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"GULBRANDR- God's Sword"


Chapter 1
Taken

By Roxanna Andrews

Nyla looked down at the squirming bundle in her arms. A tiny hand came up and waved as if saying hello. Nyla touched the hand and tiny fingers wrapped around her own. She looked into the eyes of her son and felt a lump begin to swell in her throat. She looked quickly away and pulled her finger from the tiny hand. She quickened her pace, bending to avoid a branch, then sat on a rock in the clearing to wait.

Try as she might she couldn't seem to keep her eyes from her son. He was so small, so perfect. His violet eyes so like her own, widened as she looked at him and a smile curved his soft pink mouth. The baby cooed and waved his hands in the air, excited by the attention of his mother. She pushed the white curls back from his smooth forehead. She marveled that his hair should be so white when her own was so black.

A sound at the edge of the clearing startled her and a soft glow of light appeared. She stood and walked forward, shaking, her mouth so dry she knew she wouldn't be able to speak.

A tall figure stepped from the light and it followed him as he walked towards her. He was radiant white from  his head to the heel of his soft kid boots. He was one of the most beautiful things Nyla had ever seen. He watched her, his piercing ice blue eyes never left her face. In his gloved hand, he held a long staff of iron that glowed with a white light. He stopped several paces from her and leaned on his staff.

"Nyla," he said with a hint of a smile. Nyla was surprised by the softness of his voice. The welcoming sound of it and his half smile put her at ease. "I am glad you came of your own accord," he said tilting his head slightly. His eyes fell on the blanketed bundle she held in her arms.

His words made her stiffen a bit. "I am no fool," she said in a hoarse wisper.

He smiled at this and put out his hands to take the child. Nyla looked at her son one last time and placed a kiss on his tiny forehead. Reluctant to hand him over to a stranger she held him a moment longer but knew she had no choice. She placed the baby in the outstretched hands.The baby cooed and laughed, delighted by the brilliant white stranger. Nyla's heart twisted. It was the first time she had heard him laugh.

The figure retreated to the edge of the clearing, "His name is Joshua!" she called after him, her voice strong this time.

The man stopped and said without turning, "That will be changed. It is not a Wahaland name." He crossed the clearing, cast one last look at Nyla and the light went dark.

Retreating to the rock, Nyla sat heavily upon it, her knees wanting to buckle. Tears slowly made their way down her cheeks. She impatiently brushed them aside. Don't give in, you'll never stop.

Four glowing eyes watched her from the shadows and two dogs appeared on either side of her, one placing a paw on her knee.

"I'm alright, boy," she said, rubbing the top of his head. "Let us go home, Wolf."

Snow was starting to fall and the temperature was dropping rapidly. Nyla pulled her coat around her. She could feel the cold seeping into her bones. It matched the coldness of her heart. She stood and the dogs fell into step beside her one on each side, their keen eyes scanning the tree groves for any signs of danger.

Nyla pushed open the door to her cottage and the dogs went to sit by the fire. She set a pot of stew over the smoldering embers to warm. The rich aroma of seasoned deer meat and vegetables filled the cottage, but Nyla had no appetite, the stew turning to sawdust in her mouth. She stared into the fire and thought, How do I go on?


Chapter 2
The Beginning

By Roxanna Andrews

Wahaland was where she was born.

A place surround by mountains and hard to find. Not many outside the clan knew where it was except the traders who came twice a year to trade their goods for much need supplies, and they never came into the village. When someone did stumbled upon it; they were amazed by what they saw. They would describe it as a land of giants, some called them the shining giants.

"The people all have white hair and it shines with its own light. The men are at least eight feet tall, all muscle. They're like mountains...." And so the stories went. There was much folklore surrounding Wahaland.

The men were not eight feet tall but some did manage to make it to seven. Their hair didn't have its own light, but reflected the sun. They were a well muscled, big people, as they were descendants of Norsemen, the Vikings, the conquerors

Every now and again a 'Dark One' was born to the clan of shining giants, a baby with dark hair and smaller then the big robust Wahaland babies. The family that housed such a one was often ostracized from the rest of the village. The child was thought to bring bad luck. Nyla was such a child.

Her father was one of the elders, a village leader and member of the village council. His having a dark child had shaken the confidence of the people in his right to continue to lead. Didn't this birth of a Dark One mean he had been cursed? Other members of the council spoke for him and the clan grudgingly let him keep his position.

As was the custom, Nyla was sent outside the village to live with a caregiver, one who looked after the dark ones. They were chosen by casting lots, the caregiver no longer allowed in the village, their needs being met by the family of the child they cared for.

Nyla's childhood could have been miserable and lonely if not for her caretaker, who was devoted to her. Most resented having to care for such a child, but Nyla's caregiver came to love the little dark haired girl.

Nyla had twin brothers, Drake and Erik, eight years her senior. They were good to the caregiver and made sure she was good to Nyla. The twins cared nothing for the superstitions of the village people, and as Nyla grew they became instructor and friend, secretly teaching her to use a bow and arrow and a sword like every good Wahaland warrior. She was an excellent student and became lethal with a sword and could kill a deer at sixty yards with bow and arrow.

As Nyla grew older her hair became raven black and her smoky blue eyes turned violet. She would have been considered beautiful in most cultures, but not in Wahaland.

When Nyla reached the age of seventeen, her father took her far beyond her village borders and brought her to a cottage her brothers built for her. The council was concerned that since she was now of an age to marry, the young men of the clan could be ensnared by her. Nyla's father was told she would have to be moved far from the village.

Her brothers raged over the decision and had many heated arguments about it with their father. Hulking whited haired giants, the twins rarely lost an argument.

"You cannot send her away!" But their father always had the final word.

The brothers made sure the cottage was comfortable and well built. They traded for the goods to build it and located it on the outskirts of a small village. The brothers wanted her to have access to people should a need arise.

"The cottage is well built and close to the village so you will have a place to get supplies," Drake told Nyla.

"Also, men who can aid you should you need it," Erik said.

Nyal scoffed at this, "I need no man."

Nyla had never known fear and would never admit that her first night alone found her awake most of the night, sword close at hand. She would not have spent the night so if she had known her two brothers took turns guarding the cottage all night just as they had when she had been put out of the village as a child. She eventually grew used to being on her own, and her brothers still checked on her often.

Nyla was self reliant and independent. She'd planted a vegetable garden and hunted for her own meat so rarely needed to go into the village. She was a curiosity to the villagers and her beauty attracted the men. But her height and confident demeanor made her intimidating, and none pursued her.

One day her brothers appeared at her door with two Siberian Huskies. "Happy day of your birth," they said and handed her the pups. They had been part of a payment for a boat the brothers had built. Dogs were greatly valued by the Wahalands and the brothers thought the pups would make good companions for their sister.

Nyla was overjoyed and named them Arrow and Wolf. Her brothers helped her train them to be fearsome guard dogs. She in turn, spoiled them by giving them the best cuts of meat from whatever she had hunted, much to her brothers' disapproval.

"You are spoiling them. They will get fat. Dogs need to be lean and tough," they chided.

Arrow and Wolf grew to be excellent guard dogs, another reason the men stayed away, and good companions. They did not get fat, but instead grew strong and  larger than what was normal for their breed. They were rarely far from Nyla's side.

One afternoon Nyla heard the dogs barking and it wasn't the bark of seeing a rabbit, it was urgent. When Nyla went to check on them, she found the source of their irritation standing in front of her cottage.

When she went out to confront the man, he pulled back his hood and his stark white hair and great height gave him away as a Wahalander.

He looked familiar and Nyla realized he had visited the cottage a few times with her brothers. She could not imagine why he was there alone. Fear ran down her spine as she thought he brought bad news of her brothers.

"Good morn, Dak. What brings you here so early?" She asked with a dry mouth, rubbing her arms against the cold. It had snowed all night and there was a least six inches on the ground.

"I come to bring you news. Your brothers are off to Quest. They must be gone six months. I agreed to keep watch over you until they return."


Chapter 3
The Plan

By Roxanna Andrews

Nyla, greatly relieved to hear her brothers were well, invited Dak in.

"Come in and warm yourself."

The dogs were not happy that a stranger had entered their home. They walked slowing towards Dak, growling, lips pulled back showing long pointed teeth.

"Arrow! Wolf! Go sit by the fire," Nyla commanded.

The dogs dropped their heads in submission, but only for a moment, they went to lay by the fire, but their eyes never left Dak.

"They have grown much since I saw them last," Dak commented. He warmed his hands by the fire and watched the dogs as they watched him.

"They are good watch dogs, and hunters," answered Nyla.

"I'm sure," Dak replied with a grin.

"I was just warming some venison stew I made. Sit and have some."

As Nyla set about dishing up the stew, she could feel Dak watching her and she suddenly felt ackward. Did he think me ugly with my black hair and violet eyes, she wondered.

She dished up a large bowl of stew for Dak and a smaller portion for herself. Her appetite, which had been robust a few moments ago, had deserted her, and she found it hard to swallow.

She had never been alone with a man and rarely had to make conversation. Her brothers were her only visitors and they never stopped talking.

She studied Dak as he ate. He had good features and a strong square jaw. His eyes were a striking deep blue, fringed with long tawny, whited tipped lashes. His white hair fell just to his shoulders and he kept part of it pull back and tied with a leather thong. As with all Wahaland men, he was unusally tall and well muscled. She realized he had looked up and caught her studying him. She quickly averted her gaze.

"So the council finally ordered my brothers to quest. I thought perhaps they would forgo it," she said as she moved her food around her bowl.

The Quest was a test of abilities. It was a series of tasks to prove a man worthy of being a warrior.

"No one forgos the quest. The council would never allow it." Dak talked between spoonfuls of stew. "It is how they know who the best warriors are. They were just allowed a delay. They gave other reasons to the council, but they delayed because of you, they didn't want you on your own."

Nyla smiled at this. Her brothers had always been so unselfish when it came to her. She was grateful for them.

"And they only have to go six months and not the full twelve. I have no worries for them. No one can best them at the sword or bow, and they are fearless. They are already proven warriors. That is why they are not requried to stay the full time, the council knows they are worthy,"  Dak said this as he scraped the last of the stew from his bowl.

Usually only single men participated in the Quest but because of the long delay, the brother were already wed with children to care for. 

"Your brothers tell me you are very skilled with the sword and bow."

"My brothers trained me well."

"I shall have to test you one day." He smiled, and finished his second of helping of stew Nyla had dished up. 

Dak stayed a while longer and as he readied to leave, Nyla packed him some food and gave him an extra blanket against the cold.

"Thank you Nyla. The food and blanket will be welcomed if I am forced to shelter for the night. I'll be back to check on you in some days." She watched as he mounted his great, black stallion. She had never seen such a horse.

"Do you ride?" he asked.

"Yes, my brothers taught me that as well. But I have never seen such an animal," she nodded towards the stallion.

Dak leaned down and patted the horse's neck. "He is a worriors steed." He smiled, and saluted Nyla as he disappeared from view. The dogs barked their farewell, happy to see the stranger gone.

Dak felt himself drawn to the dark haired girl. He had since he first laid eyes on her. But he knew the dangers of associating with a Dark One. He could lose his good standing in the village, but far worse, his family might disown him.  

Nyla felt drawn to Dak as well. It was natural that she should, he being the only man she had spent time with besides her brothers. He was much like her brothers. with an easy going nature, and a sense of humor she enjoyed. She too knew the risk Dak took in being with her. She kept her mind from thinking beyond a friendship.

Daks visits increased as he found Nyla to be a good companion. They had many spirited conversations, and she could hold her own aginst him with a sword, and was better than he with a bow. She loved to ride, so when weather premitted, they rode through the woods and around the township. Now and then they would race, Dak always the winner. Nyla's gelding no match for his more powerful stallion. They rode often in compaionable silence, not needing to talk, enjoying each other company.

On one of his visits Dak challenged Nyla. Fresh meat was need so they would hunt and which ever one of them brought down the biggest buck, they would get a new pair of boots from the loser. He knew Nyla might well win, she being a skilled hunter. She could get within ten feet of her prey, she was soundless, and knew to stay up wind. But he was determined to best her.

After an hour of hunting, Dak heard a familiar war whoop. He sighed knowing Nyla had brought down her prey. He walked towards the sound and  there she stood, foot on the haunches of a ten point buck, Wolf and Arrow flanking her.

"Why do I hunt with you? You do great harm to my manhood. I won't best you, I forfeit. How you do it with these noisy hounds with you, I cannot fathom."

"They know how to be very quiet." The dogs panted, and nodded as if they understood.

Dak returned to the cottage to get his horse to haul the deer. He butchered the buck, being careful with the hide which would be made into new boots for Nyla. Together they salted the meat, putting aside some for their dinner and carried the rest down to the celler, some packed with snow to eat that week and the rest hung to dry.

Dak sat across from Nyla at the table as they enjoy the tasty venison. "This tastes better than is usual for some reason," Nyla said with eyebrows raised and a smile.

Dak allowed a corner of his mouth to turn up. "I do not find your attempt at humor amusing."

Nyla laughed, and Dak watching her, thought for the millionth time how beautiful she was. He knew in his heart he loved her and had since the first day he had seen her as a youth.

He had been making plans in his mind of how they could be together and he not lose his birthright. As the eldest of four sons, he would get the greatest portion of his father's holdings. But lately he had begun to think nothing really mattered but Nyla.

Dak laid his hand on Nyla's. "Be my wife. I have loved you since I first saw you. You are worth twenty of any woman I know."

Nyla stared wide eyed at Dak. Her heart beat so hard and loud she could hear it in her ears and was sure Dak could hear it too.

"Dak, think. You don't know what you are saying. What of your family?" Nyla shook as she spoke. Though she had longed to hear them, she also knew what his words could mean.

"I have thought long. We can be wed, but no one need know. I would be with the clan for some days; then here for some days. It is not the best for you, I know, but it would be just for a time.  I am a hunter for the village. I am often gone away for days. No one will notice my absences."

"My brothers will find out. They come often."

"Yes, I know. We will have to tell them, but they will keep silent. They will be for us." Dak's eyes pleaded for her to say yes.

Dak's words were persuasive and though Nyla knew they had not thought it through as well as they should, she agreed.


Chapter 4
The Ties That Bind

By Roxanna Andrews

Nyla stood before Dak in her wedding finery. Her buckskin dress, so light in color it was almost white, had been worked many weeks until was soft as butter. The loose sleeves came to her wrists, and a wide leather belt cinched her tiny waist. The narrow skirt fell almost to the tops of her buckskin boots made from the same hide. It had been a gift from Dak.

Her freshly washed hair had been braided into a long ponytail. Woven with tiny pink wild roses and yellow corn flowers, it fell over one shoulder. Her cheeks and eyes were bright and shown with excitement. Dak had never seen her more beautiful.

Dak was resplendent in his light buckskin and rabbit fur vest. His stark white hair pulled back and fastened with a leather thong, exposing his fine chiseled features and deep blue eyes.

Nyla's brothers stood beside Dak and the tiny rector, who would perform the wedding ceremony. His equally tiny wife stood beside Nyla. The ceremony wouldn't be recognized by the Wahalands, but the proper words were said before God and that's all that mattered. It had been a perfect spring day.

After they wed, Dak came every three days. He would come early, while it was still dark. He often brought a gift, a rabbit fur blanket, wild flowers, once a necklace made from the opal that was mined from the mountains that surrounded Wahaland. Dak had made it himself and once placed around her neck, she never took it off.

He would slip into bed beside her on those early mornings. She could feel the cold he brought with him, than the warmth from his body as he held her.

With in a month Nyla was with child. Dak found it difficult to keep his excitement to himself when away from Nyla. His father and mother had begun to badger him about taking a wife, so it was difficult to keep to himself that he already had one.

"There are many fine daughters to choose from. You need to wed and start a family. You are getting of an age when it will soon be difficult to find a good wife. Suitable matches are being taken by the younger men in the village. You mustn't wait much longer." His father admonished him, a concerned look in his eyes.

Having a large family was paramount to the survival of the clan. Too many children didn't live to see their first birthdays, and having a large family insured there would be descendants and that the clan would go on. The sooner one started a family the better. Workers were always needed, especially sons to do the hunting, and felling of trees for animal pens and dwellings. Mining opal, and building boats brought in traders with needed supplies and niceties.

Sons were highly valued, but daughters were a prize, and much could be gained as men bartered for the privilege to wed.

Dak's father had begun to worry that his eldest son was seeing a daughter of a tradesman. He was gone too often. He hated the thought of his son bringing an outsider into the clan. They brought little in the way of a useful goods from their fathers, and her children would be weak. She wouldn't be used to the difficult life of a Wahaland women. No, it would never do for a son of his to bring in an outsider.

Dak was also worried. Two of his younger brothers had wed already and had children, more each year. This caused his parents to put even more pressure on him. He knew all in the village thought it strange he hadn't wed yet.

He would have to leave the village for good one day he knew, and once their child was born, he'd never be able to leave Nyla again.

One evening when he had rejoined the clan, his father and brothers began badgering him insistently about taking a wife.

"It is unseemly that my eldest son hasn't wed as yet, your younger brother are well ahead of you. The village people talk and wonder, the elders and council talk and ask me often why you haven't wed!"

"It is not their concern what I do or don't do."

"It is the councils concern. The survival of our people is their concern!"

His brothers began where his father left off, each telling him it was his duty to have a family for the sake of the clan. He knew they were not going to give up until he agreed to take a wife.

"I am wed already!" Now it was out and he was glad. He had grown weary of the badgering and constant scrutiny of his life.

Stunned silence followed for several minutes, his father stared, bewildered.

"What do you mean you are wed already? Without my blessing? Of what house is she?"

"She is of the house of Caltic."

"The house of Caltic has no daughters!" Dak watched as awareness dawn on his father. "Caltic has but one daughter banished from this village. Do not tell me it is she and you have brought this curse into our house."

"She is not cursed.' Dak said evenly, "She alone is worth more then twenty women together." Dak struggled to keep his temper.

"No, this I will not allow. You must end it at once. No one need know of this. You can still wed a daughter of the clan." His father stood over him, hands clinched at his side, sweat appearing on his upper lip.

Dak stood and met his father eye to eye.

"That I will never do. She is with child, due to be born with in the spring."

His fathers eyes widened, his fist clinched tighter. "You will leave this house."

Dak turned to leave, his father's voice following him. "If you leave, you must never return. You will lose everything."

Dak turned to face his father. "I lose nothing."

He walked out into the blackness and whistled for his horse. The huge, black stallion come, barely discernible against the dark of night. He nickered and dropped his head. Dak grabbed a hand full of mane and pulled himself onto the horse's broad back. He gave a slight kick and the horse broke into a trot. Another kick and the magnificent stallion began to run, he knew the way well.

"Run," said Dak, "Run home to Nyla."


Chapter 5
A Child Is Born

By Roxanna Andrews

The *behemoth slept, its huge wings spread to cover its head and nest. The monster stirred, its back legs moved as if to run, then went still. It breathed heavily, hissing and wheezing as it slumbered on. Beneath its huge, black scaled body lay a treasure. A clutch of five eggs, each the size of a grown man's head. It would still be many weeks before the precious cargo they carried would emerge wide eyed, all claws and teeth into the world.
*******************

Nyla sat by the fire, Wolf and Arrow on either side, and worked a rabbits fur blanket for the baby. She kept the cottage door open so she could see when Dak arrived. He was two days past his usual time. Worry gnawed at her stomach large with child. She told herself a hunting trip had delayed him. Any moment she would see him ride up on his huge, black stallion.

The dogs' ears perked up and they raised their heads. She heard horses' hooves and felt relief. He had arrived. She struggled to her feet and walk outside to meet him, the dogs jumping up to follow her. After a moment, her brothers came into view and the look on their faces told her they had grave news.

They dismounted and walked toward Nyla. They had trouble holding her gaze, and she feared the worst.

"Nyla, let us go into the cottage."

They walked on either side of her, holding her elbows. She suddenly felt weak, she hadn't eaten much the last two days, worry stealing her appetite. Drake pulled out the bench beside the table for her to sit down and sat beside her. Erik pull up the chair from beside the fire.

"Nyla," said Erik as he took her hand. "We have sad news. Dak is dead."

Nyla buried her face in her hands. Didn't she feel his presence leave her two days ago. A light inside her had gone out.

"What happened?" she asked through tears. They streamed freely down her cheeks, dripping on the table below. The dogs came to sit beside her, Arrow placing a paw on her knee.

"We believe a bear attacked him. His horse too, the stallion lived but has huge gashes on his hindquarters and back legs. We will bring him to you when he is fully healed." Drake swallowed hard and plunged on. "The bear had to be huge, maybe one of the mountain bears. Some of the men say they have seen some that stand twelve feet. It is rare for them to come down to the valley, but they have been known to do so." Drake paused, he had been talking in a rush, babbling on to keep Nyla from asking any questions.

He didn't want to go into detail about the cause of Dak's death. He could hardly think of it, let alone speak of it.

Dak had been found by a hunting party not too far from the valley. He lay in a wooded area, torn to pieces. His face and limbs covered in gashes, his chest ripped open and his heart gone. A very strange thing. He had never known a wild animal to take a man's heart. It was a horrible sight. Drake hoped he had died long before his heart was taken.

"We will take care of you Nyla," Erik assure her. "We have arranged for a caregiver, she is a midwife. Anne will stay as long as you need her. I'll get her now, she waits outside."

Dak was buried by the cottage, none of his family attended the burial. Nyla went through the next few weeks in a fog. She didn't sleep or she slept all day.

Why hadn't she gone to look for Dak when she sensed his need? She could feel something amiss, she should have tried to find him. She didn't know how to live without the person who had become her best friend, her confidant, her whole life. Life seemed empty and pointless. Her grief a physical ache. A pain she couldn't assuage.

She had made her brothers give her the full details of Dak's death, and she had nightmares of him being attached by a horrible beast. She tried to help him, but she could not run. Her feet rooted to the ground unable to move, her sword too heavy to lift and her quiver empty. She could do nothing to stop the hideous black beast and save her beloved Dak. She would wake with a cry, covered in sweat.

She had no wish to go on.

She didn't eat and lost so much weight Anna, her midwife, grew gravely concerned.

"Nyla you must eat for the baby," she implored the grieving young widow.

"I am trying Anna," she assured her, but Anna still worried.

"You must eat to have strength to have the baby. You could die at the birthing if you do not."

Nyla knew Anna spoke the truth, and she forced down some stew each day.

One mid-day there was a knock at her door and she opened it to find the tiny rector, who had married she and Dak, and his wife. They brought bread and a savory rabbit stew, their arms full of other provision the townspeople had given them for her.

Nyla, greatly touched that the townspeople would think of her and show this kindness, invited the rector and his wife to sup with her. Anna dished up the stew and warmed the bread, and as they ate the rector, who was called Father Bart, spoke of Dak.

"He was a good man and I'm heartily sorry for his death. He often stop by the chapel and always left coins in the coffers."

Nyla had never heard that he stopped often to talk with the rector.

"He believed in God and we had many rousing talks about it. He asked me to look after you when he was not here. I often walked by your cottage just to see how you were faring."

"You should have come inside. I would have welcomed you."

"You are looking so thin, Nyla," said the tiny wife named Fiona. "You are not eating?"

"She is not eating," said Anne. "I am beside myself with worry."

The rector took Nyla's hand. "Dak would not want you to grieve so. It is natural, but you have a child to think of. You must remember that a part of Dak lives on inside you."

After Father Bart and Fiona had departed, Nyla thought about all he had said. She had no idea Dak had such convictions about God. Why hadn't he told her about it? Did he fear she would reject such talk? She had much to ponder. The rector had given Nyla hope and determination. A part of Dak lived on inside her and she would do all she could to ensure this baby thrived.

She began to eat. She gained weight and lost the hollow look around her eyes, much to Anna's relief.

She gained strength and began to concentrate on her child. If a son, she would teach him how to be a Wahaland warrior, to hunt with bow and fight with a sword. But he would never really be a Wahalander. It would be better if she had a girl, even then... She turned away from such thoughts and busied herself making clothes and wraps from Dak's clothing. Her baby would start life with it's father's scent.

The days turned warm, it was late into spring and Nyla's garden was growing well. Wild flower seeds had found their way into the soil that surround her crops and they were in full bloom. It was a lovely sight. While pulling weeds and removing stones from the garden bed Nyla felt the first labor pains. She bent forward and waited for it to pass.

Anna, working beside her put an arm around Nyla. "It has begun," she said as she helped Nyla into the cottage.

She got Nyla settled in bed, then started a fire. She ran to draw fresh water from the nearby spring. She would put a hanging pot over the fire to warm the water when the time was right.

As the hours wore on the pains became stronger and more frequent. Nyla soaked in sweat, gripped the bed covering as the pains tore at her body.

"Why won't it come?" she cried.

"Patience girl, it will come when it should. This is normal. It won't be long now." She checked Nyla. "I see the top of his head. Push girl!"

Three hard pushes and her son was born.

"A boy! See, he was ready to come into this world. It is over now, rest."

"Let me see him."

Anna raised the squalling baby, red faced, fists batting the air.

"What will he be called?" she asked.

"Joshua, Joshua Dak," answered Nyla. Dak had chosen the name many months ago. He said he had heard it once and though not a Wahaland name, he liked it. It was a warrior's name.

"He is a find boy. I will clean him, then give him to you."

Anna tested the water to make sure it wasn't too hot, then used a soft buckskin cloth to clean the baby. She reached into her midwife's bag for bear grease to rub on his little body to keep his body heat in and his skin soft. She wrapped him in a rabbit fur blanket and handed Joshua to Nyla.

As she gazed into the face of her newborn son, Nyla saw Dak, his features so like his father. He had ceased his crying and grown still as she held him. The baby opened his eyes and she was startled to see violet eyes looking back at her beneath long tawny lashes, her eyes. He was so beautiful and her love for him made her ache. She held him close and they both slept, exhausted from their labor.

                                                           ******************************************************************************

The huge black dragon felt a stirring at her belly. Her eggs were hatching. One by one tiny replicas of herself emerged from broken shells. Three males and a female. One egg lay unbroken. It moved but no shell tooth emerged to show the life inside was trying to get out.

The mother smelled and moved the egg with her nose. It fell on its side and rolled out of the nest to the cave floor. It moved, then a tiny claw could be seen as a large crack appeared in the shell. The mother put her head close to the egg and watched eagerly.

Finally a head emerged, much smaller then the rest of her brood, and not the same in color. A blue head with bright green eyes starred back at the startled mother. She reared back and roared. She brought her clawed foot down and pushed the offending creature from the cave.

It cried pitifully on the ledge below, but the mother paid it no heed. She tended to her brood, cleaning off egg shell and watched as they caught lizards and bugs to snack on. Her red eyes glowed.

Author Notes *Dragon


Chapter 6
Hamish

By Roxanna Andrews

Nyla and the baby grew stronger, and Anna stayed on. She hated to leave Nyla on her own and it was a nice rest for her, away from the constant demands of being a midwife.

Joshua seemed to grow each day and grew more like his father, not just in appearence but in temperament as well. He had an intelligence behind his violet eyes and would hold eye contact as you spoke to him, as if he were listening intently and understood every word.

"I feel he can see right into my thoughts before I say the words," Anna would say, "he will be a leader one day I think."

Nyla felt the same. Her child had an intelligence that defied his young age, while still being a lovable, happy baby.

The day arrived for Anna to go home, she could delay no longer. She gathered her belongings and hugged Nyla goodbye. Nyla thanked her profusely and gave her food for her journey. Anna's father had sent a cart to collect her and she rode out of sight still waving.

Upon arriving at the village, Anna was met by two council members. Her heart pounded as they escorted her to the council chambers.

Had they found her out? That she had been caring for a Dark One? Would she be expelled from the village? She shook as she walked beside the men, her knees wanting to give out.

The council room was lined with smooth wooden benches on one side and a large tapestry on the other. In the middle stood the rest of the council, murmuring among themselves. Upon seeing Anna, they went silent.

Anna, the daughter of an outsider, her mother being a tradesman's daughter, had never been fully accepted by the clan. But being an intelligent girl, she made herself useful as a midwife, her skill highly regarded, making her much in demand.

The council head could see the fear in her eyes and he tried to put her at ease. "No need to fear us Anna, we just want to ask a few questions about the child." He seated her on a bench, smiled and continued with his interrogation.

"You delivered a child of the Dark One?"

Anna heart pounded. They knew. She merely nodded, not trusting her voice to speak.

"The child is a male?"

Anna swallowed hard, "Yes." Her voice shook as she spoke.

The council head nodded. "Is the child a Dark One?"

Anna quickly glanced at the faces of the rest of the men. They leaned in to hear her answer.

"No, he is as white haired as any Wahalander."

The men leaned back and began to murmur among themselves again.

"Is he strong, healthy?"

"He is."

The council head satisfied, dismissed her but said as she left, "Tell no one of this meeting."

Anna agreed though she had no intention of keeping it to herself. She would find Nyla's brothers.

Hamish made his appearance. He loved drama and made his entrance with a flourish. He whipped back his hood and gazed at the men in the room.

His hair, straight and brilliantly white fell almost to his waist. He kept it covered with a hood, most thought for spiritual reason, but in reality the hood kept the dust and dirt from his hair in which he took great pride. He was exquisite looking and very vain.

Hamish was their spiritual adviser and thus felt himself above the common man. He lived apart from the main village, closer to the outskirts, in a modest but well furnished dwelling.

He always wore white and carried an elaborately carved iron staff with a hook at the end so he could hang a light from it at night. He felt it gave him an ethereal, mystical appearance.

"The child is a Wahalander and must be brought into the clan. It is not right that he be raised by a Dark One. She cannot teach him the ways of our people. She was not raised as one herself and is a woman. She knows nothing about how to raise a Wahaland male."

The council members agreed. "We will take him when he is weaned."

"No," insisted Hamish. "We must take him before. If we wait, he will become too attached to his mother. He will be weak. He must be taken soon."

The council members shifted on their feet, casting glances at one another and around the room, not meeting Hamishs' eyes. They were not comfortable taking such a young babe from its mother.

"What is it?" He asked, impatient with their reluctance.

"Taking him so young..." the council head began.

Hamish dismissed him with a wave of his hand. "I will do it. I will go to her and let her know she has no choice. She will be reasonable I am sure. She will listen to me."

He sensed the child was special and wanted him close so he could be an influence in his life. He wanted to mold him, make him after his image.

Nyla awoke one morning to find an aberration in her front yard. At least that is how it seemed. Hamish had arrived on horseback in a snow storm. He sat upon a huge white horse and wore a hooded white fur cape as well as vest and boots. Nyla had never seen white fur. The horse pawed the ground impatient to be on his way. The aberration spoke.

"I am Hamish, adviser to the Wahaland council." He gave his voice a deeper tone.

"What have you to do with me?" Nyla asked, though knew the answer. Her brothers had told her there was talk that the council would want the child raised in Wahaland. They promised her if it came to that, they would insist on raising him. He would be in their good hands.

Nyla knew in her heart this was best for her son. She knew her brothers would teach him how to be a great warrior. They promised to tell him of his father. He would know where he came from.

"We will tell him of you as well, what a great woman you are. We promise not to fail him, or you."

After her brothers had gone, Nyla wept. She had lost her beloved husband and now before many more days, her son. How was she to bear it?

Hamish cleared his throat. "The council has proclaimed that your child shall be taken from you and raised in Wahaland. Know they only have the child's welfare in mind. I will come for him three moons from this day. I will be at the clearing in the woods just after the sun goes below the mountains. Do not think of defying me."

Without giving Nyla a moment to speak, he kicked the side of his horse, trotted off and quickly disappeared into the snow storm. Hamish was quite pleased with himself. He would have been very disappointed to know her brothers had already brought her news and he had not devastated her world as he had hoped.

************************
The tiny blue dragon sat on the ledge below his mother and siblings. After some time of making pitiful sounds, he gave up. His mother would not come to his rescue. He was on his own. He fell asleep, exhausted from fighting his way out of his shell and his mournful crying. He leaned his head against the stone cliff wall and slept.

In the morning he awakened to a loud, almost unbearable sound. The cicadas had emerged from their seventeen year slumber. Millions of the insects were crawling out of the ground and up the nearest tree They made a sound that could be heard for miles.

The dragon looked down and saw his siblings devouring the insects on the valley floor. They had flown down to gorge themselves along with the birds, raccoon, mice and anything else that might enjoyed a good insect breakfast.

The tiny dragon helped himself to the insects that had lost their way and climbed the cliff side. He ate until full and then slept.

When he woke, he knew he must find shelter, he could not stay on the cliff ledge. He gorged himself on the remaining cicades, it would be their last day on earth. They emerged every seventeen years to mate, lay eggs and die. They lived only two days so one must take advantage when one could.

The young dragon tested his wings, spreading them fully and beating them up and down. He had no one to teach him to fly so he bravely jumped from the ledge, half gliding, half falling to the valley below. After his awkward landing, he hopped and flapped, hoping to take wing, but his wings would not yet support him.

He had no choice but to walk. He kept close to the cliff, using brush for cover, in search of shelter. He came to a hollow in the stone and found it acceptable. He would shelter there until his wings could carry him to higher ground. Using his razor sharp teeth he cut branches from bushes to cover the opening. Leaves had blown in and they made a comfortable and warm bed. The dragon lay down and slept for three days.


Chapter 7
Joshua's Detour

By Roxanna Andrews

Nyla stood in the warm sun, relishing the feel of it on her skin. It was far into spring but the days were still often bone chilling. The warm sunlight was a delicious treat.

Her brothers were coming. Over the past seventeen years they had come less and less frequently. They were now elders in the village with much responsibility. They had wives and sons to care for. They often came with her nephews in tow, monstrous white haired youths with too much energy.

Nyla's watched as her brothers dismounted and walked toward her, that same look upon their faces as when they brought news of Dak. She steadied herself for what was to come.

Drake had brought his youngest son who was also Dak in honor of Nyla's husband. He was just thirteen but stood already six foot. He visited his Aunt often and was very fond of her. He put an arm across her shoulders.

"Aunt we bring grievous news. Joshua has not returned to the clan. He cannot be found." He tightened his grip on her shoulders, and his deep blue eyes looked into hers with grave concern.

"We have not given up hope," said Drake. "He is just two days passed his time. He should have returned from the Quest two mornings ago. When he did not come, we searched. There is no sign that he was attacked or hurt. His horse was found in the woods. It had no mark on it."

Joshua had been young for the Quest, but the council and his uncles felt he was more than ready. He was far ahead of other boys his age and most of the grown men. He could best all but Erik with a sword, and Erik knew that it was a matter of time before Joshua won their matches.

Nyla had not wanted him to go so young, just sixteen years, but her brothers assured her he was ready and would do well. Now he was lost. Could he have fallen from a cliff or down one of the deep crevasses in mountains?

"I will get my horse and search." She made to run for her horse, but her nephew stopped her.

"Nyla, men are still searching. You cannot go. Dak will stay with you. We have arranged for him to come to the clearing some time from now and we will meet him with news. You must stay here." Erick took her hand. "I promise we will find him."

The brothers mounted again and kicked their horses into a run. Dak squeezed Nyla's arm, "They will find him Aunt. Let your mind be at ease."

Nyla smiled up at her nephew. He had become like a son to her. He visited often and they roamed the country side together on horseback, or had mock battles with sword and bow. He was close to Joshua, and always brought news of him, telling of his exploits in great detail.

Nyla felt her son was alive. She did not have the same bereft feeling she did when Dak died. She still felt his presence. This gave her some peace, but she longed to hear news, to know he'd been found.

*****

Joshua looked forward to his quest. He knew what an honor the council was bestowing to let him go a full year earlier than most. They were saying he was among the best of the clan. He would not disappoint. He was given a few provisions and a map of the places he must go and told the tasks he must complete. He left before daybreak, unable to sleep the night before, so eager was he to begin.

It took some time to reach his first destination and he had much time to think. He thought often of his mother. He resented the fact that the council would not allow him to see her. She was a Dark One but she had birthed a warrior, one with honor. Should that not give her some status with the Clan?

His first destination would take him nearer her home than he had ever been. The place he had been born, he longed to see it. He decided to defy the council and take a detour. He would see his mother for the first time.

When Nyla had handed Joshua over to Hamish, he had felt smug with victory. He had the child, but it was short lived as her brothers petitioned the council to raise the boy. Hamish fought against it, arguing he would be the better mentor, but the brothers were well thought of and their father served on the council. Besides, they felt it best that family raise him. The child was handed over to his uncles with the provision that he not see his mother.

Joshua grew up happy in his uncle Drake's home. The uncles had been wed for some time now and had families of their own. He was raised with many cousins in a lively household.

When he reached seven years his uncle Drake told him he was not his son, but his nephew. Drake did his best to explain why he lived with him and not his mother. He told him of his father and what a great warrior he had been. He told him of his mother and to never believe in the curse. And that she loved him with all her heart. It was some years before Joshua understood all this.

As he grew, Joshua distinguished himself and become know as a loyal clansman and gifted with sword and bow. He being the son of a woman thought cured seemed to have no negative effect on his popularity. Many of the mothers were already looking his way in hopes he would become a son-in-law.

Hamish tried to have an influence in his life, but the boy felt a revoltion toward the man and wanted nothing to do with him. Hamish had plans for the boy and was greatly frustrated that he could not get close to him. He spent much time in thought about how he might make the boy endebted to him.

Joshua thought often of his mother and received reports of her from his cousin Dak who spent much time with her. He envied Dak and couldn't wait for him to return from his visits so he could hear of his mother. She always sent a word for him and often a gift. At twelve she sent his father's sword and bow, and at fifteen she sent him the sire of his father's black stallion. He was a giant of a horse and as black a midnight. Joshua called him Fader Midnett, which meant sired by Midnight.
****

Now he and Fader picked their way carefully through the woods, not using the trail so as not to be seen by any passers by. Joshua didn't want the council finding out about his detour.

He came upon his mother's cottage suddenly, it seemed to be in the middle of nowhere, but he could hear the sounds of the township near by. He stayed hidden in the trees and watched. After some time his mother emerged, carrying a basket and went to her garden. He felt shock to see how young she looked, her raven black hair almost to her waist pulled back in a buckskin tie. She looked so different from anyone he knew. She glanced in his direction once and he froze afraid he had been seen.

He debated with himself whether to speak to her. Should he do that to her just to leave and not return for a full year, maybe longer? She had endured much, would he cause her more pain in his leaving? He watched her disappear back into the cottage. He knew he should leave, but he waited a while longer, unable to pull himself away.

A couple and three youths emerged from the trail not four stones from him. Glad his mount was well trained not to startle easily, he backed the horse up deeper into the woods. The youths talked excitedly, and he watched as they ran to knock on the cottage door. Nyla opened the door with a welcoming smile.

"Oh, you are here at last, come in. Come in Father Bart, Fiona, I am happy to see you. Come in, supper is ready."

Joshua was heartily glad to see she had people to fellowship with, but also jealous that they would spend time with his mother when he could not. He lightly kick Fader's haunches and left to fulfill his quest.

*****************************************

The dragon now able to fly, searched the cliff side for a better home. He had grown much over the weeks and the hollow was no longer acquitted for his needs. He remembered the cave he was born in and knowing his mother and sibling were no longer there, went in search of it. He had seen the hulking shadow of his mother as she flew over him, smaller shadows of his siblings followed. She flew low and he remained hidden, knowing she would kill him if seen. He felt an evil malevolence leave the cliff side and woods. The behemoth flew southward with her evil brood. No good would come from them on this earth.

The blue dragon who would come to be known as Dyster, meaning blue, flew to the mouth of the cave in which he had been born. He sniffed the air and knew he was not alone. In the darkness he could see two yellow eyes. They moved rapidly towards him and a huge mountain cat leapt to attack. Dyster took to his wings and raising himself, brought his back feet forward, sending the cat sprawling backward, head over heels. With a shake of his head the cat roused himself, but thought better of attacking again. He sat on his haunches and stared at the blue creature before him. Dyster sat as well and eyed the large cat. He had no wish to kill it and hoped it would not come for him again. They came to an uneasy truce, each staying at opposite ends of the cave. They would eventually become inseparable.

 

Author Notes Joshua take a detour to his mother's home


Chapter 8
Joshua Meets a Cousin

By Roxanna Andrews

Joshua turned his horse toward the Middle Passage. This was a ridge of low mountains with a passage straight down the middle that was used by the traders. It was a long way to haul goods but always worth the effort. The traders came but twice a year and the Wahalands were always willing to trade their furs, swords, opals, and boats for the goods they could get no where else. Some traders even brought dogs, as a good dog was highly prized by the Clan. As a result there were many wild dogs about, having broken free and run away.

The dogs could be heard calling to each other as he camped for the night. He needed to keep a good fire going and leave no food about to keep the dogs away. They had been known to attack and kill a man. No Wahaland he heard of had ever been attacked, but the traders and their families often were. There were stories that the traders had taken to training the wild mountain cats, keeping them on leather ropes tied to carts that carried their goods to keep the dogs at bay. Even the biggest and most vicious dog was still no match for the huge mountain cats. Joshua would dearly love to see one of these cats. He marveled that the traders could catch and train them.

Having caught and killed a rabbit earlier, Joshua now cleaned and cooked it over the open fire. He was careful to preserve the fur so it could be used in clothing or a blanket. The Wahaland women were masters with a needle and thread and could make beautiful things of fur to trade. All that they made always brought an excellent trade.

Joshua stoked the fire high giving it plenty of fuel to last the night. He lay down, but could not sleep. His mind kept going to his mother. It was strange to think he had come from her. She seemed so young and her hair so dark, how could his be so white? His uncles and cousin, Dak, had told him she had violet eyes like his. He wished he could have gotten close enough to see them. He was beginning to regret that he had not spoken to her. He had so many questions. He would love to see her with a sword and bow. Dak said she could best him, but he was still a youth. He would love to challenge her and see how she fared. His uncles told him many of the moves he used were much like hers. He longed to see that.

Joshua woke late the next morning, the sun already high in the sky. He hadn't fallen asleep until the early morning hours. He was now late for his next destination. He quickly gathered up his belongings, made sure the fire was out, and jumped on his horse which he nudged into a run.

Fader moved down the trail at a full gallop when he suddenly skidded to a halt, sending up a huge dust cloud, and reared, front hooves pawing the air. Joshua was unseated, his sword and bow flying, and he landed on his backside in the brush. Fader ran into the wood and Joshua lost sight of him. As Joshua looked to the path ahead, the dust cloud cleared and he saw what had caused Fader to rear. A huge green dragon sat in their path, it scales shone with an iridescent light, almost bright enough to blind one. It was some ways off, but as Joshua watched, it flew to within a few feet and landed. Joshua scrambled backward feeling for his weapon. His hand fell upon his sword, which he grabbed at the hilt and held in both hands, holding it in front of him. The dragon bowed low and a man as big as a mountain, jumped from its back and walk towards him.

Joshua scrambled back farther, never taking his eyes from the man. He was at least seven feet tall and had legs and arms like tree trunks, all muscle and sinew. His skin was tanned, making his white hair stand out all the more. He wore it pulled back at the temples and a thick bronze ring encircled it, making the hair stand up, then fall in a pony tail just past his massive shoulders. He wore a sleeveless leather jerkin, and at his waist a wide leather belt. Below that a kilt that fell just above the knee and on his feet he wore buckskin boots half way up his shins with bronze armor laced to the front. His eyes a deep green, his teeth even and they gleamed white as he smiled. Joshua could not guess his age, he seemed young and old all at once.

The giant put out a hand, "Would you like to stand?" he asked, his smile never leaving his face or eyes.

Joshua look at the offered hand and for reasons he could not fathom, put out his own and let the giant pull him easily to his feet.

"We have been waiting for you, Joshua."

*********************************

As the years passed the blue dragon continued to grow in size, he was a huge beast. He and the mountain cat had become companions and were never far from one another. They always hunted together, the cat flushing out the prey and the dragon swooping from the sky to capture it, grabbing it by the neck, killing it instantly. They feasted well most days.

But Dyster, restless, looked ever to the north, something called him. His companion would often watch him pace the cave then look out the mouth and make a mournful sound. One day Dyster grabbed the cat by his scruff and took to the air, heading north. He came to a stone fortress carved from a mountain top. He landed before massive wooden doors. He dropped the cat and waited. After a time the doors opened and man walked out.

"Welcome Dyster."


Chapter 9
The Meeting

By Roxanna Andrews

Joshua looked up at the man who towered over him. He had so many questions swirling in his head but, "How do you know my name?" was all he asked.

The mountain answered, "I know you have many questions and this is a strange thing to happen. I will answer them all, but some things you must take on faith for a time."

Faith? What was 'faith'? Joshua had never heard the word before.

"My name is Augdon. I am a Guardian and the captain of a vast army that lives among the northern mountains." He pointed north to the great, purple mountain range. "We have been there many years.There is an evil coming Joshua, the like of which the world has never seen. Even now it sweeps down from the south, devouring everything in its path. Nothing can stand against it, nothing but you." Augdon paused a moment and Joshua took the opportunity to speak.

"I do not understand anything you are saying. I am no one, just a youth. I am a good warrior for my people, but I cannot lead a vast army. You must seek another Joshua."

Augdon shook his head at the humility of the young man standing before him. He put on no false airs and that was a good thing. He saw in his eyes an intelligence, and even an eagerness to learn. A desire to be this man he spoke of.

"You will learn, for we will teach you all you need to know. You will be ready when the time comes, but we must start now for time is short."

Joshua shook his head, it was too much to take in.

Augdon smiled his brilliant smile and guided Joshua towards the dragon. "You will know all in due time, but now, we fly." He raised his hand towards the dragon and he came to him and bowed low. "Climb up," he said as he pushed Joshua onto the huge beast's broad back. He handed him two soft leather straps. "Hang on to these and do not let go."

"Up," Augdon commanded and  the beast rose to it's feet and began to run. Joshua's heart drummed in his chest. He could not believe he was going with this stranger, he knew nothing of him or his people. Perhaps he was being kidnapped to be held for a ransom. It had happened to others. This all seemed a dream to him. But he knew this was not so. He knew the giant's story was true and he must go with him. Why he felt such trust, he could not explain. He just knew his heart beat loudly, not with fear, but with excitement. Hadn't he always felt he had a calling? He never spoke of it for fear others would ridicule him or think him proud. But he knew somewhere deep inside that he was meant for a noble purpose. 

The beast spread his huge wings and they were airborne. Augdon need not have told Joshua to hold on to the leather straps for he did so now for dear life. He looked down at the valley below and saw his horse standing in the trees. Fader! He had forgotten about his beloved horse. He hoped he would find his way back to the Clan. They may think him dead and he had a moment of regret for the pain it would cause, but he push it behind him and sat his mind on things ahead.

As the great, green dragon banked to make a landing on the mountain top, Joshua felt his stomach lurch. He felt not at all well and his head spun. The dragon landed and Joshua slid from his back and retched.

Augdon smiled, "We all did that the first time, you will get used to it."


Dak, Nyla's nephew,  met his father and uncle at the clearing as arranged. His father's news was not good. "We found only marks and tracks on the path. It seems as if a great beast snatched him away. The tracks of it vanish, so where it could have gone, we cannot say. The tracks are very much the same as I found near his father's body. It does not bode well and I am loathed to tell his mother this news. We will accompany you back to the cottage."

They rode to the cottage in silence, hearts heavy. Dak wiped tears from his eyes. He thought of Joshua as his brother and best friend, that he might not see him again was a huge weight on his chest.

Nyla paced the grounds in front of her cottage, impatient for news from Dak. She had insisted on accompanying him, but he was firm in his reply that she must stay and wait for him to return.

When she saw the men still a ways off she ran to hear the news. Dak pulled her up on his horse and put his arms firmly around her.

"What news?" she asked, but she knew from the tears in Dak's eyes and the look of her brother that it was not good.

They told her what they had found and she listened, stoic. "I feel he is still alive. I would know if he were dead. He is alive somewhere and we must keep searching."

Her brothers nodded, but they had no doubt they would not see Joshua again. They left Dak to stay with Nyla through the night. They didn't want her left alone. Their hearts heavy, they returned to the search.

Hamish brooded that the boy had gone missing. "If you had left him in my care, this would not have happened." He told the council. "He should not have gone on the quest at this age. You could have at least sent a man to shadow him as I had asked. You fools! Now he is lost. I could have molded him into a great man, now all that I planned for him will come to naught!" He stormed from the council chamber.

The council kept their eyes downcast while Hamish ranted and they didn't look up when he left.

"He is right, we should not have allowed the quest," the council head spoke with regret.

"He was more than ready!" Joshua's grandfather spoke. "This has nothing to do with his age, something strange has happened. It is the curse." He referred to Joshua's mother being a Dark One. He placed his face in his hands. He was very fond of his grandson and took great pride in his being one of their best warriors. His sons had done well in raising him. He shuddered to think what Hamish may have turned him into. He saw the man for what he was. Puffed up and vain with only selfish intention. He would not let him with in ten stones of Joshua.

Hamish had his servants pack provisions. Some years ago he had convinced a trader and his wife to work for him. He did so with promises of an easy life and riches. Neither promise was fulfilled. They lived in a small dwelling beside his and cared for his needs. Their son had since grown enough to join his parent in serving him.

Hamish had the men pack bedding and provisions to last some weeks. They would go in search of Joshua. Like Nyla, Hamish still felt the boy was alive. He too felt he was destined for greatness and he wanted to be a part of it. He had no doubt Joshua would become the council head, but he felt he would be more than that. Maybe a king. He might become an adviser to the boy. Joshua would come to rely on him and look to him for council. He smiled at the image. He would find him and the boy would be in his debt.

Hamish mounted his great white horse and his servents their smaller, dust streaked ponies weighted down with the many supplies Hamish required to make him comfortable. They left before day break, the youth still tired, slumped on his pony's back.

The clansmen spoke of Hamish's departure for some days. He had great influence over the people and council and they wondered at his leaving. They feared him more than cared for the man and many were glad to see him gone. A few of the women had hoped he would cast his eye toward them and lamented his absence. But all believed he would return again one day. He had left too many of his precious things behind.



 

Author Notes Nyla-The Dark One, cast out of her village and Joshua's mother
Joshua- The child born to Nyla and his Father Dak who would be the "Chosen One"
Dak- Joshua's father in the first 3 chapters
Dak-Joshua's cousin named for his father, Drake's son.
Drake-Nyla's brother
Erik-Nyla's brother
Hamish-Creepy spiritual leader of the Clan
Augdon-Guardian and captain of a vast army

Many of the names I will use are either Swedish, Norwegian, or Dutch. It is very complicated getting these names and I don't recommend it to amateurs. It requires using your computer to put in the a word you wish to use as a name and asking for the translation it different languages. You than pick the one you can pronounce and sounds the most like an actual name. Super sophisticated stuff here and almost requires a first grade education. Do not try this alone, without a first grader there to help you.


Chapter 10
The War Room

By Roxanna Andrews

Warning: The author has noted that this contains the highest level of violence.

Augdon escorted Joshua inside the fortress, then took him to a large room. "This is the War Room," he said as he held the door for him.

The room was paneled in dark wood. Openings had been cut into the back wall to let the sun in. A huge fireplace took up one wall and on another a map.Two long tables with benches on either side occupied the middle of the room and beside them stood fifteen men.

"These men are my generals." Augdon introduce Joshua to each. He listened only a little as they move from man to man, for his mind already tired, found it hard to concentrate. He felt over whelmed.

Joshua had never seen men like these. They were massive and he had an unearthly feeling that he had stepped into a forest and was surrounded by huge oaks.

The men's ages Joshua could not guess, he just knew they were much older than he. Some were dark haired, some white haired like him, many had scars. One man had burn scars on the side of his face and arm. Joshua learned he was Augdon's son-in-law.

Two men had black skin, dark as ebony. On each cheek were three scars in a straight line, one on top of another. Their hair was twisted into tight locks and covered in a red mud. Joshua had never seen the like and could not help but stare.

"They come from a distant land. They are Nubian. Jafari and Agapos are mighty warriors as are all their men, and we have learned, most precise with the bow."

Each man shook Joshua's hand as he passed by, and it ached when done.

"We will tell you all you need to know and what lies ahead. Not all tonight, but some."

Augdon ordered food and drink be brought to Joshua. The men settled themselves around a table and Augdon told his story as Joshua ate.

"My grandfather, Valdig and his family came here from across the sea to this new land. His father had been told of great riches to be found here, but all he found was hard work in the opal minds. When a  youth, Valdig had a vision. In it he saw an evil horde moving across the land, destroying all in its path. My grandfather saw a fortress in the midst of a purple mountain range and a vast army amassing there to fight the horde."

"His father being a bitter man, said it was foolishness and discouraged talk of it. But the vision came to him again and again. As a man Valdig was a great warrior and Captain. He led his men in battle and  defeated an enemy. He was a hero to his people and greatly loved. His father was jealous of him and one night in a drunken rage, he tried to take Valdig's life. To defend himself, Valdig mortally wounded his father who died two days later. But before he died, he begged his son's forgiveness and told him he believed in his vision. He told him to build the fortress. Valdig's men agreed to go with him and take their familes."

"It was a long journey, and took some years. Many children were born along the way adding to their numbers. When the mountain range came into view the men looked to him. They had seen many mountains, but none were right. Valdig agreed they had found it and the people were greatly relieved. He was sure many did not believe in his vision any longer. He could not blame them after so long, but there was feasting and music that night."

"The  people settled in the valley below the mountains while Valdig and his men went on. At the foot of the range, they found an overgrown path up the center most mountain. When they reached the top, they found a fortress already standing. My grandfather had thought all this time he had been called to build it, but now he knew he had been called to build an army. The fortress was ancient but still solid. He and his men made repairs, built barracks and outbuildings and cleared the path up the mountain. When all was ready, the people came here to live. I was born here. We have added much to the fortress since those days."

Augdon leaned in toward Joshua, "Valdig saw a youth who would come to lead the army he built. That youth is you."

"How do you know I am the one?" Joshua asked, though in his heart he knew the answer.

"Valdig drew this of the face in his vision." Augdon's son-in law, Brock, handed him a parcel wrapped in cloth. He removed the cloth and handed the contents to Joshua.

"My grandfather knew not how to draw, but was able to do this. He spent much time on it, making the inks from different plants."

Joshua gazed at the portrait. It was a youth, white haired, with violet eyes. He knew it was of him, but he had never seen a true reflection of himself. only a water reflection.

"I know the eyes are mine," he said.

 Augdon sent Brock out and a moment later he returned with a piece of fine silver, highly polished. He held it up for Joshua to look into. He saw the face of the youth in the portrait.

All eyes in the room were on him. It was silent as if every men held their breath. Joshua nodded, but his head was spinning. He suddenly felt a huge weight of responsibility settled upon him. How was he to lead these battle proven warriors, men who stood like massive trees, who were older and more experienced than he?

"Do not look so forlorn. You will not do this alone. We are with you. We together," Augdon hand swept the room, "will teach you all you need to know. You have an army and generals ready to follow you."

Joshua looked again at the men in the room. Didn't he know in his heart he was destined for this? Hadn't he seen the vision himself and wondered at it? He had been but a youth, so thought it just a dream. But now it came back clearly and he understood. This was why he had been born.

"How do you know the horde is coming?" he asked.

"My scouts found them two years ago. We have watched them ever since. They conquer a village, stay there  for a time, then burn it, killing all the inhabitants, or make them slaves, and move on. We wished to find their vulnerabilities, but they have few. Life means nothing to them, they send wave after wave of men into battle caring not if they die. They use their horrible black beast to fly over the villages, spitting fire. They consume village after village, leaving nothing but smoke and ash. They pile up the bodies of the dead and burn them also. It is a horrible sight."

"You have witnessed these things for yourself?" Joshua asked Augdon.

He nodded. "Much of what I have seen I will never forget. They are a loathsome plague. They do not even look like men. They make their hair blue and it stands on end, they also smear it all over their faces and bodies. They fight in just a loincloth and boots. They pour out of trenches they dig in the ground like locust devouring the land. I have seen the black beast they use tear the heart from a man's body and feast on it."

"Why have you not battled them before now? Why wait so long?"

"They far out numbered us. We didn't have the men to fight. There was no hope of winning the battle. We have been adding to our numbers. The Nubians joined us a year ago. Their leader had the vision also. Jafari said God had sent them."

The men nodded."Our king saw a blue horde decend upon our land." said the one called Agapos. "He saw the purple mountain range and fortress and the army gathering there. He knew we had to come and fight or the blue horde would come to our shores. He sent half his army."

"And we had to wait until the time was right. We were waiting for you." Aurgon said this as he stood to his feet.

"We have talked enough for this day. The sun is low. We will have evening meal and get an early start in the morning. It will be Joshua's first day to train. He will need much rest tonight." The men nodded and bid him goodnight.

Augdon showed Joshua where he would stay. He had a room to himself. "We thought for now, you should have a dwelling that was your own. Later you may wish to move into the common room with the other warriors. You may join my family for supper tonight."

Joshua politely declined the offer of a meal. His head was aching and he was exhausted. After Augdon left him he fell into bed and was asleep immediately, his dreams filled with battles and dragons spitting fire.

The next morning, Joshua watched as the men fought mock battles in the fields below his room. Their number seemed endless. But most astounding to him were the women who fought along side the men. He had never seen women in battle, none who could wield a sword as these females could.

"We need everyone to fight and the women are eager to do so. They are as brave as any man and as skilled with sword and bow," Augdon told him.

Joshua learned that one of the best was Augdon's daughter, Fay, wife to Brock. He watched as she wielded a sword in both hands and screamed like a banshee. The man she fought fell back and with a sweep of her leg, she knocked him off his feet.

Augdon smiled and turn to Joshua. "She is much like her father." 

Joshua was taken to the training grounds but he protested, thinking himself most skilled with sword and bow. "All this I have learned already in Wahaland. My uncles taught me well. I am one of the best warriors among my Clan."

Augdon smiled. "That is good thing, but you must learn to fight like a Guardian. You must learn to fight on the back of a dragon."

He was turned over to his trainer, Jatte. His name meant 'giant' and it was most fitting, but his comrades had given him an opposing nickname and called him Liten, which meant "tiny."

After a few days of training, Joshua could think of many other names to call Jatte.

He soon realized he knew nothing about using a sword as the mountain men bested him time and again. He was often frustrated and angry with himself over his inability to win a match. He did not lose well.

"Do not be so hard on yourself," Jatte would advise him. "It was this way for us all. You will learn. It takes much time to become a master swordsman. Be patient."

Augdon told him this also, but Joshua had no patience with himself. He often woke earlier than the others and worked with the heavy weights the men used to build muscle. He would run for miles as much to rid himself of his frustration as to build up his stamina. He practiced hours with his sword and bow.

As time passed he began to win matches, as was natural for a champion, and with each win he gained confidence.

Author Notes The Nubian people were located in what is now Egypt. They were known for their skin, not sure why as my research didn't say which was most annoying. Though later in their history they became farmers and agriculturist, in earlier times they were known to be deadly with a bow and arrow because of their precision. I don't know that they wore red mud in their hair, I added that, but pictures of ancient nubians do show the hair looked to have twisted locks. They are a beautiful people. They were considered extremely intelligent and gifted at pottery and artwork.

Augdon-Army Captian
Brock-General, Augdon's son-in-law
Fay-Augdon's daughter, wife to Brock
Jatte- Joshua's trainer
Valdig-Augdon's great grandfather
Joshua-champion
Agapos-Nubian general
Jafari-Nubian general


Chapter 11
Joshua Meets Dyster

By Roxanna Andrews

Hamish moved at a good pace, at times kicking his white gelding into a gallop, leaving his servants on their lesser steeds, far behind. They didn't mind, in fact were quite happy as he was not a popular employer. The spiritual leader for the Wahaland Clan was headed towards the mountain range. He knew the most likely place to look for Joshua would be there. His father had told him of the place where Valdig had taken his people and he was sure the mountain men had kidnapped the boy.

When he reached the foot of the range, Hamish turn his mount toward the mountain trail that would take him to the fortress. It was not easy to find. Augdon's men kept it well hidden. But Hamish had his spies among the traders and he paid them well to do his bidding. An obliging tradesman told him where to look.

By the time Hamish reached the fortress, his horse was spent. It was an arduous journey and he had been pushed hard. He swayed on his feet as Hamish dismounted.

Augdon had been told of a man on horseback making his way up the mountain. He was a Wahaland and Augdon knew it must be Hamish. The men were told to let him through unimpeded. He watched as Hamish approached the fortress.

The spiritual leader stood at the immense gate and wondered how to gain entrance when a smaller door carved in the stone wall opened and a man stepped out.

He motioned Hamish to follow him, so he did, bringing his horse with him.

Augdon met him at the foot of the steps that led to the roof of the fortress where he had watched Hamish approach.

"What do you want Hamish?" He asked.

Hamish was surprised that the man knew his name but was certain he had spies. He demanded Joshua be turned over to him and stood as if ready to challenge with hands on hips and head held high looking Augdon in the eye. He could be an imposing figure being well over six feet, but Augdon was unimpressed. He smiled at the man's feeble attempt to intimidate.

He ignored his demand. "You have ridden your horse half to death. My man will walk it to the stream where it can drink and eat. And you will be our guest for a while."

Hamish protested but Augdon's men were bigger and stronger. He was brought into the fortress and placed in a small room.

"You cannot keep me a prisoner! I demand you bring Joshua to me and that we be let go. My servants are waiting for me, if I do not return they will ride to Wahaland and bring warriors to fetch me." Hamish was in the habit of being obeyed, so had no doubt his commands would be honored.

Augdon smiled and shook his head, thinking what a stupid man he was. "We found your servants. Do you not think I would have my men watching for trespassers? We sent them home with provisions for the trip and with their promise that they tell no one you are here. You should treat your servants better, Hamish. They are not so loyal to you."

Hamish turned red in the face and sputtered, but could think of no reply. He knew his servants thought ill of him, but never entertained the notion that they would ever defy him. Augdon left him to stew, but ordered food and water be taken to him.

Augdon sent for Joshua and told him of Hamish. "The man is an idiot. He will have to stay with us a long while."

"What will you do with him? You cannot keep him locked up."

"Can I not?" Augdon raised an eyebrow. "No, I will not keep him locked up but he cannot leave. The risk he would go back to Wahaland and tell the council or your uncles you are here is too great."

Joshua would often see Hamish watching him. The man had an unsettling presence and Joshua could not stomach him. He avoided him as much as possible but Hamish often sought him out, acting as a concerned friend and asked many questions. Joshua, not trusting him in the least, gave one word answers or none at all.

Hamish's movements were closely watched, he was not allowed to see or hear anything to do with the coming battle.

He was most wretched being kept at the fortress. He had no servants to do his bidding, the room they keep him in was almost barren but for a bed and small table for a lantern. He had none of the niceties he enjoyed in Wahaland to keep him comfortable. He had no influence here and most bruising to his ego, none of the women cast looks his way and seemed not to think him handsome. He had been greatly humbled and he did not like the feeling. He often paced his small room, plotting revenge with each step.

*****************

After many weeks of weapons training, Joshua was introduced to Dyster, the dragon that would be his.

The beast was a brilliant blue, his scales iridescent, his belly green, darker at the edges getting ever lighter towards the center. When he spread his mammoth wings, the sun shown off the iridescent scales giving the reflection of a rainbow. He was a beautiful beast and the only one of his kind.

"He is meant for you and only you will command him," Augdon said.

Joshua asked to also be shown the mountain cats trained to attack on command. He was excited to finally get to see the animal he had heard so much about.

The huge cats were golden in color with a darker brown surrounding their eyes and a streak of it centered down the nose. Dark brown spots dotted their neck and chest. The hair was longer than was common to most cats, giving them a scruffy appearance. They had green eyes that would look straight at you and never flinch and a long brown tipped tail that twitched most of the time. Their legs and chest were muscled and their feet large. They were at least six feet long, not including the tail and weighed around two hundred pounds.

"I have heard stories that the traders who come through the Middle Passage keep cats to fend off the wild dogs. They keep them on leather ropes tied to their carts."

Augdon laughed. "I have heard this too and it is a myth. No trader could control these cats. It takes my strongest men to hold them. They are fierce and have attacked even their trainers. No, no trader could keep such an animal."

After seeing them, Joshua was amazed any man could control them.

One of the huge cats stayed always with Dyster. Augdon explained that the dragon had come to the fortress and brought the cat with him. The men gave him the name Riddare, which meant 'Companion'.

"He rides the blue dragon, sitting on his back, looking down at us as he circles the mountains. I have not see the like, but my generals have thought much about it. If we can train the cats to ride the dragons, we could get them to the battle much faster. And if we can train them to attack the enemy riders, we would have a great advantage."

Joshua would begin his training the next day. He was excited. He remembered the ride with Augdon to the fortress and though he got air sick, he found it thrilling. The wind wiping past him and flying above tree tops. It gave a feeling of freedom and he looked forward to feeling that again.

"You must watch Riddare. He will be jealous of you. He was that way with us all if we got near Dyster, but he soon grew accustom to us. We may need to keep him locked up for a while, being clawed by a big cat is most painful," Augdon told Joshua.

"I think that is an experience I would live with out," Joshua replied causing Augdon to laugh.

**************

Early the next morning, before the sun was fully up, Joshua ran through the mountain trails. He liked the early morning when no one was about. He could think, the thin mountain cleared his head. He stopped a moment to catch his breath. He bent forward, hands on his knees and his eyes closed. He felt he still had much to learn and far to go before he could be the leader of such men.

Hearing a twig snap behind him, he whirled, his hand on the short sword at his side. In a clearing not six feet from him stood a girl. She held a sword and shield. She was tall and slender and had brown, wavy hair that flowed to her waist. Her eyes were the bluest Joshua had ever seen.


Chapter 12
Lyse

By Roxanna Andrews

Joshua recognized Augdon's youngest daughter, Lyse.

Augdon had five children, three sons and two daughters. The youngest, Lyse, tended the dragons and it was some months since Joshua had last seen her.

"What are you doing here alone? Your father would not like it."

Lyse lowered her eyes. "I am practicing my sword play. I am not so good as Fay," she referred to her older sister. "She seems born to it, I am not a natural warrior, but I want my father to be proud." She gave him a crooked smile. "You must think me foolish."

"No. I thought myself a great swordsman when I came here, but I learned quickly that I was but a babe when it came to that. I too practiced much on my own. It has taken me these many weeks to finally feel I am worthy to be called a warrior. I thought I never would be and your father quite wrong about me," he smiled to put her at ease. "Your father tells me you are masterful with the dragons. He is very proud of you."

He sat on a large stone on the edge of the path and Lyse moved into the sunlight. He could see how beautiful she was, her hair dark brown and wavy was pulled back from her face and fell to her waist. Her skin lightly tanned had a sprinkle of freckles across her nose and her eyes so blue he felt he could lose himself in them. He wondered at her appearance, being so dark compared to her parents and siblings.

Lyse saw him looking. "Your mother was a Dark One also, was she not?" She asked

"Also?"

"I am a Dark One. There are many Dark Ones here."

Joshua felt his heart turnover with a thump. He stared at her, but had no words.

"Lyse." Both started at the sound of her name. Augdon stepped out of the woods. "Go home daughter," he said.

Lyse gave a startled look Joshua's way, then turned and ran back up the trail.

"Lyse is not my natural child. It is true she is a Dark One, like your mother, cast out of Wahaland by Hamish as your mother was by his father, Olden. Do not think I meant to keep this from you. I would have told you this soon enough. Let us walk while I speak."

It was late spring and warm enough for the surrounding woods to be in full bloom, the leaves a bright green and a variety of wild flowers displayed their finery but it was wasted on the men who took no notice.

Augdon spoke, telling a tale that both horrified and amazed Joshua.

"There was a man among the people who went with Valdig named, Kidrick. He was Hamish's grandfather and a thorn in Valdig's side. He craved power and was constantly stirring up the people against Valdig. He thought himself also a seer of visions and when the fortress was ready for the people to occupy, he convinced many not to leave the valley. He had 'seen' great things to come for them if they stayed. He was an evil man and wanted out from under Valdig's rule so he could control the people. One of the men, Valdig's brother, Hidel, was greatly influenced by Kidrick. He filled his head with the notion he would be leader if he stayed, but if he went with Valdig, he would forever be under his rule."

"The clan split with Hidel choosing to stay in Wahaland. He became head of the council, but Kidrick had much say in the governing of the clan. After some years a dark haired child was born, he declared that the child was cursed and being an evil, cunning man, he convinced the council and the people that it was so." Augdon shook his head in obvious disgust. "After that, babes born with dark hair were placed outside the village to die."

"Valdig had left men to watch the Wahaland valley for he feared the influence of Kidrick. He was right to do so. When his men reported what was happening, Valdig was enraged. He rode to Wahaland with a regiment of fifty men, ready to do battle. He demanded to see his brother and Kidrick and told them what madness it was to leave a new babe to die."

"He told his brother he was no better than the horde if he cared so little for his people. He and Hidel came to blows, but Hidel was no warrior and Valdig won easily. Valdig threatened to lock he and Kidrick away in a tower in the fortress, so they agreed to never leave the a child to die again."

"But they still put the Dark Ones out of the Clan," Joshua protested.

"Yes, but they choose a caregivers to look after them, ones chosen by lot. Valdig could not convince them the children were not cursed. Kidrick had such power over them. He then ordained that the caregiver should not be let back in the clan once they went with the Dark Ones, for they were now cursed as well. I'm of a mind that he feared the caregivers would tell the people the children were like any other and not cursed. He feared being found a liar and losing his hold on the people."

"The caregivers were forever separated from their families. Most of these children were abandoned and brought to the fortress to live. Lyse was such a child. My wife has a soft heart and could not fathom a child without a home. We took her to raise as our own and called her Lyse, which means 'light'. We feel no different towards her than the rest of our children. She is our child and she is a light in our lives. She is a wonder with the dragons. If they love, they love Lyse. I feared for her, but there was no need. They have never harmed her."

"She is beautiful as well," said Joshua causing Augdon to lift an eyebrow. Joshua change to the subject quickly.

"But what of my mother?"

"We knew she had been born. She was well cared for, so we did not bring her to the fortress. Her caregiver was kind and your uncles made sure she was well looked after."

"Do you still keep guard over Wahaland?"

"Always. We were there when your father died. I am heartily sorry my men reach him too late." He placed a hand on Joshua's shoulder. "They tried to kill the beast that had attacked him, but they could not get close. It spat fire and fled. That is how Fay's husband, Brock was burned. He too is a Dark One and was found wandering in the woods by my men. He had been abandoned by his caregiver and was maybe six years. He was with the men when they came upon the beast and was burned when it spat fire."

Joshua shook his head, his eyes downcast. "I could not blame your men for my father's death. How could anyone know such a beast was about."

"We were troubled to know one of the black dragons had come this far north. We had seen none of the horde, so we do not know why it made it's way here. We tired to get to it, but it lived in a cliff side cave. The men could find no way up. After a few weeks, she flew to the south and took her brood with her. I am sorry we could not kill the beast."

Joshua thought of what it might have been like to have his father still. He also was sorry they had not killed it.

"So you have been watching me my whole life?"

"We heard talk of a baby born with violet eyes. After that we kept watch, yes, and over your mother as well. We discovered she is a fearsome warrior." Augdon smiled at Joshua.

"I have heard this of her."

"We watched over you when Hamish took you from her. Hamish is much like his grandfather and is also power mad. He wanted to raise you but the council gave you to your uncles. We would have taken you had they given you over to Hamish."

"How is it that you know all these things about my people?" Joshua asked.

"Spies," he said. "The traders Hamish took as his servants reported all to us. He thinks them of low intelligent and tells them everything out of frustration and, I think maybe loneliness. He believes they do not understand his words. As I have said, he is an idiot. They report all to my men, who report to me. We pay them well."

"How could we not know your men were always watching? How did we not see them?"

"We are most skilled at staying hidden. You did not know I was in the woods watching my daughter."

Joshua shook his head. Augdon raised his hand and two warriors stepped onto the path. "You did not know they follow you every time you leave the fortress."

"I've never seen nor heard them once."

Augdon smiled, "We will teach you this skill as well. Now It is almost time for noon meal. Let us go home. Also," Augdon put his hand on the back of Joshua's neck. "Lyse, she is for you if you choose her, but she is just seventeen years. Wait until she is grown."

Joshua agreed, he had not thought of Lyse much in the past, he had been to preoccupied to take notice of her. He had thought of her as a child though she was just a year younger than he. Seeing her today he realized he had been wrong and perhaps foolish.


Joshua and Lyse were together much once he started working with Dyster. She helped with the training of the riders so they saw each other most days. Joshua found her beauty distracting and was often tongue tied in her presents. He was awed by her skill with the dragons. She had no fear of them, they obeyed her without resistance.

The dragons were fitted with saddles. The ridges down its back made it impossible for the rider to sit centered, so a saddle was fashioned that rode above the ridges. Cinch straps went under the belly, much as a horses saddle. There were stirrups for the riders feet and saddle bags that would hold a bow, sword, and shield.

The rider controlled the direction of the dragon with his feet, applying pressure to one side or the other. A hand command was used to make it bow low so the rider could mount, and the word command, 'up' meant fly, 'down' was used to make it fly low and 'land' meant just that. It did not take long to train the dragons, especially if they were young. They were intelligent animals.

Lyse showed all this to Joshua, often going up with him and showing how to control the dragon. He enjoyed this time because she often had to put her arms around his waste to keep her balance.

She tended to the dragons needs as well, keeping them warm and fed. A huge barn like building had been built to house the dragons. They were cold blooded creatures and did not tolerate the winter snows well. They were often restless in the cold and unable to sleep. A fire was kept going at all times and straw blankets were often placed over the beasts as they slept to keep warmth in.

Lyse delegated the task of making the blankets to the smaller children. They would gather the fibrous plants that grew in abundance around the mountains forests. When dried it resembled straw and was then woven together. It was a skill all children learned at a very young age.

Feeding the dragons was another huge task as they were mainly herbivores and many plants had to be grown to keep them satisfied. Some grew naturally, but when so many were stripped from the forest, leaving it too barren, it was decided crops must be grown. The dragons diet was supplemented with fresh meat, mainly deer and cattle.

A full grown dragon could reach forty feet from tail tip to shoulder and twenty feet from claw to head. Most of the height being in their long necks. So feeding such a creature was a monumental task.

Lyse was said to have a magic touch with the dragons. If dragons wagged their tails they would have done so upon seeing Lyse come to them in the mornings. They would gather around her bending low to receive the pats on the neck and head rubs she gave and their breakfast.

Joshua often helped her with her early morning tasks. The dragons would fight to be the first and this could bring about a perilous situation as they push one another out of the way. Lyse was once knocked down and if not for the quick rescue by Joshua, may have been crushed by the vying dragons.

When it was decided the cats would ride the dragons, a cage was fasten to the saddles to hold them until they were to jump, either to another dragon or to the ground. Lyse helped in the training. Joshua was worried for her, but he needn't have been. The cats, as with the dragons obeyed her commands without resentment.

It took many weeks of training to get them to the point they would jump from one dragon to the other. They were not so keen on jumping into mid-air. Two cats were killed in falls, much to Lyse horror and she cried over each one.

The plan was almost abandoned because the cats were too precious to lose after the years of training that went into them. But the agile cats soon learned and no more lives were lost. At times they landed on a rider causing deep scratches, so the riders began wearing chain maille for protection.

Joshua and Lyse became closer and it was accepted that they were for each other. Joshua asked Augdon if they might wed when she came of age and he gave his blessing, but there was a bit of reluctance. Joshua wondered at it, but felt it was because Lyse was his last child.

Whatever the reason, he hoped to prove himself worthy to be her husband.

Author Notes Lyse- Name means 'Light' youngest daughter of Augdon and is a Dark One.
Kidrick-Self proclaimed spiritual leader and Hamish's grandfather.
Valdig-Augdon's grandfather and leader to the people
Hidel-Valdig's brother
Brock-Augdon's son-in-law, a Dark One
Dyster-the blue dragon


Chapter 13
Valdig

By Roxanna Andrews

All summer and into fall, Joshua trained on the dragon. Dyster was an intelligent beast and obeyed commands easily. Riddare sat in his cage until the command was given for him to jump to another dragon. He was agile and did so most days with out hesitation.

Joshua learned to use his sword, protect himself with a shield and fire arrows on the back of the hulking beast. It took much coordination and weeks of training. He would go from adulation to frustration to adulation again, fluctuating between being pleased with himself to knowing he would never get better.

The Nubian generals were skilled in all the maneuvers and were a great help to him. They rode with him often and during mock battles would advise him how to use his shield or sword. They being most proficient with the bow, helped with his accuracy. He was grateful for their guidance and advice.

The discouraging days often caused him to doubt his calling. After one such day, Joshua found himself hiding in his room where he could find solitude and think. He threw his shield against the wall in frustration. He sat heavily on his bed and doubted his calling.

A knock came to the door and he heard Lyse's voice. "Joshua?"

He sighed loudly and opened it. Lyse took his hand. "Come with me."

She took him down the hallway and into a large room where a fire blazed. Augdon stood on one side of a chair and man who look much like him, on the other. The man sitting in the chair seemed very old, but as Joshua got closer he seemed not so old as tired. His eyes were closed as if he slept.

"This is my brother, Cedric," said Augdon gesturing to the man standing on the other side of the chair.

Joshua was caught off guard, he had never heard Augdon refer to a bother. He gave a nod acknowledging him.

Augdon placed a hand on the man's shoulder sitting in the chair."This is Valdig," he introduced his grandfather.

Joshua eyes went wide and his mouth opened, but no words came out.

"He was away many months. He, and also Cedric, went to spy on the horde and then to recruit men. Though he is almost one hundred years, he is still a strong warrior and needs to be a part of all that we do in this place. He went, though I protested, having to see the horde for himself."

Joshua felt confused and angry at not having been told Valdig was still living. He looked at Lyse. "Why did you not tell me?"

She shook her head and looked to her father.

"I told her not to tell you. Valdig did not know you were here. When he return from his travels he fell sick," Augdon explained. "We did not tell him until a few days ago. If he had known sooner he would have wanted to see you. We could not risk your coming near him and spreading the sickness," Augdon said.

Valdig waved a hand at his grandson. "My grandson is a keeper of secrets. I would not have wanted you to get the sickness, but when I was recovered I had to see you with my own eyes. I did not think I would live to see the day," he said, tears welling in his still vivid blue eyes.

He took Joshua's hand who knelt down beside the famous warrior. He still wore his hair long and in the traditional ponytail. It was so white as to be almost transparent. His face was lined and pale from his illness, but he still had a strong jaw and seemed younger than his years. His hand was thin, but still had a firm grip and his eyes were alert. He placed a hand on Joshua's head. "I thank God for you. I know the time for battle is drawing near."

He began to cough and Augdon led Joshua and Lyse out of the room.

"How could you not tell me he still lives?"

"I wanted to know how it would go with you. You were so young and so unsure of yourself. I questioned if we had chosen rightly."

Joshua's jaw clinched at his words. He felt an anger rising inside. Hadn't he been working and training hard to be this champion? It was they who had said he was the one, he had never claimed it.

"Grandfather was so ill I worried he would not live. So I told him you were here. I think it gave him the strength to recover. He was desperate to see you."

Joshua took a step towards Augdon. "Will he say I am the one? What say you? Do you believe me to be the champion? I would not have known you felt otherwise. "

"Do you think you are the one?" Augdon asked.

"At times I do not feel worthy of this calling, but I believed you when you said it."

"This is why I did not tell Valdig of you. You are too unsure. An army needs a leader, one who can be followed and respected. If you are unsure, the men will know. You could lead them to their deaths! You must decide now what you will be. No army can be victorious without a leader."

"This is why you hesitated to give your consent for Lyse? Because you are unsure of me?" Joshua stood with hands clenched. "Why did you not tell me this before today, you should have told me months ago when you felt it most." He felt himself shaking on the inside. Could he lose Lyse because of Augdon's mistrust?

"I waited to give you time. You are young, I did not want to judge you too soon," said Augdon looking him in the eye.

Joshua shook his head. "Why must it be me? You are Valdig grandson. Why are you not the chosen one? You are already their leader, they follow all you say, why do you need another? Why do you not lead them?"

"I cannot!" Augdon said through clenched teeth. "You must decide." He walked back into the room where Valdig waited and shut the door.

Lyse walked with Joshua out into the courtyard.

"I did not know your father had so little trust in me."

She put her hand on Joshua's chest. "My father knows in his heart you are the one. Do not judge him to harshly. He has much on his mind. You must know that he loves you already like a son. Fathers are often this way. I know it hurt him to tell you the things he did. He is for you, always, as am I. If you are a leader or not, I know you are a good man. I would go to the furthest star with you, if you but asked."

Joshua gather her into his arms and held her close. She love him still. "I think I would like to go to the furthest star." He pulled back from her and smiled. She always had a way of speaking that soothed him.

"Why did Augdon not talk of his brother? I knew nothing of him."

"Cedric is ten years younger than my father. They were not close. He is from a second wife. Cedric and my father disagree on many things. He thought my father the favorite and was jealous. He is not the warrior my father is, he was spoiled by his mother, not made to work so hard at training. My father would despair of him."

"Cedric thought he was the one, the champion. His eyes are so pale as to look violet at times. He tried to convince great grandfather of this. Valdig said it was not so and would not hear an argument for it. He said if he were the one, he would have worked harder to become a great warrior. But I believe spending so much time with Valdig has changed him. He is different now, he listens to my father without complaint."

Joshua was quiet for a moment. It was so much to take in.

"Your father is a great warrior, I am but a youth and know nothing compared to him. The men all do as he says already. It is strange to me that he not be chosen, someone of the house of Valdig should led."

"You are of the house of Valdig."

Joshua turned to see Augdon standing in the shadows. "Your great grandfather was Hibel, Valdig's brother."

Joshua stared in stunned silence at Augdon, as if he could not comprehend his words. It was a moment before he found his voice.

"I would have known this. My uncles said nothing to me about my great grandfather. Why would they not tell me?"

"I know not why they kept this from you. Perhaps they do not know themselves. Hibel died some years after the clan split so your Uncles were not born while he lived."

"I could see you knew nothing of Valdig when you came here. You showed no recognition of his name or of our linage. Your education has been woefully neglected. I am of the mind that Kidrick wanted no mention of Valdig and his sons felt the same. They are all cunning, wanting to keep the people ignorant so they could have them under their thumb. You know what kind of man Hamish is."

Joshua nodded, his mind spinning from all he had learned In a few short hours. He felt a need to sit, but didn't want to appear weak before Augdon.

"This is why I have felt frustration with your uncertainty. You are of the House of Valdig, you come from a line of great warriors, you should have no doubt of who you are. But if you knew nothing of your heritage, I should not have expected so much." This was as close to an apology Joshua would get from the warrior.

"There is another thing you need to know," Augdon studied the ground for a moment then raised his eyes to Joshua's. "My father was taken prisoner by the horde. He still lives, but is made to fight for them. This is why I am desperate to win the battle. To free my father. That is why Valdig insisted on going to spy on the horde. He wanted to see his son."

Joshua sat on the half wall that surround the courtyard, he did not care if it made him look weak. Why was it that they kept so much from him. Did Augdon have so little trust in his abilities as a warrior, as a leader, that he felt he must keep so many secrets?

"It seems my uncles are not the only ones to keep things from me. I know nothing of what is true. If I had known these things before, I would have been a leader by this time. I would have known more of who I am and why I am here."

Joshua felt exhausted from his anger and frustration. He needed time to himself. He asked his supper be sent to his room so he could be alone with his thoughts, but he touched none of it.

Valdig was alive. The great warrior he had heard so much about. The man who had seen a vision of him leading an army. And himself, his great nephew. Perhaps if he had but known Valdig sooner, known all these thing sooner, it would have made a difference in him. He did not know Augdon doubted him so much. He sat on the edge of his bed a long while lost in thought.

He came awake suddenly, sensing a presence in his room. He had fallen asleep fully clothed, laying on his back across his bed. He jumped to his feet, looking for his sword which was not there, he had left it in Dyster's saddlebag.

A man stood before him, his body blue, his hair standing on end in spikes held by bands and blue paint. He was naked but for a loincloth and boots. Joshua heart hammered. The blue horde was here and he was caught sleeping and without a weapon.

Author Notes I welcome all comments, I want my writing to be the best it can be. Thank you.

Validig-Augdon's grandfather and Joshua's great uncle.
Cedric-Augdon's brother
Hidel-Joshua's great grandfather, Valdig's brother.


Chapter 14
The Vision

By Roxanna Andrews

Warning: The author has noted that this contains the highest level of violence.


This is what the Lord says: Do not be afraid! Do not be discouraged by this mighty army for the battle is not yours but Gods. 2 Chronicles 20:15.


How had the enemy gotten past the lookouts and into the fortress undetected and why had not Augdon's men sounded the alarm?

The man stepped towards Joshua and he flinched. He gripped his arm and drew him to an opening cut in the wall. He said nothing, but pointed to the scene taking place below. The horde had overrun the fortress grounds. Joshua tried to free himself, but the man held him fast. Black beasts descended from the night sky and spat fire setting the fortress and the buildings that housed the dragons and cats ablaze. He could hear the screaming of men and beasts. He fell to his knees, tears in his eyes, but the man pulled him to his feet and point again. He saw the women and children being bound with chains and taken away to be sold as slaves, Lyse among them. Joshua fought to free himself, but could not loosen the man's grip. He screamed Lyse's name, but no sound came out.

He saw men and women warriors fighting desperately in the yard and in the woods surrounding the fortress, but to no avail. The horde was too great and there was no one to lead them.

The scene before him blurred and change to one of a village. The people ran before the horde and were cut down, the dragons spat fire and men ran engulfed in flames. Screams of women and children could be heard as well as the men who were pierced by the long spears the horde carried.

Joshua felt an anger rise within him that he had never known. He clenched his fists and set his jaw, biting down so hard his teeth ached.

From the north, Joshua could see a vast army on horseback, a mighty warrior in the lead. They galloped at full speed and entered the fray on huge Friesian horses, muscled and powerful enough to wear armor. The horsemen cut down the enemy with sword and bow, many being trampled beneath horses hooves.

Above the chaos, dragons arrived to do battle with the black beast that spat fire. Joshua saw himself sitting on Dyster's back, the blue dragon soaring over the enemy, and himself using sword and shield as he fought enemy riders. Beside him the Nubian generals rode and shot arrow after arrow bringing down rider and dragon.


Joshua felt an unearthly feeling, a dizziness that made him grip the window opening. He looked to the man standing beside him and he had changed as well. He now had the appearance of a Wahaland warrior and he placed a hand on Joshua's shoulder.


"Do not fear, Joshua, for this is why you were born. Be bold and courageous for you are chosen of God to lead a vast army against a great evil. You will be victorious and they will be wiped from the face of the earth. After this battle you will ever be known as Gulbrandr, God's Sword."


Joshua's eyes flew opened and his heart pounded. He jumped to his feet and look around the room but there was no one there. He looked out the window opening and all was peaceful. He saw Lyse heading to the dragon barn and he ran to catch her.


He slipped into the barn behind her. "Lyse."


"Joshua?"


He pulled her into his arms and held her tight.


"What has happened?" She drew back from him and looked at his face. "You are pale, are you unwell?"


He shook his head, "No, I am not unwell. I have had a dream, or perhaps a vision. It seemed so real, I thought it was. The horde had come here and I was without weapon or shield. I saw you in chains being take away." His voice shook with emotion and Lyse took his arm and made him sit on the bales of vegetation used to feed the dragons. "Tell me." She sat close beside him and he told her all he had seen.


"I know it was terrible to see these things, but now God has shown you who you are. You need never doubt again."


"It has left me greatly shaken. I thought it real, and when I saw them taking you away, I wanted to throw myself from the opening to save you." He pulled her into his arms again and for the first time kissed her on the mouth. He did not care if Augdon found out.


They were silent for a long while, sitting with their arms wrapped around each other. Lyse withdrew from Joshua's arms and began taking the straw blankets from the dragons.

"I was heartily sorry to hear of your grandfather. To be prisoner to the horde must be a cruel and terrible thing. After what I saw, having to fight for such people could destroy a man," Joshua said as he helped Lyse take the blanket from the dragons.


"He was taken on a scouting trip, now they make him fight for them. Father has his men watching him. It has made him most anxious, he and my grandfather are close."


She hesitated a moment and then went on. "Another thing that causes him much distress is he cannot hold a sword as he used to. He has lost some feeling in his hand and arm and cannot fight as he did. It leaves him feeling useless. I do not doubt it is another reason for his frustration with you. He does not like to speak of it, so do not say I told you."


Joshua sat on the bales again. "I have never seen him use sword or bow, but I thought nothing of it. He has men to do the training so he did not have to use his weapons. I feel I have learned too much in these past hours."


Lyse squeezed his arm and he drew her to him. He kissed her again, feeling great relief that she had not been taken away in chains. Joshua realized he loved her more than his own life and felt he could not live without her.


He stayed with her talking until the sun came up and helped her feed the beasts. Soon the generals and warriors arrived for the daily training with dragons and cats.


The images from his vision were burned into Joshua's mind and he saw them each time he closed his eyes. It took several nights for him to sleep soundly again. At times he would dream, often that Lyse was being taken away and he would start awake and reach for his sword.


The vision had instilled within him a determination to put an end to the horde. He saw the way he had been, what could happen if an army had no leader, and understood better why Augdon would be so cautious about him. And he saw what he could become and no longer wanted to be that insecure boy, but the champion he had seen on the dragon, bringing down his foe.


Joshua realized he'd had a nagging fear within him that he was not good enough. Augdon's distrust of him had caused his confidence to further erode until he thought of leaving the mountain. But he could never leave Lyse. He could not ask her to go with him as he would be too ashamed, could never ask her to be tied to a failure all her life, no woman would want such a man for a husband or a father to her children.


The vision, though it had shaken him greatly, was a relief as it told him who he was. He often felt he did not belong because of who his mother was. Some in the village would not associate with him because of her. His uncles always told him he came from a great house, whatever people might say, but it left him feeling insecure. He worked harder to be the best warrior in the village to show everyone he was as good as they where. But deep inside was that gnawing feeling, those thoughts of, "Who do you think you are? You are nobody."


He wanted the mountain men to believe in him, to make Augdon and his uncles proud. And Lyse, he wanted her most of all to be proud of him. To think him worthy of her. She completed him and his life would be nothing without her. Even if he did all that was expected of him, without Lyse none of it would matter.


He admired Augdon and Valdig. He wanted to be their champion, but the responsibility had been crushing him, causing him many sleepless nights and to be impatient with himself.


The vision had reassured Joshua and restored his confidence. He threw himself into being the leader of a great army. He began speaking up at the war council meetings, giving his ideas and opinions and they were well received. He spent time with Valdig who encouraged him and advised him on how to lead. Joshua looked forward to his time with the older warrior. For his age, he was still vibrant and filled with passion.


Joshua decided to move into the common room were all the warriors stayed, for a time. They were his men and he needed to get to know them and understand how an army lived. He began to feel at ease with the way things should be. He behaved as a leader and gained the men's respect.


Cedric also moved to the barracks and made up for lost time on the training field. Joshua watched him and saw his natural talent with a sword and bow. It would not take him long to be as good as any man on the mountain.


Joshua now realized it had been Cedric leading the charge on horseback in his vision. One day he would tell him.


As the weeks past, Joshua grew in his confident. The men listen to him and began to follow his commands. Augdon seemed at peace with it and let it be.

Author Notes The Friesian is one of the oldest horse breeds and originated from Friesland between the northern Netherlands and Germany. They are beautiful horses, rarely have any white markings and are dark or chestnut in color. They can stand 17 hands high, but average is 15 1/2. I thought they would make a good war horse. They are big and slower but not plodders, they are also very calm and gentle.


Chapter 15
Nyla and Joshua

By Roxanna Andrews

When Valdig moved his people to the mountains, he immediately began putting together an army. Several times he sent a delegation to ask the men of Wahaland to join them, fighting men were desperately needed. But Kidrick, the self proclaimed spiritual leader, had convinced the council it was a trick to gain control and every time the delegations was sent away.

"Will you go to Wahaland and once again ask their warriors to join us?" Valdig asked Joshua. "We have not sent anyone to them in many years but I believe they will listen to you as they know you. I would think your uncles would be keen to join us. I fear for them in the valley if they choose not to do so. They cannot withstand the horde on their own."

Joshua agreed. "I have no fears that my uncles would refuse to join us. They are mighty fighting men and would welcome the chance to defend their home."

"Take Hamish with you and leave him there." Augdon said. "He will, no doubt, be glad to be free of us, but he will be wanting revenge and will speak against us. I am hoping your uncles' and grandfather's words will have much weight. Take Cedric and my sons, Arvid and Magnus, they will train the men should they wish to join us." 

After the war council was done for the day, Augdon pulled Joshua aside. "I have thought much and think you should bring your mother here. You should know her as more than someone your uncles told you about. You can go tomorrow should you want to. If she should choose not to come, stay a few days with her.Take Dyster as it will be much faster."

Joshua nodded, "Yes, I will go. I would very much like to see my mother."

Joshua had never spoken to his mother, never touched her, never heard her voice except the one time he hid outside her cottage trying to decide whether to speak with her. He still regretted that he had not. Would his mother know him? His uncles told him he had her eyes and he looked much like his father. He hope that and his words would be enough for her to know him.

Months ago he would have felt an unease, a nervousness at seeing her. But he was greatly changed, he was confident and sure of himself now. If she chose not to believe him, it would change nothing.

Lyse brought Dyster out from the barn and together they saddled him.

"It is good you will bring her here. No mother should be kept from her son for so long. She will know you, I have no doubt of this," Lyse told him. Joshua kissed her and climbed onto Dyster's back.

Joshua rarely rode Dyster for pleasure. On occasion, he and Lyse would do so. Her father allowed them short flights in the daylight. 

Joshua circled the mountain range and was struck again by how hidden the fortress was. It's color blended in with it's surrounding and vines grew on the roof tops for added camouflage. With the snow it was even more hidden, an enemy would not know it was there.

Joshua pointed Dyster south and went to meet his mother after eighteen years.

Joshua looked to the sky and did not like what he saw. He feared it would snow before he reached his mother's and he would freeze. He flew Dyster low so they could land quickly and shelter if needed. He reach his mother's just before the first flakes began making their way to the ground and pile one on top of the other.

He put Dyster down and hid him in the woods behind his mother's cottage. The dense woods had a natural canopy with the trees catching much of the snow so it was not so deep. There were also fallen leaves that could be used as a bed. Joshua fix a place for him, and Dyster lay down and Joshua covered him with his straw blanket. He was asleep before Joshua reached the cottage.
********************************

Two years had passed with no sign of Joshua. Nyla kept busy with her garden, hunting, and helping Father Bart and his wife Fiona. They now had three children, two daughters and a son who were full of life and spent as much time as they could with Nyla. They were fascinated by her. They had never known a woman who could hunt and skin a deer or one so skilled with a sword and bow.

She gave the two oldest lesson. They did their chores quickly and not always well in their hast to spend time with her. They especially looked forward to visit from her nephew, Dak, who would play games and have mock sword fights with them.

Dak visited his aunt often. His heart went out to her, having lost both husband and son. She talked of Joshua often and refused to believe him dead. She still searched for him. "I would feel it, Dak, if he were gone. I know He is still alive, for that part of me is still alive."

One winter day, when snow was on the ground and the fire blazing, Nyla stood preparing her evening meal. Suddenly there was a thunderous noise and the ground shook. Her heart raced and she ran to the door, looking out to find the source of the sound. She looked to the sky to see if it might be a thunder snow storm, they often meant hail and she might need to shelter her horse.

She saw nothing but heard footsteps in the snow. She retreived her bow and strung an arrow. Her two dogs, Ren, meaning "White" and Habil, meaning "Clever", ran to her side. Arrow and Wolf had long since passed but Nyla had kept two of their offspring.

Ren was white as the snow he stood on and Habil, a most intelligent animal. They were as big as their parents and just a vigilant when it came to guarding Nyla. The warrior woman aimed her arrow in the direction of the foot falls.

From behind the cottage came a man. He wore a hooded fur cape and had gloved hands. His legs were covered in a black pant and he wore boots up to the knee. Covering his torso was a leather jerkin that fell to the top of his thighs and at his waist a wide leather belt. His teeth, white and even, gleamed at her as he smiled and his violet eyes shown.

He pulled back his hood and recognition dawned. Nyla ran to her son who lifted her from her feet in a bear hug. Both wept as they held each other for the first time in eighteen years. Though they had never spoken, it was as if they had never parted.

"I knew you would return one day," said Nyla, who shook with disbelief that she was actually looking at her son.

The snow began falling fast and heavy and she hurried him into the cottage to warm himself by the fire. "You are here at last." She could not keep the tears from coming and Joshua wrapped his arms around her again, finding it difficult himself to believe he held his mother in his arms.

Nyla made him a hot drink and had him sit at the table. She sat beside him and kept a hand on his arm as if she were afraid he would disappear. "Tell me all," she said.

"It is a very long story."

The fire burned low as they sat talking. Joshua went to check on Dyster and fetched more wood. He rebuilt the fire and Nyla finished preparing their supper. They ate as Joshua continued his story, telling her of Augdon and the fortress, and who he was born to be.

Nyla marveled at all he told her. Hadn't she always known he was special? From the time he was but a tiny babe, there was something different about him. An intelligence far greater than any child should have. She was not surprised by this revelation. It was what she expected. Even when he had disappeared, hadn't there been a quiet voice in her mind telling her all would be well.

"It is not a surprise to me that you are the chosen one. I had always known it in my heart, you were born for greatness. But how is it in all these years I never heard of this fortress or Valdig?" Nyla shook her head unable to believe so much history would be ignored. "I never heard any telling of it. Had the people forgotten or was I not allowed to know it? I wonder if your uncles know these things. Surely they would have told me."

Joshua shrugged. "My grandfather must know. His father was Valdig's brother and Hamish knew of the fortress."

"I can believe that Hamish knew. He seems to know everything. How is he faring as a prisoner?" Nyla asked.

"He is most miserable."

"I am heartily glad to hear of his misery. I guess that is a wicked thing to say."

"Not at all, we think the same. He is most annoying and makes all around him wish him gone," Joshua shook his head. "I would not want to be held a prisoner, but he should have been wiser with his planning. Augdon says often the man is an idiot, and it is true."

"Augdon sounds like a very wise man."

Joshua smiled and nodded. "Very wise," he said.

Nyla told him how she spent her days. "Your cousin, Dak, comes by often. He will be so glad to know you are well. He still searches for you. I gave him your horse, Fader, to look after. Dak has grown much. You would not know him."

Joshua looked forward to seeing his cousin.

"I wonder if you are willing to come with me." Joshua felt his heart beat a bit faster waiting for her reply.

Nyla was pleased he wished her near him. "Yes I will come. I could not stay long because of my animals, but I can come for a time."

"You can bring the dogs to the fortress if you like. I can send someone with a cart to fetch them." He did not want her to leave him too soon for worry of her dogs.

The dogs had taken a liking to Joshua, as if they knew he belonged. They sat or lay at his feet and often put their head on his thigh. 

 "I will think about it, but I have a friend who will watch them for me. I promise I will stay a good while." She smile and told him, "You have changed much." 

"I would hope I had changed. I was a babe when you saw me last," Joshua folded his arms across his chest and smiled at his mother.

"I saw you often."

Her son's eyes widend in surprise.

"Your uncles would tell me where you would be and I would be there ahead of you. They took you to the fields outside the village to show you how to use a sword, to ride a horse or shoot with a bow. I was there, hidden, watching you."

"With Augdon's men also watching me, it seems the shadows would have been crowded." 

Nyla laughed. "So tell me of the girl you wish to wed."

Joshua told her she had much in common with her as she was a Dark One also.

"She was abandon by her caregiver and brought to the fortress. Augdon's wife said they must take her. Audgon treats her no different than his other children, maybe he is more protective of her. She cares for the dragons and big cats. Lyse has a way with them and they obey her as if she were their mother. It is a sight to see."

"I will be glad to meet her. To think there are dragons so near. There were times when I felt I saw them, but I thought myself being fanciful." She shook her head in amazement.

Joshua smiled and though he tried, he could not hold back a yawn. He was tired from his long day and it was late.

"You are tired, I have kept you awake too long. Sleep now and I will see you in the morning."

"I will have to sleep out with Dyster. I must keep a fire going or he will freeze in the night."

"But you will freeze!"

"I will be well, the fire will warm me."

"Take the dogs with you." Nyla brought him thick blankets against the cold, but she did not like that he would sleep outside and worried about him through the night.

The dogs followed him to were Dyster slept and after their initial hesitation to be near the beast, they settled down. Joshua build a fire, hoping it would not attract the attention of the townspeople. He fashioned a bed and lay down for the night. The dogs, Ren and Habil, lay on either side of him and between the dogs and blankets, he was very warm indeed.

In the morning, Nyla went to check on him, but he was already up and making his way the cottage.

"How was your sleep? I slept fitfully all night, worried for you."

"No need, I was very warm between the fire and the dogs." The dogs trailed behind him and whined for attention.

Nyla made him breakfast and then went to see her friends, Father Bart and Fiona. She told them she would be away many days and could they keep watch over her home and animals. The children were distressed that she would be gone so long. Nyla hugged each one and promised to come see them the moment she returned.
 


Chapter 16
Dyster and Nyla

By Roxanna Andrews

Joshua went to ready Dyster for the trip home and found Father Bart and Fiona's three children had located his hiding place. For a beast of his immense size and ferocious looks, he was gentle. Little Anna sat on his back, while Bart the Second and Abigail stroked his neck and scratched behind his ears. Dyster purred like a kitten.

"Are you being spoiled, boy?" Joshua asked, as a very contented Dyster looked his way.

The children jumped not knowing anyone was about. "We have found a dragon in the woods!" Bart told Joshua.

"He is most beautiful," said little Anna who was just three.

"Yes, he is my dragon and he is a handsome fellow," said Joshua.

"Where did you find him?" asked Abigail

"Can we go for a ride?" asked Bart.

"I found him in the mountains and I do not think your mother and father would like you riding on dragons."

"We will ask!" The children were off before he could stop them. He did not want the townspeople to know a dragon was in their woods. He was not sure how he would explain it.

The children were back shortly looking very disappointed. "They told us to quit being silly. They said there are no blue dragons. We told them to come see, but they would not. They do not believe us," Anna told Joshua with tears in her eyes.

"I am heartily sorry they do not believe in Dyster. I will come back some time from now and show him to them myself. Right now I must go to my home."

Nyla joined him and though he had tried to prepare her for Dyster, she was rendered speechless.

"I swear to you, you will be safe. I will hold on to you the whole way. You will not fall and Dyster will not harm you. See, he would not harm a child," Joshua said pointing to the children.

"He is beautiful," she said. "I never knew there was such a thing."

"We never knew either," said Bart. "I do wish we could ride him."

"Maybe one day, but right now you must stand back," said Nyla.

The dogs had followed Nyla and she asked the children to hold on to them and keep them from under foot. The dogs were as large as the children and she doubted they would do a good job of keeping them back.

Dyster bowed low on Joshua's command and he helped his mother mount. He wrapped a fur blanket around her and another around Dyster's neck to keep him warm.

Nyla smiled at his care for the great beast.

"Dragons do not like the cold. They have to have a fire all winter and sometimes into summer. They even have a blanket to sleep with." He spoke this to the children as he got into the saddle behind his mother.

"Goodbye children, I will see you soon," said Nyla.

The children waved, holding on to the dogs. Ren and Habil barked and broke free from the children. They ran at Dyster, and leaping, managed to get a foot hold on Dysters side and climb up. The children laughed with delight.

"They want to go for a ride, too," Little Anna said. A huge smile on her face and her cheek pink from the cold.

"No!" Nyla said. "Get down!"

The dogs whined and refused to move. They resisted Nyla's attempts to push them off and dug in, Habil wrapped her paws about the saddlebag, refusing to let go.

Nyla could not help but laugh. "You are mad!" She told Habil. The children laughed too.

"Let them be," Joshua said. "They can come. You hold on to one, I will hold the other."

"Up!" Joshua commanded and Dyster began to run, spreading his mammoth wings, he left the ground.

"Tell your mother and father I decided to take the dogs," Nyla called to the children.

The children nodded and waved, running under Dyster trying to keep up.

"Farewell Dyster!" They called as they ran.

"They will have a tale for their friends," Nyla said, her heart pounding so hard she thought it might leave her chest. Joshua saw her hands shaking. "Do not fear, the fortress is not far."

"I am not afraid, just excited. It is an amazing thing to see the world from so high." The scene below her mesmerized Nyla. The snow covered countryside was stunning.

The huge dogs obscured Joshua's forward view, but Dyster knew the way and needed no guidance. The dogs seemed to love every minute of the flight. They sat with tongues hanging out as if they had a smile on their faces and whipped their heads from side to side to see all they could. Joshua and Nyla had to laugh at them.

"Mad dogs," Nyla said.

Dyster came down in the courtyard outside the barn and the dogs jumped to the ground. Nyla slipped from his back with Joshua's help. He put an arm around her, "Are you well?" he asked.

Nyla nodded. "I think maybe I am meant for dragons. I would never think in all my life I would ride one."

Lyse came running to help get Dyster unsaddled and back in the barn. The dogs ran to her and almost tripped her as they wrapped around her legs.

"Mother, this is Lyse," Joshua said.

"I have heard much of you. I am told you are a wonder with dragons and with dogs as well it seems."

"I have heard much of you also." She knelt to pet the dogs. "They are beautiful." The dogs placed their paws on her knees and licked her face.

"Ren! Habil! Get down." Joshua pulled the dogs off Lyse.

Lyse laughed. "They are most friendly," she said. They walked Dyster to the barn, Lyse gave him water and a snack, then she and Joshua closed the huge doors. The dogs ran around the grassy courtyard, wrestling with one another, and then walked beside Lyse and Joshua as they showed Nyla were she would stay.

Nyla linked arms with Lyse as they walked. "We must talk more and get to know one another," she said.
 

Author Notes The dragon picture is from Google.


Chapter 17
Back To Wahaland

By Roxanna Andrews

In the days that followed Nyla arrival at the fortess, she was introduced to Augdon and Valdig and allowed to sit with the War Council. They told her of their plan to recruit the men of Wahaland to fight.

"Would you go with Joshua and talk with your brothers?" Valdig said.

"I am not unwilling to help, but the village cast me out as a child, they will not be glad to see me. They may not allow me in. I will go, but I can promise nothing," Nyla said.

"I know my uncles would be glad to have you. They will speak for you. They carry much weight with the council and they will speak on your behalf," said Joshua.

Joshua brought up another matter that he had thought much about since his vision.

"What of horses? There are many in the valley running wild. We can catch and break them for riding. They are all sturdy Friesian and will make good war horses."

Augdon shook his head. "I do not know that using horses would be wise. The horde use long spears. They would kill the horses and unseat the rider, also they would shy from the dragon fire."

"Not Wahaland horse. Friesiens do not startle easily, they are around fire always. The men burn bonfires that surround them to keep the cats at bay. We can fit them with breastplates to protect them from the spears. We have excellent iron smiths who can make them."

Augdon was pleased to see Joshua acting decisively. He nodded and clapped Joshua on the shoulder, "You are behaving like a leader, I am glad to see it," Augdon told him.  "We cannot wait for the snow to clear but we can hope the weather holds. You should take a cart filled with firewood and extra provision against a storm. You may need to shelter for a few days. Use the longer route as there is a cave along the cliff side where you can stay."

Those chosen for Wahaland made the necessary preparations. It would take over a day to get there if the weather held. They packed plenty of food and filled the cart with firewood and sleeping mats.

They would be leaving before sunrise the next morning so Joshua went in the evening to see Lyse and tell her goodbye.

Lyse stepped out into the night and the evening breeze blew the loose strands of hair around her face. Joshua tucked them behind her ears and kissed her. He looked into her stunning blue eyes and saw tears. "Why tears? I will only be gone five days at most, I am not staying to train the men."

"Your family is there, what if they ask you to stay? They will want you with them. What if you do not return or there is a heavy snow and you can't get back? Let me go with you," she begged.

"Do you think anything could keep me from you? I will be back as soon as I am able. And no you cannot come, your father would never allow it."

"My father treats me as a child still. He does not know that I am grown. I should decide these things for myself."

"He is right to lookout for you. He wants you safe. There will be wild animals looking for food. I would not want you to be eaten." Joshua said trying to lighten the moment.

"I find no humor in this. My brothers will be with me, they will lookout for me."

Her brothers, Arvid and Magnus were most formidable. They were huge and so much alike they were hard to tell apart. There was just fourteen months between them and Joshua consistently got them mixed up.

"It is true no animal would dare assault you in the presence of your brothers," Joshua said with a smile. "You can ask your father again, but I have no doubt he will say no and I do not feel easy about it. Be patient, time will go quickly and I will soon be back."

"You are allowing your mother to go with you," she said with a stubborn look in her eyes.

"My mother is an expert with bow and sword and you are not." Joshua put a hand on either side of her face. "I promise you, all will be well. I will come back as quickly as I can."

Early the next morning those going to Wahaland dressed in their warmest clothes, put on fur boot and hooded cloaks and assembled by the stables to ready their horses.

The dogs, Ren and Habil would come as well. They would not be parted from Nyla so were allowed to accompany her to Wahaland.

One of the men fetched Hamish and brought him to the gate where his horse stood ready for him. He gave the fortress one last hateful look and mounted his horse. The trip down the mountain was quiet, except for an occasional complaint from Hamish. Being told to hold his tongue, he lapsed into a sullen silence.

Six hours on horseback was as much as the delegation could take and they were ready to stop for the night. The dogs had long since tired of walking and had jumped onto the cart and road in comfort.

The weary riders found the cliff side cave and the men lit torches to check for animals.

They came upon a family of otters using the cave as a home. The otters ready to defend their territory, ran at the men all teeth and claws. Arvid had to kill the male as it clamped it's jaws around his ankel. His boot protected him from injury, but the otter refused to let go. Arvid brought his sword down on the back of his neck. The female took her pups and ran for the opening. She attacked Cedric's horse, putting a large gash in his front leg before disappearing into the woods.

Nyla quickly wrapped the wound and the men built a fire to melt snow. Nyla used the warm water to clean the horse's wound and wrapped it again.

"I don't think he can be ridden, he is limping. I will give my horse to Cedric and ride in the cart," Nyla said.

They brought the horses and cart into the cave. Food was prepared and their sleeping mats laid out.

Cedric sat beside Nyla and Joshua could hear them talking and laughing as they ate. His mother was quite beautiful and he could not blame Cedric for flirting with her, but he felt a bit jealous that she would pay attention to another man. He shook off these feelings. She had been alone a long while and deserved some happiness. Cedric was a good man, for all his earlier failings, and he would be a great warrior.

They soon settled down for the night, the men taking turns keeping watch against wild animals and tending the fire.

Magnus had the early morning watch before sunrise, but he was exhausted and kept dozing off. Hamish watched him. He had been hoping for an opportunity to get to Wahaland ahead of the others, and when Magnus dozed, he planned his escape. He quietly made his way through the cave and grabbed his horse. He walked it a ways from the cave, than mounted and pushed it into a gallop. He arrived at the Wahaland village just as the sun was coming up.

Magnus came suddenly awake and jumped to his feet. He looked out the cave opening and saw the snow being kicked up by a galloping horse. He quickly woke Joshua.

"Hamish has gone. I slept for a moment and he ran. We may catch him if we leave now. I can still see the snow his horse kicks up," Magnus pointed to the chunks of snow flying into the air.

"We won't try to catch him. With some luck he will get lost in the dark, but if he does not, Wahaland will be aware of our coming."

"I am to blame, Captain. I let myself sleep. I did not think he had the courage to go on alone." 

"It is of no consequence. He is a fool and I am hoping my family will not listen to any lies he may tell of us." He clapped Magnus on the shoulder. "Let's get moving."

Joshua woke everyone. They took bread and hard cheese from their packs to eat for breakfast and mounted their horses.

As he turned his horse, Joshua saw a huge mountain bear lumber out of the shadows towards him. His horse shied, rearing and unseating him, he fell hard to the ground. Having the wind knocked out of him, he lay still not moving. The bear was on him in minutes, raking his claws across Joshua's shoulders and down his arm. It flipped him like a rag doll and pounced on his chest, biting down on his neck, getting a mouthful of Joshua's cloak. 

Author Notes Picture is from Google.

Otters can be deadly. We have had several attacks on humans in FL lately and they are vicious little creatures. They look so cute, but they will eat your face off. So stay away if you ever see one in the wild.


Chapter 18
Dragons, cats and bears. Oh my!

By Roxanna Andrews

Warning: The author has noted that this contains the highest level of violence.

The dogs growled and barked, nipping at the bear's back leg. The huge grizzly roared and turned to face them. He stood on two legs, being at least twelve stones, he was terrifying, but the dogs were not intimidated. The bear came down on all fours and roared again, shaking his head. Habil came at the bear, mouth pulled back in a snarl, showing teeth. Nyla screamed her name, knowing the dog was no match for the bear, but Habil paid no heed. The bear swiped a paw catching the dog just above the shoulder, sending her flying. She hit the ground and lay still, blood soaking her fur and the snow around her.

***************************************************************************

Dyster paced the dragon barn, bellowing at each turn. Highly agitated, the mammoth dragon flexed his wings every few minutes, lifting himself off the ground, then landing with an earth shaking thud. Riddare, the mountain cat who was his constant companion, paced beside him.

He came to rest at the door as Lyse took the bar off and using his head, pushed it open. She tried to sooth the huge beast, patting his side and speaking softly.

"What is it? What has you so unhappy?" She knew something was very wrong and a gnawing feeling in her gut grew and told her it had to do with Joshua. The beast threw his head back and bellowed, flexing his wings as if to fly.

"Hold on, boy," Lyse called as she ran for a saddle.

Augdon could hear the dragon's bellow and he hurried to see what had the beast in such a mood. He watched his daughter struggle with the heavy saddle and had a sinking feeling.

"Father, I know he senses something amiss with Joshua. I have to go. Riddare will never let me leave him behind so I will take him. He may be of some use."

Augdon bite his lower lip and thought a moment. He did not want her going if there was trouble, but he knew he wouldn't be able to stop her.

Lyse saw him biting his lip and knew it too often meant he would deny her request. Not this time, she thought.

He finally nodded. "I will go as well."

He helped her saddle Dyster and attach the cage for Riddare, who jumped inside without command. Both Augdon and Lyse climbed into the saddle and were barely seated before Dyster was in the air.

*******************************************************************

Those with Joshua watched the bear attack in stunned disbelief. It happened so fast none had time to react. The horses reared causing their riders to fall to the ground, and then ran off.

The men quickly jumped to their feet, but their weapons had gone with their horses. Nyla still had her bow as she hadn't time to stow it before the bear caused her horse to bolt.

The huge bear had grabbed Joshua by the leg in it's powerful jaws and was dragging him down a slope A wide trail of blood made a crimson path in the snow and he cried out in pain.

Nyla strung an arrow, intent on killing the beast. The sound of beating wings above caused her to look up in time to see Riddare jump from Dyster onto the bear's back.

The bear dropped Joshua as the animals rolled down the slope, a tangle of fur and teeth, snow flying. The bear seemed stunned by the sudden attack, he shook his body hard to rid himself of the unwelcome visitor.

Riddare jumped to the ground and the bear came down on all fours, swinging around to face him. He moved his head up and down in a challenge. The cat, keeping his body low to the ground, let out a loud scream and sprang, grabbing the bear around the head, claws long and slashing , pointed teeth biting at the neck.

The bear wrapped his paws round the cat's body, loosening Riddare's grip, flinging him through the air. The cat landed easily on his feet. Blood ran from a wound into the bear's eye and he tried to clear it by rubbing his face in the snow. Though the grizzly was much larger, the cat was more agile and unscathed, he coiled his body ready to spring again when an arrow lodge in the bear's side.

Once the cat was clear, Nyla had taken aim and let an arrow fly. The bear turned toward her, standing on hind legs, his roar almost deafening. Bringing his head forward, his mouth wide, incisors flashing in the early morning sunlight, he advanced on Nyla.

She strung a second arrow, the shaft made of thicker, sturdier wood and a narrower tip. It hit the bear in the chest,  piercing his heart. Before he could take another step, he fell dead at Nyla's feet.

Dyster landed with a tremendous thud. Lyse and Augdon slid from his back and ran to Joshua before the dead bear hit the ground. The dragon followed, whimpering over his beloved Joshua, laying pale and battered on the snow. The great, blue beast nudged Joshua with his snout and would not move when commanded. Augdon grabbed him by the ridges on his neck and pull him out of the way. He threw his head back and bellowed in protest.

Joshua lay barely conscious in an ever widening pool of blood made from the gashes cut into his shoulders and arm by four inch claws. He was weak and light headed from blood loss and pain.

Nyla bandaged her son's wounds as best she could, packing on snow to try to stop the bleeding and dull the pain.

"Can you stand?" Lyse asked Joshua, then turned to her father. "Help me get him on Dyster, I'll take him back to the fortress to our healer."

The men got him to his feet and Dyster lay down so they could get Joshua on his back. It was no easy task and Joshua moaned in pain as they push and tug him onto the dragon's back. The men wrapped him in fur blankets and tied him in the saddle with the leather straps used for a second rider. Lyse got on behind him so she could hold him. Riddare jumped into his cage and lay down, licking the wounds he had gotten during the fight.

"I will go on to Wahaland, but send word as soon as you are able," Nyla told Lyse.

Nyla looked at her son, and her heart ached at the thought of losing him. "Please, God, don't take him, I have only just found him," she prayed silently. She desperately wanted to go with him, but she knew now, more than ever, she would be needed at Wahaland.

Augdon could see her fear. "He will survive, he is young and strong and our healer is very wise in the ways of medicine."

Though Augdon said the words, he too was worried about Joshua. He had lost much blood, and bear wounds often got infected because of the bacteria on the bear's claws from tearing into dead animals. He remembered the vision of Joshua leading a vast army, and he held to that.

Once airborne, Dyster flew low and fast causing Lyse to hang on the Joshua with all her strength. It took not a quarter hour to make the trip, but to Lyse it seemed a life time. She directed Dyster to land close to the door leading into the main hall of the fortress.

Lyse ran through the door, calling for help. Warriors came running to get Joshua down and inside. He was taken to an empty bedroom and placed gently on the bed. The healer was sent for as Lyse sat beside the man she loved, holding his hand, waiting. "Hold on my love," she said, her heart pounding with fear.

**************************************************************************

Arvid had managed to round up their horses and retrieve the cart that had been invaded by a family of raccoon.

Cedric went to check on Habil. The dog lay still and blood soaked, and Ren stood over her whining. "Move boy, so I can see." Cedric gently pushed the dog aside and examined Habil. She had a bad cut on her shoulder and a broken leg. Cedric lay Habil in the cart and tended her wounds as best he could.

Nyla stood beside him and helped with the bandaging. "Thank you. I hadn't thought about Habil, I was so worried for Joshua," Nyla told him.

Cedric nodded, "I think she will survive, we will know by morning."

The men took the time to skin and butcher the bear. The fur pelt and meat would be a peace offering for the council of Wahaland. Without Joshua there to speak for them, they were uneasy about the meeting. The pelt and meat would be a gesture of good will. Augdon hope Nyla's presents would help convince her brothers to join the fight.

When they were finally on their way, the group talked little, their thoughts elsewhere. Nyla said not a word, she was so filled with worry. Augdon put a hand on her arm. "He will be well," he said and smiled. "Remember the vision."

Author Notes Image from Google

Joshua-Champion for his people
Lyse- Joshua girlfriend and Augdon's daughter
Augdon-Captain of the Guardians
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Arvid-Lyse's brother, Augdons' son
Cedric-Augdon's brother
Dyster-blue dragon
Riddare-Mountain Cat, Dyster's constant companion


Chapter 19
The Plea

By Roxanna Andrews



Decided not to post this story yet

Author Notes Picture of Augdon from Ask.com

Valtar-council head
Goran-Nyla's father
Jeffa-Nyla's father in law, Dak's father
Augdon-leader of the mountain men
Cedric-Augdon's brother


Chapter 19
The Council

By Roxanna Andrews

After escaping his escort, Hamish rode his horse hard to Wahaland. He went straight to his dwelling, giving orders to his servants, to draw him a bath. They were shocked to see their master again and they looked at one another unsure of what to do, then reluctantly did as he said. Hamish bathed and donned fresh clothing.

He handed the clothes he had been wearing to his servant. "Burn these," he ordered. Before walking out the door he turned, "Do not think I have forgotten what happened at the fortress and your desertion of me. I will deal with you when I return." He whirled on his feet in his usual dramatic fashion and hurried off to speak with Valtar, head of the council.

"Valtar there are armed men on there way here to overtake the village. They come form the mountains. They had held me prisoner for these many weeks. I know you must have wondered at my whereabouts and been concerned.  I was suspicious of the mountain men so went to the Purple Mountains to search. They captured me and I escaped from them. Now they have followed me here. They still hold Joshua, so you must call the warriors to arms and go out to meet them!"

Hamish paced as he spoke and Valtar watched him a moment, not knowing what to think. He had wondered at his disappearance and had questioned his servants, but they could not say what had happened to him. He rose and went to call the council members together.

"We do not have time for a council meeting. Call the warriors to arms. You must meet these men before they get to Wahaland!" Hamish demanded and it seemed to Valtar that he was not well in his mind.

In their chambers, Valtar stood before the council members and cast glances at Hamish as he spoke.

"Hamish claims there are men coming from the mountain fortress to overtake the village."

"I do not claim it! I know it is so, I was with them just last night before I escaped. Send men and you will see," Hamish said growing more agitated.

"For what reason? Why would they come now to overtake us? This makes no sense. We have lived peaceably for almost one hundred years, now they decide to overtake us." Goran, Joshua's grandfather shook his head in disbelief. He had no use for Hamish.

"You say they hold Joshua?" asked Valtar.

"Yes, When I escaped I would have rescued him, but it was too dangerous," lied Hamish. He could see by the looks he received, the council was sceptical. "I saw Joshua with my own eyes. He was there." He continued to pace and his hands shook.

Goran, Joshua's grandfather, watched him expressionless and shook his head, he could not abide Hamish. He rose and went out to called his sons to him.

Erik and Drake had seen Hamish return and waited outside the council chamber, having not been asked to join them. They had become council members the year before and were confused as to why they had been left out. Goran had not wanted them there as he had not told them of the fortress nor of Valdig's vison. They knew only that he was their great uncle and that there were men who lived in the mountians, but since they had never bothered the village, they never felt them a threat. Goran had kept much from them, and he didn't know what Hamish might say that would cause them to have questions he didn't want to answer. 

"Hamish is saying he had been held captive by the mountain men. He escaped them, and they followed him hoping to overtake the village. I do not believe him." Goran told his sons. "He is acting like a man possessed. I do not know what may have happened to him, but he seems undone. Ride out to see if anyone is headed our way. I do not know how many there are. Hamish is no help. Take Dak and if there are indeed men coming, send Dak to tell me."

Drake called for his son Dak and told him to bring the horses.

"One more thing," Goran said, "Hamish said he saw Joshua, that he is being held by these men. I do not believe it, but if it turns out to be the truth, then we must fight to get him back."

His sons nodded and the three men mounted up and galloped out of the valley toward the mountains.

The brothers could see horses in the distance, heading their way, snow flying around them as they galloped toward them.

"How many do you think?" Asked Dak.

"Not many. Not enough to defeat our warriors and overtake the village. I think it is just more of Hamish's lies," replied Erik. The men pulled up their horses to wait.

"Do you believe Joshua to be alive?" asked Dak. He looked between his father and uncle.

"I do not know. Why would these people take Joshua and keep him for all this time? Surely they would have asked for a ransom. I can make sense of none of it. Go and tell your Grandfather that men on horseback are indeed on their way." Drake answered.

Nyla could see men on horses, waiting. "It would seem Hamish made it to Wahaland and the council had sent warriors," she said.

"Not very many," Augdon observed. "I count only three. I do not think they are a war party."

As the distance between them grew less, Nyla could see it was her brothers and Dak who waited. She was greatly relieved.

Drake and Erik seeing their sister with a party of warriors caught the brothers off guard. They could not fathom how she would have come to be with them.

"Nyla, how is it you are in the company of these men?" Drake asked. The brothers kept their weapons at the ready.

"I was asked as a favor to Valdig, your great uncle, to make inquiries as to whether you would join those in the fortress to fight against a great evil that is descending upon the land."

The brother stared at her, not knowing what she meant.

"Nyla, we know nothing about what you are saying," Erik said. "We know Valdig was father's uncle, but he has been dead these many years. We know of the mountain men, but nothing of a fortress."

Nyla sighed inwardly. How could her father have kept these things from her brothers? She couldn't understand the reason for so much secrecy. Did he fear Valdig and the mountain men? Perhaps, but then why keep it from his son? Why not tell them so they could stand ready to defend him and Wahaland?

She saw the difficult job set before her, to convince her brothers and the council that she spoke the truth. "It is a long  story, but I will tell you as much as I can. Know I tell the truth as I have never lied to you and have no reason to do so now.  I swear you can trust these men. I come on behalf of Joshua as well. We do not come to harm, but in peace to beg for your help."

The brothers eyes widened at the mention of Joshua's name. They were bewildered by all that was said, but they trusted their sister so nodded and turn their horses toward Wahaland.

Nyla explained how she had come to be part of the delegation and what had become of Joshua. She introduce the men with her as well, and gave as much information about each as she knew, to help ease her brothers' minds.

She told them all she knew of Joshua's story and Augdon filled in any gaps she left. The story she told of the horde and of dragons, was difficult for her brothers to take in. They shook their heads often, finding much of what was said difficult to believe.

"I promise you we will show you the fortess and all that we have told you if you desire. We have no reason to make up fantastic tales. We only want your help to defeat an enemy. One that will destroy us all if we do nothing," Augdon said.

*************************************************************
 

Hamish paced the council chamber, waiting for the brothers to return. They would no doubt have the mountain men with them and Joshua would tell them a very different tale than the one he had told. His cunning mind tried to think up a story that would counter anything Joshua might say, but he wasn’t able to concentrate. Days with little sleep  had taken a toll and he had many times over the past weeks, felt himself on the edge of a breakdown. Being so isolated had almost been his undoing. He needed rest, but there was no time. He knew the mountain men would be there soon and he needed a plan.

Valtar and Goran watched Hamish pace the room, seeming to talk to himself. They exchanged glances and Goran shook his head. “I do believe he is undone. Something is wrong and I do not trust his words. Look at how he behaves. Forget him Valtar. Let the council make our own decisions without him.”

Valtar said nothing, reluctant to turn against Hamish, whose grandfather, Kidrick, had been a most formidable man and had instilled fear into Valtar. Kidrick had done a good job of training up his son, Hamish, to take his place and though he despised Hamish, a lingering fear kept him from dismissing him. Hamish was formidable in his own right and seemed to possess powers no one understood.

Goran sat back and folded his arms across his chest. He nor his sons ever believed Hamish possessed special powers. He was just cunning and manipulative. Goran had tried to get Hamish removed as their spiritual leader, as he felt his influence to be damaging and of no value, but had not been successful in going so. Hamish preyed on the weak minded and Valtar had never been a strong-willed man. He should not have been made council head. He knew Hamish had much to do with his being installed and no doubt his father, Kidrick, as well. Goran could only hope he and his sons would have more influence, and be a voice of reason with the council.

A commotion outside the chamber drew Goran's attention to the door as it flew open and his sons walked in followed by Nyla and the rest of the men from the fortress.

Author Notes Picture from Google.

Joshua-Champion for his people
Lyse- Joshua girlfriend and Augdon's daughter
Augdon-Captain of the Guardians
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Mathis-Lyse's brother, Augdons' son
Cedric-Augdon's brother
Dyster-blue dragon
Riddare-Mountain Cat, Dyster's constant companion
Hamish-vain spiritual adviser
Kidrick-Hamish's evil grandfather
Valtar-Council Head
Goran-Joshua's grandfather, Nyla's father
Drake-Nyla's brother
Erik-Nyla's brother


Chapter 20
Augdon Addresses the Council

By Roxanna Andrews

A commotion outside the chamber drew Goran's attention to the door. It flew open and his sons walked in followed by Nyla and the rest of the men from the fortress.

Goran had not seen his daughter since she was seventeen. He'd moved her far from Wahaland with no contact in all these years, but he would know her anywhere, her appearance was so like her mother's. His chest tightened painfully. He felt such guilt over the years for abandoning her. Seeing her caused him to think of things he would rather forget.

Things like his wife never being the same after Nyla had been taken away. He had let his ambition to be head of the council, and the need to be accepted as a leader by the clan, blind him to his wife's pain and his own. He'd never been appointed the council head, Hamish had seen to that, and he never would be as long as Hamish had a say. It had all been for naught, he had abandoned his daughter for nothing.

Deep inside, he despised himself for letting Kidrick, Hamish's wretched grandfather, and the council, make him banish Nyla. But the blame lay fully on him. He should have stood up to them. He allowed his beautiful child to be taken from his home. She had been so happy to go with the caregiver. She had smiled and waved when taken away, his wife sobbing, nothing could comfort her.

The image of the last time he had seen his daughter was forever etched in his mind. He had nightmares about it, running after her in the night, the blackness overtaking him, losing his way. The sound of his wife's sobs echoing in the darkness. He would wake in a cold sweat, unable to go back to sleep.

He knew his sons visited Nyla every day at the little dwelling they had built for her. After she moved far from the village, he did not stop them from traveling to see her. He never asked after her, but knowing her brothers were looking out for her gave him some peace.

Then his wife became ill. She too had gone to visit Nyla while she lived close by, but when she was moved far from the valley, his wife began to lose interest in everything, even living. When a sickness swept through the valley, she didn't try to fight it. She just lay down and let herself die. His telling her she had grandchildren to nurture held no interest for her.

Goran could not take his eyes from Nyla. He watched her eyes meet his and then flashed away with no recognition. He had changed much in twenty years.

None of the council members knew her, and Goran made no move to acknowledge her. He didn't want them to know she was a Dark One and perhaps cast her from the chambers.

Augdon stepped to the front of the group. The council, amazed by this mountain of a man, stared wide eyed as he spoke. "I am Augdon, grandson of Valdig. I come to speak on his behalf and to ask that you join in the fight. If you know the history of our people, of Valdig and his vision..."

"What do you mean, you come on Valdig's behalf?" Valtar interrupted, his look skeptical.

"Valdig, my grandfather, lives still. He asked us to come to you again and persuade you to join us."

A loud murmur went through the council. "Valdig lives? That is hard for us to believe," said Goran, interrupting Augdon again.

"Believe it or not, as you wish. If you want to know the truth, you may come with me to the fortress in the mountains, and I will introduce you to your great uncle. I am sure he would like to know you, Goran."

Nyla felt a jolt go through her body knowing the man who spoke was her father. She had not seen him since she was seventeen. She watched him, not sure what she felt. He had never made any attempt to see her since he moved her far from the Wahaland Valley and he had little to say that day. He had left without even a backward look or goodbye. Did he know it was her who stood before him?

Augdon surveyed the room. He saw nothing but doubt in the men's eyes. "If you had been told of the vision you know a champion would come from our people. Joshua is that champion. He has been with us these past two years, learning to lead an army."

A murmur again went through the council. "You say Joshua has been with you these past years, where is he then? Why is he not with you?" asked Goran, avoiding an answer to Augdon invitation to meet Valdig.

"He was with us, but was attacked by a mountain bear early this morning before sunrise..."

"A bear? Where was this? They don't come down from the mountains very often. Does he live?" Goran was filled with questions and concern for his grandson. He stood to his feet to hear the answers.

"He was taken back to the fortress where we have a learned healer. He will not die of his wounds, but they had to be treated quickly. We were just outside the valley, about an hour away, near the base of a cliff. He will come when he is able."

 Goran nodded and sat down.

Augdon continued. "Joshua knew nothing of the vision, nor had he ever heard of Valdig or the horde. Why have you kept so much from him." He looked at Goran. "Your own sons know almost nothing as well. Why have you not told them? You must know these things, yet you keep it to yourself. Even now the horde sweeps down from the south, devouring everything in its path. I have seen it for myself, as well as my brother." He gestured toward Cedric, who nodded.

"I can tell you they will not leave you untouched. You cannot defeat them. There are too many and they do not care if their own die, they just replace the dead with more warriors. They are like swarming ants and are on the move again. We have warned the villages in their path and they have fled, many joining our army. We must stop them before they reach the mountains. If we do not, they will not stop until they reach the sea. There are vast settlements and the trade ports beyond our mountains. They will destroy all before them."

"They add to their numbers by making slave soldiers of those they conquer. If you do not want to see your sons and daughters turned into slaves or killed, burned on a pier of human bodies, you will join the fight."  Augdon stopped speaking and gauged the temperament of the men in the room. Some looked up, but many would not meet his gaze.


Chapter 21
Goran's Confession

By Roxanna Andrews

Hamish rushed to the front of the room, eyes wild and hair flying. "Do not listen to these men. Had not my grandfather warned you of their lies? They only want you to join them and move to the mountains so they can take all we have, our fur trade, and the wealth of our opal mines. This horde is a ploy, where is the proof of it?"

Drake stepped forward addressing the council. "I see nothing for them to gain in lying to us. They have left us in peace for almost one hundred years and I see no reason for them to come to us now wanting what is ours. They are well fed men, with much of their own. What need have they of our goods? They could take from the traders and be better off. No, I believe they speak the truth and I will join the fight. But I too wish to know why these things were kept from us." He said the last to his father.

Goran hung his head. He knew this day would come eventually.

"When Valdig came to us the first time to ask our warriors to join the fight, we refused him. Kidrick said they were lying and my father used that as his excuse, but the real reason was fear of losing our men. If it were known there was a war to be fought, all the young men would have gone. As trained warriors they would want to go where they could use their skills. We have lived in peace for generations, life is mundane, we are becoming farmers and breeders, raising crops and animals. No warrior would want this life. There was a restlessness always in the men, they were born to fight."

"We have war games, tournaments and the quest to try to satisfy the need to be a warrior. But for some it just added to the frustration, all this training and no need to use it. If they had known there was a need of them as warriors, we would not have gotten them back. The village would have suffered greatly. We needed them to work the mines, to hunt, to grow crops. So we kept it to ourselves, choosing for the good of the clan, not to tell of the army amassing just a day and a half away. I felt ashamed to keep it from you, but my fear would not let me do so."

The room was silent for a time.

Erik stood beside his brother. "My sons and I will fight as well. You needn't have feared we would not return. This is our home. You should have had more trust in us."

Goran nodded. His son spoke the truth. "We will give the men a choice, but I believe all will wish to fight."

"How do we know if what you say is true? If Joshua is with you, let him come here and speak to us. We will do as he says," a council member declared. The rest of the council nodded their assent.

Hamish turned to the council with his staff out before him. "You are doomed then. If you wish to believe their lies, you do this at your own peril, I cannot save you."

He spun on his heels and quickly exited the chamber.

Hamish went to his dwelling and ordered his servants to pack. "Pack enough food to last a week at least. Quickly, we leave within the hour." His servants stuffed his clothing into saddlebags and wrapped bread and hard cheese in a cloth with some dried meats and fish. They readied his horse and brought it to him.

"Get to your horses quickly, we leave now," Hamish ordered.

His servants stood looking at the ground. Finally the man raised his head and met his gaze. "We will not go with you."

"Who do you think you are to defy me?" he raised his staff and brought it down on the mans shoulder.

A hand grabbed his arm as he raised it again. Hamish turned to see Augdon towering over him. He tired to pull his arm free, but Augdon held it fast.

"Let me go you barbarian!" he screamed. Augdon released him and he made for his horse. Pulling himself into the saddle, he gave a hate filled look at Augdon and spat on the ground. He urged his horse into a gallop and fled the village.

Augdon walked out of the village and made for a small oasis of trees just three hundred yards out. He whistled and a man stepped from the shadows.

"Send word to the fortress, see how it goes with Joshua. When he is well, we need him here." The man nodded and the message was passed.

Author Notes Photo from Google
Kidrick-Self proclaimed spiritual leader and Hamish's grandfather.
Valdig-Augdon's grandfather and leader to the people
Augdon-Captain of the mountain men's army
Goran- Father of Nyla, Drake & Eric. Joshua's grandfather
Hamish- Clans spiritual leader


Chapter 22
Training Day

By Roxanna Andrews

Joshua opened his eyes and surveyed his surroundings. He wrinkled his brow in an attempt to remember where he was. He had been on his way to Wahaland. Was he in the village, maybe in one of his uncle's dwellings?

He heard soft breathing and turned to see Lyse asleep on a mat beside his bed. He lay on his stomach and when he pushed himself up, pain shot through his shoulders and down his arm. He fell back on the bed, his face buried in the bedclothes. He felt as weak as a day old kitten.

He had let out a loud groan when trying to sit up and it woke Lyse. She jumped up from her sleeping mat and came to his side.

"Joshua," she said, placing a hand on his head.

He turned to see her.

"Don't try to move too much. You could open your wounds again. You have been running a high fever for days and thrashed about in your delirium. You kept opening your wounds."

After being brought to the fortress, Joshua's wounds had become badly infected. This was common for wounds inflicted by a bear because of the bacteria they carried in their claws. The infection resulted in a high fever. Many died from the infections, but the very learned healer had stayed with him day and night, cleaning the wounds and packing him in snow to bring down his fever. After four days the infection began to clear and his fever dropped until he finally fell into a normal sleep.

Lyse had not left Joshua's side, assisting the healer anyway she could. She was terrified of losing him. Her heart ached and pounded so hard with fear, it left her exhausted. She could not imagine her world without Joshua. She had come to love him more than her own life.

She wondered often if she should send for Nyla, fearing Joshua would not make it through the night. But she remembered the dream he had told her about, his destiny to lead a great army. She took comfort in that and told herself he would recover, he must! She sank to the floor with relief when his fever disappeared and she could finally sleep.

"Yesterday afternoon your fever finally left you. I was so afraid for you. The healer had been with you night and day. He stitched the wound closed last night when the infection cleared,"

Joshua gave her a questioning look.

"The healer sewed the wounds closed. I have witnessed him doing so to other warriors who were cut. Be glad you were sleeping, it is very painful," she shuddered as she said the words.

Joshua put his hand to his shoulders to feel his wound, but it was covered. "It does not sound like a pleasant experience. I cannot remember all that happened. Tell me."

She told him of the bear attack and of Dyster's behavior. How she knew something was amiss with him.

"Dyster would have flown to you without me, he was so restless. If not for him and Riddare, I believe you would have been a meal for a huge mountain bear. Your mother saved you by killing it, an arrow straight to the heart."

"I would have liked to see that." He coughed, then winced as pain shot through his shoulder.

"How long have I been here?" He asked.

"Five days," she answered. "I have been sending messages to my father and Nyla to let them know how you fare. I did not tell the whole truth as I did not want Nyla to worry too much. I would have sent for her today if you had not started to show improvement. I am sure she will be angry with me when she finds I was not completely truthful. I cannot fault her. I would be angry as well."

"I think she will forgive you," he assured her. "I am so thirsty, can you get me some water?"

Lyse ran to get him water and asked for food to be brought. While she was gone, Joshua struggled to turn onto his back. The effort left him weak and shaky and his forehead damp with sweat.

His memory was coming back and he recalled being dragged by the huge bear. He was grateful his dragon was so attuned to his feeling and came to his rescue. He was grateful Lyse knew something was amiss.

Lyse brought him cool water and he drank his fill. When the food arrived, he ate only half before exhaustion overtook him and he slept.

Later in the day the healer checked Joshua's wounds and nodded with satisfaction.

"They heal nicely. We will leave the bandages off. The threat of infection has passed. The stitching holds well."

"Where did you learn to stitch the skin closed?" Joshua asked.

"I learned from an Egyptian healer. They are much advanced in the ways of medicine. I stayed with him two years to learn all he could teach me. I know what I learned has saved lives."

Joshua thanked him for all he had done.

"Do not thank me, it is God's will," he said. "I will be back tomorrow to see you."

Joshua turned to Lyse. "Who cares for the dragons while you are here?" he asked.

"There are others who can do that. My place is here. I would not leave you," she said as she took his hand.

****

The men of Wahaland had begun to train for battle. They decided to trust Augdon and his men, and began their training without Joshua's assurance. The word of Goran and his sons was enough for them.

Many of the women also wanted to fight, and Nyla began training them in the basics of swordplay and archery.

Augdon had sent for his Nubian generals and they brought several of the wives to help train the women.

Ten days had passed since the Wahalands began their training. They learned quickly and Augdon was grateful they had kept up their sword skills even with no enemies to fight. He was pleased with their progress.

Early on the morning of the eleventh day, as the warriors trained, a huge shadow passed over them. They looked up, shielding their eyes from the sun, to see a huge iridescent blue dragon flying above them. It came to rest just yards away.

Drake and Eric, swords at the ready, ran to defend against it. The men of Wahaland also drew swords and came behind them. As they looked on, a man and a young woman, slid from the dragon's back to the ground and smiled.

"Hello, Uncles. No need for swords," Joshua said.



































 

Author Notes Joshua-champion, Nyla's son
Lyse-Augdon's daughter, Joshua's future wife.
Dyster- Blue Dragon
Riddare-Mountain Cat, Dyster's constant companion.
Augdon-Captain of the Army
Drake & Eric-Joshua's uncles
Nyla-Joshua's mother. A Dark One banished from her village.


Chapter 23
Joshua Returns

By Roxanna Andrews

Eric and Drake stood gaping at their nephew. He had changed much in the two years since they had last seen him. He was now a man and no longer the youth who had left on a quest.

The uncles soon regained their wits and grabbed Joshua in a back slapping embrace. They laughed with tears in their eyes, thinking they would never see their beloved nephew again and were overjoyed.

Nyla pushed her way through those gathered around her son and embraced him. "I was fearful of never seeing you again, but God has saved you and brought you back to us."

He smiled at his mother as Augdon came up to shake his hand. "I am heartily glad to see you, son."

Lyse stood quietly beside Joshua. He drew her forward. "This is Lyse." he said, introducing her to his uncles. "She will be my wife one day soon." He said this looking Augdon in the eye. Augdon gave a slight nod.

Augdon embraced his daughter, then it was Nyla's turn. "I cannot find words to thank you for caring for my son. He looks completely well."

"That has naught to do with me, but our learned healer. He saved Joshua from the ravages of a fever. I am most grateful to him," said Lyse, looking into Joshua's eyes.

"As am I," said Nyla. "I must thank him on my return to the fortress."

Dak, Drake's son and Joshua's cousin ran to him, grabbing him by the shoulders. "Is it really you, cousin?" He asked as he looked into Joshua's face.

"It is good to see you Dak. You have grown some since we last met." Joshua laughed as the two were eye to eye.

"I have kept your horse for you. He is well." Dak gave a whistle and Fader came running. The huge black Fresian pranced when he saw Joshua, who patted his neck and whispered in his ear. The stallion nuzzled Joshua, remembering his master.

Dak looked beyond Joshua to Dyster. The huge blue dragon stayed where he had landed, flexing his wings occasionally.

"I would never think I would see one of these up close," said Dak, with awe.

Joshua motioned for Dyster to come forward. The crowd took a step back as the dragon came to stand beside him.

He put his massive head down waiting for a pat and Lyse patted the huge forehead. "Would anyone like a ride? He is very friendly. I promise, you have nothing to fear."

All stood quietly staring at the monstrous beast. One small child stepped forward. "I would like a ride," she said. The children had run to see Dyster when they saw him land. Now they all rushed forward, vying each other to be first.

Lyse had placed a rope ladder hooked to Dyster's saddle to make it easier to climb up the beast's side. The children clamored up, excited to be going on an adventure. Lyse took three at a time, carefully strapping them down so there was no chance of them falling off.

The parents looked on apprehensively, but knowing there would be no getting their children down, resigned themselves. Joshua reassured them that the children would be perfectly safe and Lyse was a dragon master.

After seeing the children ride the dragon, the men were shamed into doing so. Afterward, many of the men found they enjoyed it and inquired about being a rider. Several were taken back to the fortress where they could be trained.

Goran, Joshua's grandfather came out to greet him, embracing him in a bear hug with tears in his eyes. 

"It is good to see you. I thought I might never lay eyes on you again."

Goran also made peace with Nyla, the daughter he had not seen in eighteen years.

"I should never have let them take you from us. Your mother never forgave me for it." He hung his head as he spoke to Nyla, unable to meet her eyes.

Nyla felt her heart go out to him and any resentment she'd harbored, faded away. She put her hand on his arm. "It was the way of things then. You really had no choice. My brothers took good care of me and I did well. Look at the grandson I gave you." She gestured towards Joshua.

"Yes, he is a fine boy. He is a man now. But I should have been a man and come to visit you with your brothers. I was a coward."

"I know that is not true. Now let us talk no more of what should have been. We have much to catch up on and new memories to make."

Goran marveled that she could forgive so easily. He saw in her much of her mother and his heart ached for the loss he had inflicted on them all.

A council meeting was called shortly after Joshua's arrival so they could  get an account from him of his time away from the clan. 
**************************************
Hamish sat hunched on his horse, rethinking the wisdom of leaving the clan. He wasn't even sure what he was going to do. He once again had let his blind rage cause him to make a foolish decision.

He had been traveling for fourteen days and his food was running out. He was not a hunter, so was beginning to panic. He saw himself starving to death in this frozen wasteland, his clansmen coming across his bones years later. It was more likely the wolves would drag his body off, never to be seen again. The only other living thing he had seen were the wolves that trailed him. He saw them now and then watching him. At night he kept his fire high and was forced to keep watch and had slept very little. When he could, he slept in a cave or with his back against a cliff wall to better defend himself.

He was cursing himself for his stupidity when he saw a large shadow move over him. Hamish looked up in time to see a huge black dragon descending on him. It  grabbed him in its clawed feet, and ascended again. Screaming and kicking he tried to free himself, but the powerful grip of the black demon was unbreakable and he soon ceased his struggling.

Author Notes Google image
I don't think this is completely horrible, but you'll have to tell me what you think.Trying to get this done before Christmas. But I won't hold my breath.
Picture from Google.

Joshua-Champion for his people
Lyse- Joshua girlfriend and Augdon's daughter
Augdon-Captain of the Guardians
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Dyster-blue dragon
Hamish-vain spiritual adviser
Goran-Joshua's grandfather, Nyla's father
Drake-Nyla's brother
Erik-Nyla's brother


Chapter 24
Hamish in Trouble Again

By Roxanna Andrews

The council came together with Joshua the guest of honor. Augdon was there as well as Joshua's uncles.

They sat in rapt attention as Joshua told them all he had done the past two years. From the day Augdon met him while on his quest, to the day of the bear attack.

"Why could you not tell us where you had gone?" asked Goran.

Augdon answered. "We had come to the men of Wahaland many times asking you to join us. Your answer was always, no. We feared if you knew we had Joshua, you would try to take him by force. We had no wish to fight you, we saw no reason to shed innocent blood. Many of your men could have died. They are no match for my warriors."

Joshua nodded in agreement. "At the beginning it was difficult for me. I worried you would think me dead, I had no wish to cause my family pain. But if I had told you, I know Uncle Drake and Eric would have come for me. It is true, you would have been no match for the mountain men."

The council agreed grudgingly, not liking being called inferior. "But we are reasonable men. We could have come to an agreement," said Goran.

Joshua smiled at this. "You are not reasonable men. Besides, Hamish would have convinced you to come for me and like the coward he is, he would have stayed back and let many die. No, it was for the best that no one knew. As it was Hamish came for me, thinking himself a hero."

The men could not help but laugh at Hamish's expense. "He is off again. Who knows where he has gone this time."

He is a foolish man," said Augdon.
*****************************

Hamish hung limp from the claws of the great dragon, but his mind was going at a rapid pace. Was he to be the beasts dinner, perhaps food for it's young? His sword was in his belt, if he could but reach it, he tried again, but it was no use. He would have to wait until the beast put him down, hoping it would not drop him from a great height.

He looked up to check the sun, it seemed they had flown for hours. How far was this monster's nest? Looking up he saw a blue face peering down at him. His heart seized and felt as if it would stop. So it was true. The horde was near and now he was their prisoner. He wondered briefly if they ate other humans.

Though it was winter and it should have been bitter cold, Hamish was warm in the beast claws, almost uncomfortably so. He woke with a start, to see a village below him. It seemed impossible, but after so many nights without proper sleep, he had dozed off and must have been asleep for hours. The sun was low in the sky, telling him it was close to evening. The dragon descended and dropped Hamish about ten feet from the ground. He landed having the wind knocked out of him, so he lay still a moment. When he tried to get up he saw feet and felt something press against his neck.

Hands reached out and grabbed him by each arm hauling him to his feet. He looked at the fierce looking men, blue streaking their faces in varying patterns. Their hair was short and stood on end, also streaked through with blue. The were wrapped in curde fur garments against the cold.

Hamish opened and closed his mouth, but no sound came out. Fear had taken his voice. He again cursed himself for his rash decision to leave the clan and travel alone.

The men half dragged, half carried him to a tent set up in the middle of the village. They pushed through the opening and shoved Hamish forward. He fell to his hands and knees and heard a laugh. Rage mounted inside him at being humiliated. He saw booted feet in front of him and took a deep breath, ready to unleash a tirade of angry words.

"Hello, Hamish."

He looked up in surprise that any of these savages would know his name. He found himself looking into eyes much like his own. Recognition dawned as he stared wide-eyed at his captor.

"But, how..?" he stammered, unable to believe what he was seeing. He felt an other worldly feeling, thinking he must be hallucinating.
 

Author Notes Picture from Google
Joshua-Champion for his people
Lyse- Joshua girlfriend and Augdon's daughter
Augdon-Captain of the Guardians
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Dyster-blue dragon
Hamish-vain spiritual adviser
Goran-Joshua's grandfather, Nyla's father
Drake & Erik-Joshua's uncles Nyla's brothers


Chapter 25
Lucas

By Roxanna Andrews

Hamish looked into the striking blue eyes of his older brother, Lucas.

He had not seen him since the day he left Wahaland twelve years ago at the age of fifteen. How had he come to be part of the Horde? Hamish couldn't fathom it.

Lucas had been head strong and fearless. Hamish knew there was something in his brother, a restlessness that couldn't be contained. He was always in some trouble or other. It embarrassed their father and was the cause of every fight, some even came to blows.

One day Lucas just packed a bag and left. Hamish never saw him again, not until today. He had thought him dead. He didn't see how he could have survived alone, but he should have known Lucas would survive.

"Stand up brother and greet me properly," said Lucas as he pulled Hamish to his feet and embraced him. "You look as if you are seeing a ghost. Did you think me dead?"

Hamish, still in shock and unable to find his voice, shook his head.

"Perhaps you wished me dead." He laughed and perched on the edge of a table behind him, one booted foot firmly on the ground. "I always felt you and father would not have mourned long over my demise. You were his favorite," he said wagging a finger at Hamish. "You, his willing minion, and me the troublemaker. Was he greatly relieved when I left?"

"You broke his heart when you left," Hamish finally found his voice. "He sent men after you."

"I do not doubt it. He did not like anyone defying him. But as for breaking his heart," Lucas shook his head. "You never were a good liar, Hamish."

"I missed you." Hamish said softly. Lucas ignored the statement.

"What are you doing here, with these people?" Hamish asked, looking at the blue streaked men behind him.

"These are my people now. I rule them and they do my bidding without question. Look around you; have you ever seen such treasure? This is all mine. I plan to rule the world, Hamish. This side of it anyway."

Hamish had looked around him. There were golden bowls, candlesticks, and chalices, many encrusted with jewels such as rubies, sapphires and topaz. Tapestries adorned the tent walls. Fine woven rugs covered the ground and silk pillows were strewn over them. The table Lucas sat on was dark mahogany with gold inlay. Almost every inch of the large tent brimmed with opulence. Even Lucas's clothing was of the finest fabrics and fur.

Hamish felt a stab of envy. "There is an army amassing to destroy you and the Blue Horde," Hamish said this as if realizing for the first time war was imminent.

Lucas laughed. "I know all about that army. I have no worries about them. Others have tried to come against me." He stood and grabbed Hamish's arm, leading him to the tent opening. "You see that smoke over the horizon? That is the last army that came against me. Their bodies are burning on a pyre, along with their wives and children. Of course we keep the best as slaves." His white teeth gleamed in the fading sunlight as he boasted.

Hamish gazed at the black smoke drifting across the now purple sky. He stared at his brother for a moment. "How did you come to be here?"

"Oh, that is a long story, but I will tell the short version." He walked back inside the tent and flopped down on a pile of pillows. He motioned Hamish to do the same. One of his men began building a fire in a pit in the middle of the tent.

"Bring food and drink for my dear brother and I," he ordered the man. He left the tent to alert the cook the master was hungry.

"When I left Wahaland, I was taken captive by the 'Blue Horde' as you call them, I rather like that name. I, too had one of the black beast swoop from the sky and grab me in its disgusting claws. Foul smelling thing. I thought they would have killed me, but their leader, Dojon, could see I might be useful. I was made a slave, which I did not like, as you would know. Slowly, and with much work, I gained Dojon's confidence."

"Soon I was living in this tent with my master." He smiled and pointed to a corner of the tent. "I was always lucky. He, unlike father, did not find me troublesome. After a few more years I was his right hand man." He lowered his voice so the men who guarded the tent opening couldn't hear. "I became indispensable, but not so, our illustrious leader. I realized I would make a truly great leader. I am brilliant as well as handsome." He laughed, and then became serious. "I could take these people far beyond anything they could dream of. Not that they have dreams. I am not sure that they can even think for themselves. Actually, I do this all for myself."

Lucas clasped his hands in front of him. "Dojon, which was not his real name, it was Richard. He changed it so as not to bring shame to his family. They despised what he did for a living" Lucas smiled. "He was a well-educated man, he taught me so much. He spoke very eloquently, as I do. Many of my words must sound strange to you. He often quoted great men he had known, gave stirring speeches to the men. He was quite amazing. He began his life of debauchery as a pirate. His family was horrified and disowned him. He came across the Horde on one of his stops to resupply his ship. His men engaged them and their leader was killed. Dojon saw it as an opportunity. They were rather a mindless lot and completely lost without a leader. He found it remarkably easy to take them over. And the rest, as they say, is history."

"He was aging and wanted to settle down in one place. He'd tired of the fighting and pillaging, so I slowly poisoned him. I knew there were more lands to conquer, and so many riches for the taking. He needed to go. He died a rather unpleasant death. I was beside him until the end, making him as comfortable as I could. I think he came to know it was me who was killing him."

Lucas gave a wolfish smile. It sent a sliver of fear down Hamish's spine, causing him to shiver. He realized his brother had no conscience. He had a depth of evil that went far beyond just being selfish, he seemed to enjoy all the death.

Lucas cocked his head to one side. "Brother, together we can do great things. You can be my second; we can rule the world together."

Hamish gave him a sour look, but the idea appealed to his ego. Hadn't his whole life been dedicated to the idea of being great. Hadn't he plotted and schemed to that end? He looked around the tent again. He could have all this. Greatness was within reach. "What is to keep you from poisoning me?"

Their food arrived and Lucas stood, helping Hamish to his feet, he laughed at his question. "I guess nothing, but I promise not to, as long as you obey orders." He sat at the table and ripped a large piece of mutton from a platter and shoved it in his mouth as he laughed. Grease ran down his chin and his eyes gleamed.

Hamish thought his brother more than a little mad, but his greed and ambition won out and he too laughed.

 

Author Notes Picture from Google
Lucas-Hamish's long lost brother
Joshua-Champion for his people
Lyse- Joshua girlfriend and Augdon's daughter
Augdon-Captain of the Guardians
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Dyster-blue dragon
Hamish-vain spiritual adviser
Goran-Joshua's grandfather, Nyla's father
Drake & Erik-Joshua's uncles Nyla's brothers


Chapter 26
The Hunt for Hamish

By Roxanna Andrews

Hamish had been gone from Wahaland for six weeks. Valtar, the council head, wondered what had become of him. Should he send a search party?

He held out little hope of finding the spiritual adviser alive. It was the dead of winter and if he had not frozen to death, he should have starved as he was no hunter. There was also little hope of finding a body as the wolves would have gotten it. Hamish had left for long periods before, but usually took a servant with him. This time he was alone.

If there was even the smallest chance he had survived, Valtar felt an obligation to find him. He paced the council chamber as he decided what he should do.

He had sent a party after Hamish the last time he had disappeared. His servants had returned without him, saying only he wished to go on alone. It made no sense to Valtar. Hamish did not like being on his own. The searchers could not find hide nor hair of him.

Valtar had searched for him on his own, to no avail. Why he even cared, he could not say.

Now the fool had disappeared again. Goran, Joshua's grandfather, would not want to risk men to go after him. He had no use for Hamish, nor had his two sons. Valtar wished to keep it from Joshua as well. The young leader would never approve of the men being taken away from their training. He would have to send a search party without anyone knowing. This would be his decision alone.

Valtar called six of his most trusted warriors to him. Their presence would be missed, but he would say he had sent them on a hunting expedition. "Tell no one what you are doing and take no chances. Return if the weather worsened, or you find no trail to follow."  He had no wish to risk the lives of good men.

The men obeyed, but did not relish their assignment, they had no desire to look for Hamish. They had been training with Joshua and the mountain men and were loath to miss even a day. They spurred their mounts on to make haste and be done with the search as soon as was possible.

If Valtar had bothered to talk with Augdon or Joshua, he would have known that Hamish was alive and well and living among the horde. Augdon's spies had watched as the flying black beast had scooped him up, and messages were sent up and down the picket line reporting on the hapless adviser. They had rescued his horse from the wolves, as it was an excellent mount, but could not do the same for Hamish.

The spies had informed Augdon and their young Captain of Hamish's whereabouts as well as the change of leadership among the horde. It seemed a man who looked much like Hamish had taken command and they were on the move. "Three more villages have been plundered and destroyed, almost all the inhabitants killed except those taken captive to serve, or fight as slave warriors. This new leader is aggressive and more heartless, as it seemed he much enjoyed the killing and torture of his victims." Brock, Augdon's son-in-law told him.

From the description, Joshua surmised the new leader must be a Wahalander, but who among them, other than one the likes of Hamish, would join, let alone lead the horde? He went to Valtar and the council was called to meet.

The search party only went as far as the southern border. If Hamish went beyond it, he was on his own. They had found no trail nor any evidence of where he may have gone.

In the distance they could see a rider coming towards them with a white horse in tow. When they met, the rider introduced himself as Brock, Augdon's son-in-law. He had gotten word from Joshua that Valtar had sent men in search of Hamish. The young leader had seen the search party ride out and had confronted Valtar.

"Some weeks ago, Hamish was snatched by a great black beast and carried off. We saved his horse from the wolves." Drake handed the white stallion off to the lead rider. "We thought him a dead man, but he seems to have been taken in by the horde. In the past months, a new leader has taken control. He looks like a Wahalander, tall, white haired. He's not a mountain man, so he had to come out of Wahaland. He looks much like Hamish. Do you know, does he have any relatives?"

The younger men shook their heads, but the lead rider, an older man named Titus nodded. "He had an older brother, Lucas. He was nothing but trouble, that one. Lucas left maybe ten, twelve years ago. He and his father did not get along. We thought him dead all this time. Never figured him for one to survive in the wild. He was not right up here." Titus tapped his head. "I would never think a Wahalander could take up with the likes of them, but if anyone could, it would be Lucas."

One of the other men spoke up. "I do recall him now. He must be about my age. He was a strange one, for sure. How did he come to lead the horde?"

"That is a good question. But if he is as cunning as Hamish, who knows what he may have done to gain the confidence of the horde. One thing is for sure, he is pure evil," said Brock.

The men nodded in agreement.

"I must get back to my post." Brock put a hand up in farewell, and began to turn his mount. Titus threw him the lead to Hamish's horse.

"You keep the horse. You've earned him."

Brock nodded his thanks and spurred his mount into a slow run. The stallion eager to burn off energy, ran ahead. Brock removed the lead and let him have his head. The search party turned toward home.

A council meeting had been called and when they arrived back in the village, the searchers went straight to the chambers to report what they had learned.

"Brock, met us. He says the horde have a new leader, sounds like it may be Lucas, Hamish's brother. Hamish seems to have joined him," Titus reported.

"Yes," said Valtar. "We had come to the same conclusion. I had forgotten Lucas, thinking him dead all these years. But, it is not surprising he would end up with the horde. Now that Hamish has joined we have to assume he told them everything about Wahaland and the mountain fortress."

"We must go out to meet the horde and not let them come to us," decided Joshua. "We must engage them out in the open, far from the village and Purple Mountains. We will move all who cannot fight to the fortress for safety. I'll leave warriors behind. The fortress can easily be defended. We cannot let them get past us. The sea is beyond the mountains and then the trade ports. All will be lost if they get that far."

Augdon and the council agreed and plans were put into place to leave in a fortnight.



 

Author Notes Hamish-Spiritual Adviser to Wahaland council
Valtar_Council head
Goran-Joshua's Grandfather
Brock-Augdon's son-in-law
Augdon-Leader of the Mountain Men
Lucas-Leader of the Horde and Hamish's brother
Joshua-The Young Captain and Hero


Chapter 27
A Wedding in Wahaland

By Roxanna Andrews

Jarle walked slowly about the camp gathering firewood and moved ever closer to a dense grove of trees. Though dressed in fur, it was ragged and still let in the bitter cold. He slipped into the grove where Augdon's man waited.

Jarle was Augdon's father and had been captured by the horde when spying on them two years before. He quickly realized little attention was paid to slave warriors once they had been with the horde several months. The guards believing them too beaten down to have any will to escape, all but ignored him.

Jarle used it to his advantage. He'd become a spy for his son and his men. Being a strong man, physically as well as mentally, he was able to keep his wits about him engaging in mind exercises taught to him by his father. They kept him from being brainwashed or giving in to despair. He had taught the exercises to many other slaves desperate to escape and willing to do anything. They were forming a plan to join the fight against the horde once Joshua's army engaged them.

He found Brock, his grandson by marriage, waiting in the grove.

"I thought they would never make me gather firewood," he said as the dropped what he'd gathered on the snow covered ground. "There is a new threat in the camp. Lucas's brother, Hamish, has joined him. He is not a warrior, but is cunning and together I fear they are a force to be reckoned with."

"Yes, Hamish left Wahaland a few months ago. We now know he is related to Lucas." Brock said. "Joshua and the council of Wahaland have decided it is time to come against the horde. They are moving rapidly towards the sea and must be stopped this side of the Purple Mountains."

Jarle nodded his agreement.

"All those of Wahaland unable to fight are being moved to the fortress and the warriors will begin to move in a few days. We hope to take the enemy unawares. They will move the horses first, then the men will come by dragon."

Jarle raised his eyebrows with a questioning look. "Why use the dragons to bring the men?"

"It will be faster and the men will not have to trudge through snow. We know not what the weather will do. Should more snow fall, it would slow us down. It will take some time to bring them all, but still much faster than if they marched. When all the army is assembled, the dragons with riders and mountain cats will go in first, followed by men on horseback.  If Lucas sends out the black dragons, we hope our archers can bring them down before they can report back to him. Look for us within the next week."

"Riding dragons. Never heard of in battles of the past." he shook his head in wonder.  "I will pass the word. I have almost three hundred men ready to join you. They have been impatient for this day to come. I must get back before my absences is noticed." Jarle picked up the firewood he had gathered, nodded his farewell to his grandson and returned to camp.

******
Joshua paced the roof of the fortress in nervous anticipation of engaging the horde. The warriors had returned to the fortress to make final preparations for battle.

Was he ready to lead these men? Most of the vast army stood below him waiting for a word from their captain. Lyse stood beside him. She smiled and took her husband's hand. "Talk to your warriors, you are their captain. Most have never been in battle and they want to hear words of encouragement."

Joshua and Lyse had married two weeks before in Wahaland. Lyse had insisted they be wed before going into battle. Her father was not keen on the idea.

"She is too young yet," Augdon told his wife.

"She is the same age I was when we wed," she reminded him. "She is ready to be a wife and will do it anyway. You know how she is. She will find a way to bend Joshua to her will and they will go off on their own. I want to be there when they wed."

Augdon, knowing he was defeated, reluctantly gave in. It was difficult for him to admit his youngest daughter had grown up.

"It is how she wants it." He told Joshua, who was resisting the idea. "And she will not give in. She is a stubborn lass and there is no point in arguing with her. There is really no reason why you can't be wed now.  It is for the best." Augdon slapped Joshua on the back and left him to his thoughts.

Lyse wanted desperately to be wed before battle.  Whatever happened, whether they lived or died, she wanted to be Joshua's wife and at his side.

"I want to be your wife. If we live or die in battle, we will be together. If one should die, I would forever regret we had not wed, and you would feel the same."

Joshua seeing the desperation in her eyes, agreed. He thought himself a fool for resisting. What did it matter when they wed? She was his perfect match, strong, intelligent, fearless and beautiful. He had known it from the day they met. He feared for her going into battle. He felt a strong urge to tell her she must stay at the fortress. But he knew she would not be left behind. Though the thought of losing her weighed heavily on him, she would not be denied and would be at his side.

"If I owned nothing and were but a beggar in this place, if I had you for a wife, I would be as a wealthy man."  He drew her close and kissed her a long while, then pulled away. He placed his forehead against her's. "It will be as you wish."

Lyse had come prepared for a wedding. She had decided long ago she would wed Joshua before battle. Her mother made her a fine gray gown some months before. The fabric was something Lyse had never seen before, and though not one given to girlish thought, she longed to wear it. She had packed it carefully among her things when she left for Wahaland.

When Hamish's servants heard about the up coming nuptials, they brought her one of his exquisite hooded, white fur capes.

The women of the clan and Lyse's mother took control of the wedding preparations and began arranging a grand affair. Lyse was happy to let them. She was exhausted from relentless training and her nerves were raw from the stress of soon going into battle.

The cape was altered to fit and opals added. When the day came, she dressed in her fine gray dress and boots. Her hair was made into a thick braid and opals were wound round it attached to silk ribbon purchased from the same trader as her wedding gown fabric.

Lyse's mother brought her a jeweled brooch in the shape of the family crest, and pinned it to the cape. A gift from her father. Nyla gave her soon to be daughter-in-law her dearest treasure. The opal necklace Dak, Joshua's father, had given her on their wedding day.

Joshua had sent for his finest garments and looked splendid in his pale buckskin shirt with a wide leather and rabbit fur vest. He wore leggings and leather boots just below the knee. His white hair was pulled up in a ponytail that fell from a silver band with the clans crest engrave in the soft silver, a gift from his grandfather.

Lyse took Joshua's breath away as he watched her walk towards him on her father's arm. It was as if the sun radiated from her and the opals on her cape gleamed in the light.

Nyla insisted that Father Bart perform the ceremony, and had gone on Dyster to bring him. He had refused to get on the dragon, but when his children did so without hesitation, he gave in. He clung to Nyla the whole way and was relieved when the dragon landed.

Nyla's eyes filled with tears as she watched her son say his vows to his bride. She was taken aback by how much Joshua looked like his father. 

The couple married outdoors as there wasn't a building spacious enough for such a large assembly. It was a mild day, but still cold and bonfires were lit all around to keep the couple and guests warm. A huge feast had been prepared, venison, turkey, chicken and lamb were heaped on platters in the council hall along with vegetables and fruits.

The smell of the cooking meat had permeated the village for days and driven the warriors mad. Ale and hot cider were served as well, and the guests drank more hot cider than ale for a change, to keep warm. They loaded their plates and stood around the bonfires telling stories and laughing. Relaxing for the last time before going to battle.

***********
Lucas stared out the opening of his tent into the vast darkness. Out there was his next conquest, the Wahaland village. He was looking forward to killing the inhabitants and taking over the opal mines. He stroked the hair of the woman who came to stand at his side.

"Out there is the village where I was born." He pointed at the blackness beyond the tent door. "Soon I will take possession of that village. I have no good memories of it, but one thing does bring me some measure of happiness, the rich opal mines."

He turned and smiled at the woman. "And you shall soon have new jewels to add to your already vast collection." He kissed the top of her head.

She smiled in return, eager to please him as she feared her husband. She thought him rather mad and had shed many tears when told she had been chosen as his bride. She wondered why she needed so many jewels when she had no place to show them off.

Lucas stroked her full belly, it carried his child that was due any day. He would wait until the child was born before they began the march to Wahaland. He would rather wait for spring, but it could not be helped  He planned to use the fire spitting black beasts. He hated them, but they were very useful.

He put his arm around his wife and squeezed. He did not love her. He did not love anyone, but toying with her emotions gave him a perverse pleasure. He enjoyed terrorizing her.

She had better have a son, he thought as his fingers dug into her shoulders.

 

Author Notes Jarle-Augdon's father
Lyse-Augdon's daughter
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Brock-Augdon's son-in-law married to his daughter Faye
Lucas-Leader of the Horde
Hamish-Lucas' borther and advisor to the clan
Father Bart-The local pastor


Chapter 28
Getting Battle Ready

By Roxanna Andrews

An army of more than three thousand strong, men and women, stood below Joshua in the snow. As he walked to the balcony's rail, a huge cheer went up from the warriors who waited for his words of encouragement as the battle of their lifetime was about to begin.

"It has been but thirty months since I first came to the fortress. I was a lad of sixteen, and I thought myself a man and a great warrior. I had much to learn. I felt a great weight on me, being told I was the champion in Valdig's vision. How could I hope to lead such great men? I do not know why I was chosen to lead you, but I know that it was meant to be, I have felt it all my life. I can only pray I prove worthy of the task. We face an enemy who knows no honor, knows nothing but killing for the sake of taking what belongs to others. They have no place in our world and we must put an end to them. You are great warriors, well trained and, many battle tested. You are up to the task. We will be victorious. God is on our side."

A roar went up from the warriors.

"We have sent the horses ahead and each man will be taken on the backs of dragons, to the tree line some distance from the enemy stronghold." 

"The horseman and archers will attack first. Cedric will lead you, follow his commands. The dragons and riders will come after, each with an archer. I will lead them. If the black dragons come to meet us, the archers will attempt to bring down the riders. If we can stop the fire spitting dragons, we will have won half the battle."

"Augdon will stay at the fortress with warriors to defend against any who would get past us. His father, Jarle, a prisoner of the enemy, will lead a revolt within the camp. Watch for him. He will make his presence known."

"The enemy's numbers are vast, greater then ours, but we are well trained. Fight using all the skill taught you. I know we can be victorious. God is with us."

The warriors again set up a roar of approval. Joshua raised his arms, acknowledging their cheers, then left to meet with his generals. They would go over every detail of the battle plan one last time before they moved out in the morning.
***
Lucas stood outside the dwelling where is wife was giving birth. Her screams could be heard across the camp and beyond, echoing in the cold afternoon air.

The baby was too large for the slight woman to deliver. The midwife stepped out to talk to Lucas.

"The baby is very big and she is too small a girl to deliver it."

"Then cut the child out," Lucas said with deadly calm, his eyes so evil they caused the midwife to step back.

"I came to tell you we need to cut her, but only a small cut."

"Do what you have to so my son is born."

The midwife scurried back into the dwelling. More screams were heard and then the crying of a baby. The cry was weak and Lucas rushed in to see his daughter being swaddled.

He felt bitter disappointment at seeing a girl in the midwife's arm. She reached out to hand him the child, but he pushed her aside.

He stood over his exhausted wife, her eyes glassy and her hair clinging to her face, her body soaked in sweat.

He look down at the sweat and blood soaked bedclothes in disgust.

"You dare to give me a daughter? I wanted a son!" He screamed the last words at her and he felt a warm satisfaction in seeing her eyes widen with fear. She shrunk back into the bedclothes and brought her hands up to her face, expecting a blow. He walked passed her and out of the back of the tent without another glance at his daughter. She meant nothing to him.

Hamish waited to hear word of the child. He looked up as his brother approached and saw the anger in his eyes.

"Stupid woman." Lucas spat the words. "She gave me a daughter. She is worthless. It is what I deserve for going after beauty rather than strength." He shook his head and kicked at the snow. "I shall divorce her and find a more suitable match."

Hamish nodded, but knew this would cause the young girl no pain and most likely joy. She despised Lucas and he did not blame her. He could not help but pity the girl having to put up with his brother's extreme moods.

Lucas clasped his hands behind him and paced. "In fact, she is not beautiful at all. I am such a fool!"

"What of the raid? When do we leave?" Hamish changed the subject away from the poor unfortunate girl. He was thinking he could step in and rescue her from his brother. She would, no doubt, be very grateful.

"We will leave in five days. I need something to take away my bitter disappointment. A victorious raid may do just that. I will be most gratified to see the looks on the faces of those proud Wahaland men as I run a blade through their hearts. Yes, it will be just the thing to lift my spirits." He slapped a hand down on his brother's shoulder. "I will tell the men, if you can call them that." He laughed as he hurried off to inform his minions they had a new assignment.

Hamish watched him go with an uncertain gnawing in his gut. He didn't feel good about raiding the Wahaland village. Something felt wrong. It was not his conscience as he did not possess one. It was something else, something he could not put his finger on. He shook his head.

This army would do well with a far more rational leader, he thought. And anything could happen during the raid. He smiled to himself and hurried to catch up with his brother.

Author Notes Jarle-Augdon's father
Lyse-Augdon's daughter
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Brock-Augdon's son-in-law married to his daughter Faye
Lucas-Leader of the Horde
Hamish-Lucas' brother and adviser to the clan


Chapter 29
So It Begins

By Roxanna Andrews

Long before the sun was up, the dragons began flying the Wahaland warriors to the tree line just outside the enemy encampment. Eighty five dragons flew them four to a dragon.

A regiment of one hundred men had started toward the enemy encampment on horseback a week before. They stayed along the cliff side to avoid being seen from above should the black dragons be out scouting. They were a hunting party, looking for deer to feed the vast army that would soon follow. Three wagons accompanied them to hold the deer and rabbit that were brought down. A large mountain bear became a prize when he tried to attack the horses. The army would be well fed.

Joshua waited for word that the last man had been taken to the tree line. Dyster, the magnificent blue dragon, stood beside him and brought his massive head down so it was level with Joshua's. Joshua brought a hand up and placed it on his long snout. Dyster snorted and flexed his wings.

"Soon, my friend. Be patient. We will be in the air soon enough," he spoke softly to soothe the huge beast. His keen senses told him something was about to happen and Joshua could feel his nervous energy.

Lyse came to stand beside her husband. Joshua looked into her eyes and took her hand. He was not pleased that she would be in the fight as a rider, he would rather have her safe at the fortress with her father, but he knew she would never stay behind. She was a warrior and would fight to the death to defend him and her people. She was an excellent marksman and could handle her dragon with just the pressure of her feet. Joshua's mother, Nyla, would ride with her as her archer. Together they would be a formidable team. He let his uneasiness pass and squeezed her hand.

"I know you are worried for me, but don't be. I am well trained and with your mother as my archer, I am confident we can bring down any foe." She smiled and kissed him.

A shout went up that the last warriors had been taken and Lyse turned to her father. Augdon stood back from the couple, waiting to wish them well. He embraced his daughter and took Joshua's outstretched hand. It was hard for him to find the word he wished to say, so nothing was said, just a nod, and they were to their dragons.

Joshua loaded the huge mountain cat that would fight the enemy dragon riders, if needed, and fight on the ground with the horseman. Joshua's chosen archer mounted, a Nubian archer with a keen eye and deadly aim, then Joshua pulled himself on to Dyster's back. Lyse and his mother were mounted and ready, so they took to the sky. Augdon lifted a hand in farewell and with regret that he would not be able to fight along side them. He comforted himself with the knowledge that he was needed at the fortress. Three hundred men and ten dragons were left in the fortress in the event that any of the horde got passed the army and attacked.

The sun was just coming up when they arrived at the tree line. Joshua looked to the west and saw smoke filling the sky over the Wahaland Valley.
******
Lucas and his warriors also took to the skies while it was still dark.

Lucas was excited and couldn't wait to rain his revenge on those he held responsible for much of his misery as a child. He hated Wahaland and the people who lived there. Though he brought his own misery, he blamed others for any misfortune that came his way.

"You will stay behind and keep watch over the camp while I am ridding the world of an ugly blight." He told Hamish with a laugh. "I cannot wait to see the looks on the men's faces as we run them through with a sword and take their women captive, or not. Maybe we will kill them in front of their husbands and sons. That would be more entertaining." He laughed again as he mounted his dragon. "I hate these filthy things," he said as he awkwardly seated himself on the back of the huge, ugly beast. "Wish me luck," he said to his brother as the dragon began to flex its wing.

Hamish took advantage of being there alone and went to see Lucas's wife. She had been removed from her husband's tent along with her daughter and told she was no longer his wife.

Hamish found the young woman much happier than he had ever seen her.

"Hello, Lydia. How are you feeling today?" he asked with his best smile.

"I am feeling very well," she replied with a lovely smile of her own. She found Hamish much more handsome than his brother, and kinder. She had been feeding the baby and now laid her down on the bed beside her.

Hamish gazed at the child. She was perfect, beautiful like her mother. He reached down and picked her up.

Hamish looked into her deep blue eyes and felt an overwhelming desire to possess this child. He'd had this feeling before, when Joshua was a child, but this was stronger.

He looked at her mother, "Lydia, come with me. We could leave here now, while Lucas is away. I will take care of you and raise your child as my own. I have loved you since the day I saw you. Come with me."

Hamish knew little about love, except the love of self. Covet was a better word for what he felt. He had chosen his words carefully to gain Lydia's trust. He did desire her, he had rarely seen such beauty, but love was an emotion he would never possess.

Lydia looked into his eyes and nodded. "Yes, I will go with you."

She had been taken captive with her mother as a child. Her mother never recovered from the loss of her husband when the horde invaded their village, she became ill shortly after her capture and died within weeks. Lydia had been left to fend for herself. Getting away from this place was all she wanted.

When Lucas chose her as his wife, she thought about killing herself. She despised everything about him and her skin crawled at his touch. She did not love Hamish, but he seemed a good man and anyone would have to be better than Lucas. Though Hamish gave no details as to where they would go, or how they would live, she blindly trusted him.

Hamish was overjoyed that Lydia had agreed to go with him. He told her to hurry and pack a satchel, but not to take too much, they needed to travel light.

For weeks he had been hoarding food which he buried in the snow just outside the encampment. He feared that wolves would find it, but he had buried it deep and so far his luck had held, no roving wolves had come upon it. He'd also buried a small tent and blankets. He had taken them one by one when out riding. He worried that the sentries that guarded the perimeter would see him, but they paid little attention.

Very quickly after being brought to the encampment, Hamish realized his brother was insane. He had thought he might be able to use it to his advantage, but he soon learned, insane did not mean stupid. Lucas was also cunning and trusted no one. He had paranoid delusions that caused him to have angry outbursts. Hamish had witnessed more than one man being run through with spear or sword because Lucas thought he was trying to poison him or turn the others against him. Being promoted to Lucas' personal guard was not something any of the men aspired to. Most didn't live long afterward.

He had to escape before Lucas decided he was a threat. Also, Joshua was building his army and they would appear one day soon. He didn't want to be in this place when they did.

Hamish knew he risked being captured by Joshua's men or having Lucas pursue him for the rest of his life. Taking Lydia and his daughter was not a wise decision. They would slow him down, and death would be swift if Lucas ever caught him, but his desire to possess them made it impossible for him to leave them behind.

Author Notes Sorry if it was a bit long. We're getting close to the end. Won't you be glad when that happens? =} I think I will be as I feel I have lost my way a few time with this book. It is only for fun, for the joy of writing, but I'm not so joyous over it anymore and even though I have no plans to do anything with it, I still want it to be well done. Thank you to those who have stuck it out and read and encouraged and helped. Though I read this over many times and put it through spelling and grammar programs, I'm sure it is still full of errors. Sorry.

Joshua-The captian of the army, the Chosen One
Jarle-Augdon's father
Lyse-Joshua's wife
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Brock-Augdon's son-in-law married to his daughter Faye
Lucas-Leader of the Horde
Hamish-Lucas' brother and adviser to the clan
Lydia-Lucas' unfortunate wife.


Chapter 30
Lucas Calls His Men to Battle

By Roxanna Andrews

As soon as Joshua landed Dyster, his uncles came to him.

"Our spies reported that Lucas has burned Wahaland," Drake said with angry tears in his eyes.

"He and his black beasts attacked before sunrise. He was angry to find the village deserted, the fire spitting dragons burned everything. Nothing is left." Erik almost spat the words.

Joshua shook his head, "I am sorry uncles. Have they returned to the encampment?"

"Not yet, Lucas wants to be sure everything burns to the ground," Drake said, shaking his head.
******

Lucas was greatly disappointed when he arrived at Wahaland and saw it was deserted. His anger burned all the brighter after his wife's failure to give him a son. He wasn't used to things not going his way and was in a foul mood. He gained a bit of satisfaction from burning down all the buildings, but his hand iched to use his sword. He ordered his men back to the encampment, his pride stinging.

Lucas jumped from the back of the black dragon and the beast hissed at him, showing his hatred of the man. Lucas had been brutal to him on the ride back to the encampment, kicking his sides hard and the beast was angry. Finding the village empty had him in a rage and he took out his frustration on the dragon.

"Where is my brother?" he demanded.

"He rode out on his horse this morning and has not returned. I have men out looking for him. He has been gone since sunrise. He may have lost his way when the snow started." The man eyes betrayed his fear. He knew the unpredictable moods of his master and feared for his life.

It was not unusual for Hamish to go for a ride at sun up. He hated the confines of the encampment and found the people almost unbearable. He often rode out to be alone. Lucas did not think Hamish would stay much longer. He was not used to these living conditions. Lucas had begun to see how spoiled his brother was and found him of little use.

Better that he move on then be a hindrance to me, Lucas thought. He felt no attachment to his brother and would not be sorry to see him go.

"Let me know when he returns." Lucas turned on his heels and went to torment his wife, Lydia.

He no longer considered her his wife, but he felt the need to rid himself of his pent up rage. He found her tent deserted, but she was often in the company of the other women of the encampment, so he thought little of it.

Frustrated by the fact that he had no outlet for his anger, Lucas had his horse saddled. He was usually very proud of his horse with its golden mane, a horse fit for a king. He always sat tall in the saddle, and cantered for all to see, but today he pulled roughly on the reins and ran the horse until he slowed, wheezing, his breathe coming in large white clouds.

He pondered the meaning of the deserted Wahaland village. Why would they leave the valley with its rich soil, plentiful game and protection from the winter winds? Had the opal mines run out? He knew they depended on them for trading for goods. Where would they go?

Lucas had ridden just a short distance, and in the quiet of the day, he heard sounds of horses and men. He thought it his own encampment at first, but the sound came from the west. He stood in his stirrups to get a better look, but could see nothing.

He rode a few miles further and the sounds became clearer. His pickets had reported nothing about seeing another encampment. Looking to the sky, he saw a mammoth green beast, a dragon circling. His heart pounded in his chest as he turned his horse and broke into a full gallop. Now he knew where the Wahalanders had gone.

Joshua was here.

He had been distracted lately by Hamish and his wife and had been caught unawares. He had become too complacent or was this Hamish's doing? Had he come to distract him and keep his mind busy with other things? Was he in league with the Wahalanders?

He should have known his brother would never leave Wahaland. He could never be on his own. If Lucas men had not found him and brought him to the encampment, he would have been dead of cold or starvation or worse. The wolves had been on his scent, ready to attack. But had it all been a ploy?

Lucas cursed himself for being a fool. He rode into the encampment yelling for his pickets. Why had they not discovered the enemy almost on their doorstep.

The guards lined up before him, terrified of the look they saw in their master's eyes. "What have you been doing, you fools. Do you not know our enemy waits at our door to destroy us? Ready the men for battle!"

Author Notes Joshua and his men wait to attack at an encampment behind a treeline 10 miles out. Hamish and Lydia have run off together.

Joshua-The Chosen One
Drake & Eric- Joshua's Uncles
Jarle-Augdon's father
Cedric-Augdons brother, Lyse's uncle. Captain of the horsemen
Lyse-Joshua's wife
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Lucas-Leader of the Hoard
Lydia-Lucas' wife
Hamish-Wahaland Spiritual leader and trouble maker, also Lucas' brother.
Dyster- Huge blue dragon reserved for Joshua.
Riddare-Mountain cat, Dyster's companion.


Chapter 31
Are You My Mother?

By Roxanna Andrews

Warning: The author has noted that this contains the highest level of violence.

Three blasts on the rams horn called the slave warriors to battle. The men came out of the tents and stood waiting for weapons to be handed out. Most had no wish to fight, but knew if they did not they would die. Many a man who didn't join in the fighting had been run through or beheaded, their bodies burned. All were made to watch this spectacle and the sight was not soon forgotten. However reluctant they felt to fight the memory of their fate, if they did not, was enough to motivate them.

There was no time for the men to paint their faces and hair blue as they normally did. They had to fight as they were and they somehow felt naked. The blue paint hid their faces and covered the shame many felt being slaves and made to fight another man's war. They stood in the cold air, shivering. It was not usual for them to do battle in the winter and though they wore fur, it was thread barren and did little to keep them warm.

Not all the enemy warriors were slaves, many had joined the fight willingly. They dance around wildly, their minds having left them long ago, excited for the battle to begin, the cold having no affect on them. 

Joshua heard the horn blasts and looked to his horse captain, Cedric. He nodded and Cedric gave the order to mount up. Breastplates were fastened to the horses, the sturdy Friesian danced with anticipation, eager for what lay ahead. Days of inactivity had made them restless, and it took all the men's strength to hold them back.

The Nubian archers took their place in front of the horse soldiers, their quivers filled with arrows, extra quivers slung around their necks. The swordsmen lined up behind them.

The dragon riders loaded the huge mountain cats onto their dragons, then climbed aboard, each with an archer. They waited for Joshua to check the ranks and give last minute intructions. He sat on the back of his magnificent blue dragon, Dyster, giving encouragement. The clouds parted and a sliver of light shown down on man and beast. Duster iridescent scales shown in the light, casting a halo of color. The men and women listen with rapt attention.

"We will defeat this enemy and put an end to them. I am called for just this purpose, to rid the world of this scourge. Leave none alive. Do not be afraid, fight bravely and be rewarded. God be with you all."

A wild cheer went up from the warriors as Joshua hoisted his Nubian archer onto Dyster's back and they took to the skies.

Lyse flew to Joshua's right. They made eye contact once, the look saying all they could not say. They nodded, then put their minds on the task at hand.

Joshua looked below him and saw the horse soldiers moving out, they were in full gallop as the horses were eager to run, but they soon slowed. They knew Lucas's army would meet them soon enough, no need to hurry. In the distance Joshua could see the black outline of the enemy dragons. He spurred Dyster to a faster speed and the other dragon riders followed.

They were upon the black dragons before long, the beasts already spitting fire, but the flames were small, the cold air preventing them from expelling the ferocious flames they usually did.

The Nubian archers sent their arrows flying, many finding their mark, killing the rider or causing him to fall to his death. If unable to unseat or kill the rider, they let loose the cats. They would leap to the enemy dragon, killing the rider. Many riders brought the dragons low and would roll to the ground to save their lives. The cat would jump after the rider, pursuing him to his death. 

The dragons, without a rider to guide them, flew off, landing in a tree grove below. Joshua knew they had to be destroyed or they would terrorize the county side. He brought Dyster down close and the archer shot arrows, but most bounced off the scale covered hides.

Joshua landed Dyster and set the huge mountain cat loose. Riddare ran and leaped on the nearest dragon, biting and clawing at the back of the beast's neck. The dragon reared back screaming, throwing his head from side to side trying to rid himself of the cat. Riddare dug in his claws and held on. He climbed up the neck to the beast's head and began to claw out its eyes, his long, sharp claws dug in and tore flesh and eyeballs from their sockets. The beast fell to its side, blind and terrified. Dyster ended its misery by crushing its neck. The beast fell dead, blood soaking the snow where it lay.

Four black dragons lay dead in a short time, Riddare and Dyster working together, put an end to their lives. Blood turned the pristine snow bright red.

Joshua felt an impact tremor and turned to see a huge black dragon come out of the woods, a full grown adult, mother of the young dragons. When she saw her dead children, she let out a roar and fire burst from her throat. Dyster fell back as the burning flame licked his side. Standing over the bodies of the dead, she nudged them with her snout. When there was no movement, she lifted her head, her gleaming red eyes focused on Dyster. Breathing heavily from her nostrils she filled the air with clouds of white fog, then opening her mouth let out a tremendous scream, causing Joshua to cover his ears. Bringing her head back, then thrusting it forward, she shoot out a flame so hot is was white.

Joshua pulled Dyster back, but the flame managed to once again lick his side. He bellowed and moved away, singed but unharmed, his thick scales protecting him. He showed no fear as he lowered his head and clawed the ground, ready for the fight.

Joshua slipped from his back and readied his sword. He knew why the young dragons had landed here, they had come home to mother. 

Dyster still knew the scent of his mother after so many years. The same dragon who had thrown him from the cave he'd been born in. Who had screamed upon seeing green eyes rather than red, and a blue body, not the raven black of his siblings. She had tossed him from the cave, just a hatch-ling, not even fully emerged from his shell.

Dyster never hesitated upon recognizing the smell of his mother. She was the enemy and he would kill her as he had his siblings who now lay lifeless, their crimson blood soaking into the snow.

The fully grown female circled around Dyster looking for a weakness. They were matched in size and Dyster showed no fear. He spread his huge wings and hovered off the ground. Bringing his back legs forward, he delivered a mighty blow to the black dragon's chest. Dyster's quick reflexes caught her unaware. She was not prepared and fell backward, but she quickly recovered and shot out her white hot flame. Dyster rose above it and gave her another powerful kick, this time she screamed, sliding along the icy snow. She was on her feet in short time and charging Dyster. The two mammoth beasts rolled in the snow, each trying to pin the other to the ground and deliver a death bite to the throat. Brush was flattened and young trees felled as the two beasts rolled into the woods.

Joshua and his archer watched, fascinated, never having seen dragons locked in battle. Above them more black dragons circled and screamed. They flew off and Joshua knew they would be after the horse soldiers. He needed to rejoin the fight.

Hot breath caused the two giants to expel a huge white vapor cloud into the cold air. The beasts stood tall on their back legs and with long necks entangled, bit and clawed at one another. Blood flew, but neither was wounded to the point of conceding the fight. Dyster saw his moment and went for his mother's throat, but her powerful legs pushed him off and she managed to put some distance between them. With a scream and one last shot of white hot flame, she took to the sky. Dyster followed her as Joshua called after him, but he paid no heed.

Author Notes I have read this over a million times, made a ton of changes and am driving myself crazy so going to post it. Hope you enjoy. Feel free to point out all the errors. =}

A very tiny thumbnail of the book.

Joshua was born to Nyla an outcast from Wahaland. The baby was taken from her when her husband died and brought to Wahaland to be raised by his Uncles. At 16 Joshua discovered he was to become the leader of his people and deliver them from the horde. He is taken by Augdon, captian of the champions who lived and trained to defeat the horde. Joshua is trained as a warrior and given a magnificent blue dragon to ride. He falls in love with and marries Augdon's adopted daughter Lyse. He is reunited with his mother Nyla who joins the warriors in their quest to put an end to the horde.

Joshua-The Chosen One
Drake & Eric- Joshua's Uncles
Augdon-Trained Joshua as a warrior. Lyse's father
Jarle-Augdon and Cedric's father.
Cedric-Augdons brother, Lyse's uncle. Captain of the horsemen
Lyse-Joshua's wife
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Lucas-Leader of the Hoard
Lydia-Lucas' wife
Hamish-Wahaland Spiritual leader and trouble maker, also Lucas' brother.
Dyster- Huge blue dragon reserved for Joshua.
Riddare-Mountain cat, Dyster's companion.


Chapter 32
Dragons Battle

By Roxanna Andrews

Warning: The author has noted that this contains the highest level of violence.

Without his dragon, Joshua began running toward the battlefield to rejoin the fight. The Nubian archer close behind, firing arrows at enemy warriors as he ran.

A riderless black dragon landed just ahead of him and Joshua didn't hesitate to jump on its back, and his archer with him. The dragon had no qualms about who rode him, obeying commands easily. They took to the skies and Joshua pointed him to the battlefield.

Looking to the west Joshua could see Dyster still in pursuit of his mother. He quickly overtook her and the fight to the death resumed. The two behemoths rolled in the sky and fell sharply downward. The black dragon belched smoke and fire and Dyster let go to avoid the flame. The *black quickly turned and fled.

Though Joshua was worried for Dyster, he kept his mind on the fight ahead, knowing the blue dragon could take care of himself.

The enemy dragons were hovering above the horse soldiers expelling hot flame, which had grown more ferocious as the day warmed. The men used their shields to protect themselves and pushed their horses into a gallop.

Joshua caught up to the fire breathers and the Nubian archer began firing arrows with deadly accuracy. The enemy riders fell to the ground, getting trampled by the horses. The remaining riders fled back to the encampment.

Lucas was furious and for the first time in battle, felt a sliver of fear that they might lose. No other enemy had ever fought back like this and his men were overwhelmed and unsure of what to do.

"You fools! You are useless to me," he raged. He ran his sword through an unfortunate rider who stood too close.

He knew it was time to use Ond-Natt.

He called to him now, a mammoth black dragon that had not been ridden, as no one could get close enough. Lucas named him Ond-Natt, meaning Evil Night. The gigantic beast had a foul temperament and trusted no man, no man except Lucas. The two sensed the malevolent spirit in one another and it bonded them.

The monster paced in his enclosure, held by thick leather straps around each leg. He could have easily snapped them like string, but he chose not to. Perhaps it was the bond he felt with Lucas, or more likely the good meals he received. He pawed the ground and belched smoke as if he knew his time had come.

Though Lucas had always had a hatred for the disgusting creatures, this one was majestic with its enormous size, muscled frame and huge head spikes tipped in silver. Like his horse, Lucas felt proud to be seen on such a beast. Though he'd never ridden it before, he did so now without hesitation, and Ond-Natt let him.

The monstrous creature was a sibling to Dyster, they shared the same mother. He and Dyster were the only survivors of the same brood. Ond-Natt had been the largest of the dragons and was kept in a separate enclosure. Well fed, he grew to the mammoth beast Lucas hoped he'd become.

His red eyes gleamed as Lucas removed his restraints and climbed aboard. Smoke poured from his nostrils and the heat created a huge vaporous cloud around he and Lucas. His men move aside as the duo advanced looking like something from one's nightmare. Ond-Natt moved his head from side to side as if to swagger, his mouth turned up in a sneer. A flex of his mammoth wings and he was airborne.

Dyster had gotten the advantage in his battle with his mother. With a swipe of his huge, lethal tail, he had knocked the black beast unconscious causing her to fall from the sky. The fall was short, as they were not far from the ground and she was able to get to her feet and limp into the grove.

The blue dragon felt the presence of a malevolent evil and the need to return to his master. He allowed his mother to live, for now, and went in search of Joshua. He flew as if the devil himself were after him.

Joshua looked to the east and saw a dragon flying toward him. It appeared silver as the sunlight bounced off its iridescent scales. The beast was enormous, spewing fire over the horse soldiers as he flew.  Joshua could hear their screams as rider and horse fell to the ground. Dragon riders hurried to intercept the huge beast, but were kept at bay by his white hot flame. The thing seemed invincible and they knew none could best him.

Joshua realized the dragon he rode was no match, but he raced toward the monster anyway. Even from a distance he could see its red eyes gleaming, and it salivated as if anticipating a longed-for meal. On his back sat Lucas, his long, white hair streaming behind him and a sword raised above his head. As the beast soared overhead, Lucas looked down and Joshua saw an evil smile on his thin, bloodless lips.

Dyster caught up to his master and flew in close, just below him. Relieved that he would be more evenly matched with the huge black, Joshua leaped onto Dyster. Missing the saddle, he slid down the dragon's side, clinging with one hand to the blue scales. Lucas watched Joshua and laughed at him.

“Ond-Natt, look at the great captain. Will he fall to his death, and spoil our game?”

Dyster slowed and rolled to his side to help his master. Joshua got a hand hold on the saddle and seated himself. He sat tall, head held high and pointed the magnificent blue dragon toward the enemy.

The dragons flew straight towards one another and Joshua drew his sword from the sheath on his back. Dyster recognized the scent of his sibling, but didn't waver. At the last moment the dragons swerved and swords came together in a teeth-jarring clash. Both dragons made a wide turn and faced each other again. Ond-Natt's eyes gleamed brighter, and he let out an ear-splitting scream, as if signaling his victory. Fire and smoke shot from his throat and Joshua could feel the heat even with distance between them. He knew if the beast got close enough, nothing would protect him against such a ferocious flame. He put Dyster in a dive, then brought him up beneath the black monster, plunging his sword into the soft underbelly. Ond-Natt screamed as blood dripped from the wound, but it did not deter him. He flew higher, away from Joshua’s sword.

The dragons turned to face each other once again. Lucas bent low over the dragons neck, his eyes gleamed almost as brightly as Ond-Natt’s. He smiled, relishing the battle. He anticipated the feel of his sword slicing through the neck of his enemy. He saw himself taking the young captain's head as his trophy.

Lucas was jarred back to the present when the dragons collided. Both riders were almost thrown off. Momentarily stunned, the dragons hurtled towards the ground in a free fall.

Author Notes *I sometime use just 'the black' rather than witing 'the black dragon' over and over. If it is confusing or seems unfinished, please let me know.

Joshua-The Chosen One
Drake & Eric- Joshua's Uncles
Augdon-Trained Joshua as a warrior. Lyse's father
Jarle-Augdon and Cedric's father. Captured by the horde a year before.
Cedric-Augdons brother, Lyse's uncle. Captain of the horsemen
Lyse-Joshua's wife
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Lucas-Leader of the Horde
Lydia-Lucas' wife
Hamish-Wahaland Spiritual leader and trouble maker, also Lucas' brother.
Dyster- Huge blue dragon reserved for Joshua.
Riddare-Mountain cat, Dyster's companion.
Ond-Natt-Huge black dragon, Dyster's brother


Chapter 33
Ond-Natt

By Roxanna Andrews

"Dyster!" called Joshua in a frantic attempt to rouse the dragon. He managed to right himself feet from the ground. Ond-Natt had recovered first and flew above them. Dyster, unafraid, flew upward to meet his sibling.

Lucas did not have to guide the salivating Ond-Nutt, as his instinct told him what to do. He and Lucas seemed to move and think as one, each sensing the desire of the other. Lucas knew there would be no stopping him with such a beast at his command. He saw himself as a king or emperor, ruling the world, having the choicest of women for his wives, and many sons to carry on his legacy. He would have riches beyond anything he could imagine.

He was brought from his daydream by a searing pain in his shoulder. Lucas looked down to see an arrow embedded in the flesh and blood spreading from the wound. He broke it off, and looking up, he locked eyes with Lyse. Seeing movement behind her, he watched as Nyla raised her bow and let another arrow fly.

Lucas pushed Ond-Natt into a dive and the arrow missed its mark. Coming up under the women's dragon, he slashed at the underbelly, his sword tearing a wide gash, blood flowed and entrails protruded. The dragon screamed as Ond-Natt made a turn and went in for the kill. He brought his massive head back and loaded the pockets in his throat with chemicals that would shoot out as a blazing fire.

Faltering in his flight, Ond-Natt whipped his head around to see his bloodly stump of a tail. Behind him Joshua raised his bloodied sword in a salute. More than half of Ond-Natt's tail had been sliced off, and the mammoth beast screamed in pain. He brought his head back again, ready to unleash his white hot rage on Joshua.

Ally dragon riders watched as the huge black dragon circled Joshua and Dyster. They hurried to his aid and as Ond-Natt bent back his head, the archers let fly with their arrows. They found their mark as more than twenty arrows pierced Ond-Natt's unprotected and scale-less throat. Smoke poured from the wounds, causing the monster to choke and begin to suffocate. As his massive head fell forward, Nubian arrows found their mark in the soft tissue between the dragon's eyes.

The huge dragon plummeted downward with Lucas hanging on, screaming as he fell. Ond-Natt hit the ground and died soon after. He raised his head once, looking at Lucas as the light faded from his red eyes. The pockets in his throat, exposed to the air, erupted and burst into flame.

Lucas rolled off his back and as far away as he could from the burning dragon. In great pain and the air knocked out of him, Lucas lay in the snow, trying to catch his breath, and muster the stamina to stand.

Looking about, he realized he was close to his encampment and managed to get to his feet. Making his way to his tent, he fell just inside and lay there panting, thinking of what to do next.

The defeated leader was enraged that they had killed Ond-Natt. He knew he had lost the battle and must get to his horse.

He lay with his eyes closed, his unstable mind busy with plotting. Hearing someone enter the tent, he opened his eyes and saw a pair of worn fur boots at his side. His eyes traveled upward, seeing a man leaning on his spear, dressed in ragged fur. The man looked down at him with fierce eyes in a face painted blue.

The warrior slaves hadn't time to put on the blue paint that they usually wore on raids to intimidate and frighten their victims, but this warrior had taken the time to paint his face and color his beard and hair. The face was painted half solid and half in jagged lines. Blue hair jetted out in spikes from head and chin, giving the man a terrifying countenance.

Lucas didn't recognize the slave. He felt the chill of fear in his stomach, but bluffed his courage.

"Bring me water," Lucas ordered. "Then bring my horse."

The man did not move, but stared down at Lucas with a slight smile on his lips, his eyes dancing with anticipation. Lucas felt another chill.

"Did you hear me, you filthy slave?" Lucas screamed.

"I have dreamed of this day," Jarle's voice came out in a harsh whisper. Raising his spear above his head with two hands, he brought it down with all his strength into Lucas.

Jarle, no longer a strong man, captivity taking its toll, did not shove the spear in as far as he thought. Still a look of surprise distorted Lucas's features, his eyes wide and his mouth open.

Jarle bowed his head, and turned away overcome by emotion. Filling his lungs with air and throwing back his head, he whooped a war cry. Though not as loud as he would have liked, it was none the less joyous. His enemy was finally dead and it brought him to tears knowing he had preserved his honor.

Distracted by vindication, Jarle did not see Lucas raise his sword.

Author Notes Let the corrections come as they must. =} Thanks to those who hang in there with this book. Rox =]

Joshua-Meaning 'Salvation, To Save'-The Chosen One
Drake & Eric- Joshua's Uncles
Augdon-Trained Joshua as a warrior. Lyse's father
Jarle-Augdon and Cedric's father. Captured by the horde a year before.
Cedric-Augdons brother, Lyse's uncle. Captain of the horsemen
Lyse-Meaning 'Light'-Joshua's wife
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Lucas-Leader of the Horde
Lydia-Lucas' wife
Hamish-Wahaland Spiritual leader and trouble maker, also Lucas' brother.
Dyster- Meaning 'Blue'- Huge blue dragon reserved for Joshua.
Riddare- Meaning 'Companion'-Mountain cat, Dyster's companion.
Ond-Natt- Meaning 'Evil Night'-Huge black dragon, Dyster's brother, Lucas's secert weapon.


Chapter 34
The Battlefield

By Roxanna Andrews

Joshua watched Ond-Natt crashed to the ground and burst into flame. He was amazed to see the Lucas roll from the beast and stagger to his tent. He could not believe the man had survived such a fall.

Joshua brought Dyster down. He would put an end to the life of this one who had caused so much suffering.

Before he could dismount, he saw a slave warrior, painted blue, slip into the tent. Joshua quickly made his way to the opening and watched as the man plunged his spear into Lucas. He was startled as the warrior threw his head back and sounded a war cry. He had practiced the very same war cry many times as a boy. It was Wahaland.

Joshua realized the warrior must be Jarle, father to his mentor and father-in-law, Augdon. He had not known Jarle before his capture, but knew of his aid in spying on the enemy and felt he owed him a debt.

Jarle pulled the spear from Lucas' body and the man he thought dead held his sword against his stomach. His actions were swift for a man so badly injured.

"You should have brought me my horse," Lucas said in a raspy voice.

Joshua reacted and in one quick, slashing motion, Lucas's sword dropped to the ground, and his hand with it.

Lucas screamed in pain. Rolling into a fetal position, he lay motionless, his eyes half open as in death. Blood pooled on the ground beside him.

****************

Lyse watched as her mortally wounded dragon made a hard landing and plowed across the ground, spraying snow and bringing down brush as it skidded. She and Nyla had jumped from the dying dragon on to another whose rider had come to their rescue. As it rolled to its side and died, Lyse could not keep tears from her eyes. She had raised the dragon, it had been hers since she was a small child. Now the magnificent green beast lay dead.

There was no time to mourn as Lyse ask to be taken to the battlefield. She would fight were she could. The dragon landed and the rider sent it to the woods to eat. He ran with the women to join the battle. Seeing a horse running free, Lyse commandeered the animal for herself and Nyla. She took the reins and turned the animal back to the fight.

The horse soldiers fought for their lives as the enemy seemed to be without end. When one died another took his place. The enemy slashed at man and horse with sword and ax, many without weapons, threw stones. But few found their mark as the archers and warriors cut them down.

The enemy was malnourished and had little physical strength left. Too many battles had left them exhausted. The horse soldiers asked them many times to surrender, but they seemed not to care if they lived or died and paid no heed to the soldiers request. Some seemed to welcome death, others fought with the desperation of an unsound mind. Having lost their ability to reason long ago, they fought like the madmen they'd become, refusing to give up.

*Jarle's men had joined the horse soldiers and fought beside them. They felt some guilt as they cut down the men they were housed with just moments before, they knew their desperation, but they fought on.

*****************

Jarle held out a hand to the young captain. "You are Joshua." It was a statement not a question.

Joshua took the outstretched hand.

"I am Jarle, father to Augdon and Cedric."

"Yes, that was my guess."

'It seems I forgot the first rule of battle. Never take your eyes off your enemy," said the older man.

Joshua smiled and clapped the older man on the shoulder. "It is a good rule to remember."

Jarle smiled and they left Lucas where he lay. They walked from the tent and watched a moment as the huge Ond-Natt burned.

"I have never seen such a beast. Evil and bad tempered like his master," said Jarle.

Joshua nodded, "Thank God he is also dead like his master."

He sent Dyster to the woods to wait until summoned and he and Jarle ran to join the battle. In a short time, Joshua was surrounded by ragged, wild-eyed men. They came at him with sword and ax, but Joshua expertly fought off his enemy. The ground around him was soaked in blood as he dispatched each man who came against him. None laid a hand on him.

Jarle, with face and hair painted, was joined by enemy warriors thinking he was one of them.  Jarle, too, felt guilt over having to kill men he had lived with for two years. He knew most had been forced into the life they now led, and he gave them a choice, die, or surrender. Many did, having lost the will to fight. Those that refused, quickly lost their lives.

During a lull in the fight, Joshua Looked around him and saw his warriors engaged in battle, and gaining ground. He saw his two uncles, Eric and Drake, off their horses and fighting hand to hand with the enemy, easily defeating them.

In the hour that followed the number of the enemy began to dwindle and soon none were left to fight. Most were dead, many surrendered. The battlefield was littered with bodies, the snow blood stained.

Joshua searched for Lyse and found her sitting on a horse, bloodied but unharmed. He lifted her out of the saddle and held her close, relieved to find her without injury.

"I feared for you," he told her.

"No need, I am well."

"Where is my mother?" Joshua asked as he looked over the battlefield.

Before Lyse could answer, a deafening scream echoed off the mountains and all eyes turned toward the sound. Standing over the body of Ond-Natt was the mother dragon. The female had found her prized offspring. She nudged the charred body of her son, and screamed again, white hot flame pouring from her mouth.

Author Notes Let the corrections come as they must. =} I know there are many as I got sick of reading it over and over. I never see my errors anyway. That's what you, the reviewer, are for =} Thanks to those who hang in there with this book. Rox

*Jarle was held captive two years and started a resistance within the camp. He recruited 100 men to fight with Joshua.

Joshua-Meaning 'Salvation, To Save'-The Chosen One
Drake & Eric- Joshua's Uncles
Augdon-Trained Joshua as a warrior. Lyse's father
Jarle-Augdon and Cedric's father. Captured by the horde a year before.
Cedric-Augdons brother, Lyse's uncle. Captain of the horsemen
Lyse-Meaning 'Light'-Joshua's wife
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Lucas-Leader of the Horde
Lydia-Lucas' wife
Hamish-Wahaland Spiritual leader and trouble maker, also Lucas' brother.
Dyster- Meaning 'Blue'- Huge blue dragon reserved for Joshua.
Riddare- Meaning 'Companion'-Mountain cat, Dyster's companion.
Ond-Natt- Meaning 'Evil Night'-Huge black dragon, Dyster's brother, Lucas's secert weapon.
Mot-Voldsom-Meaning 'Fierce Mother-Dyster's mother, huge black dragon


Chapter 35
Daddy's Home

By Roxanna Andrews

Those of the enemy who still lived cried, "It is Mot-Voldsom,'' meaning Fierce Mother. They scattered, some running toward the mountains, others into the woods.

Dyster, standing beside his master, made to go after the dragon, but Joshua stayed him with his hand.

A shadow blocked out the sun and Joshua looked up to see a huge black dragon, larger than any they had yet seen. The gigantic beast had a blue stripe down his back, his scales shown silver in the sunlight. The ground shook as he landed beside the female. They nuzzled one another and the male again nudged the body of Ond-Natt. The beast roared and whipped his head around, his blazing red eyes sought those he held responsible for the death of his son.

"Run," shouted Joshua. He grabbed Lyse's hand and they ran into the woods.

The warriors ran into the trees, taking their horses. They readied their swords, but knew they were no match for the dragons.

Just beyond the first trees, Joshua found his uncles and mother kneeling beside their father, Goran. He barely clung to life, his body badly burned.

His sons had covered him with snow, trying to dull the pain. They knelt on either side of him, each holding a hand. Goran opened his eyes and seeing Nyla, they became wet with tears.

"My greatest regret is letting them take you from me," he said, his voice a little above a whisper. Nyla grabbed his hand from Eric and bent over her father.

"It was the way of things. Do not blame yourself. I never have." She kissed his forehead, avoiding the burnt flesh.

Goran held out a hand to his grandson. "Grandfather," Joshua said, taking the outstretched hand with tears in his eyes.

"You have given me much joy in my old age," he said with his last breath escaping his lungs in a hiss.

His sons kissed his forehead and wept silently. They moved Goran's body deeper into the woods and covered it in the snow. They would retrieve it later to take home for a warrior's burial.

They stood before Joshua. "We will mourn another day. Today we fight," said Eric.

"You are no match for those devils. You must stay within the trees."

"We will not hide like cowards! What of our honor? How can we avenge our father if we do not fight? Let whatever is to come, come. We will fight like men," said Drake.

"What good is your honor if you die knowing there was never a hope of victory? It is a foolish waste of life. What of your families? Will you leave them without husband or father?"

Joshua saw a stubborn look come over the faces of his uncles. Eric was about to speak, but Joshua cut him off.

"The flame will devour you in an instant. Stay here, that is my order.'

Their eyes burned with anger, but he would not allow good men to die needlessly. He turned to his wife.

"Lyse, stay with my uncles."

"I will not stay and allow you to face the dragons alone," she protested.

"If you love me do this one thing. I cannot bear the thought of your death."

"Nor can I bear the thought of yours. If we die, we die together. I will not leave you."

Joshua held her close and with one last kiss, climbed onto Dyster. Lyse made to follow him, but Joshua blocked her way and would not allow it. She looked into his eyes, her's pleading to go with him. They filled with angry tears as she watched her beloved take to the sky.

Riddare had appeared as if out of nowhere, the huge cat deadly silent for his size. He made a running leap and landed lightly on Dyster's back. He would join his companion for what may be their last battle.

Those on the ground watched as the blue dragon flew above them. Dyster's iridescent scales shone in the fading light. The night was almost upon them. In their hearts they feared this was a final battle for the young captain and their countenance fell. They looked to one another.

"What can we do?" a Nubian warrior asked.

"I, for one, will not stay hidden like a coward. Riders mount your dragons, we will do what we can," said Eric.

The riders brought their dragons forward and the uncles climb up behind a rider. Lyse commandeered a dragon and Nyla joined her.

"If we die, we die, but at least death will have meaning. I will die a warrior," said one of the riders.

The others cheered and their spirits were lifted. They would go into battle unafraid.

The Nubian archers knew their arrows might prove useless, so they brought spears as well with deadly, sharp points. They were not experts at spear throwing, but they were good enough.
**************

Lucas lay in great pain, fading in and out of consciousness. Where was that traitorous brother of his now that he needed his help. Worthless idiot!

Lucas rolled onto his stomach and crawled to his bed. Taking a muslin sheet, he tore it using his teeth and one hand and wrapped the bloody stump. Laying it against his chest, he wrapped the rest of the sheet around his torso to keep his arm immobile. His chest wound still bled, but he ignored it. He lay down, sweating and exhausted, he fell asleep.

He was awakened moments later by the deafening scream of a dragon. Staggering to his feet, he went to look outside the tent. Beside the smoking Ond-Natt, was his mother.

"I am sorry old girl. They killed your prize son," he said. The dragon looked at him as if she understood his words.

Lucas saw a shadow block the sun for a moment, and felt the impact tremor as a huge black dragon landed beside his mate.

"It looks like father has come home." He staggered further out of the tent and saw the mammoth beast whip his head about and look toward the battlefield.

"Yes, that is where the enemy is, the ones who killed your son."

The huge beast took a few steps toward Lucas and shot a huge flame above his head. Lucas could feel the extreme heat and fell to the ground, screaming. The tent caught fire and in minutes was engulfed in flames.

The beast moved closer and Lucas's hair blew back as the dragon breathed heavily, in and out. He smelled the scent of his son on the man, and something more, a kindred spirit.

He picked up Lucas with his teeth, grabbing him gently as he would a pup and placed him on his back. Lucas slumped forward, placing his cheek against the scaled hide. He lost consciousness for a moment and when he woke he was flying above the battlefield.

Author Notes Joshua-Meaning 'Salvation, To Save'-The Chosen One
Drake & Eric- Joshua's Uncles
Goran-Drake, Eric & Nyla's father, Joshua's Grandfather
Augdon-Trained Joshua as a warrior. Lyse's father
Jarle-Augdon and Cedric's father. Captured by the horde a year before.
Cedric-Augdons brother, Lyse's uncle. Captain of the horsemen
Lyse-Meaning 'Light'-Joshua's wife
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Lucas-Leader of the Horde
Lydia-Lucas' wife
Hamish-Wahaland Spiritual leader and trouble maker, also Lucas' brother.
Dyster- Meaning 'Blue'- Huge blue dragon reserved for Joshua.
Riddare- Meaning 'Companion'-Mountain cat, Dyster's companion.
Ond-Natt- Meaning 'Evil Night'-Huge black dragon, Dyster's brother, Lucas's secert weapon.
Mot-Voldsom-Meaning 'Fierce Mother'-Dyster's mother, huge black dragon


Chapter 36
The Final Battle

By Roxanna Andrews

Warning: The author has noted that this contains the highest level of violence.

Joshua regretted his hasty decision to not allow his uncles to do battle. They were warriors and proud men. They would not live well with his order for them to stay behind. He knew as a leader, he had to make hard choices and put men in danger. That was the way of war. Had he grown as a man and a leader if he could not do that? He knew his men, and especially his uncles, would not shy away from death. Fighting for one's family and way of life was an honorable way to die.

Joshua pulled his mind back to the present and turned his attention to the behemoth who flew towards him. He flew high above the woods, and fire shoot from his mouth, setting the trees ablaze. Those in the woods ran for their lives. The horses panicked and galloped towards the mountains.

Joshua's heart fell as he knew Lyse was in the woods. He could only hope his uncles would keep her safe. His worry was unfounded as the heavy snow on the trees kept the fire at bay and it was soon out. The cold and wet extinguishing it quickly.

The behemoth then turned his attention toward Joshua and especially to Dyster. The one that had been cast out by his mate. His odd blue son with the bright green underbelly. How had he come to have such an offspring? He circled Dyster as if sizing him up. Dyster showed no fear and turned to keep his eyes on his father, he made noises as if growling, and Joshua restrained him.

As the dragon circled, Joshua saw Lucas sitting on its back. He was amazed that a man could live with such grievous wounds. How had he managed to get on the back of such a beast? It was as if he had ten lives. Joshua regretted not taking his head as well as his hand.

Lucas lifted his head and defiantly looked into Joshua's eyes as if to say, You cannot kill me.

Joshua stared back with a look of determination. He would end this man, one way or another, this night. His attention was drawn away form Lucas as dragons appeared in the sky, flying toward him.

His heart felt as if it had turned over in his chest, until he realized they were his allies. The dragons lined up on either side of him, thirty strong and would fight despite his orders to stay hidden. His uncles looked to him and he nodded, knowing he could not deny them. This was how it should be.

Lyse was beside him and Joshua shook his head at her. "You are the most stubborn female," he told her.

"Yes, I am, and you will do well to remember that," she answered.

The enemy dragon seemed to hover as if unsure of what to do. Only then did Joshua see the true size of the beast. It was half again as large as Dyster. Joshua felt fear for the first time. How could he possibly hope to best this monster? Dyster would be no match for him, nor would the other dragons. Would his family and he, himself, lose his life this day? In his exhausted state he began to doubt his abilities.

Perhaps he was not the one to lead this army. Had he done well? Should he have made different choices. If he had been wiser, would his grandfather be alive now?

He heard a voice speak in his mind, Do not be afraid. He knew the voice, it was the same as had come to him in his vision. Joshua's resolve and courage returned. Though fear lingered, he felt confident again.

In the distance another black dragon appeared, Mot-Voldmor, the enemy soldiers had called her. Joshua had to hold Dyster back as he got the scent of his mother and made to go after her.

Mot-Voldmor flew back and forth beneath them. With no prompting, Riddare jumped on her back. He quickly climbed up her neck to the head, digging in with teeth and claws. Knowing the eyes were the most vulnerable, he went for them with a ferocious vigor. The dragon flung her head back and forth, trying to throw the huge cat from her.

Riddare managed to claw out an eye and the dragon flew to the ground and rolled, trying to dislodge the cat. Riddare leaped to the ground and the dragon shot her flame hitting him in his side. He rolled in the snow to put out the fire. Badly wounded he was unable to continue the fight. Disappearing into the undergrowth he hid and licked his wound.

The huge female dragon lay with her head resting in the snow. She lifted it after a time and shook it, as if to clear the fog from her brain. She looked up at her mate hovering above her. She screamed and he landed beside her and licked her wounds. He let out a tremendous roar and took to the skies. He spied Riddare in the undergrowth and aimed his flame at him. Riddaer ran toward the woods, just escaping another blast of flame. The dragon again set the trees ablaze, but the flames were quickly extinguished, the wet wood refusing to light.

Dyster watched as Riddare ran for his life. He was enraged that his companion was being attacked. He threw back his head loading the pockets in his throat with the needed chemicals and brought it forward, shooting a flame, small but blazing hot. It was the first time he had used his flame, and it took the riders by surprise. Joshua looked to Lyse.

She smiled. "Why are we surprised he can do this? Both his parents breathe fire, of course he has the flame as well. Why did we not think of it before?"

Dyster continued to expel smoke and flame until his flame shot as far as his father's and beyond. It was blazing hot and he was sure with his aim. As his father approached, he shot it full in his face. The beast screamed and turned aside. Lucas' hair was set on fire and he slapped it out with his hand.

The warriors quickly moved their dragons in, swarming the black dragon and tearing into his scaly hide with long, sharp talons, drawing blood from his head down to his tail. The Nubian warriors thrust in their spears. The beast tried to shake them off, but they held fast.

Lucas screamed, and cursed the dragons as the frenzy went on around him. A dragon caught a talon in Lucas' coat and dragged him off the beast's back. Lucas hung in midair. Terrified, he wrapped his good arm around the dragon's leg so as not to fall.

Joshua brought Dyster up under him and Lucas fell onto the dragon. He drew his sword.

"I should have killed you long ago, when you were a child. I would spy on Wahaland and see you sparring with your cousins and uncles. I knew one day I would see you again," Lucas said with venom in his voice.

Author Notes Heres the next chapter, such as it is. =} Thank you to those who have stuck with it.

Joshua-Meaning 'Salvation, To Save'-The Chosen One
Drake & Eric- Joshua's Uncles
Goran-Drake, Eric & Nyla's father, Joshua's Grandfather
Augdon-Trained Joshua as a warrior. Lyse's father
Jarle-Augdon and Cedric's father. Captured by the horde a year before.
Cedric-Augdons brother, Lyse's uncle. Captain of the horsemen
Lyse-Meaning 'Light'-Joshua's wife
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Lucas-Leader of the Horde
Lydia-Lucas' wife
Hamish-Wahaland Spiritual leader and trouble maker, also Lucas' brother.
Dyster- Meaning 'Blue'- Huge blue dragon reserved for Joshua.
Riddare- Meaning 'Companion'-Mountain cat, Dyster's companion.
Ond-Natt- Meaning 'Evil Night'-Huge black dragon, Dyster's brother, Lucas's secert weapon.
Mot-Voldsom-Meaning 'Fierce Mother'-Dyster's mother, huge black dragon


Chapter 37
The final Chapter

By Roxanna Andrews

Warning: The author has noted that this contains the highest level of violence.


"Yes, you should have killed me long ago, for today, I shall end your life." Joshua drew his sword and plunged it into Lucas' heart. Lucas held his gaze until the light faded from his eye. He fell to the ground and lay dead among his men scattered on the battlefield.

Dyster breathed his flame and fire consuming Lucas' body along with many others who lay around him.

The huge black monster, bloodied and weakening, fled from his attackers and flew to the ground. He searched and found nothing but a few charred bones of the man he had bonded with. He screamed and took to the skies, shooting flame as he rose. His rage consumed him and his flame found one of the dragons, killing it and sending dragon and rider spiraling downward. The rider burned, but alive, jump to another dragon before hitting the ground.

Dyster would not be held back from facing off with the massive dragon. He knew the scent of his father, but it didn't deter him. He also got the scent of his mother and Ond-Natt. They were his enemy and he would destroy them.

Joshua held on, shielding himself behind Dyster's neck as the huge black beast continued to shoot fire. Dyster flew low to the ground. Spinning, he dropped Joshua to the ground and went to face his father on his own. Joshua called after him, but he paid no heed.

Riddare came out of the woods and stood beside Joshua, never taking his eyes from the sky and his companion. Joshua put a hand on his head and they watched together.

Focused on his mission, Dyster came up full speed beneath the black dragon, hitting him in the middle of his underbelly. The beast's fire was choked off as he struggled to breath. Dyster breathed white hot flame aimed at the beast's unprotected belly. He screamed as a hole appeared where leathery skin had once been. Fluid and blood poured from the gaping wound. The dragon flew to the woods to hide himself. His screams echoed off the mountains and lasted several minutes until they were stilled.

Dyster flew down to Joshua, who put out a hand. He brought his head low and Joshua rubbed his snout.

"You are a disobedient beast, but you have saved us all," he said as he stroked the magnificent animal. Dyster moved his head up and down as if he understood Joshua words of praise.

The allied dragons landed nearby, and Lyse came to stand beside her husband.

The warriors had rounded up the horses that had run off when the woods caught fire. They rode out, many bloodied and battered. They cleaned their swords and axes as they rode.

"We need not worry about that monstrous beast again," said Cedric. "He is no more. Now to take care of the other." The soldiers rode to were Mot-Voldsom languished in the undergrowth, bleeding and half blind. The men and women made quick work of ending her life. They brought a wagon and began cutting her into pieces. The meat from the two dragons would feed the men and women for many days.

Joshua sent a group of warriors to sweep through the encampment in search of enemy soldiers who might be hiding. They rounded up those they found and brought them together with those that had surrendered. It was decided they could continue to live in the encampment. Joshua would leave them there with a promise to live peaceable unless threatened.

Jarle would live with them as a leader. He had a heart for the men who had suffered such torturous conditions under Lucas. It gave the older man a renewed purpose in life. Jarle would live to be one hundred and many tales would be told of his bravery and strength. The encampment would eventually move to the Wahaland Valley.

The women who wish to go to the fortress would be taken there, but they chose to stay with the men and help care for them. They had been together a long while, and had become like family.

The night was fully upon them now and they would stay the night and leave for Wahaland and the fortress early the next morning.

The women prepared a feast of dragon meat, vegetables and fruit from the gardens they tended. There was no mead as it was kept in Lucas' tent and it had been burned, however, the men welcomed the cold water from the stream close by. They ate well and fell asleep, exhausted.

The next morning before the sun was up, the weary warriors began the trek home. Most rode the horses, rather than being taken by dragons, as they had come. They wanted to honor the dead and wounded by riding beside them.

Joshua chose to ride as well, along with Lyse and his mother, Nyla. Dyster refused to leave him, so he walked beside the horses, at times taking to the skies, but always returning to Joshua's side. Riddare, still hurting from his burns, rode on Dyster's back.

Eric and Drake laid their father's body in a wagon packed with snow, along with the rest of the dead. They rode on either side of it, and with tears in their eyes, they sang the songs of their people. Ancient songs that were sung over brave warriors who had lost their lives in battle.

When they came near to Wahaland, Eric and Drake turned off with their father's body. There would be nothing left of the village as Lucas had burned it to the ground, but they wanted to have Goran's death ceremony in the place that he was born. The army of warriors followed.

"You need not go with us. Go home to your families, they must be anxious to see you," Eric told them.

"We will stay, we want to honor Goran," said one of the Nubian generals. "He was a mighty warrior."

Joshua agreed. "We are only a day away from the fortress. We will stay here for the night and show our respect for Goran."

Joshua sent a rider ahead to let Augdon know they had made it to Wahaland. He sent a list of those who had died so families could be told.

Many came from the fortress for the ceremony. There were joyous reunions with family as well as mourning over the dead. The death rite for Goran and the others, who had sacrificed their lives, took place two days later at sunrise. Many gave testimony of the bravery of their fellow warriors. The bodies were wrapped in ceremonial clothes brought from the fortress as all had been destroyed at Wahaland. The dead were laid to rest in a spacious cave. A stone was rolled over the opening to keep animals away. It took twenty men to roll the stone in place.

When the three hour ceremony ended, another feast was prepared to celebrate their victory and the lives of the dead.

Those who had lived in Wahaland all their lives, stayed there and began to rebuild. Soon there were many dwellings occupied by growing families. The men returned to their trades, to the fields and opal mines. Life went on.

In the weeks that followed, Joshua learned he was to be a father. He built a home in Wahaland next to the woods and watched his son grow. More children followed and the village thrived. 

Nyla came to live in Wahaland with Joshua, until she married a widower of her own age. He had grown children and many grandchildren which brought her great joy along with Joshua's. She taught them archery and sword fighting, and how to hunt without making a sound.

Valdig, the grandfather of Augdon and great grandfather to Joshua, the one who saw visions, died a year after the great battle. His body was laid to rest in the cave with the other warriors of Wahaland.

Joshua became the council head. He lived to ninety eight, and along with his wise counsel, was the greatest swordsmen the village had known. No one could best him, even into his late eighties. His skills are legendary to this day.

He walked tall and straight his whole life, and his violet eyes never lost their shine. Two more battles were fought with Joshua as captian, defeating invaders who coveted the rich land of Wahaland Valley. His name Gulbrandr-God's Sword, given him in his vision, was well earned. He had five sons and many grandchildren and he taught them all the listen to the voice of God. He proceded Lyse in death by only three months. It is said Lyse died of a broken heart. There were songs written and stories passed down through the generations, of Joshua's and Lyse's great love for one another.

Dyster and Riddare lived in the woods beside Joshua's house for the rest of their lives. Riddare healed from his burns, but the hair on his side never grew back. He was a vigilant watchman over Joshua's children, never leaving their side when they ventured into the fields or woods. Riddare lived to be thirty years, which was a long life for a mountain cat.

Dyster sorely missed his companion and mourned him many months. Joshua's children and grandchildren kept him occupied and he was content. Dyster lived to be one hundred and seventy years and remained a brilliant blue all his days. He was cared for by Joshua's desendents all his life.

************************


Hamish and Lydia traveled many miles after fleeing the encampment and Lucas. They hoped to get as far from his reach as they could. After ten days they came to a burned out village, the inhabitants beginning to rebuild.

"Do not speak," Hamish told Lydia. "I will do all the talking."

Upon seeing the riders, the men surrounded the couple with clubs and axes. A man in-charge stepped up. "What do you want?" he asked, holding an ax in both hands.

"We come in peace. My wife and I are fleeing a madman who attacked our village. We fled with just our lives and our child. We are tired and hungry. We just want a bit to eat and we will be on our way."

The man put the ax down, seeing the tiny child. "A madman attacked our village as well. His army was painted blue and they had flying beast that spat fire. They took away many of our men and women, and killed many more. We, you see here, are all that is left. We haven't much, but what we have, you are welcome too."

Hamish smiled, grateful his half truth had won over the leader of this group of rag tag men and women. If he used his words and charm to his advantage, he would take control of this small band.

The village grew over time. Hamish and Lydia settled in, having children and doing all they could to bind the people's heart to them. Hamish was soon an elder and adviser to the people. He had glorious plans for them.

Author Notes Here's the last chapter! Let us rejoice and do the dance of joy . =} I hope I ended it well. I don't think there will be a sequel. =}

Thank you SO MUCH to those who have stuck with it. I truly appreciate it from the bottom of my tiny heart.

Joshua-Meaning 'Salvation, To Save'-The Chosen One
Gulbrandr-Meaning God's Sword. In his vision Joshua was told his name would be changed to Gulbrandr, though he was still referred to a Joshua.
Drake & Eric- Joshua's Uncles
Goran-Drake, Eric & Nyla's father, Joshua's Grandfather
Augdon-Trained Joshua as a warrior. Lyse's father
Jarle-Augdon and Cedric's father. Captured by the horde a year before.
Cedric-Augdons brother, Lyse's uncle. Captain of the horsemen
Valdig_Joshua's great grandfather. He saw the vision of Joshua leading an army against Lucas.
Lyse-Meaning 'Light'-Joshua's wife
Nyla-Joshua's mother
Lucas-Leader of the Horde
Lydia-Lucas' wife
Hamish-Wahaland Spiritual leader and trouble maker, also Lucas' brother.
Dyster- Meaning 'Blue'- Huge blue dragon reserved for Joshua.
Riddare- Meaning 'Companion'-Mountain cat, Dyster's companion.
Ond-Natt- Meaning 'Evil Night'-Huge black dragon, Dyster's brother, Lucas's secert weapon.
Mot-Voldsom-Meaning 'Fierce Mother'-Dyster's mother, huge black dragon
Mead- a drink similar to beer.

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