CHAPTER SEVEN

Connie kept her eyes averted from the Society members as she took her seat between Jessica and Rat. Icefen bowed his head, his icy eyes shining, while Arran simply nodded. They were gathered in the Masterson's barn, preparing to discuss what to do about the new threat. It was not a meeting Connie had been looking forward to.

As she slipped through the hay bales, she caught sight of Argand sitting beside Dr. Brock. At once the dragon scampered forward, but Dr. Brock gripped the back of her neck and held her down. Connie could only shrug in brief apology, but Gard's words remained in the back of her mind. Though she'd effectively cheated Argand twice now, even the shortest reunion would put Skylark's life in danger. She would have to wait until his bond with Col had been restored.

Captain Graves sat next to Dr. Brock, his back straight and expression sombre. Firewings stood behind them, showing no hint of how he felt about the situation. Connie didn't try to pry, either. There was enough going on in her head already without the pegasus's concerns adding to it.

Once the last stragglers had entered and taken their places, Dr. Brock stood up.

"Thank you, everyone, for attending at such short notice," he said. "Some of you may be aware of the rumours currently flying around, and I've asked you all to come to clarify a few things." He nodded to Captain Graves. "Captain, if you may."

Captain Graves cleared his throat, striding to the front of the barn.

"Greetings, my fellow companions. Today I am afraid I bear somewhat bad news." He paused, letting his words sink in. "It is with the utmost disappointment and sadness that I must inform you that one of our very own Society members has turned traitor."

"My son is not a traitor!" Mack roared, jumping to his feet. He exchanged a dark glare with the Captain, who returned it just as keenly.

"Mack, please," Mrs. Clamworthy murmured. Reluctantly Mack sat back down again, though his grim expression didn't change.

"Anyway, as I was saying," Captain Graves continued, "Colin Clamworthy has coldly abandoned his companion, Skylark, and has instead formed a bond with another pegasus, whom I am informed goes by the name of Stormbolt."

A murmur ran through the gathering, though many didn't seem that surprised. Connie guessed a lot had had their own ideas about what was going on, but this confirmed them.

"Why this should be a problem for us?" asked one of the Sea Snakes. "It's the boy's decision. Can't the Two Fours look after their own anymore?"

"The case is not so simple," Captain Graves answered. "Stormbolt is extremely dangerous. I have reports that he is appealing to the wild pegasi, and has already attacked several mythical creatures without provocation. Should this continue, I fear he will eventually become strong enough to attack the Society itself, using Col to lead the assault."

An uneasy silence descended, and Connie swallowed. Events were repeating themselves as they had done in the story she'd found. Except this time, Col was the exiled companion…

"Such a pity," Captain Graves went on. "The boy showed such a natural aptitude as a pegasus rider. However, he has clearly demonstrated where his true loyalties lie. He can no longer be counted as one of our own."

"You speak as if Col is already lost to us!" Mrs. Clamworthy spoke up. "I believe you are mistaken." Captain Graves sighed, about to protest, but Mrs. Clamworthy continued. "I know at his age he is liable to make mistakes, but Col has never been one for violence, and he certainly has nothing against the Society. I believe Stormbolt is controlling him, much like how Kullervo controlled Connie. Col cannot be blamed for his present actions."

Connie stiffened. Had she not attempted to reach Col the previous night, she might have agreed with Mrs. Clamworthy. But she'd seen it with her own eyes. Col wanted Stormbolt around, wanted his power and protection. Sharing that with the rest of the Chartmouth chapter, however, was probably not the smartest move. Col wasn't the enemy; he was just being misguided by the enemy.

"Even if this is true," Mr. Masterson said, folding his arms, "are we to simply sit here and let the child do as he pleases? I think not. We need to take precautions to defend ourselves, as well."

"And we must capture him before he can cause any more trouble," Captain Graves added. "He will be held in my custody until we can investigate the matter fully."

Mack slammed his fist against his thigh.

"Why are you treating my son like a criminal?" he growled. "He's done nothing wrong!"

"Willingly attacking other mythical creatures and gathering a force to pursue that cause is hardly the work of a misled child," Captain Graves retorted. "Col will be held accountable for his actions and brought to justice!"

Mack's jaw tensed, his clenched hand trembling, but before he could answer, Dr. Brock stood up once more.

"We will have to take a vote on this," he said, sensing the tension in the air. "Mack, I understand how you feel, but at the same time we must address the risk Col poses to the others. I agree that we should help our companions protect themselves, and bring Col to a place of safety where he can be monitored. Please raise your hand if you feel this is acceptable."

Almost everyone in the room agreed. Connie reluctantly raised her hand as well. She didn't like the idea, having been placed in a similar situation herself, but at the same time she couldn't deny the pegasi attacks. As Captain Graves had said, Col couldn't be left to act how he pleased; not when his mind remained so vulnerable. At least if they could separate him from Stormbolt, they'd have a chance at restoring him to his old self.

"Then we're agreed," Dr. Brock said. "Please go ahead and make the necessary preparations with your companions. Report back if there are any problems." He cast a final glance around the room. "Also, I hope I've made clear that we won't tolerate any acts of aggression against the pegasi, either. I will not have a massive conflict break out on our doorstep after we've made so much progress." There were sullen nods from the Society members. "We will meet again next week and decide if any further action needs taking."

With the meeting over, the group started to shuffle out of the barn, taking their companions with them. Mack and Mrs. Clamworthy remained, talking quietly to each other even as Dr. Brock and Argand walked out. Icefen nuzzled Connie's hand, leaving her palm cold, before he trudged after Rat. Jessica took Arran's arm, and waved as they too departed. As Connie made to follow, Captain Graves approached. He took her wrist.

"Forgive me, my dear," he said, his moustache twitching. "But I detect some reluctance from you concerning our plans." His eyes narrowed slightly. "I do hope your current…sympathies with Col are not influencing your judgement."

Connie shook his hand off, frowning.

"It's not my place to let my feelings get involved," she said carefully. "While I don't want to deliberately hurt Col if I can help it, I also know I can't let him act like this, either. I'll do my part to protect the Society as I need to."

Captain Graves smiled.

"I'm glad to hear it," he said. "Good night."

He turned smartly and strode out, Firewings in tow. Connie watched him go, holding her wrist. Much as she wanted to believe her own words, she knew her feelings for Col couldn't be completely dismissed. Especially when things had grown so strained between them. Perhaps if she hadn't gone off with Skylark that morning, she wouldn't have pushed him so far away; wouldn't have pushed him into Stormbolt.

The thought stirred an idea. Stormbolt was a mythical creature like any other, and although linking with him had made her ill, she had still been able to communicate with him. Could that be the key, then? If she could somehow bond with Stormbolt, and break his connection to Col…

"Connie," Mrs. Clamworthy said. Connie jumped, broken from her thoughts. "Could we have a word, please?"

Nodding, Connie headed over to her and Mack.

"Yes?"

"That was a very diplomatic response to the Captain," Mack said, "but I know you too well, honey. I don't want you going after Col by yourself again."

Connie's eyes widened.

"What? How did you know…?"

"We know how much you care about him," Mrs. Clamworthy said. "You don't need to tell us what you were planning, but promise me you won't risk yourself like that."

"But what else can I do?" Connie argued. "I'm not going to just sit here and do nothing! I'm a Universal, there has to be something…"

"Connie, don't be so hard on yourself," Mack said. "We all want Col back, but not if you have to give yourself up in exchange." He held her shoulders. "We need to work together on this. We're a team."

Connie sighed. Her heart was wounded, wanting to ignore Mack's plea, but deep down she knew he was right. Besides, she knew so little about Stormbolt; trying to form a bond with him could prove disastrous. It was one thing for the creature to control a companion to pegasi, but if he ever got hold of a Universal's power, there was no telling what damage he could do. She needed to play carefully.

"Col's in a dark place right now," Mrs. Clamworthy went on. "He's not in a position to want to listen to us, and it may take more than a show of trust to bring him back. We must find a way to break through Stormbolt's sway so we can reason with him." She held Connie's shoulder. "We'll do that together."

Connie smiled, and pressed her own hand over Mrs. Clamworthy's.

"Yeah."

#

Skylark was dozing when Connie slipped into the Masterson's stables. The meeting had gone on for longer than anticipated, and she was glad to be away from the others. There was a lot to think about, and she knew she'd have to keep her guard up around the Chartmouth companions. She still hadn't shaken off her reckless reputation, and several of the companions had less than average opinions of her. Coupled with her relationship to Col, she didn't doubt they would try and find an excuse to blame the current circumstances on her. At least here she could spend a moment in peace.

She tapped Skylark's nose, and his eyelids flickered.

"How are you doing?" Connie asked, rubbing his neck.

Skylark snorted.

"Better, I think," he said. "I feel I have come to terms with the pain, now." He nuzzled her hand. "Although I can never stop thinking about Col for long."

Connie sighed.

"Me neither," she admitted. "But you know, I have a question."

"Yes?"

Connie sat against Skylark's flank.

"I don't know much about the wild pegasi," she admitted. "Why do they refuse contact with humans?"

Skylark's ears twitched.

"It goes back a long time," he said. "In fact my grand-sire was a wild pegasi. When the first companion to pegasi, Bellerophon, appeared in ancient times, it caused much anger within the herds. Our kind has always been independent and proud, and to be tamed and domesticated like that was an insult. However, when other companions appeared and allowed us our freedoms, we grew less and less reluctant. However, there are still some pegasi who continue to refuse their bond."

"I see," Connie said, thinking of her Aunt Godiva and how she had abandoned her wood sprite companion. "I suppose it's not much different to humans ignoring their bonds, too."

Skylark closed his eyes.

"Perhaps, but I have never seen any pegasi with such power as Stormbolt," he said, flicking his tail. "I cannot understand how he has so much influence over the wild pegasi. Firewings told me of what is happening, and it disheartens me. The pegasi are noble, peaceful creatures. We are not war-like."

Connie rubbed his cheek.

"I know," she said. "What I don't understand, though, is where Stormbolt came from. He's not a true pegasus, because he has those strange horns."

Skylark huffed.

"Whatever he is, he is a monster," the pegasus said. "And he has taken my companion away from me."

Connie's gaze softened.

"Oh, Skylark…" She wrapped her arms around him. "I don't think being shut up in here is doing you any good." She unlatched the stable door and pushed it open. "Let's go for a lap of the moor, that should cheer you up."

Skylark tensed, and retreated to the back of the stall.

"Universal, I…I don't…"

"Skylark, you need to get outside," Connie said. "Pegasi aren't made to hide indoors. Come on, you'll feel better, I promise."

"What of your fear of heights?"

Connie swallowed.

"I can bear that for a while if it means seeing you fly again."

It took some more coaxing, but finally Skylark shuffled out of the stall. Smiling, Connie led him out of the stables and into the evening air. It was cold, but fresh, and the recent rains appeared to be on hold for the moment, making the skies clear. At once Connie noticed the change in Skylark. He trotted into the grass and unfurled his wings, letting the breeze caress his feathers. She could feel his mood lift as he gazed to the heavens, wanting to enjoy the wind.

With a shake of his head, Skylark stooped. Connie grabbed his mane and mounted him, adjusting herself so she was nestled behind his wings.

"Don't go too far," she warned. "But take as much time as you like. I've no-where else to be."

Skylark grunted. Suddenly he bolted into a gallop, and Connie squealed, wrapping her arms around his neck. Moments later they were in the air. The freezing wind rushed past, and Connie felt her stomach recoil as they gained height. Swallowing, she eventually managed to push back her fear, and she opened her eyes.

They were gliding above the farm, and Connie could sense the mythical creatures still departing from the meeting. Evelyn's banshees were escaping to the forest, the dragons were flying to the caves, and the earth elementals were rushing back underground. The human companions were retreating to their cars and jeeps, also hurrying home. However, there was something else irritating the edge of her senses. It felt familiar, yet at the same time upsetting.

"Universal?" Skylark's voice was worried as he circled the farm once more. "Are you alright?"

"I'm not sure," Connie answered. "I think it's…argh!"

A crackle of lightning shot past Connie's shoulder, cutting her off, and she almost lost her grip on Skylark. The pegasus quickly flew lower, helping her regain position. Connie's eyes widened, and she looked back to the horizon. A swirling mass of clouds had appeared, buzzing with electricity, and at its head flew a black pegasus. His red eyes gleamed, his gnarled horns reflecting the lightning in the clouds, and atop his back was…

"Col!" Connie crouched against Skylark's back, eyes narrowed. What was he doing here?

"Surprise, Universal!" Col cried. He was wearing dark leather clothes, and in his right hand he wielded the black sword. "Care for a dance?"

He didn't wait for an answer, and swooped closer.

"Skylark, dive!" Connie commanded. Skylark obliged, and Connie screamed as the rush of air whipped her hair into her cheeks. Worried for his rider, Skylark made straight for a landing, but Stormbolt had other ideas. As soon as Skylark's hooves made contact with the earth, another lightning bolt lanced down, singing his flank. Skylark neighed in pain, and Connie had to dig her fingers into his mane to stop herself falling off.

"Get to the clouds!" she called. Skylark hobbled forward, and beat his wings. He managed to get off the ground, but he couldn't gain much height. Col was laughing, and Connie could feel Stormbolt's icy stare as he watched them struggle.

"Universal," Skylark croaked, "I cannot…he is too strong…"

"Don't worry about Stormbolt," Connie said. She reached into her mental realm, and drew her silver bow. "Just get me to his level and I'll take it from there."

Skylark began to ascend again, seeking the thermals that had been stirred thanks to Stormbolt's storm-brewing. Connie felt the burning pain at his flank, and had to distance herself a little to stop it taking over. She kept her eye on the black pegasus that circled them above, awaiting her chance. Her heart ached at what was happening, but she knew Col wouldn't listen to her pleas. However, she refused to fight him. She needed to buy some time.

"What a coward you are, Skylark!" Col jeered. "I always knew you were pathetic, but this is an embarrassment! I've seen buzzards fly with more grace than you!"

His words were meant to hurt, and Connie felt Skylark falter. This was doing much more damage than a mere lightning bolt.

"Don't listen to him!" she urged. "Please Skylark…"

But Skylark could continue no longer. He started to descend again, unable to remain in the air. He was losing his confidence again. That was when Stormbolt charged. Col raised his sword, laughing. Gritting her teeth, Connie twisted on Skylark's back and raised her bow. She had to do this, now. Drawing a veil of darkness arrow, she fired, striking Stormbolt's blood-red eyes. Blinded, the black pegasus veered away, returning to the clouds, as Skylark hit the ground.

"Too scared to face me properly, Connie?" Col's voice boomed. "Afraid you might hurt me, your precious Col?"

Connie said nothing, but her fist clenched. With Stormbolt's power at his disposal, he could have easily ended the fight ages ago. Why was he toying with them?

"It's too bad," Col went on. He paused Stormbolt in the air, his eyes narrowed. "I suppose I'll let you go this time. You weren't nearly enough of a challenge, and I know you're not really trying." He pointed the black sword at Connie. "But you'd better remember that when we meet again, I won't hold back. You shouldn't, either."

"You will suffer, Universal!" Stormbolt whispered in his hoarse voice, forcing a connection with Connie. Connie gripped her stomach; that horrible nauseating feeling had returned. Weakly she raised a shield to protect herself, but by then Stormbolt had already appeared on her mental island. His eyes glowed. "I will destroy your bloodline, as you did mine, and you will know fear and loneliness, as I have!"

The connection broke, and Connie fell to the ground. Her hands shook, and a throbbing headache pulsed behind her temples. Thunder rumbled, and she could taste moisture in the air, but the storm was beginning to weaken as Stormbolt fled. Slowly, the pain subsided, and she pulled herself to her feet.

Skylark was trembling. His wings had fallen, revealing the burn mark on his flank, and Connie could feel the waves of despair threatening to drown him.

"Skylark!" Connie rushed to his side to check his wound. It was only superficial, yet she knew where the real wound lay.

"Still he rejects me," Skylark wailed, quivering. "But he is right to. I cannot face Stormbolt. I am no match for his power. I am a weakling."

"Skylark…" Connie wrapped her arms around him and buried her face in his neck. She wished she had never convinced him to come out of the stables. More than that, she hadn't realised Col would have been keeping such a close eye on them.

"Connie!"

Connie stepped back, spotting Mack running up the hill towards her. Mrs. Clamworthy followed, at a more cautious pace.

"We saw everything from the car," Mack said, puffing. "Are you and Skylark alright?"

"Just about," Connie said. "I didn't think Col was watching us."

Mack sighed.

"You shouldn't have tried to take him on alone," Mrs. Clamworthy said, breathless from the walk. "You should have called for us!"

"I'm sorry," Connie said. "It all happened so fast."

Mack patted her shoulder.

"Well, he's gone now. Let's get Skylark settled in for the night and go home."

Nodding, Connie grabbed a handful of Skylark's mane. She could still sense his sorrowful thoughts.

"Will you be alright without me?" she asked. Slowly, Skylark nodded. "I'll be back first thing tomorrow morning before school to check how you are."

"Thank you," Skylark murmured.

Soon the pegasus was tucked in the stables once more, and Mack began the drive back to Shaker Row. Connie sat in silence, watching the scenery fly past. Col's words kept replaying in her head, and they chilled her. He seemed to have forsaken all of their past friendship and was determined to prove he was better than her; better than the Universal. And Stormbolt was feeding that ambition, promising him that power would heal his hurt, and nothing else.

How was she going to get him back?