoulder. “He made that more than obvious.”

“They have had ten thousand years to allow that hate to fester and grow,” a voice said from a short distance away.

“Huh?” Flynt looked over his shoulder, spotting a figure sitting beneath a tree. “Glyndwr?”

“The one and only,” Glyndwr rose to his feet, dusting bits of grass off his robe. “I’m glad to see you are feeling better,” he smiled warmly at Kahreen as he approached and introduced himself to her.

“I couldn’t help overhearing the last part of your conversation,” the mage continued, looking at them both. “The Angels are consumed by hate.”

“Ten thousand years is a long time to hold a grudge,“ Kahreen said.

“The Angels have a hatred of all those they consider ‘lesser races’,” Glyndwr explained. “They loathe you most of all. Your people prevented them from fulfilling their goals.”

“Galen has told us some of the legend,” Kahreen said.

“Ah yes, the ancient legends,” Glyndwr sighed. “Even they don’t tell the full story.”

Kahreen and Flynt looked at each other. For every answer Glyndwr gave, more questions arose.

“Tomorrow, “ Glyndwr said. “Tomorrow I promise I will try to answer all your questions. In the meantime, I suggest perhaps you take a walk to the beach. Your seafaring friends have just about completed repairs to their ship. They plan to set sail back to Tir Deas with the morning tide. Tonight we will have a small celebration to wish them good luck on their journey.”

“They are not going to Lithara?” Flynt asked. “And aren’t we to got with them?”

“Lithara is far to dangerous now, as is most of Tir Tuath,” Glyndwr said. “Your destiny lies along a different path to Captain Damas and his crew. Until tonight my friends.”

The mage started up the path back towards the villa, leaving Kahreen and Flynt with more questions than ever before.

*****

The sun slowly slipped under the horizon. In the villa torches sprang to life, banishing the encroaching darkness signaling the oncoming night. Within a corner of the large courtyard the party was just starting. A table had been set up, on which sat bread, freshly baked earlier by Mirran, and bowls full of fruit, taken from Glyndwr’s orchard. There was no meat, Glyndwr would not allow hunting of the island’s animal inhabitants. Two barrels of mead from ‘Waverunner’, stood nearby, tapped and ready, beside a barrel of wine provided by their host. The mood was festive, for everyone was determined, on this one night at least, to forget about the ills and worries that surrounded them.

Lias poured two tankards of mead, passing one over to Flynt. Flynt accepted with thanks, taking a mouthful of the fermented honeyed beverage as he watched the festivities. Galen and Glyndwr stood to one side talking, no doubt about something magical. Some of the sailors were playing instruments and Flynt found himself tapping his feet to the sound of the lute and pipes.

Lias took a drink of his mead and gave a satisfied sigh.

“We really needed this,” the Elf said. “After everything we’ve been through so far, we deserve the break.”

“You don’t know how right you are,” Flynt replied. “Say Lias, you haven’t seen Kahreen anywhere have you?”

“No, not since earlier this afternoon,” Lias scanned the courtyard. “I saw Mirran talking to her. She had a package from the ‘Waverunner’ she wanted to give to Kahreen.”

“Oh? I wonder what it is?” Flynt said.

“I don’t know, but Mirran was looking rather pleased. They shouldn’t be too much longer.”

Flynt nodded and continued tap along to the music. Lias smiled. He knew what Mirran was up to, but he promised to keep it a secret. He didn’t want to spoil the surprise.

Flynt reached for a piece of fruit when he caught sight of Huron. The big warrior had seen Flynt at the same time and he wandered over.

“I wanna talk with you, there’s s’mthing I need to say.” Huron’s words were slightly slurred. He had gotten a head start on the mead.

“Yes?” Flynt eyed him warily, not sure what to expect.

“Wha’ you did back there, you an’ Kahreen, attacking that dragon, I guess you probably saved all our hides,” Huron took a swig from his tankard. “Wha’ you did took a lot o’ guts.”

Flynt was surprised. He certainly wasn’t expecting this.

“Look Flynt,“ Huron continued. “Y’know what I think about all this prophecy mumbo-jumbo. But after what I’ve seen lately… I ain’t sayin’ I believe it mind you. I ain’t sure what to believe.”

“I don’t think anyone really does,” Flynt said.

Huron drew himself to his full height and stared Flynt in the eye. “I know guts in a fellow warrior when I see it, and that’s s’mthing I can respect,” Huron held out his hand. “S’no hard feelings, okay?”

It took Flynt a moment to realize Huron was asking for peace between them. He took the big warriors hand, glad at least this hurdle had been overcome.

“Alright Huron, no hard feelings.” Flynt raised his tankard in salute.

The musicians had started another tune, this one accompanied by a song. Huron clapped Flynt on the shoulder.

“Time to enjoy this night,” he said. “Who knows wha’ the morrow may bring!” Huron wandered over to the singers, and lent his voice to theirs.

“Did what just happen, happen?” Flynt asked. He looked at Lias, who couldn’t help but laugh.

“I think so,” Lias said, still laughing. “Who said there’s no such thing as miracles?”

*****

“Are you sure about this?” Kahreen cast a doubtful glance at her companions. Mirran, Kahreen and Amethyst stood at the head of the stairs leading down to the courtyard. Kahreen could hear the sounds of revelry wafting up the staircase

“Do not worry,” Amethyst told her. “You look lovely.”

“Amethyst’s telling the truth, and I fully agree,” Mirran said. “So hurry lass, or the party will be over before you get there.”

Kahreen wondered how she had let Mirran convince her to do this. It had started earlier in the afternoon. Mirran had brought her a package and told her it was a ‘thank you‘ gift from Captain Damas for her aid with the dragon. What Kahreen did not know was the gift had been part of the Sabra shipment to Lithara, but since ‘Waverunner’ was returning to the south, Mirran in fact convinced the captain the ‘gift’ could be put to better use here.

So for the better part of the afternoon Kahreen had been at the mercy of Mirran and Amethyst as they fussed over her, and now here she stood, more nervous than if she had to face one hundred dragons.

Kahreen took a deep breath. ‘Alright’ she told herself. ‘It’s just a party, its not like you’re going into battle or anything.’ With her resolve strengthened, she started down the stairs.

Flynt had just started on his second drink when he saw Kahreen appear, accompanied by Mirran and Amethyst. His eyes went wide and he nearly dropped his tankard.

Kahreen was dressed in a fine, long, white, gown made of the finest silk. The front of the gown crossed her upper body in an ‘X’ shape, the ends of the material fastened behind her neck, leaving her shoulders and back bare. Her hair had been put up and held in place by a matching ribbon of silk. Flynt felt a lump rise in his throat, his heart hammering furiously against his ribcage. He was entranced by the vision before him.

Kahreen could feel Flynt’s eyes upon her and she looked his way, feeling the color rise to her cheeks. She was oblivious to the looks and nods of admiration from some of the other revelers. Keeping her eyes on Flynt, she slowly made her way over to him. Flynt stood there, as if frozen in stone, his eyes never leaving hers. She stopped a few feet away from him.

“Hi,” Kahreen was so nervous she couldn’t think of anything else to say.

“Umm, hi,” Flynt had the good sense to put his tankard down before he spilt the contents all over himself. “Wow. Kahreen you look… you look gorgeous!”

Kahreen felt herself blush, but her face brightened at Flynt’s compliment. “Do you really think so?”

“I don’t think so,” Flynt replied, stepping closer. “I know so.”

Kahreen smiled.

*****

The evening passed quicker than both of them could remember. Before long Kahreen and Flynt found themselves among the very few who were still awake. Amethyst and Mirran had just said their goodnights. The two mages had long since retired. Lias was still awake, swapping tales with one of the sailors. Most of the ship’s crew had either gone back to ‘Waverunner’ or had found themselves a questionably comfortable spot in the courtyard to sleep off the night’s indulgences. Huron was amongst them. Kahreen and Flynt passed him by on their way to the stairs, snoring loudly, a half empty tankard by his side.

“You know Huron made his peace with me earlier,” Flynt told Kahreen.

“Your kidding!” Kahreen exclaimed. “Heh, and they say there’s no such thing as miracles.”

Flynt laughed. “Funny that. Lias said something very similar.”

The pair climbed the staircase into the villa. When they reached the top, Flynt held out his arm.

“How about a walk?”

Kahreen smiled placing her hand in the crook of his arm as they wandered aimlessly in silence, enjoying each others company. Eventually they found themselves on a balcony. In the distance they could see the water, and the lights of the anchored ‘Waverunner’. The two moons were in the sky, both half full and framed by a multitude of stars.

A light breeze was blowing. Flynt turned his attention to Kahreen, watching as the breeze ruffled her dress and hair.

“You really do look fantastic,” Flynt told her.

“Thanks, I’m happy you think so,” Kahreen closed her eyes, allow the breeze to gently caress her face. “You’ll have to thank Mirran too, it was her idea. I have to admit I was hesitant about it all.”

“Well Mirran is a smart woman,” Flynt said. “And I’m glad you didn’t change your mind.”

Kahreen opened her eyes suddenly.

“Let’s go for a glide!” she said. ‘It’s been such a wonderful night. I don’t want it finish just yet.” 

“Alright,” Flynt said. “That’s an excellent idea.” He too was enjoying the night, and the company far too much to have it end. He looked at Kahreen curiously.

“Are you sure you can glide in that dress?” he asked.

Kahreen opened her wings and twisted her body from left to right, testing for any restrictions, and finding none.

“It won’t be a problem at all,” she said.

“Then what are we waiting for?” Flynt hopped onto the railing, followed by Kahreen. Together they took to the air, and were swallowed up by the night.

*****

The island’s landscape stretched out beneath them, the features of the terrain highlighted in shadowy relief by the lights of the two moons. From their vantage point, Kahreen and Flynt were mildly surprise, the island proving far larger than imagined. They decided to follow a river as it meandered inland They had no particular destination in mind, simply enjoying the flight and each others company.

The river cut through a thick forest of pine trees. As Kahreen and Flynt followed its course, the noticed the river eventually widening, forming a large lake like depression in the land, before narrowing once more, flowing away through the forest and into the distance. As if of one mind, the pair circled the lake area, alighting on the soft grassy bank.

The forest was quiet, the only source of sound the breeze rustling through the pines. Light from the two moons reflected to the waters surface, highlighting the ripples and tiny waves as the rived flowed lazily along.

Kahreen closed her eyes and took a deep breath, scenting the fragrance of the pine needles in the air.

“It’s so peaceful,” she whispered.

Flynt, standing a little behind Kahreen said nothing. He watched as the breeze gently tugged the strands of her hair that had come loose from the ribbon. He stepped forward laying a hand on her shoulder. Lowering his head he brushed his lips against the side of her neck.

Kahreen shivered at Flynt’s touch, not out of fear, but ecstasy. She felt herself yielding to his touch as his other hand encircled her waist, his tongue lightly teasing her neck. She longed to throw herself into his arms, but not yet. If it was to be, first she would have to make peace, not with Flynt, but within herself.

She gently disengaged herself from his embrace and stepped forward, staring at the water, her back to him.

“Wait Flynt,” she said. “If this is to go any further, then there is something I must tell you.”

“I’m listening,” Flynt said softly.

”How old do you think I am?” Kahreen glanced back over her shoulder at Flynt, the moon and starlight picking out her features.

‘What?” asked Flynt, confused by what she had just said. Why ask him a question like that?

“How old do you think I am?” She repeated, now turning to face him fully.

“I…” Flynt stumbled over his words, at a loss as what to say. “To tell you the truth I’ve never really thought about it.” He frowned when no number sprung to mind. He was seventy, barely a third of his natural life span. Not knowing what to say, he did the next best thing.

“Umm, fifty? Sixty?” He hazarded a guess.

“Try over three hundred.”

“Oh,” he said, a little surprised but not shocked. After living in a clan that was populated with immortals, an age like that wasn’t something new. He moved forward and gently laid his hands on Kahreen’s shoulders. “How old you are doesn’t bother me, it’s not important.”

She didn’t pull away from his touch and yet he could tell that there was more to come, more before she was completely satisfied. What was it that hurt her so much when it came to getting close to someone? What demon had caused her to pull back that night in Tozer’s Cove?

She looked up and her eyes met his. “It’s important in the fact that before you there were others,” she bit her lip and looked down. “There was one.” For a moment there was silence but Flynt didn’t interrupt. He knew there was more to come.

“When I was twenty years old a pestilence ripped through my world. Of those who survived there was one who became a part of me. I don’t know if it was love,” she sighed. “I think we needed each other, for our sanity and to know there was something stable in the universe. For a hundred and fifty years, half my life, we stayed that way and then, because of something I was and something he could be, he died.” She blinked, trying to clear away the tears that now flowed freely. Through their blurred veil she could see Flynt’s concerned face. Her emotions churned within her, was she prepared to see that look of concern turn into one of revulsion? Prepared or not the gates had been opened and there was no stopping what now flowed through.

“Flynt, he died because of me, for me. And he wasn’t the only one. There have been other who have lost everything, their families, their homes, their sanity, their lives. There’s something inside of me that won’t be satisfied until everything I love has been ruined.” She reached up and caressed his face. “And I don’t want you to be ruined, I don’t want you to be hurt.”

Flynt blinked back his own tears. This is what had held her back? The fact that she was so terrified that she would hurt him, that she would have gone her whole life keeping him at an arms distance away from her, bearing the pain that it would have caused? His right hand left her shoulder and moved to her face, caressing it and tenderly wiping away her tears.

“Kahreen, there’s nothing you could do that would hurt me. Good or bad we take what life has to give us. And believe me the only thing I see in you is good. I see your happiness and mine. We’ve both had more than our fair share of heartache. We both need healing and that is what I see here, it’s what I feel here,” he said, taking her hand in his and moving it over his heart.

A soft sigh escaped her lips as she laid her other hand over his. “And knowing what you know, walking into this with your eyes wide open, you still want me?”

“With all my heart,” he said smiling.

She returned his smiled with one that seemed to light up the air around them with its brilliance. “Then you’re an idiot,” she said, reaching up and sealing his mouth with hers in a kiss.

With that kiss, the final barriers that stood between shattered, irrevocably and forever. Flynt began to kiss Kahreen's neck, his hands running along her back, sending tingling sensations along her spine. Kahreen's heart was pounding as she ran her fingers along his muscled torso. His scent filled her nostrils as she felt him lean forward, slowly laying her on the ground. Her body was afire as she returned his kisses, their hands exploring each others bodies. Flynt began to loosen Kahreen's dress.

"Flynt..." Kahreen whispered between kisses.

"Hmmm..."

Kahreen brought a finger up to his lips. "Shouldn't we find somewhere a little more...private?"

Flynt looked at her curiously. "Huh? Why?"

Kahreen grinned and pointed towards the water. Standing there was a small herd of deer, watching the pair curiously. Flynt rolled his eyes and began to chuckle.

"Out in the middle of nowhere and still no privacy," he got to his feet, offering his hand graciously to Kahreen. "Mi Lady?"

Smiling, Kahreen accepted his assistance. "Why thank you." She suddenly jumped up and nipped Flynt playfully on the neck. "You want me? You'll have to catch me!" She shouted before darting off.

"Hey!" Flynt took off in pursuit, leaving some very bemused deer watching as the pair disappeared into the night.

*****

Kahreen darted amongst the trees, her body warm with the rush of happiness and excitement, still tingling form Flynt's earlier touch. She cast a glance behind her. Flynt was quickly gaining on her. Grinning she looked ahead of her. The forest had thinned a little revealing an ancient structure, an old building neither of them had seen from the air. Four, low, crumbling brownish walls stood out in the moonlight. A large tree grew from inside the ruin, its canopy serving as a roof, the original roof having long since broken away. Kahreen headed towards the building and finding a gap in walls halted briefly, looking back at Flynt before ducking inside. The moonlight filtered through the tree branches, casting a surreal appearance to the surroundings.

Flynt was in the ruins moments later catching Kahreen and sweeping her up in his embrace. He smiled as he leant forward and kissed her, his hand working at the knot of material behind her neck. The silk parted and fell away exposing her breasts. Flynt gently cupped her breast in his hand, massaging it as their kisses grew more passionate. Kahreen moaned and pushed herself closer to him, fingers working at the leather lacing of his vest.

“I told you if you ever caught me,” she whispered. ”It would be something to remember.”

*****

*6*

The morning found the lovers asleep in each others arms. The sounds of birds chirping and twittering in the tree above roused Flynt. He squinted in the early morning daylight. Kahreen was snuggled up against his shoulder. She looked so lovely, so at peace. He smiled and softly stroked her face. She stirred slightly and opened her eyes. She returned Flynt's smile.

"Morning already?"

He nodded. "And never a finer morning have I seen. I think it has a lot to do with the company."

Kahreen playfully poked him. "You flatterer. Still..." she reached up and kissed him. "You'll get no objections from me."

Flynt embraced her, nuzzling Kahreen's hair and savoring her scent. For long moments they lay together, enjoying the feeling of their bodies against each other.

Kahreen sat up smiling, then looked past Flynt, a curious expression on her face.

"Take a look at that," she said. Flynt followed her gaze. Behind him on the far wall, sunlight streamed through a small unbroken stained glass window.

"What do you suppose it is?" Flynt asked as he made out the images on the glass. Kahreen had already walked over for a closer inspection. Flynt followed suit.

"I wonder what it means?" Kahreen asked herself as the pair examined the patterned window. It seemed to represent a battle of sorts. Three figures were clearly visible. One was a humanoid, but it was the other two images that drew their attention. There was no mistaking the gargoyle-like appearance represented. One seemed to be fighting the humanoid while the other was crouched a little distance away, as if protecting something. The background was a swirl of colors and indistinct shapes.

"This place is pretty old," Flynt said. "It could be something from one of the old Guardian legends.”

The scene made Kahreen uncomfortable. She gave the window a final glance before turning to Flynt. "Yeah, I suppose so." She began to pick up their clothing, shed in wild abandon the night before.

“Well, I guess we should head back to the villa,” Kahreen said. “Glyndwr did say he’d throw some light on a few mysteries for us today.”

“We probably should,” Flynt agreed. He approached Kahreen, putting his arms around her waist from behind and kissing her shoulder. “I don’t think a half hour or so will make a difference, do you?”

Kahreen sighed as Flynt’s hands explored her body.

“No,” she moaned.” I don’t think it will.”

"I love you," Flynt said softly. "Now and always. My mate in love and in life"

‘My mate’ The words sent a thrill through Kahreen’s mind. That’s what they were now, mates, bonded together as one, now and forever.

"As I love you," Kahreen whispered. "My mate."

*****

Kahreen and Flynt arrived at the villa just in time for ‘Waverunner’s’ departure. Knowing looks and hidden smiles were passed among the companions. Judging by the body language and actions displayed by Flynt and Kahreen, the relationship between the pair had taken a great leap forward.

The companions bid farewell and good fortune to the captain and crew and watched from the shoreline as the ship made its way out to sea. After a few minutes the air around ‘Waverunner’ shimmered and the ship disappeared from view as it passed through the islands magical barrier.

“I wager that won’t be the last ship I see pass through the barrier,” Glyndwr said. “Not until the evil that plagues Kithan is finally destroyed. Sadly for every ship I can help, another ten are lost.”

“We’re not the first?” Flynt asked.

Glyndwr shook his head. “I helped two other vessels before yours. Refugees fleeing the devastation wrought upon them by the invaders.”

“Aren’t you concerned the dragons will find your home?” Lias asked as the companions started up the path to the villa.

“Not at all,“ Glyndwr replied. “An incantation is needed to pass through from the outside. Without it, the barrier is impenetrable. It subtly deflects any outside forces away from it.”

Kahreen listened with interest to the mages words.

Glyndwr stopped walking and looked at each companion in turn. “I know you still have many questions. Meet me in the library in an hours time.” His eyes rested on Kahreen and Flynt. “We shall talk then.”

*****

Though Glyndwr’s library was not an overly large room, every available space seemed to be filled with books, scrolls and papers of every description. The only other furniture apart from the shelves was a large desk and chair in the center of the room, and even these were covered in reading material.

All the companions were present, with the exception of Galen and Glyndwr. Kahreen, dressed once again in her blue tunic, watched as Flynt made his way slowly around the room. He scanned the shelves, occasionally removing a book, briefly looking at before putting it back. Kahreen smiled to herself as her thoughts returned to the previous night’s intimacy, and more recently, the private moment they had shared upstairs as she changed clothes. Flynt had awakened a desire in her; deep, intense feelings long since thought dead. She loved him, totally and unconditionally and he returned her love just as deeply.

Flynt removed a book from the shelf and looked at the leather bound cover. Engraved on the leather were three standing stones, and behind them the shoreline of an ocean.

“A History of Kithan,” he read aloud. “By Simon of Schama.” He flipped through several pages, before returning the book to the shelf. “I haven’t seen so many books in one place at one time.”

“There is a lifetime of learning within these walls,” Glyndwr entered the library, accompanied by Galen. “Each generation adds a little more to this place. Fifteen years ago, I took responsibility as the Keeper of the Archives from my mentor, as he took it from the one before him. And in time, I will choose one to succeed me. It has been that way for generations.”

Glyndwr walked over to the desk. “Galen and I have been friends for many years. We were still young men when he first came to me with his theories regarding the prophecy. I must admit, I was skeptical of his ideas. But over the years more and more evidence came to light and I started to believe that Galen’s theories were indeed correct. Galen decided to call a Wizard’s Conclave.”

“Galen told us this Conclave rejected his ideas,” Kahreen said.

Glyndwr nodded and looked towards Galen, who took up the story.

“You need to realize,” Galen said, “A conclave is called only in times of dire threat. I believed this to be the case, unfortunately my fellow mages did not. They were too comfortable, too secure. The lands were at peace and there had been no trouble for decades. To them the prophecy was a legend, bedtime stories for children. Glyndwr was the only one who supported me that day. But our arguments fell on deaf ears.”

“Your fellow mages were pretty damn foolish not to take heed of your warnings,” Flynt said.

“It doesn’t matter who was right or wrong back then,” Kahreen said. “We need to deal with the here and now.”

“And so we shall,” Glyndwr walked over to a cabinet containing a number of scroll cases. “I said earlier each generation adds a little to this place,” he selected a scroll case, the cylinder shiny and metallic. Not a blemish marked its surface. “ Recently I discovered this. It will be my legacy.”

Glyndwr looked at Kahreen and Flynt. “The words of the last Guardian to walk the face of Kithan, ten thousand years ago.”

Glyndwr removed the scroll from its case and gently set it upon the table. All eyes were fixed on the parchment as he began to read it out aloud.

*****

*7*

“My name is of no consequence. I am the sole survivor of my race, the Dionacht and this is my tale. I write these words for those yet to come for I have been chosen, or perhaps cursed, to have seen the future, and the darkness that will threaten Kithan once again.

Our war with the Aillidh, know as Angels in the common tongue, lasted for longer than anyone can remember. Many races, both friend and foe, perished in the bloody conflicts. Hill Dwarves, Minotaurs and Gryphons are no more. The younger races of Elves and Humans hover on the brink of extinction. The land is scarred and ravaged by the carnage it has seen.

*****

Silence reigned in the library for several heartbeats as Glyndwr finished reading the scroll.

“Amazing,” Galen finally whispered. ‘How long ago did you find this?”

“A little over two weeks ago,” Glyndwr said. “There is a ruined building in the centre of the island.”

‘We’ve seen it,” Flynt said. “Last night, we were there.” He noted expressions of the others. A light smile here, a nod there. He began to flush. “What I mean is, umm, well we just saw the place that’s all.”

“So know we know what the Angels have planned,” Lias looked at the scroll once again. “This Crucible of Damnation. The only thing is we don’t know if they have it yet, of if they don’t, where it is located. We need to find this thing and destroy it.”

“Chances are this Asgaroth place doesn’t exist anymore,” Kahreen mused. “If the landscape has changed as much as the scroll says, it’d be like looking for a needle in a haystack.”

“Two stone spires guard the entrance,” Unknown to the others, Amethyst had moved across the room, standing in front of a map of Kithan. Her voice sounded far away and dreamlike. Her hand traced a line across the map. “In the land of snow and ice, seek the mount with the twin spires.”

“Amethyst?” Lias approached his sister cautiously.

“Twin spires,” Amethyst whispered once again.

“Amethyst?” Lias stood next to her. Amethyst looked at him, and blinked, as if seeing him for the first time.

“Lias?” Amethyst looked around, confused. Her hand still rested on the map, in the area where a small mountain range branched from the Ice Storm Peaks. She looked at the map, not remembering approaching it. “What happened?”

“You were talking about twin spires,” Lias replied. “Seek the twin spires in the land of snow and ice.”

Amethyst removed her hand from the map. “I.. I remember a strange sensation. It was not a vision, more like a presence, someone speaking through me.” She shook her head. “It has passed now. I am fine.”

“Are you sure?”

Amethyst smiled at her brother. “Yes I am sure.”

“Twin spires eh?” Glyndwr approached, looking at the area of the map Amethyst had indicated. “Very curious,” He looked at the bookshelves, then to the companions. “Use the knowledge in the archives the scroll said. Shall we get started?”