The Pendent of Erigold

8/6/2019 The Pendent of Erigold

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The Pendant of

Erigold

By: Melissa Washburn


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Prologue

The Beginning

In these realms of Ember, war has been an everlasting curse. The battle between

the Dragon Riders and the Dragon Slayers was a feud of never ending hatred whose

beginnings had been lost in the flow of time. The only hope the people had, was held in a

prophecy, laid out by a Witch of Raynerth named Azure. The prophecy told of the heir to

the magic of Erigold, a powerful wizarding family whose magic, along with the magic of

twelve other powerful wizarding families had been sealed into a ruby to protect it when

the Dragon Slayers took control of the country Arlithya; the heir was to awaken the

powers inside of the ruby and was to lead the new Dragon Riders to victory.

As the Dragons Slayers slowly began to take control of the land, the use of free

magic was soon to be limited. The ruler of the lands of Ember, King Xenias, put bits of

less powerful magic into pieces of jewelry to be passed down to the oldest child of each

noble family. This way magic could be controlled and limited to only people of a higher

class who were less likely to fight against the King. The only ones that were able to use

more powerful and destructive magic were the Symphon, souls of fallen soldiers, who on

their death beds pledged themselves to the king and used their magic only to serve him.

They lived in the mountains of Amythest and their job was to train the Kings armies and

lead them in to battle. They were heatless creatures, and had given up every ounce of

their free will to their King, making them puppets.

In the Mountains of Amythest, something lurked in the shadows of dark magic.

He was searching for something important, and he knew, if he was caught in this place he

would be killed instantaneously, but he had a mission and it needed to be completed in


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order to set the prophecy of Azure in motion. He held in his hand a pendent, a gold

dragon claw clutched a red ruby, and he could feel the magic emanating from it, but he

knew that it was to strong for anyone like him. He knew that he was being followed and

his steps were quick and light through the mountain forest, every noise made him look

back in fear, and he knew they were slowly gaining on him, but he couldnt give up. His

face was stained with sweat and blood and his grey eyes were cold and unresponsive, not

even a glint of fear appeared there. He began to hear shouting behind him, and the sounds

of hundreds of soldiers following his trail and his cold eyes began to show emotion. He

was desperate, fear gripped his body, but soon all the noises began slipping away, he was

fearful, and thought he must be dying, but a new setting appeared before him. He was

standing in front of a small house in the middle of a village; he looked around wondering

how he had gotten there, and if he was dreaming. It was the afternoon and the streets

were deserted. He stared in utter shock at the house in front of him; it was like he had

been shot. A warm feeling filled his heart as he knocked on the door earnestly.


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Chapter One

The Enchanters Apprentice

What is that? snarled a short brute of a man pointing a short warty finger at a cauldron

filled with a stocky liquid. The man was a dwarf, but in these times dwarves were not

particularly welcome, so he shaved his once long and thick beard and attempted to pass

himself off as a human, something, which the dwarf felt to be almost impossible and he

was always on constant alert; the logic, in these times, though had been lost making it

easier for the dwarf to fit into society. Therefore, this made things easier for him. People

had long forgotten of the times of the dwarves, elves and the other creatures that were

now deemed mythical but he himself really existed so he believed. A young boy sat on a

stool near the cauldron. He looked at the ground half-heartedly his golden eyes somewhat

dim.

M-my summoning potionM-Master T-Toadstool... the boy stuttered scratching his

raven-black hair, his golden eyes still looking half-heartedly at the dirt covered floor.

That is no summoning potion I have ever seen, replied Toadstool haughtily laughing

slightly, If it is I have been getting it wrong my whole life.

I-Im sorry M-masterit will not happen again, mumbled the boy with a little more

heart in it this time. He had officially decided he would fail at this no more, since it had

been his fifth try.

It had better not Oskan, said Toadstool strictly, try the potion again I will close up the

shop without you today.

At that Toadstool swiftly left the storeroom and headed to the front of the house where

the store was located. The house was quite large for the city of Akkeltar, which was more


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like a small town. The house was not very big, but it was two stories high. The bottom

level was mostly used for the store the top level was where Oskan and Toadstool lived.

Out of the dark corners of the storeroom, a cat came playfully up to Oskan. The cats

eyes pierced curiously into Oskans and this made him laugh.

Hello their Eodyn, Oskan said laughing his smile spread wide on his face, I wont be

closing up the shop today, again, I am just not that great a potion making.

Its alright, replied Eodyn rubbing gently against Oskans legs, You never were.

Oskan laughed quietly. That was definitely the truth. Why his father had sent him to be

apprenticed to an enchanter was totally beyond his knowledge. As a very young child he

had never shown any signs of magical powers, absolutely nothing. Oddly enough when

his father had died his will specifically stated that he was to be trained in the art of an

enchanter by Toadstool.

Well, now you must be wondering what exactly Eodyn is. Eodyn is a Daemin. A Daemin

is part of a human soul encased in the body of an animal. It changes form depending on

the mood of the humans soul. When a child is born the Daemin sort of appears beside

them in a form only the baby can see. It becomes more and more visible as time wears

on. On the thirteenth birthday though, the Daemin disappears, this is when the childs

mind becomes more like an adult and they have no more need for their Daemin to guard

their soul.

Oskan was twelve years old, almost thirteen, and Eodyn now a cat was almost

ready to disappear. Oskan could not even imagine life without Eodyn. She had always

been by his side protecting him.


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Eodyn, he thought looking at sadly into her eyes, What would I do without

you?

Oskan sighed and Eodyn jumped onto his lap playfully. At this Oskan groaned loudly.

Your heavy, he said laughing attempting to push heroff his lap.

Eodyn jumped quickly off his laugh looking offended. She walked away haughtily as if

she was saying, Im NOT fat.

Oskan rolled his eyes, how this haughty self-centered egoistic cat could hold a part of his

soul he would never know. He glared at Eodyn. She was so self-centered. He stared at her

quietly and looked back at his potion book wondering where he had gone wrong. He

wore a puzzled expression. He had thought he had followed Toadstools directions

exactly. The potion was so complicated. It was difficult to figure out what was wrong and

what was right. Everything about it seemed incredibly difficult to Oskan. Oskan knew

Toadstool kept a library of potion books and a stash of potions in the cupboard in his

study. Feeling Oskans frustration Eodyn turned into the form of a dog and trotted up to

him in a comforting manner.

Come on Oskan, she whispered licking his hand, follow me.

Oskan followed Eodyn through the halls outside of the storeroom. They were like long

winding passageways, brightly lit by candles. Oskan and his Daemin lurked through the

halls slowly keeping out of sight of the store where Toadstool was cleaning up after a

hard days work. The study was restricted without an invitation. The only time he had

been in there was the first day he had come to live with Toadstool. It had been a few days

after his fathers death. He remembered feeling confused. He felt no emotion after he

found out about his fathers death. Everyone around him had been comforting him, as if


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he was sad. His mother had died during childbirth. His father never talked about her but

Oskan knew her name. It was Edowin. His father had never really cared for Oskan and

often left him with nannies. He had always been away for business and never talked

about it with Oskan when he was home. The only regret he had was that he never got to

know his father the way he should have. Toadstool understood him. They had been close

ever since. Well, as close a student and his pupil could get in six years. He was like a

father to Oskan.

They reached Toadstools office without being spotted. The door of his study was locked

tight and Oskan swore under his breath. Eodyn smiled a cat like smile. It was a

mysterious sort of smile and Oskan felt different. It was as if a power was flowing

through is veins and he whispered one simple word, Arminius. The room was dimly lit

unlike the hallways. The study was filled with books, gadgets, and potions. Most of the

items in the room Oskan had no idea what they were. A small bookshelf lay in the corner

next to an oversized coat-closet. He walked quietly over to the bookshelf, and read the

titles to him-self.

Magyks Guide to Dragonstotally uselessGyorycs guide to spellsIll look at this

one laterah, heres somethingA Village Fools guide to Potion Making. Oskan

laughed and Eodyn hissed at him to shut-up.

If you are attempting to be sneaky then quiet down Eodyn scolded giving Oskan an

icy glare. Eodyns ears pricked up so suddenly it startled him. She whispered quietly,

hide.

Oskan stood up quickly and looked around. He now heard the footsteps for they were

growing ever closer. He looked around more frantically now, and looked toward the coat


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closet. He opened the door and Eodyn ran inside. Oskan followed, shutting the door just

as the study door opened.

Thats odd I thought I locked this doorThe voice Oskan heard was Toadstools he

recognized it immediately. Toadstools voice sounded irritated as if something deeply

upset him, Come in Rityliu, and make your-self comfortable.

Thank you, replied the voice of the newcomer, which Oskan presumed to be Rityliu,

Thank you for letting me visit you on such short notice. I just got some very urgent news

from our spy at the castle. The Dragon Slayers are already going after the new Dragon

Riders. They are going to attack them on the way back from Dragons Keep.

What? Burst Toadstool, Did they send them unprotected?

That is what I am here to talk to you about, said Rityliu earnestly, They set up guards

around the children, but that wontbe enough. Lord Xenias is sending the SymphonWe

need Oskan to come and help guard the new Dragon Riders.

But the pendant, that is the source of his power, how are we going to get it back from

the Amythest mountains? asked Toadstool,They have it heavily guarded

There Rityliu interrupted him quickly by pulling a thick golden chain from his pocket. It

hung around his thick hand. It held in it a golden claw a dark red stone. This made

Toadstool gasp.

But how did you get this from them, it was taken when they killed Oskans father, the

Symphon and their armies were guarding, it is nearly impossible for any normal man to

fight against one Symphon, but to take on an entire army? Toadstools eyes were wide

with awe and wonder.

Rityliu face became grave, I barely escaped there with my life, if some of the magic


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wasnt leaking from this pendent I wouldnt have escaped to tell you about it.

So are you going to tell me the whole story or just part of it? asked Toadstool gravely,

I am an old friend after all, do you not trust me with your secrets?

It is not you I dont trust, said Rityliu moving slyly toward the coat closet where Oskan

was hiding, But the one hiding in your closet- As he said that he opened the closet

doors swiftly and in the rush Oskan stumbled out.

My-Mywhat have we here said Rityliu laughing. He was a tall handsome man

with cold grey eyes and loving warm brown hair. By his smile, Oskan could tell that he

laughed often, but by the look in his eyes Oskan could tell he was a strong and a hard

ruler. This puzzled Oskan and Rityliu laughed even harder.


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Chapter Two

The Dragon Slayer

It was almost midnight and the bright orange moon rest roughly at the center of the sky.

The night was enchanting as the city of Castile was awakened in a symphony of sounds.

A tall, thin boy, of about fifteen years of age was walking nervously at the edge of a large

roaring river. His hair was like a golden mane flowing at the slightest breeze. It was quite

straight and rested just by his shoulders. He was quite handsome, he features

distinguished and kingly. He walked with an air of importance and his ocean blue eyes

shown brightly in the moonlight as he walked along the riverbank. His skin was white,

almost looking like silk in the moon light and his ears were slightly pointed and picked

up sounds any normal human being would never be able to hear. His name was Argon

and his parents were King Xenias and Queen Lylith of Castile, the capitol of the Dragon

Slayers country of Gyth. Argon and his parents could not have looked less alike. They

were stout and quite chubby. They may have been royalty but, it did not show in there

manners or their looks. They were quite unruly, untrained and wild. They were

barbarians. They had a savage desire to kill, and were feared by the few surrounding

nations because of their brutality in battle. They carried an axe like the dwarves and it is

said they have dwarfish roots. Their features though, were more disfigured than the

dwarves, and it was often argued that they might even have some Orc ancestry.

Argon looked nothing like any of his people, and often questioned his parents

about his origins, but his parents refused to tell him anything other than that he was their


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son. He also had intelligence far superior to any other of his race, and that often made

people criticize him.

Argon often took these midnight walks by the river. They helped him forget the difficulty

of being the son of the King of the Dragon Slayers. He was expected to follow his

fathers footsteps as the next King of the Dragon Slayers; he was expected to be great; to

create a legacy. He was expected and promoted to be the best dragon slayer in the land

though it had been years since anyone had seen an actual dragon, at least since six years

ago when the last dragon rider had fallen at the hands of his father. According to his

parents this year was the new inauguration of the Dragon Riders. They were already

preparing an attack, and were sending over two hundred men to attack them. He secretly

desired to be one of the Dragon Riders but he knew that his dream would never come

true.

Argon walked silently up the river. He was thinking of things he would rather forget and

wondered why he was thinking of it in the first place. At breakfast that morning, his

father had come into the banquet hall in quite a lively manner.

Lylith! he yelled running into the room, we have gathered 200 troops to help attack

the new Dragon Riders!

Thats wonderful darling, replied Lylith attentively, we will be the rulers of Realms of

Ember in no time!

Argon pushed that unhappy memory from his mind. How often he wished he could run

away, but whenever he even got close the thought of being caught always made him turn

back.

When Argon got to the bend in the river he turned back, he had to go back to the castle


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and get a descent nights sleep or his parents would grow suspicious. As he turned a

mighty blow of cold air sent a shiver down his spine, and the howl of the wind sounded

like a mighty wolf in the distance. He pulled his black cloak tightly over his shoulders

and walked briskly toward the castle. As he neared the castle, he walked even faster at the

sight of a light in the tower window. As he entered the castle, a servant met him at the

stairs in the castle courtyard.

Where have you been? asked the servant sternly pointing s finger at Argon, Your

parents have been worried sick about you! What were you doing out so late at night? I

went to check on you once and you were not there! Your parents were petrified when

they found out.

I was only out walking bythe river! said Argon glaring at her like she was just an

inferior creature that didnt deserve an ounce of respect, but then he drew back and

calmed himself down, I didnt mean to frighten anyone

A likely story the servant remarked coldly her grey eyes surveying Argon, Come

along your parents would like to see you.

Argon followed the servant into his fathers study. Argon knew that he would have to

come up with a lie to explain why he was not in his room. That would be the hardest part.

After walking down the dimly lit hall his fathers study soon came into view. Argon

detested that room. It was filled with war medals and trophies that made him honored

among his people, loved and made him seem almost perfect. The truth of the matter was

that he was not perfect. Not even, close. When they reached the door of his fathers study

the servant knocked.

Who is it? replied a thick chilly voice, almost like syrup but definitely not as sweet.


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Its Catalina, Master; I have found your son, wandering about the halls. Said the

servant pompously, Shall I send him in?

Yes, said the man with a slight lisp but the voice was stern, send him in.

Argon apprehensively went through the doors of his fathers study. When the door shut

behind him Argons mother ran up to him and held him in her embrace.

Oh, darling, we thought someone had taken you away or that you had been drowned in

the river! said Lylith, hugging him even tighter.

What were you thinking? Asked Argons father sternly, What drove you insane

enough as to wander in the middle of the night? Many a bandit would capture you only

for the hefty sum I would give as a reward.

He looked deeply into Argons eyes with an empty and unfulfilled hate.

I was restless, said Argon not daring to look into his fathers cold glaze, I really just

needed to go for a walk to calm my nerves.

Argons father looked at Argon and sighed, I have no choice but to believe you but, this

will not be happening anymore. I am sending you to Draco Occisor Academy in

Elvandor, where you will learn to be a Dragon Slayer like your mother and I.

Lylith smirked, Thats where your father and I met

Thats another story, said Argons father sternly as if not wanted to repeat or remember

his youth, Now, off to bed.

Argon was silent for a few seconds then replied, Yes father. At that he quietly left the

room.

Argons steps could be barely heard as he walked to his tower room. The servant who

had led him to his fathers study had long since left for bed. The cool night air nipped at


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his bare as he washed them with the water in the basin beside his been. He quickly put on

is night gown and climbed into his warm feather bed and his fathers words came back to

him, Tomorrow your mother and I will be sending you to Draco Occisor Academy

Draco Occisor Academy even the thought of those delicious Latin words in his mind

sounded unpleasant. In and out of thought Argon finally drifted off to sleep.

A bright sunlight was flooding in to his window when he woke up. The cool night air had

turned into a brisk November morning. A light snow had fallen and the river was covered

in a thin layer of ice. Argon stuck one foot out from under his covers.

Freezing! he thought. He quickly pulled his foot back in. Then Argon heard a sharp

knock on the door.

Get up! yelled the prickly voice Catalina, You are leaving at nine o clock sharp!

Argon groaned. He quickly stuck both feet out from under his covers and quickly jumped

out of bed. Then he pulled on his travel clothes and his cloak. He walked quickly to the

door of his room and pulled it open. He walked hastily into the cool hallway. He walked

slowly to the dinning hall where his parents were wordlessly eating their breakfast.

Good morning, he said frostily taking his seat next to his father at the end of the table.

Good morning. They answered back very briskly, and quite acrimoniously. He ate the

porridge in silence, only stopping once for a drink of water. Finally the silence was

broken.

Master Argon, your stuff is packed and is waiting in the carriage, said Catalina gruffly,

Ill be waiting in the carriage.

At that Argon ate even slower. By the time he had finished is Porridge, Catalina was

asleep in the carriage.


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Chapter 3

The Dragon Riders

The murky, bitter swamp closed around a motley group of children. Their leader was a

young elf, and she walked through the forest proudly with bow in hand. The children that

followed seemed frightened, almost lost. The elf walked swiftly and quietly, her thought

seemed to be far away from the world around them, and the children were frantically

trying to keep up, their Daemons runningplayfully behind them. lrilien! lrilien!

one of the children called feebly, Please wait up!

lrilien turned and smiled. How silly they are! She thought to herself and stopped and

waited for them to catch up. They hurried along to where lrilien was standing, each

breathing heavily, slowly catching their breath.

How much farther do we have to go? asked a short brawny child with curly red hair

and curious emerald green eyes. He walked along quite loudly as if trying to wake every

creature in the swamp. His short stubby legs were running trying hard to catch up with

lrilien, whose long thin legs walked silently, with the swiftness of a woodland elf.

Dragons Keep is just past those rocks, she replied excitedly, Be patient Kane.

lrilien had never been to Dragons Keep, but the tales of those who had told her exactly

where she needed to go. Her excitement burned within her looking for a way to sneak

out. A small smile flittered across her pale face as Kane continued running alongside her

fast pace. He was as excited as her; he was the first in his clan to go to Dragons Keep.

Only a few select children in the lands of Arransia were able to go to Dragons Keep


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every century. This was the way new Dragon Riders were born.

There were four other children with them, each from a different province, chosen because

of brains or strength to embark on a perilous journey. Each carried with them a weapon

of choice from their province. lrilien carried with her a bow, from the Elvin province of

Akadi. Her people all had noble Elvin blood and descended from kings of Arransia. Kane

came from the province Shar; his people lived and worked in caves and caverns. He

carried an Ax. One child a boy by the name of Malar carried a sword and shield showing

he came from the province Tempus. Arte carried with her magic, she had the element of

earth, making her a valuable healer. She gained her power from life around her; she

soaked up this energy from the ground through her feet so she was often without shoes.

Her green and white dress flowed behind her as she ran with the others holding her

witches hat tightly to her head so it wouldnt come flying off. She was from the province

of Ethinril. The last two children were Ithril of Helm and Merris of Dysteria. They were

Dryad and Nyrad, spirits of water and earth. Ithril was the spirit of earth and her hair was

dirt brown and her eyes were as green as the trees, while Merris had eyes a glistening sea

blue eyes and her hair was while as snow, they were from the provinces of Helm and

Dysteria. They all trudged excitedly along toward the rock which from they hoped to see

their destination.

A few days before lrilien would never have believed that she would lead the group of

children to Dragons Keep. A mother dragon only laid six eggs, and one the Queenling,

was to be the future mother of the next six dragons; four were chosen to be her servants,

and one to be the father of the next batch of Dragons. The village priests at the Arransia

capitol of Lyis had told the children this before it was announced who would be going on


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the journey Dragons Keep, a journey that would change their lives forever. lrilien never

outwardly showed it, but she had always dreamed of being chosen to go to Dragons

Keep. Only noble children had the chance, and she was the only daughter of King Arian

and Queen Elerian of Akadi, the province by the sea. All the other children were of royal

birth as well. Even in a tolerant country like Arransia there were still social standards that

needed to be kept. A peasant child couldnt be trusted with the fate of a nation. Her eyes

glistened with delight, she was almost there and the rock was in view and only a few

paces away. They walked toward the rock so fast they were almost running and some of

the smaller children tripped over rocks and roots in their excitement. The roar of a

mother dragon pierced the sky in aggravation, as if she felt them coming nearer to her

nest, and they began to approach the rock with more caution. Ithril backed away

frightened by the sudden outburst made by the dragon. Her green eyes were wide and fear

gripped her heart at the sudden act of aggression.lrilien quietly turned and said, Do

not be afraid, Ithril, she will not hurt us. She just doesnt know who we are yet. They

now approached the rock with unbridled excitement. When they reached the rock the

childrens excitement was no longer watching silently from the inside. It came out with a

full force and squeals. The mother dragon was lying near a nest of six eggs, one crimson

egg, one black egg, one bright green egg, one sea blue egg, one gold egg, and one silver

egg. The mother dragons head jerked up and she growled her eyes burned with curiosity.

lrilien quietly stepped forward and announced why they were there.

Icefyre, She addressed the dragon, We are here as the future dragon riders of the land

of Arransia. I hope you can accept us, and if you need proof of who we are you can ask

any of the number of soldiers who watch us from a distance protecting us from any sort


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of danger.

Icefyre looked at the group dreamily as if remembering the first time she had met her

rider, and the day she had lost him, Ah yes, I remember, my rider told me this day would

come, that is before he was killed in battle. She sighed wearily, stuck on the memory of

the death of her rider; she had been carrying the eggs inside her for what felt like

centuries, I dont have much time left any way.

lrilien looked at the faces of the other children. They were all grim and knew the bitter

truth. Once a dragon has laid her eggs she only has two weeks to live. Judging by the

bright colors of the eggs lrilien knew they had been laid about week ago. Icefyre lay

wearily in the grass and weakly pushed the nest of eggs towards the children.

The dryad Merris quickly stepped and took the golden egg. She seemed to be very proud

of herself, and held the egg tightly in her arms, as if she knew that the egg she was

carrying would be the queenling, just because of its golden color. lrilien walked up

next; she picked up the sea blue egg because it reminded her of Akadi, the land by the

sea. Kane picked up the black egg and Malar picked up the red. Ithril cautiously walked

up and picked the bright green egg. Last Arte cautiously stepped forward and smiled at

Icefyre as she picked up the last egg, the silver one.

Icefyre smiled inwardly, she felt the children all had good hearts. She knew the names of

all her children for they whispered to her in the night, but she did not speak to the

children again. Those secrets had best be kept till the hatching of the dragons.

The night was long and when the children awoke the next morning silver dew blanketed

the meadow. Icefyre was gone. lrilien believed she was probably out hunting. She

quickly woke the other children and they prepared a breakfast. After they had eaten they


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swiftly walked toward the trail that had led them there day before. They were headed

back to where they had come from, the capitol city of Altheia. There they were to meet

with allies to prepare for training, and they would pray that the dragons would hatch for

them. lrilien looked at the swamp and forest that surrounded them and wondered what

the guards that were protecting them were doing at that moment. The journey back to

Altheia would be dangerous. If one hint of their journey was leaked to the Dragon

Slayers, they might as well have not come to Dragons keep at all.


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Chapter Four

Hide

My-My what have we here, said Rityliu laughing. He was a tall handsome man with

bright blue eyes and loving warm brown hair. By his smile Oskan could tell that he

laughed often, but by the look in his eyes Oskan could tell he was a strong and a hard

ruler. This puzzled Oskan and Rityliu laughed even harder. Master Toadstools face on

the other hand was stern and he had a glint in his eye that made Oskan recoil. Lord

Rityliu laughed quietly before saying, its alright Toadstool, leave the boy alone. He

probably has a good reason for spying on us from the closet.

This office is off limits to anyone but me and my guests; you cant expect me to just let

his coming in herepass. I have told him this numerous times, and he knows the rules,

said Toadstool sternly, his fingers tapping the desk slowly in aggravation. Oskan breathed

in deeply, he knew he was in trouble now unless he explained himself.

I was just in here to get a book, said Oskan looking at his feet, I didnt understand

why I kept getting the potion wrong. It was Eodyns idea anyway.

Eodyn nipped Oskans hand and looked him straight in the eye, Do not put all the blame

on me. I might have given you the idea, but you were the one who acted upon it.

Lord Rityliu laughed his eyes sparkled as if he was remembering something his happy

face reflected a tint of sorrow. The room was quiet for a moment, as if all time had

ceased.

You are so much like your father. He said smiling slightly staring intently into Oskans

eyes.


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You knew my father? asked Oskan questioningly, his eyes full of curiosity.

A smile fluttered across Lord Ritylius face at the memory of Oskans father. Oskans

father had been apprenticed to an enchanter that had worked for his father. This was long

before the Dragon Slayers had made the land of Arransia their own. The Dragon Slayers

country of Gyth had once been very small, its leaders and people all human. They chose

to exile any thing they believed to be different from them selves. Magic was outlawed

for everyone except nobility, but even the nobles had a limited amount of magic, it

something that was harmless, like the levitation of small objects. As time went on the

Dragon Slayers began to see them selves as the ultimate race, they believed for balance to

be restored to the world they needed to control all of the lands of Ember, by taking over

Arransia, and all the other countries.

The war had just begun when Lord Rityliu had met Oskans father. The war was

supposed to be over quickly. Gyth was a small country, and humans were seen as weak.

Arransia was a diverse land, filled with elves, dwarfs, witches and many other creatures;

they all lived in peace, each race separated by province. It was expected it would only be

a matter of months before they defeated the Gyth army and drove them back into their

own land. Lord Ritylius father was a general in the army and in letters to his son would

boast about how pathetic the Gyth fighters were against their superior forces. The Gyth in

their defeat created the Symphon, heartless magical beings whose powers rival that of the

Arransian enchanters. These creatures were created from the bodies of fallen soldiers,

who begged for their life at death, and it was given to them at a price, they had to become

the slaves of the Gyth, and only use the power they were given to help the Gyth on their

quest for power. Lord Ritylius father was killed in battle by one such Symphon. The


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news of his fathers death threw Rityliu into a state of depression. His father was the only

family he had ever been close to. At seven years old his life was thrown into turmoil.

Three years later Oskans father, Hrian, came into his life. Hrian was one year older than

him and was apprenticed to the familys enchanter. Rumors circulated around Hrian, he

was the oldest child in the house of Erigold a powerful wizarding family, and heir to the

most powerful of all its magic. People were beginning to wonder why he had been

apprenticed to a village enchanter instead of his father, or uncle, who were more powerful

enchanters. Even though it had been three years since his fathers death, Rityliu was still

in a depression. The Dragon Slayers were slowly taking hold of all Arransia and he felt

that everything his father fought for was being destroyed. Hrian was a strong willed child,

he was fearless and determined. The first day he met Rityliu he spit at his feet, telling him

he needed to grow up and get over his fathers death. He was theonly one who wasnt

afraid to speak his mind to Rityliu, even though he was harshly scolded for it by Ritylius

mother afterward. This opened a door in Ritylius mind that had previously been locked.

He couldnt let this enchanter think he was worthless. He felt this desire to prove himself

to the world, and to Hrian. He had wasted three years of his life morning his fathers

death while the people around him had also been suffering. It took a while for Hrian to

warm up to Ritylius suddenly cheery actions, but the soon became inseparable.

It was hard for Rityliu to believe that Hrian was gone. The loss had been worse

emotionally on him than the loss of his father.

Yes, said Lord Rityliu, He was an old friend of mine.

A tear began forming at the edge of Oskans eye but he caught himself and he grew

cheery once more. He never liked to talk about his father. He never really got to know


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him, but every time he realized that he had no memory of what his father looked like or

how he acted a lump always appeared in his throat. I guess it was natural to miss

someone you once loved, but he preferred not to show his emotions to the people around

him, it showed weakness. He felt as if they should been hidden away, for only the Gods

to see.

Where did you meet him? Asked Oskan curiously, as he looked into Ritylius eyes. He

knew that there was something deeper and stronger in the friendship between Lord

Rityliu and his father than Rityliu bothered to mention to him.

Rityliu laughed as he realized that he misjudged this boy; he was more like his father than

he previously thought.

When your father was apprenticed to the Enchanter Hyrulus, Hyrulus worked as the

family enchanter. Said Rityliu, I met him the first day he came with Hyrulus to my

fathers house. He helped me get over my fathers death, and pretty much treated me like

a worthless peasant. But, we became close friends over time, almost inseparable.

At this Oskan was confused. His father had never mentioned a Lord Rityliu if they

were close as this man said, why wouldnt his father have mentioned him?

You are probably wondering why your father never mentioned me. Said Rityliu and

Oskan looked up quickly with a look of surprise on his face.

Had he read his mind? Oskan thought staring up digging into Lord Ritylius eyes with

his own, hoping for an answer, until he gave up after a minute of silence.

How did you know I was thinking that? Oskan asked questioningly.

He believed I was dead said Rityliu looking at the ground his face twisted as if he

was in pain, I fell in battle, even I thought I was a goner, but I ended up being captured


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by the Symphon and taken to the mountains of Amythest, where I awoke from a deep

sleep over a month after the battle. Hrian was never one to dwell on the fallen.

Oh Said Oskan, he was jealous that this man knew more about his father than he did.

Enough about the past, Said Rityliu, We need to address the matter at hand. How

much did you hear from the closet?

Only something about a pendent, and Dragon Riders Said Oskan quietly, I swear!

It doesnt matter that you heard our conversation, you would have been told later

anyway. Said Rityliu reassuring Oskan as he pulled the pendant out from his jacket

pocket, This is the Erigold pendant, the magic of the house of Erigold as well as the

magic of twelve other powerful magical houses was sealed into this pendant. You are the

heir to its magic as the only survivor of the line of Erigold as foretold by and ancient

prophet, the Witch of Raynerth named Azure.

Oskan stared at Rityliu in disbelief. How could he be from a powerful family of

enchanters? It made no sense to him. He hadnt even shown a glint of magical ability.

Lord Rityliu looked at Oskans puzzled face and said, You might think I am crazy, but

the reason why you dont have any magical ability at the moment is because it is all

sealed inside of this pendant.

ButII unlocked the door! Oskan blurted out, When the door to the study was

locked, I felt a surge of power go through my body and all the sudden I knew the words

to a spell, and I used it to unlock the door

That is simple to explain, Said Lord Rityliu calmly, That must have been when I

arrived, magic was leaking out of the ruby, and it is what saved me from the Symphon.


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But, how did I know the spell, I felt like I had heard it somewhere before said Oskan

looking at Rityliu intently as if he had the answer to every question.

I truthfully have no idea said Lord Rityliu looking over at Toadstool who had been

watching them silently for sometime. Toadstool shook his head in silence.

Now, I must continue Said Lord Rityliu calmly, I need you to help me with

somethinginside of the Draco Occisor Academy is a Dragon egg. It was taken from a

new Dragon Rider, during their last era when the Dragon Slayers first attacked Arransia.

You are the only one who would be able to get in there undetected.

But How? Shouldnt the Dragon have hatched by now? asked Oskan.

No Dragon eggs only hatch when they find the one who they feel is to be their rider.

The children, who are going to get their eggs at this very moment, might not truly be the

owners of the eggs they will carry replied Rityliu.

Oh said Oskan realizing his predisposition about Dragons had been wrong, How am

I supposed to act in a school full of Dragon Slayers? Ive never been to Gyth, what

language to they speak? What is their capitol city? Wont I seem out of place? Even

though I would fit in more than you would since I am young, I would still stick out like a

sore thumb.

The journey to the academy will be long; I will train you in the ways of the Dragon

Slayer on the way. Said Rityliu calmly, as if he had everything planned out in his mind,

When we retrieve the egg we will meet the Dragon Riders in the capitol cit y of Altheia

in the Province of Helm right on the border in the Thya swamp.

But Oskan was cut short as Lord Rityliu hastily blew out the candle that lit the room

and put a hand over Oskans mouth. He whispered one thing, Hide.


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Chapter Five

Tension

Argon quietly got into the carriage and sat next to the slumbering Catalina. It would take

them three days of riding in the carriage before they arrived at the academy. Argon hated

being stuck in such a confined space, one would call him claustrophobic. He stared out

the window, wishing for some sort of companionship. When Argons Daemin Juyk had

been around Argon felt life had been more pleasant. His Daemin would always talk to

him when he felt lonely, and was really his only friend. His parents were protective to say

the least, and most people didnt want to be friends with Argon, or when they did it was

only because they wanted to use him for their own benefit. That was the life of the son of

the ruler of the empire. He at one time had twelve other sisters, but each were given away

to servants at birth and sent away because a girl was useless in the mind of a ruler of

Gyth. They were just another mouth to feed, and were nothing more than servants so,

they should be treated as one. Argon wished he had them around him while he was

growing up. They would at least be someone to boss around, or they would give him

something to do. He often would watch the servant children play in the courtyard in the

mornings and at night when they werent working. His jealousy of them often turned into

outrage and he would have them framed for stealing jewelry or other items. They would

often be beaten afterwards and sent away to work at another household. He never wanted

to admit to himself that what he was doing was wrong, they seemed so much happier

with their lives than he was and it pained him to think that people of a lower class could


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be happier than the son of a king. Even though he was the son of a king and was destined

to by the leader of Gyth, he wanted to do something to make him stand apart from all the

others. He wanted to make a name for himself, to do something so great that he would

never be forgotten. So far, people didnt even address him by his own name, he was

always his fathers son or boy. Argon was silent and stared in silence out the carriage

window, watching the scenery drift by.

You finally finished your porridge did you, said Catalina harshly waking up from her

nap.

Argon continued to stare out the window ignoring the harsh remark of his servant.

Dont ignore me boy! They would never accept that at the academy, said Catalina,

Youd be out of there before we would even get there.

Im not ignoring you Argon said softly with irritation in his voice, You didnt ask a

question, you just said a statement, and statements dont have to be answered to. Besides,

I dont take orders from a servant.

The word servant rolled off Argons tongue harshly, almost like a hiss.

Catalina sniffled and turned away. She never liked the child, he was always so

disagreeable. Though, she felt a bit sorry for him, being sent away from the home he had

lived in for his whole life. This would be his first time away from his parents as well.

They never let him go anywhere without them, they were always protecting him. It was

no wonder the boy turned out the way he did. Whenever he would sniffle or cry about

something he would always get his own way, no one stood a chance against him. He was

the only son, and the heir to the kingdom of Gyth, but he was so cowardly Catalina

wondered if he could ever be a proper king. He had never learned to fight like a royal


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child should and he never learned how to be brave. He was like a misshapen piece of

clay; his personality was not yet fully formed. Catalina had no idea how she was going to

make it three days with this brat, the city they were stopping in for the night was Elvari,

where they would meet up with the headmaster of the academy Tillywag. He had been a

teacher when Catalina attended the academy. At the time her family had been rich. When

an investment didnt turn out the way it was planned though, her family lost all their

money and had they had to become servants to the king to pay off their debts and even

though it had been years since the debts of her family had been paid off Catalina still

worked as a servant for the king. She was given food and a place to sleep since she

worked at the palace and since she was in her forties she had no chance of getting

married it seemed like the best choice at the time.

Now though, she thought as she stared at Argon,I am definitely regretting it.

She sighed softly a wave of silence floated through the carriage, and her thoughts floated

with it. She slumped into the seat and dozed off. Argon glared at her coolly, she was

always bossing him around like he was her servant. He had often complained about her to

his father but Xenias would never take him seriously telling him that she had always been

loyal to the family and that once her family had been nobility which is why she had the

disposition of a noble. This didnt make Argon any happier about it though. Any other

servant would be able to escort him to the academy and he would have been fine, but

Catalina was the last person Argon wanted involved in his life. She didnt respect her

place in society, and nobody else seemed to mind. The carriage screeched to a sudden

halt and the diver called to Catalina waking her up.


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Catalina, there is a storm approaching, it looks to be a bad one, said the driver

nervously looking up at the sky with caution, Theres an inn just ahead that my brother

runs, lets stay there for tonight.

Catalina peered out the window.

When had the sky grown so dark? She thought then she turned to Argon who had a look

of plain horror on his face.

I do NOT want to stay at an inn. He said a look of anger clouded his face, They are

dirty and filled with drunks, and I would like to stay at my palace in Elvari!

But Argon, by the way the sky looks it looks to be one of the worst in months; it isnt

safe for anyone to be out in it. Said Catalina staring at Argon like he was stupid, Demti,

take us to the inn, how far off is it?

Probably about two miles, said Demti, We should be there in about fifteen minutes.

Okay, do you think there will be any room? With a storm like this it might get

crowded, said Catalina with a hint of worry in her voice.

Its my families place, said Demti, And with the son of Xenias in the carriage, I am

positive we will get a room no madder how crowded it is.

I have a name, Yelled Argon his face growing read with anger, it is Argon. A-r-g-o-

n.

His outburst wasnt heard by the driver because the carriage began speeding along again,

the noise of the horses drowning out Argons voice.

Argon, stop making a fool out of yourself, said Catalina, You may be the son of a

King but you arent one yet!


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Argon glared at her with a look that was so cold it could only be compared to dry ice.

Catalina was always tearing him down from the pedestal he believed he sat on.

When I am King, hissed Argon in pure anger, You will be the first person I execute.

Ill be dead before you ever become King, Catalina hissed back glaring at him, her

blood felt like it was boiling. This child could be so irritating sometimes she just wanted

to strangle him.

You are nothing like your father, your just a lazy, cowardly, fool! added Catalina

spitting each word out with disgust.

Stop comparing me to my father! I dont want to be like him! I dont want to only be

known as the son of Xenias. Someday I will do something to get my name out in the

world, and people will stop comparing me to my father! Catalina had never seen Argon

so angry, she realized she must have touched a sensitive nerve; he looked as if he was

ready to rip off her head.

Im sorry, Catalina said her voice filled with fear, tension filled the carriage.

Everything fell silent until the carriage screeched to a sudden halt in front of the inn.


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Chapter Six

The Capture

lrilien gathered up the children after they finished eating breakfast.

We need to be ready to fight if the Dragon Slayers get through our guards and attack

us. Said lrilienpacing in front of the other children in impatience, How many of you

have had battle experience?

Only two of the children raised their hands, Malar and Kane.

This was less than I hoped for said lrilien frowning slightly, Are you sure you

dont even have the slightest bit of experience?

Ithril and Arte shook their heads solemnly while Merris stood there deep in thought.

Merris? Asked lrilien looking at her curiously.

My brothers taught me a few techniques with a sword, and I know how to use a little

Dryad magic. Said Merris softly as if she was unsure of herself.

That will be helpful, said lrilien smiling at Merris, The only sword we have access

to it Malars so you going to have to stick to Dryad magic only if we are attacked.

Okay! replied Merris happily, she was glad she was able to help.

Arte looked up and then quietly said, I am a healerif anyone is injuredI can help!

What isthe extent of your healing magic? asked lrilien, Arte was only twelve years;

even and someone with a hundred years of healing experience would have a limit to their

power, it takes time to build up resistance to the energy that using healing magic, or any

other kind of magic really.


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I can do simple things like cuts and bruises without a problem; I cant heal broken bones

or deep cuts without passing out though Arte looked down ashamed of what she

believed to be her miniscule ability.

Even the smallest bit of healing could save a life, said lrilien as she flashed Arte a

friendly smile. Arte responded with a large grin, her eyes sparkling.

How about you Ithril? Are you hiding any talents? asked lrilien giving Ithril and

warm smile.

I can doa little Nyrad magic! she replied excitedly, My mother taught me a few

things.

Thats great! said lrilien her face glowing with joy, So in case of an emergency you

all have something that you can use to defend yourself.

I-I dont, Arte said looking down, I do have healing magic, but if I am separated

from the group

Artes Daemin Yuan nudged her shoulder grabbing her attention.

You can ride me to safety if you ever get separated from the group, He told her

comfortingly, You not only have your abilities to protect you children, but you have us

your Daemins.

lrilien looked down at her feet, she was sixteen and it had been three years since she

last spoke to her Daemin. It was a difficult thing to do, part with your Daemin, but it had

to be done, it was apart of growing up.

Hes right lrilien said sadly, Daemins are here to protect us; they will make sure

that we are kept safe.


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The group stood in silence for a few moments, taking in the entirety of their mission.

They had to get back to Altheia safe and sound. They now had the most precious cargo,

Dragon Eggs, and the Dragon Slayers would stop at nothing to get their grubby hands on

them.

An Arransian guard walked out of the forest and toward the children.

It is time for you to leave, he said, There are guards stationed all around you, and

there is no need to be frightened.

lrilien smiled relieved, but she still felt uneasy. Something wasnt right, but she wasnt

sure what it was.

Okay! She told the guard, We will leave right away.

lrilien gathered the others around her and said, Let us pray to the Gods so they might

protect us on our journey back.

The children all gathered around in a circle lifting up their prayers to the gods in silence.

When they were all finished they left Dragons Keep and headed through the swamp.

Just as they left Dragons Keep they were attacked. The Dragon Slayers came on them

fast and attached without mercy. They scattered the children, this made it impossible for

them to create a plan and work together to fight off the Dragon Slayers. lrilien took out

her bow and quickly started firing arrows, but they did not pierce the skin of the attackers

and her eyes widened in fear. The Symphon. Kane and Malar stuck together during the

fight. Each protecting the back of the other against the onslaught of assailants. The

children could tell that the motive of the Symphon and the Dragon Slayers was not to

kill them but to capture them. lrilien called to the younger children, Run! We will hold

them off as long as we can!


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The children ran. Their fear made them run faster than they ever thought possible. Arte

created a small force field around them to protect them from the onslaught of arrows. The

children heard a scream from behind them. It sounded like lrilien. Arte looked back

loosing her concentration on the force field. It dropped for one second but that is all that

was needed. The Dragon Slayers that were chasing them pounced when they saw that

sudden weakness. Arte ran as quickly as she could and yelled for the others to follow.

They tried, but the Dragon Riders soon over powered them.

Where are the guards that were supposed to be protecting us? Arte thought as she ran

up the hill away from the Dragon Slayers.

They were to strong for a group of children. As Arte ran she looked behind her,

watching the others struggle. All she could think about though was getting away,

protecting the dragon egg. Her Daemin a horse ran along besides her beckoning for her to

ride him.

Get on! said the Yuan, The others will be okay! You only need to worry about saving

yourself right now!

Arte looked the Daemin into the eyes, Are you sure Yuan?

Yuan smiled the best a horse could smile. He knew that the other childrens Daemins no

matter how small they were would protect them, bring them food if needed. He knew that

they would survive.

Yes I am positive. He said still running along beside her, Get on so we can out run

them.

Arte mounted Yuan quickly. The wind blew her hair back as he picked up speed. They

had to get as far away from here as possible. They had to protect the Dragon Egg. Right


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now it was the most important thing. If this egg held the Queen Dragon, and it was killed,

there would never be dragons again.


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Chapter Seven

Escape

Oskan fell back, and hit his head against the inside of the coat closet. He made a small

oomph noise and winced in pain.

Shh whispered Rityliu from the other side of the room from his hiding place under

Toadstools desk, We need to stay quiet, any noise will attract them here.

Rityliu felt as if everything he worked for was going to come to a sudden halt. His eyes

were wide with fear; he knew he had no chance of fighting what was at that moment

terrorizing the village. A penetrating sound came from outside of the shop. It was a

mixture between the blood curdling scream of a young women and the scratching of nails

on a chalk board. Oskan covered his ears; the sound made his stomach lurch forward in

disgust.

What is that? he hissed his eyes widening at the number of screams that followed the

first one.

That is the Symphon,said Rityliu, They are the servants of King Xenias of Gyth, and

they train all of his armies. They are fallen enchanters and soldiers who pledge they will

to them.

Why would anyone want to give up their free will? asked Oskan, this didnt make any

sense to him.

They were dying and he promised them life. Even I am afraid of death, said Rityliu

fearfully.

Xenias prayed on the souls of dying soldiers, forcing them to pledge themselves to him in

exchange for life. Everything the Symphon did was the will of Xenias, and that wasnt


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going to change. The magic he gave them made them powerful, and the contract they

signed in their blood so that they may live again bonded them to him for eternity.

Toadstool walked into the room hastily.

We need to get out of here said Toadstool who had been looking out the front

window of the shop, keeping an eye out for when the Symphon got close, They are not

far off, they are setting all the building they raid on fire, and we need to leave.

But what about the other villagers? Oskan asked angrily, Are we just going to leave

them here at the mercy of the Symphon? Why are they here anyway?

The Gyth have decided to begin attacking Arransia once more. Replied Rityliu, This

is the village closest to the border so it would be attacked first. It will take a while for our

armies to reach this village. It might be lost by then

But thats not fair! said Oskan, thinking of the friends he had in the village, Why do

we get to survive while they have to die?!

You are important Oskan! Without you the prophecy laid out by Azure will never come

true, you are the only hope Arransia has of defeating the Dragon Slayers. Yelled Rityliu,

he couldnt possible understand how this boy could be so selfish.

Maybe I can help them! said Oskan he gave Rityliu and icy glare, You said that

pendant is magical maybe I can use it to help the village!

Oskan lurched forward at Rityliu grabbing the pendant from his pocket and placing it

around his neck. He grabbed a book of magic off of the bookshelf and looks through it.

Youre going to regret this Rityliu said looking at Oskan sadly, You dont know

your limits yet.


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Then why arent you trying to stop me? Asked Oskan glaring at Rityliu silently glaring

at him.

Because, I would like you to learn from the mistake you are about to make, said Rityliu

calmly. He knew that he couldnt change the boys mind. His will was strong just like his

fathers. Oskan flipped through the pages of the book, he had to find something that

could help everyone!

Fire magic, water magic, healingthat would help afterwardah! A shielduse this

shield to protect those who most need your helpOkay! This is it! Oskan smiled in

satisfaction and he read the spell aloud, A-Ackira N-N-Nuya!

Oskan suddenly felt like all the energy had been drained from his body, but nothing

changed around him. The screams of the people still grew ever louder. Oskan slumped to

the floor falling into a deep sleep.

I told him he was going to regret it, luckily though he didnt use that powerful of a

spell Rityliu said as he walked over to Oskans body.

Is he alive? asked Toadstool peering in the room from the hall.

Of course he is alive. Said Rityliu poking Oskans sleeping form with his foot, He has

a lot to learn.

He is more like his father than he could ever comprehend said Toadstool smiling as

Rityliu threw Oskans small form over his shoulder, He will definitely be bruised a bit

when he wakes up if you keep throwing him around like that.

Serves him right mumbled Rityliu under his breath.

Rityliu carried Oskan over his shoulder and to the back garden where the horses were

neighing and stomping from their stables in the tension that floated around the village.


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How are we going to bring Oskan with us if he is asleep? asked Toadstool, I dont

own a carriage, so we dont have somewhere to put him.

Ill have him on the horse with me, said Rityliu as he pulled a saddle onto one of the

horses, We will take two horses with us for now, but we will purchase another one in

Gyth when Oskan wakes up.

Rityliu then told Toadstool to keep hold on Oskan while he mounted his horse, then

Toadstool and Rityliu worked together to pull him up onto the horse with Rityliu.

Which way do we need to go to head towards the academy? asked Rityliu.

We need to head west, so we will need to ride around the city through the forest. Said

Toadstool as he brought his horse into a trot. They headed into the forest, and slowly

brought their horses to a gallop.

How big of a circle should we make to get around the village? Rityliu asked as

Toadstools horse pulled up beside his.

About a mile radius! I am not sure how many of them are hiding in the forest looking for

people that are trying to escape. Toadstool brought his horse to the right widening the

circle he was making around the village. It was cold and Toadstool pulled his cloak tight

over his body, the sky was getting dark giving him an ominous feeling.

We didnt bringanything to sustain us on the journey, Toadstool remarked to Rityliu.

Dont worry, Rityliu replied pointed to the bag he had over his shoulder, I have some

gold in here, when we reach Uya, a town right across the border we will have something

to purchase provisions with. It is difficult to gather the items we need under pressure.

Isnt that the truth replied Toadstool, his stomach growled, he hadnt had the time to

prepare a dinner for him or Oskan, When do you think we will arrive?


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Well, replied Rityliu, If we ride all night, we should be able to get there by mid-

morning; then we will check into an inn on the outskirts of town.

Toadstool nodded, food would have to wait, but sleep, that he had no idea what he would

do without it.


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Chapter Eight

Wading out the Storm

The rain had begun falling from the sky in buckets a few minutes after they had walked

into the inn. It was crowded as Catalina had expected, maybe even a little more. She

looked around; storms often blew in the most curious of people. Most of them were

drunks, stinking up the inn, singing loudly and dancing to the music that was played by

the hired musician. She could kind of understand why Argon wouldnt want to be in a

place like this. She hadnt seen Argon since they had first arrived at the inn. She guessed

that he was probably in their room sulking.

Serves him right she thought,finally,something isnt going his way. He might think he

is high and mighty, but even HE cant control the weather.

Thunder bellowed in the distance and a few seconds afterward lightning flashed lighting

up the world around it.

UggI might as well sit at the bar and get a drink, there is nothing else to do here.

Catalina thought as she scratched her head in silence. She walked over and sat on one of

the barstools next to Demtri. Catalina looked over at him, he was already drunk.

What can I get for you? the bartender asked startling Catalina.

Oh! Yes, a beer please, Catalina said placing a silver coin onto the table, she then

turned back to Demtri and asked, Are you going to be too sick in the morning to drive us

to Elvari to meet Ilis?


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Nope...Hic-Ill hic-be fine in the morning Demtri said, slurring his words together

into a jumbled mess that Catalina could barely understand.

Sure she replied knowing their trip would be delayed at least till the afternoon.

Heres your beer miss, the bartender said as he handed her a mug filled to the brim.

Thank you, said Catalina smiling, one beer she knew would be enough to knock her out

for the whole night, she was not very tolerant to the liquid poison.

Youre welcome miss, the bartender replied and then he pointed to Demtri who had

fallen asleep his head resting on the table, This here is my brother, I am the owner of

this inn, why am I being graced by the presence of royalty, if it is alright for me to ask.

The question is reasonable, replied Catalina taking a sip of her beer, it gnawed at her

throat as if she was swallowing nails and she began to cough.

Are you alright? the bartender asked with a concerned look in his eyes.

What is this? Catalina replied her eyes watering; she pushed the beer away from her in

disgust.

You dont like it? Its something we brew right here, but I guess its strong when you

first have it.Replied the bartender laughing, I dont believe I introduced myself. I am

Brink, Brink Dura.

He held out his hand to Catalina in friendship, but she ignored it. She felt she could not

trust this guy as far as she could throw him.

Well, Mr. Dura, to answer the question from before, she said changing the subject,

We are headed to Draco Occisor Academy; there he will receive a more formal

education.


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of people. She had not trusted him to carry their money, why he had no idea; maybe she

thought that he was the one that was most likely to get mugged.

Im over here Argon! Catalina called from across the room when she noticed his

presence, I was going to bring you up some food but, it is nice that you have graced us

with your presence.

Argon started to walk over to where Catalina was when he felt something cold grab hold

of his arm, and he turned to see a feeble old woman with white eyes staring at him

curiously. He shook his arm to try to get it out of her grip.

Get your hands off me you old witch! He yelled but the woman just kept holding him

tighter and tighter, but then she spoke in an eerie voice, almost like a hiss.

Your deepest desires will become a reality, and you will make friends that you never

thought possible, drastic changes have already begun. Her eyes then turn blue and she

removed her hand from Argon, What am I doing here?

I-I dont know. Argon mumbled then walked toward Catalina. The words of the old

woman scared Argon more than even he let himself know. Change. That was his worst

fear, other than that of becoming like his father.


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Chapter Nine

Death and Rivers

When lrilien awoke she felt as if she had been stabbed thousands of times with a white

hot knife. The pain was unbearable, and she lay on the dirt ground in pure agony. She

opened her eyes only to find darkness, not a sliver of light anywhere. A stifled cry drew

her attention to her left and she groped around in the darkness searching for her

comrades, only to find herself in a cage.

Arte? Merris? Kane? Malar? Ithril? she called each name out weakly, all the strength

she once had drained from her body, she stifled cry she heard before became louder, it

was Ithril, and lrilien gained some of her strength back knowing that at least one of her

friends was still alive.

Ithril! lrilien called out franticly, moving her broken body to the bars of the cage

peering into the darkness and praying that her eyes would adjust to the dark.

lrilien? Is that you? Ithrils voice came from left and lrilien moved towards it.

Yes! Can you see anything from where you are? lrilien asked peering into the

darkness searching for movement, the darkness was strange, elves had perfect eyesight

and could see well in the dark, but this darkness almost seemed fake, like the dark could

never be this dark.

No replied Ithril, lrilien, its strange, I cant feel the earth around me. Usually I

can sense it, and even if I am closing my eyes, I can see through the earth around me,

but the earth is either dead or there is something magical about this place.

lrilien sighed, she had hoped that Ithrils powers would allow her to see through this

darkness, but apparently the mindless Symphon had thought of everything, but there was


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something she didnt understand. Why were they still alive? Wouldnt it be easier for the

Symphon to just kill them so they did not have to worry about the talk of taking care of

children? As lrilien began feeling around the cage again she felt something smooth, it

was the dragon egg she got from Dragons Keep. She then understood why they had been

kept alive. You can not destroy a dragon egg. It is harder than the hardest stone, and not

even throwing it into the pit of a volcano could destroy it for good. The only way the

Dragon Slayers would be able to kill the baby dragons would be to kill them right when

they hatch, and the only way for them to hatch would be if they were with their riders.

Tears formed in lriliens eyes as she thought of the family and friends that she would

never see again.

A door opened suddenly and light poured into the dungeon. A hideous creature walked in

with long white hair and pale skin. His lips were a ruby red and his eyes yellow, filled

with hate. Black markings covered his body. They were words of an eternal vow, written

in the language of the devil himself. From the hideous and arrogant smile plastered across

his face, lrilien knew that this bastard was Raza, the most powerful of all the Symphon,

and the right had man of the King of the Dragon Slayers. He did not glance at any of the

children but walked toward a cage two the far right of where lrilien s cage was. It was

then lrilien saw her surroundings, in a cage to her left Ithril was lying up against the

wall struggling to stay awake, she looked around to see Kane and Malar, in two cages

that were directly opposite of hers still in a deep sleep. She then turned to her right where

Raza was unlocking the cage of Merris, and she saw to her horror that the golden egg

Merris had been given at Dragons Keep was broken open and a baby dragon was curled

up next to the sleeping body of Merris. Mercilessly Raza grabbed the Dragon by its neck


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and began to choke it. At the same time that Raza had begun choking the baby dragon,

Merris grabbed at her throat as if the was trying to remove invisible hands from it.

lrilien watched in horror as Merris began to turn blue, and then purple struggling for

breath. lrilien could not find the strength to cry out, and tears flowed from her eyes as

she watched the child and the dragons life being snuffed out. She looked over at Ithril.

Ithril had slumped to the floor and rolled into a ball and she was squeezing her eyes shut

and she had her hands over her ears. When lrilien looked back over at Merris cage, the

baby dragon lay slumped on the floor and Merris was a ghastly white. The killing of a

riders dragon leads to the death of the rider. Their bodies, minds and souls become

linked once the Dragon hatches. It then becomes the riders goal to protect the dragon no

madder what, because when a rider dies, it lives in the body of the dragon after death, but

when the dragon dies both suffer. lrilien looked at the dragon egg that lay next to her

and she knew that once the egg chose its rider, there was no stopping it from hatching.

Raza left the room as quickly has he came leaving Merris body in the cage as if it was of

no importance, and the room again became dark.

Arte woke up just as the sun reached its peak in the sky, she felt stiff and sore and she

slowly sat up to take in her surroundings. She found herself on a hill overlooking a small

river. She looked around hoping to see her friends with her but, with no success. Next to

her lay her silver dragon egg and a few feet away her Daemin Yuan was watching over

her. She was trying to remember how she had gotten there. The last thing she

remembered was Yuan carrying her through the forest away from the other children.


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The Others! She thought urgently and stood up, only to fall back on her butt as a white

hot pain bit at her ankle and she cried out in pain.

Im very sorry about that said Yuan trotting up to her, You were out cold and I

could find no other way to get you off of my back.

The others, where are they are they okay? Arte replied completely ignored Yuans

comment about her ankle. Yuan looked down, his eyes filled with pain.

T-they didnt manage to get away from the Symphon. Yuan looked down at the ground

and then tried to lighten the mood, but the Symphon will not kill them until their

dragons hatch, so there is still hope that we can find a way to save them before they are

killed.

Artes eyes filled up with tears, And what are the chances we can save them?

Yuan stared at the grass in thought for a moment, If we can figure out where we are, we

might be able to find a town from which we can send a letter to the king asking for his

help.

That could talk weeks even months! They dont have that long, the dragons could hatch

anywhere between now and months from now! Arte was frustrated she almost wished

she was with her friends locked up somewhere.

Arte, there is also the chance that the King already knows that you have been captured,

since you obviously did not return when you were supposed to. Yuan was always the

one to think logically even in the direst of straights, and the only thing we can do is find

our way to a town and back to Lyis as quickly as we can. Do you still have some of the

bread and cheese you brought for the journey to Dragons Keep?


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Only a little bit, just some that I saved for a snack on the way back to Lyis. Artes

stomach growled and she looked greedily at the bread and cheese that lay in her brown

leather purse, But, you know I do not need much human food, I can gain enough energy

from the grass to keep me full for a while.

Put your moccasins in your purse then and walk beside me for a while and save the

bread and cheese for another time. Arte walked beside Yuan and where she stepped the

grass died slowly around her feet as she soaked up energy from the earth. They walked to

the north using the river to guide them.


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Chapter Ten

A Glimpse

Oskan awoke to a crash as if someone was banging pots and pans together in a kitchen.

His golden eyes opened quickly and he sat up frightened and dazed. He was in unfamiliar

surroundings and for a moment could not remember what had happened the night before.

He was in a twin sized bed, the sheets were a plain white and the room was very small

and tidy. The bed next to him was unmade and Oskan knew that someone else had slept

in the room with him. Oskan was warm under his covers and stuck his arm out only to be

bitten by the cold. He jumped out of the bed quickly only to be hit with a wall of cold and

memories of the night before flooded back to him.

Why did I black out after casting that spell? Oskan thought,Maybe I should ask Lord

Rityliu, if I can find him

Oskan reached for his neck searching for the necklace that Lord Rityliu had given him. It

was still there and Oskan felt relieved. He though Rityliu might have taken if from him

after he casted the spell.

A sent of porridge drifted into the room from the lower level of the inn and Oskans

stomach growled aggressively. He followed his stomach to the lower level of the inn,

where he found Toadstool and Rityliu at the bar talking to the bartender.

Guess who was at my inn last night? the bar tender grinned at Toadstool and Rityliu

bragging about his recent luck and continued without waiting for a reply, The prince! He

was on his way to the Draco academy!

Toadstool and Rityliu exchanged amused glances, Really now. Rityliu replied.


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Yeah it was true! I saw him with my own eyes, bit of a nut case that child is, but that

aint coming from me the bar tender looked around and laughed nervously, Hey did

you hear? The Symphon managed to catch them dragon rider kids, and theyve taken

them to the Mountains of Amythest, probably gunna kill em as soon as their eggs

hatch.

Toadstool coughed almost choking on his porridge.

You alright sir? the bartender asked looking at Toadstool with a puzzled look on his

face.

Y-yes Im fine, I just didnt know things like that were common knowledge, I only

thought the high class know of such goings on. Toadstool sent a worried look to Rityliu,

who sent just as worried a look back.

Ah, you higher class folks dont know nothing about the goings ons of us lower class

folk. The bartender smirked, Always thinking we know nothin, but the king likes to

keep us informed too, as a way to brag, about all his efforts against dragons and such.

Oskan walked over and sat on the barstool next to Toadstool and the bartender brought

him some porridge.

Ah so you have finally woken up Lord Rityliu said smiling, his eyes glistened with

laughter.

Oskans head throbbed. He felt like he had been hit over the head with a large rock.

Where are we? Oskan asked, his hand scratching his head, the inn did not look familiar

and the bartender had an odd accent.

Toadstool laughed, We are in an inn just outside of Ura; you must have completely

forgotten that this was our stop before we headed on to Draco Occisor Academy.


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Oskan was still confused but he smiled went along with what Toadstool was saying, Oh!

Yeah! I remember now.

Oskan knew he would have to save his questions for later. He was now in Dragon Slayer

territory and magic was forbidden to all but the elite. Oskan dug into the mush sitting in

front of him. He took a big spoonful into his mouth. His taste buds were quickly shocked

and a burning sensation trickled down his throat. Oskan gagged and spit the porridge

back into the bowl.

W-whats in this?! He sputtered holding back the urge to cough.

Beer gives my porridge its unique flavor. Said the bartender laughing, You seemed

like a tough un, but I guess not

The bartender took the bowl of porridge from Oskan and went back into the kitchen to

make some more.

With the bartender gone, Oskan turned to Rityliu and Toadstool, What happened last

night?

Rityliu replied calmly, You used magic that was too strong for you. You cannot just use

any spell you wish, you have to build up your strength.

Oskan opened his mouth to ask Rityliu about his village but a loud chubby woman with

brown hair hastily thrown into a bun stomped down the stairs yelling for the bartender.

Brink! The prince is ready to leave, it the carriage ready? Her tone was commanding,

like she was ordering about a child and the bartender hurried in from the kitchen.

Yes, my stable boy is bringing it out right now. The bartender then rushed outside to

make sure that stable boy was finishing up and the woman sat at one of the tables

irritably.


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That boy is so irritating sometimes she sighed, her frown seemed to be permanently

painted on her face. The bartender returned inside and reported that the carriage was

indeed ready, and the woman stomped back up the stairs yelling for someone to come

down. She then made her way out the door towards the carriage.

Oskan found this woman rather odd and irritating, but that was nothing compared to the

boy he saw next.

Oskan heard the loud pounding footsteps before he saw who they belonged too. A tall

boy with blonde hair and cool blue eyes appeared at the top of the stairs. He seemed

disgusted by the world around him and made his point to slam his feet against the floor

with every step that he took. Oskan thought that this was a lot like a young child throwing

a temper tantrum.

The Pendent of Erigold

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Transcript of The Pendent of Erigold