Author's Note:

Hope you enjoyed the previous chapter! This one is different from the lore, so let me know what you think!

-Tangent


A gentle cloud of dust swirled upwards as Rye ran his hands over the aged wood. The table, no doubt used for writing or eating, had not yet collapsed, even as the wood creaked and groaned. He flipped a piece of parchment, revealing a blank side, and turned to face the archway as he heard the scrape of metal on metal.

Emma appeared, brushing what appeared to be lint off her sleeves. Her hair was tied back, and she had cleaned most of the soot and grime from her face and armor.

"Just a sleeping area with some beds. Anything out here?"

"Nothing." The ranger said, leaning back as he stepped away from the table. "But it seems that Gavin was right about these residential areas." The party had entered the citadel, staggering into the closest building before slumping to the floor to rest. Jack had found a well with drinkable water, and they had taken the time to clean off the ash coating most of them before moving on. Ean had spent several minutes in meditation, no doubt conferring with the spirits that inhabited his body.

The citadel was one of the most grand places Rye had ever seen, including Thais, Candar, and Seri. Even in its current, run-down state, the man could tell that it had once been a place of great wealth and knowledge. As Gavin had put it, the history resonated from every piece of stonework.

"At least it's not so hot in here." Emma murmured as she wiped the sweat from her forehead. Rye nodded as they began to make their way back out of the house. The castle had obviously been equipped with a significant cooling system, although the workings of it were beyond him.

In truth, he was not feeling of any particular use at the moment.

I let my best friend fall into a lake of lava. I wasn't fast enough to save him. Ean was alright, but what did that matter? He shivered slightly, and Emma eyes moved to meet his.

"What is it?" He shook his head slowly as she pushed the metal door open, and they stepped back out into the courtyard. Nicholas and Gavin were waiting for them, while the others were likely still in their respective houses. The warlock was poring over a book, occasionally flipping a page.

The party had proceeded up the main thoroughfare, passing several market areas and housing districts before Gavin had stopped them. The warlock had pointed out a smaller community of houses, set off to one side as they approached the keep. They had eaten lunch, aware of their dwindling supplies, and Ean had set them to searching the houses for any useful items or information.

"Anything?" Nicholas nodded.

"Little bit of food, potions, the usual." The prince glanced at Gavin, who was still engrossed in his novel. "You almost done there?"

"Just about. These people spoke the common language, but they use some words of their own to describe certain areas of the city. It's kind of hard to make out."

"Any idea what big secret the city is hiding?" Rye asked, and the man shrugged.

"Could be a lot of things. They keep mentioning their most valuable asset, which doesn't make too much sense, I suppose. I just need a little more information."

After another minute or so, Ean and Jack emerged from their house, followed by Iya and Ava.

"Okay, so what've we got?" The elf asked as he set his pack down on the ground. The others had located a few notes and handed them to Gavin, who was feverishly writing on a scroll of his own.

"Sorry... one second... Okay, I think I've got it all together." The warlock said, looking around as he stored the books delicately in his bag. "So this city, Ovenwood, used to be the place of congregation for some people that no longer exist in the Land of Man, as far as we know. There's no records of this area anywhere in the conventional history books. According to some of the notes we found, these people had some reason to live in this volcano, rather than anywhere else."

"That's what I don't understand." Iya said. 'Wouldn't they have to climb up and down?"

"Some people did, but this book says otherwise. Apparently, they had a way to move items up and down the volcano much faster than anything humans have created. Unfortunately, they don't name it in here. Those records probably burned when the mountain shifted." They had already seen several places within the fortress where lava had burned through the retaining walls, flooding houses and stores alike.

"How could they do that? Magic?" Rye inquired, his eyebrows raised. He was not sure what to think of this new idea.

"Not any spell I've heard of, but it's possible." Gavin responded. "I also saw mention of a grand library, containing all the knowledge of the people. Apparently, anybody could come and go."

"Like Thais, then." Nicholas interjected, nodding. "It's a good idea."

"My point is, I think we should make for this library inside the keep, and see what we can find. It's more likely that we can find information there. Besides, our supplies won't last forever." Ean clapped the warlock on the shoulder.

"Well done, Gavin." He turned to look at the rest of the group. "I think that's our best course of action. Any other ideas?" They all shook their heads, and the elf grinned. "The keep it is, then."


As they exited the neighborhood and returned to the main road, Rye found himself walking next to his partner once more. He could tell she wanted to inquire more about him being upset, but didn't want to let the others hear.

The green-haired man glanced at her for a moment, only to stop when he saw two piercing orbs looking back at him. Emma's face was blank, but he could see an equal amount of fire and concern warring for dominance in her eyes. He stared back, letting his own emotions come to the surface for a brief second. His self-hatred, his fear...

A minute passed, and the green eyes softened slightly. So, she wasn't really mad. But what, then? Emma opened her mouth to speak, and he found his heart racing slightly. He wanted to-

Ava coughed, and the moment was over. Glancing forward, he saw the pirate giving him and Emma a suspicious look. As subtly as he could, Rye took a half-step away from Emma, only now seeing that he had moved closer without realizing it. The man's face flushed slightly, and Ava's brows shot up.

Thankfully, their purple-haired captain did not say anything about the ranger and swordswoman as they approached the citadel. The structure, made of the same stone as the rest of the city, towered over every other building they had seen thus far. Jewels of every kind were also in prominence, decorating the massive metal doors that guarded the entrance. Although the area around them had crumbled and faded, the two sheets of wrought metal stood strong, just as impervious as they had always been.

"Talk about a statement." Jack murmured, eyes moving over the towering building. Rye found himself agreeing once again. The keep was not as ornate as other buildings, but it radiated a sense of power that was hard to deny. Any attacking force would have crumbled before the implacable stone, unable to break through.

Ean pushed against the doors, and they moved several inches.

"Hinges are rusted." He grunted, muscles straining. "And I think I see a lot of rocks on the other side of this door. Give me a hand?" Rye shrugged off his pack and stepped forward, placing his palms against the engraved steel. The metal was cool to the touch, and covered in a fine layer of dust. Ean shoved his side, and the ranger emulated the motion, eliciting a screech as the doors slid forward slowly.

It was hard work. For every inch the massive slabs of metal moved, the strength required to move it again doubled, as more and more rubble came to rest against them. Sweat dripped down his neck, and Rye had to dry his palms before attempting another push.

After several minutes, there was a three-foot gap between the doors, and Gavin had begun examining the rubble. As Rye took a swig of water, Emma handed him his pack, which he buckled back onto his shoulders.

"Thanks." He murmured, and she nodded.

"I think we can get through." Gavin announced after a moment. "Everybody stand back." The rest of the party obeyed, and the warlock placed both hands upon the pile of twisted rock blocking their way. It shuddered, as did the ground, and the whole pile crumbled away, cascading onto the floor of the keep.

When the way was clear, the warlock took a step back.

"Should be okay now. Just watch your step." The party filed through one at a time, until finally they stood in the entrance hall to the castle.

It was a grand statement. Here, the stone was composed of a lighter, more wavy substance, drawing spirals and curls across the wall. Brackets for torches were placed every few feet, above other large doors that led away from the main hall. Many of these entrances had collapsed or rotted away, revealing only blackness beyond.

Far above, a massive chandelier made out of a black glass shimmered in the hazy light, casting beams across the room. Where candles would have sat within their sconces, only blackened stubs remained.

Naturally, Rye's eyes were drawn to the other end of the room, where a massive statue had been carved out of a wall. It was made of the purest marble, with glittering emeralds for eyes. The man, for the carving was of a man, had one hand outstretched as though beckoning them forward. A small played about the hardened lips, and it seemed to them that he was laughing at some inside joke. Below the statue sat a single ornate chair, illuminated by the gleaming marble.

"Wow." Emma said from next to him, and he nodded. Even Nicholas seemed awestruck by the imposing artwork. And then, Iya let out a gasp.

"His ears!" Rye moved to one side, and his eyes widened. The statue's features were that of a human, excepting his auricles, which were longer and more pointy. The same ears as Ean and Iya, who were gazing in awe at the mysterious figure. The ears of an elf.

"Wait, so that means..." Jack trailed off, and Ean turned to look at him.

"I don't know what it means, but this city just got a whole lot more interesting."

"Could they be elves from the other islands?" Ava asked, and Gavin shrugged.

"Maybe, but there would have to be some record of that. No, I think I'm starting to understand a little bit more."

"What do you mean?" The elf asked, touching his ears.

"With the other elves in the Land of Man, you see variation in features." The warlock said. "You've seen it? Not all ears look the same."

"Yes, I remember thinking about it." Iya murmured. "Because with our people, all the ears are near-identical. And now this elf, whoever he was, has them too. But surely he couldn't be..." The female elf looked concerned, as did her mate.

"I'm confused." Nicholas said. "What do ears have to do with any of this?"

"Because if those ears are the same, that means that this elf was from Ean and Iya's home."

After searching the hall for any information and coming up empty-handed, Ean called the others back to him so they could decide on a course of action.

"Nothing." Gavin said. "No engravings on the throne or statue either."

"Thought as much. The information would probably be in the library." The elf responded, his gaze moving around the group. He knew they were tired, especially after their battle with the behemoth. Rye in particular seemed shell-shocked, although he knew the ranger wouldn't admit to it. He had already seen the looks Emma was giving him.

Still, if another elf came here long ago... That could be vital information. We can't pass this chance up.

"I know we're exhausted, but we're close. We need to find this key to Eredar, whatever it may be. And to that end, we need to find this library. Any ideas where to search?"

"It would be centralized within the castle." Gavin said. "Especially if people could visit it from the city. I just hope it hasn't been blocked by the rubble."

"Okay." The elf said, clasping his hands together. "Let's split up, then, and see if we can find it. We've not seen any monsters in here, but be careful."


A few minutes later, Jack found himself walking down one of the many deserted corridors of the castle, accompanied by Nicholas.

"How's the arm?" The man glanced down at the boy's arm, which was still bandaged.

"It's a little sore, but it works. I can mange till we get out of here."

"Hm."

"You think it's close?" Jack asked after a minute or two of silence. Out of all the members of the group, the prince was the most alien to him. He'd been rude at first, and then dispassionate, and now... the boy didn't know.

"No." The man responded as Jack went to open a door. "This seems like the residential wing of the castle."

"How do you know?"

"The doors are close together, and spaced out evenly. It looks like Thais." Jack pushed the brittle wood aside, revealing an old chamber coated in dust. The mattress had long since crumbled away, and the furniture looked as though it would break if he breathed on it.

"I guess you're right." He muttered. Scanning the room again to look for anything useful, the pair backed out and continued down the hallway. Nicholas cast him a furtive look, which the boy caught out of the corner of his eye.

"What?"

"I... Well..." Nicholas hesitated as he opened another door and promptly shut it. "Gross, moldy food. Anyways, I overheard the others talking about you, and-"

"What about me?" Jack interjected.

"They said you were from Thais... and I guess I wanted to ask you?" Nicholas finished, a definite note of unease in his voice. His counterpart let out a sigh.

"Guess it wouldn't hurt, since everyone else knows already. They treat me like I'm the baby around here."

"You essentially are." The prince pointed out. "We're all older."

"That's not the point. Technically, I'm like a few hundred years older than you." The man raised an eyebrow as they turned a corner. "But yes, I lived in Thais during the time of Alicia Pendragon, your ancestor. Actually met her once, believe it or not. Had a little adventure, but that was before everything went wrong."

"Wrong?"

"I was a thief." The boy sighed. "Stealing from people was my job, and I was good at it. But then I got caught, and sent to the labor camp up near that icy forest."

"I read about that. The old kings liked to punish crimes with intense labor like mining." Nicholas's voice was quiet. "Neither Uthar nor I like that kind of thing."

"It was rough, but I made it out alive. Only when I returned..." Jack shuddered and drew in a deep breath. "They were gone."

"Your family?" The boy nodded and shivered again, clenching his fists.

"My sister. Gone." He fell silent as they walked, and the only sound was their footsteps upon the stone floor. "I went back to stealing, until I was offered a job by a certain man to liberate a magical item. Job went south, and I got to take a nice long nap in the sewers as a stone statue."

"That sucks." Nicholas muttered, and Jack let out an involuntary laugh.

"It did, until Gavin set me free. I owe him for that." His grin faded, replaced with solemn despair. "But it was too late. I couldn't find them then, and now I never will. I know it's too late..." The man next to him said nothing at all as they stopped outside a set of double doors. "the others have these grand missions to fulfill, but me? I just want to find my family, but I don't think I'll ever have that."

Nicholas did not move or speak for a moment.

"I... I didn't know. I'm sorry." Jack opened his mouth to say something, but the prince cut him off. "When we get back to Thais, I'll... I'll look through the records. Perhaps we can find something that will give us a clue."

"You'd do that?" Jack said, eyes wide. "But why?"

"I am a healer, you know. My brother was right: being a prince is no different from being a healer. You have to help people when you can. And so I swear, if it is possible... I will find your family." He held out his hand to Jack, and the boy took it.

"Thank you, Nicholas."

"Don't worry about it. I owe it to you and the others for tolerating me for so long. Can't believe I used to be so unbearable."

Jack chuckled as he pushed open the door.


"Amazing..." The warlock ran his hands over the wooden carving. It was another, smaller version of the elf who was memorialized in the throne room, down to the tiny emeralds for eyes. He flipped it over, noting that it was heavier towards the bottom.

Must have been lined with metal of some sort. Wouldn't be out of place for a society like this. To tell the truth, Gavin was enjoying himself immensely. It had been a while since he'd worked on anything like this, and this volcano was turning out to be a historical and magical gold mine. He'd already detected several enchantments woven into the citadel itself, to purify the air and lower the temperature.

"Gavin?" Ava rounded the corner from where she had been examining the rest of the room. They had taken a different path through the keep, wandering around before they had found what appeared to be a study. "Come on, we're trying to find the library, remember?" Her tone was impatient, but he ignored it.

"What do you think about this? This elf? Who was he?" The pirate sighed as she approached.

"Look, does it matter?"

"It matters to Ean and Iya. That would make him their ancestor, right?" Gavin said as he turned the statue once more, examining it. "And I think I know his name."

"Really?" The warlock gestured to the base of the structure, where a name had been carved into the wood.

-Elidyr Dadi, Last King-

"Whoever he was, he sounds important. And how many kings were there?"

"I don't know, but we should get a move on." Ava said. "The crew must be starting to worry."

That's right... She's worried about the ship. How did I not see that?

"Sorry." Gavin said, setting the figurine down and moving towards the door. Ava followed, and they moved back out into the hall. "I'm sure the ship and crew are okay. They're tough people."

"I know." The pirate said with a small smile. "Thanks. I just want to get out of this volcano, you know?"

"Understandable." Gavin said. "I know you don't enjoy this as much as me."

"It's interesting, but I'll admit I like stabbing things better." The pirate said casually, and the warlock laughed. They moved down the hall in silence for several moments before Ava spoke again.

"What do you think we'll find?"

"Who knows?" Gavin said. "A spell to access Eredar? Maybe information we don't have yet, that will help against the Snow Queen? The Goddess herself sent us here, so there must be an answer. I just hope it's obvious."

"That's a good way to think about it." The pirate murmured. Suddenly, footsteps came from behind them, and the pair whirled just as Jack rounded the corner, panting.

"We found the library. Come quick!"


Emma was, in fact, mad. Rye knew it, felt it in his bones. He just didn't know how to respond, or how to approach the situation at all.

Saying something might make it worse. As they walked, Emma's feet seemed to touch down with a tad more force than usual. So far, they had explored their wing of the castle in silence, and had found nothing of value.

The quiet became unbearable as they rounded a corner, and Rye finally spoke.

"You can tell me, you know?" The woman next to him glanced over, but did not say anything. "What's bothering you."

"Why don't you start?" She retorted with no small amount of heat in her voice. "Are we partners, or not?"

"I... I just..." Rye paused again. "I'm sorry if you feel offended, but-" Emma turned to face him fully as she stopped in the middle of the hallway.

"Of course I'm offended. You're one of the few close friends I have, and we can't share how we feel?" Her eyes were hard, but the ranger could see a range of emotions lying beneath. "I want to help you, Rye, but you won't let me."

"It's not something you could fix." He replied, and she stepped closer.

"Try me." Her voice was a rasp, and he felt her breath on his neck. The effect was paralyzing, and his legs felt as though they could not move an inch. "Trust me for once, Rye."

"I..." He hesitated, hoping she wouldn't judge him. "I feel guilty, alright? I should have been there to help my friend, but I wasn't. Ean died, Emma!"

"He's alright now." She whispered, but he shook his head.

"I could have saved him. The way Iya looked at me, begged me to save him..." His voice caught, and he stopped before real tears could come. "I let him down."

"You didn't. He did it because it was necessary, not because he wanted to die. Ean though it was the right move, and you couldn't have prevented it. We were all wiped out after that fight."

"I should have-" Rye stopped suddenly as Emma placed a hand on his lips.

"Don't think like that. It will only hurt you. Trust me, I know."

"I... I'll try." Rye said slowly, and she nodded. A smile spread across her face.

"Now, was that so hard for the invincible Rye?" The ranger shook his head, and Emma shook him playfully. "Exactly. Don't be so hard on yourself all the time, okay?"

"Understood, partner." Rye said as he returned her grin. He let a trace of seriousness creep into his voice. "Thank you, Emma." Her cheeks flushed slightly, but she nodded all the same.

"You don't have to be alone when I'm here." As they proceeded down the hall, Rye saw a large set of double doors ahead. They were different from the others, made of a richly colored wood that sparkled as though it were new. The torches on either side were lit, and a gleaming sign was hung to one side.

-Library-

"Signal the others." Rye told her, and the woman nodded before darting off. "I think this is it."


It took several minutes for the other groups to arrive, and several more for Gavin to catch everyone up on his newfound theories as they waited outside the library.

"So his name was Elidyr Dadi?"

"As far as I know." The warlock responded, running his hands along the door. "Ring a bell?"

"No." Iya answered. "None of our teachers ever mentioned someone by the name." The elf looked curiously at the entrance to the library. "Will it open?"

"I think so, but there's charms over the entrance. It's been protected all this time, and I'm not sure how to open it." The man rapped his hand against the wood, but his fist stopped an inch or two away from the surface. "See? This charm extends around the entire space as well, I think."

"What sort of knowledge did they have to protect?" Nicholas mused. "And why keep it at the top of a volcano?"

"My guess?" Ava said. "Secrets they didn't want to get out to the rest of the world."

"Can you get through?" Jack asked the warlock, who shrugged.

"No idea. This magic is really strong. It's weird, though... kind of feels like your magic, Iya. Can you sense it?" She stepped forward, tying her blue hair back and setting her staff to one side. Placing her palms against the barrier, Iya closed her eyes.

"I can... not quite like mine, though... It reminds me of the spells on our floating islands. They kept others from falling off." Ean knelt next to her and placed his hand on her shoulder.

"I can feel it too..." He hummed. "Almost as if we were there..." The elf trailed off as Iya's hands began to glow. The rest of the party stepped back, but the two elves remained rooted to the spot as a gleaming pattern of light spread across the door. It shone fiercely for a moment, then faded away.

"What was that?" Rye asked as Iya stepped back a pace or two.

"I'm not sure. I think I did it by accident." Gavin grinned.

"Well, I think it worked! Go on, try it!" Ean reached out, and his fingers wrapped firmly around the door handle. He turned it, and the entrance to the library slid open wordlessly.

It was as though they had stepped into another world.

The first thing the elf noticed was the soft light that fell across the room, emitted by shaped crystals placed around the room. A large candelabra hung overhead, casting light upon the balconies that ringed the room. The library was huge, boasting three floors that spread back into areas he could not quite make out.

"There's so many!" Emma exclaimed, moving forward to survey the area properly. Indeed, hundreds of bookshelves formed rows that stretched down the length of the atrium, each housing several dozens books at least. He could see more shelves on the other floors as well. Decorative cases lined the walls, hosting a variety of artifacts. The carpets were red and gold, to match the dark wood that composed much of the floor and ceiling.

It was a very impressive space. Thais and Candar no doubt paled in comparison to it, Ean thought. The others were similarly lost in thought, each gazing at a different section of the library.

"Where do we even start?" Jack asked in wonder, moving over to one of the many armchairs and plopping down onto it. "There's thousands of books in here. Probably more!"

"I've never seen such a vast collection." Gavin murmured. "How did they amass it all?" The rest of the party fell silent for a moment.

"We'd better start looking, then." Iya said, setting her bag down near the entrance. "Maybe for anything to do with Elidyr?"

"That'd be a good start." The warlock moved over to a large desk. "This looks like a place they keep records. Maybe there'll be some clue." Nicholas went as well, followed by Jack."

"I guess the rest of us scour the shelves. Let's start on the first floor, shall we?"

They scattered, with each person moving to a different section of the bookshelves and scanning the titles, which were written on the spines. Some containers held scrolls or other, older manuscripts written in different languages.

Half an hour passed. It was mostly silent, save for questions called across the space to Gavin, and his response. Iya and Emma had moved up to the second floor, while Ean and Rye remained downstairs.

The pair had just come to the end of the row when Gavin called Ean's name.

"What is it?" The elf said as the warlock rounded the corner. "Got something?"

"I think so. A book called 'Beginnings', written by one Elidyr Dadi. Apparently it should be in a display case on the third floor."

"On our way." The elf responded, and the ranger followed him to the stairs.

"You think we could take some of these with us? Has to be some useful information in these."

"I suppose so, but who could read some of these languages?" Ean responded as they passed a large world map attached to the wall. "And we don't have enough space to carry even a fraction of what could be useful."

"I know. When we return to Thais, I'll talk to Uthar and see what can be done. It would be a shame to lose all of this."

The two friends moved quickly through the third floor, which appeared to be an area for reading and study. There were less shelves and more displays, each holding a unique item. Ean saw a pair of fingerless gloves, an oddly-shaped knife, and some brass construction that looked like a telescope.

"Ean." Rye called, and the elf hurried over to him. "I think this is it." The ranger was standing next to an ornate case with a glass cover. As Ean approached, he saw a small, nondescript book lying within. "I tried opening it, but there's another charm. Can you-"

"Let me try." The elf responded, and laid his hands upon the smooth surface. Again, he felt a strange rush of feelings, and the lock clicked quietly. The case opened, and he touched the front cover of the manuscript. As he did, the writing on the cover seemed to gleam a little brighter.

-Beginnings-

The Journal of Elidyr Dadi, Last King of Ovenwood

"You did it again." Rye said from next to him, no small amount of awe present on his face. "Incredible." Ean held the book gently and hurried back towards the stairs, archer in tow.

They found the others gathered around the desk, poring over a map Gavin had laid out.

"Got it? Excellent. I found a map that shows the layout of the castle. Some of it is blocked off, but it should still be useful." Ean quickly described how the case had opened, and showed them the book.

"Did you read it yet?" The warlock asked, and he shook his head. "Well, go on, then. Tell us what it says." Ean opened the book to the beginning, and read aloud.


The people have called for me to be king. Me! What madness has come over them, that they would place such a burden upon one insufficient to bear it? But the Goddess has made her will known. Goldren has gone, and with him, the burden of kingship must pass to another. I know not if I can fulfill such a role, but such is my duty.

There is talk of leaving this volcano behind. Indeed, the tremors have increased of late. If the mountain were to erupt, it would be catastrophic. Still, I admit that I would be loath to leave. This place is my home, as fiery and dangerous as it is.

"Keep going. This doesn't seem like it." Gavin interjected.

A year has passed since I ascended to the throne. A good year, thankfully. Maie's pregnancy passes as well as could be hoped. Our daughter will arrive within the month. To think that I will be a parent! I simply cannot comprehend the concept. Still, they say that parents learn quickly. I only hope I can do right by her.

My advisors have brought word that all attempts to communicate with dragons have failed thus far. It is quite vexing. These magnificent creatures are so intelligent, I know they can understand us! I do not wish to attack them, but I fear that if the current trends continue, my people may have no choice but to retaliate...

"Did you say dragons?" Jack said, eyes wide. "Those don't exists, do they?"

"They did a long time ago." Rye told him. "Or that's what the legends say. The whole species is said to have gone extinct."

It spoke! It spoke to me! I reached and touched the snout of the dragon, and I felt it's presence resonate within my mind! I felt such turbulent emotions, but such intense happiness at the memories it imparted to me. To fly above the clouds... I wish to see it with my own eyes someday. My guards are furious, of course, but I had no choice. Perhaps now we can stave off the impending war between elf and dragon. He told me his name was Silvari...

Another month has passed. My little elf has begun to crawl, leaving Maie with few chances to take a break. Silvari and I have talked much more since my last recording, although our bond is still very new. He speaks hesitantly, and shares little at one time. Nevertheless, our trust is beginning to grow. Some other dragons have come to observe me when I go to meet him at the peak, but they do not attack. Now is the time to convince the people of their good intentions. They only wish to live upon the mountain, just as we do. Our only chance of survival lies within a mutually beneficial relationship.

The entrance to the peak has been carved out to make a proper entrance to their den. It lies hidden, near the westernmost tower. In time, we may reveal the entrance, but it is best to hide it for now.

"There's no more entries for a while." Ean said, flipping through the pages. "Oh, here we go. This is six months later."

At my request, Senior Knight Brauve asked for volunteers to meet the dragons. As you can imagine, the public did not react well. Many still live in fear of our scaly friends, but some stepped forward. They will become a new set of knights, if my plan works correctly. Silvari thinks it will, but who can say? Each day, he brings word of more dragons that wish to befriend us. The Goddess has truly smiled upon us.

Under my vision, these knights will becomes dragon knights, able to fly freely across the world! Silvari has already agreed to fly with me tomorrow. I can hardly wait. When their training is complete, our dragon warriors could fly anywhere in the world! Even Eredar, mighty empire of the dwarves will not be beyond our reach. I have already asked one of the dragons to take a letter to their king, explaining what we have done. Our of all the races, they will surely be the most willing to open relations. After all, their kingdom is as remote as our own, and nearly as difficult to find.

And yet, despite all this... I feel a worrying in my soul, eating away at me. I know naught what I fear, for it is always just out of reach, looming over the horizon. The Goddess may be warning me of ruin to come...


A terrible vision came to me while I sat with Silvari, watching the other knights bond with their dragons! The volcano erupted, drenching our city in lava and fire, people perishing by the thousands... I shudder to remember it, even now. Maie says that it's just a dream, but I know better. My beloved Ovenwood is in grave danger, from force I cannot hope to comprehend. I have already made an offering to the Goddess, asking for guidance and wisdom.

Our knights learn rapidly each day. Several have flown already, soaring down through the clouds to the ocean below. I long to join them, but my work is rarely complete...

A week has passed since my last writing. Last night, another vision came to me. I was in a mystical lands, filled with grass, trees, and warm light as far as I could see. And yet, I was not on the ground. No, I was on an island in the sky, floating in the clouds without a care. Aveyond. And she came to me, in all her glory! Our Goddess, protector of all good things and caretaker of our world. She told me of the ruin that was coming, of the dark witch that threatens to overtake the world. Even Aveyond would not be safe from her, but she wishes to protect my people. We have always been loyal to her, and I have faith she will save us.

She told me of another land like Aveyond, set apart from the Land of Man by ancient magic. We would be safe there, happy. Yes, it would mean starting over, but what choice is there in the face of total annihilation? I will bring it to my council, make them see the reality. Our doom fast approaches, and I can only hope to be gone before it arrives...

Each day that passes, the mountain quakes. Reports say that the lava lakes have already risen several dozen feet, nearly blocking off the entrance to the port at the bottom. Any more, and we will be effectively trapped within this mountain.


A plan has been formed, and once it has begun, there is no going back. The Goddess has promised to show me this land that will be ours, resting among the clouds. The barrier will be weakened, and we will pass through into our new lives. Fifty dragons are coming with us, Silvari included. They have agreed to carry people and cargo so that we may begin life anew. Many things will have to be left behind, including the secrets we have amassed for centuries. It pains me to do so, but there is now other way.

Two days have passed, and the council has decided. We leave at the new moon, ten days away. All who wish to come will be accommodated, but those who remain will not be shunned. I pray that they can escape before the evil comes to this land. Already, the signs of calamity are growing. Eredar has fallen silent, and our dragon knights stationed there have not returned. Our brethren on Storybook Island and Verashema have been isolated as well. News of terrifying monsters fill the world...

There is just one thing left to do now: the sealing of the library. We will preserve it from all intruders with a powerful seal, broken only by one of our own. Perhaps one day, one of our kind will return and unlock its glory again. I pray that it will be. Goddess protect us on our journey.

"It's true." Iya breathed. "Ean, Elidyr was one of us."

"I can't believe it." The elf murmured. "Can this be why we were sent here?" He flipped the pages, but they were blank.

"Is there anything else?" Emma asked, her voice quiet from lack of speaking. "More things written?"

"I don't see anything... here!" Ean said, and he revealed the last page of the journal, which had a final entry inscribed upon it.

My heart soars as I gaze upon this land that has been given to us. The skies are clear, and the air is cleaner than I have ever seen. This is truly a perfect paradise. The barrier has been sealed, and the Goddess has given us the Elder Sapling, to be planted at the divide between mortal and spiritual realm. Here, we will flourish, in this land that we have called The Vale.

The dragons are happy too. Silvari spends his time soaring high over our islands, save when he deigns to converse with me once again. At last, my people are safe. I have arranged for a spirit to carry my now completed journal back to the library, where it will rest for as long as it takes.

The Goddess gave me one last piece of guidance. My people will be infused with the power of song, and these mages will keep this Vale of ours healthy and green as long as our people live. And when the prophesied hour has come, we will rest, knowing that the greatest song mage of all has returned to our ancestral home. I will never know them, but I know that they will restore the Land of Man to its former glory. But for now... I can rest.

-Elidyr Dadi, First Leader of The Vale

Ean finished reading the passage, and silence fell. The party sat there for a moment, until Ava broke the silence.

"He was talking to you, Iya. They knew, way back then, that we'd come here eventually." The pirate's normally sarcastic voice was filled with something like reverence. "This was your home."

"It was." The elf breathed. "I only wish I had known it during its glory." Iya took the journal from Ean, gazing at the final entry written by their ancestor.

"So that's they got to the clouds? Dragons?" Jack said, eyes wide with amazement. "But... there's none here, is there?"

"Maybe." Gavin said, speaking for the first time in several minutes. "Or perhaps we should go to the peak of the mountain and see what awaits us." Ean looked at the warlock.

"You think so?"

"Whatever is here has been waiting a very long time for you two to arrive." The man said. "I suspect it is here still."

"The Goddess is guiding us." Iya said quietly, rising to her feet. "As she guided them. I can't forgive her for lying, but... I can be thankful for it." The others followed suit, and seized their packs.

"Let's finish this journey." Ean said, and they followed him out of the library. The doors closed behind them, and the seal sparked, as if welcoming its masters back for the first time in centuries.

Finding the concealed passage was not as difficult a task as Ean had envisioned. Another magical seal had been placed over a wall, making it easily detected by the mages in the party. As Iya unlocked the seal, revealing as set of stone stairs that rose into darkness, the elf felt a tremor of unease.

What could be waiting for us up there? He turned his thoughts inward for a moment, seeking out Vincent.

"Can you sense anything?"

"No." The werebear responded solemnly. "Nothing but a presence that has been dormant for a very long time. Whatever it is, it appears to be waiting."

The elf opened his eyes and found the others lined up behind him.

"You two should go first." Nicholas said. "I'll let you get eaten by whatever is up there."

"That's a real comfort." The elf retorted, and began to climb the stairs.

They ascended the steps for what felt like an hour, although Ean supposed it was closer to fifteen minutes. Finally, the elf rounded a corner and stopped dead.

"There's a large room up ahead." He hissed to the others. "I can see light up ahead too. Be careful." And having said so, the elf stepped forward and entered the cavern.

His eyes adjusted quickly to the dim light, which was being provided by what appeared to be several oddly shaped light on the ceiling. They zig-zagged back and forth, creating a web of stone that covered the entire area.

The entire room looked as though it had been carved from the rock itself. Several large pillars formed the supports of the vast area, along with what appeared to be large clumps of colored rocks that decorated the area. Nearby, a wooden platform held the ruins of what had likely been some sort of storeroom. Ean could see a broken table leaning against what would have been the far wall. Behind him, the rest of the party came to a halt as they surveyed this new area.

"What's that against the wall?" Rye whispered, and the elf saw his finger pointing across the cave. Against the back wall was a massive, vaguely rounded shape that rested upon the stone. It was jagged in some places, but smooth in others, and Ean thought he could make out an orangish hue.

"I'll take a look." He said, and took a step forward.

The shape moved, a slight twitch. He stopped. The lump moved again, more pronounced this time. And then, without warning, the shape unfurled with alarming speed, and an earsplitting roar filled the cavern.

"Get back!" Gavin shouted as the ceiling shifted as well, and Ean realized that the odd shaped were not lights, but actual cracks that splintered and began showering rocks down upon them. Light spilled in as they collapsed, blinding them as the howling filled the cavern. The elf flung himself at Iya, placing his body over hers even as the cavern thundered down around them.

The roar ceased, and Ean opened his eyes. The rocks had fallen to the sides, leaving a massive hole in the ceiling that sunlight was streaming through. Wait. Sunlight? After being in the volcano for so long, the sight of the sun was too much to look at, and so he averted his eyes while they adjusted.

"What the-" Rye swore, rising to his feet. "How is there light?"

"We're at the peak." Gavin breathed. "There's nothing except sky above us now." More rocks began to shower down, widening the hole, until there was nothing except blue sky above the group.

"We made it." Jack breathed. But then Ean remembered the shape, and spun just in time to the creature emerge into the light for the first time. His jaw dropped.

The thing was made of a pale orange skin, with streaks of purple running the length of its body. No, not skin. Scales. He heard Emma squeak as the shape emerged fully, and the dragon spread its wings for the first time in decades.

It was a magnificent specimen. Powerful sinews formed four massive, each the thickness of his own body and twice and long. The talons gleamed duly, as the did the two rows of teeth that he could see in the creature's open mouth. The wings were more translucent than the rest of the body, shot through with streaks of red and purple. As they opened to either side, the scale of the beast struck the elf for the first time.

It was huge, not on the scale of humans, but on the scale of buildings. It was easily as tall as a house, even partly crouched, and long enough to fit several carriages end-by-end. The eyes were brown, and shimmered with greater intelligence than he had thought possible.

As the party gazed, transfixed by the sight, the dragon lowered its snout and snarled. Its eyes flicked to Emma and Rye, who were holding their weapons, and it lunged across the the cavern with surprising speed.

Ean stepped in front of the ranger, but Iya was even faster. The monster was feet from them when the elf leapt out, holding up her hand. Astonishingly, the dragon stopped, its snout just a foot from Iya's outstretched hand.

"See? We won't hurt you." She said in a calm, gentle voice. "You must have been stuck in here a long time, huh?" Ean gestured for the others to drop their weapons, and they did as Iya moved closer to touch the nose of the magnificent creature.

Something flickered in the eyes of the dragon, and it did not attack as Iya stroked it gently. Then, quite suddenly, it's tongue flicked out and touched the female elf's cheek. She smiled and turned to the others.

"I think he recognizes me. Or what I am, at least." Ean stepped forward as well, and the dragon allowed him to touch its head gently.

"You're right." He murmured as he looked into the eyes of the dragon. They were softer now, and he could see a series of emotions flicker through the eyes. "You know us, don't you? We're descendants of Elidyr."

At the mention of the name, the dragon's eyes seemed to grow sorrowful.

"How are you-" Gavin asked as he took a hesitant step forward. "You're taming it?"

"Nothing so simple." Ean replied. "He's clearly very smart, but he's been locked in her for who knows how long. He's just jumpy." The others approached now, and the dragon allowed himself to be examined without protest. Ean felt a laugh bubble up within him, and he turned to look at the others in wonder.

"A dragon! A real dragon! This must be how we get to Eredar, just like our ancestors did! We can ride this dragon all the way over the mountains!" He turned back to their new friend, who gazed into his eyes unflinchingly. "And I bet you know how to do that, hm?"

The dragon retreated, then turned to reveal that his back had what appeared to be a large box attached to it, minus the lid. Straps made of leather and fur held it tightly against the scaled. The saddle, for that's what it was, was easily fifteen feet long, and as wide as the dragon. Past it, a long tail studded with small spikes was twitching idly.

"See? He understands!" Ean moved so that the dragon could see him again. "Can I get in the saddle?" He felt a flicker of approval resonate within his mind, and he laughed again. "And you speak? Now wonder Elidyr loved you so much." If the dragon could have smiled, he swore it would have, and the elf leapt lightly upwards, landing in the saddle without much effort.

"There's a bunch of straps here, too. Must be for passengers, or cargo, or anything." He called, and Gavin grinned.

"This is absurd. You know that, right?"

"Of course I do. Doesn't mean I don't love it!" Ean leapt back to the ground, and the dragon turned to face him again. "Are you the only one left? Of the dragons, I mean?" At this statement, he felt a great sadness press against him, and judging by Iya's face, she had felt it too.

"I'm sorry." She said, touching the dragon's side with her palm. "I know what it is like to lose family." The dragon touched her shoulder with its nose gently, and the elf smiled. "But we need your help. I need to get somewhere only a dragon can fly. Can you help us?"

At this, the dragon knelt so that its head was level with the two elves. Behind them, the rest of party looked on with wide eyes.

As Ean met the two rich eyes, he saw a series of images flash by. An elf that had to be Elidyr, standing in the same cavern, only much less worn. Elidyr, riding a dragon that had to be Silvari. They soared above the clouds, and both were happy. The dragon pressed this image into their minds several times before raising his head.

"He has agreed to carry us." Ean said, and Nicholas stepped forward.

"Then we are in his debt." The others chorused their approval, and the dragon seemed t vibrate with satisfaction. A deep hum emanated from its chest, and it turned to move back across the cavern. It rummaged in the debris for several seconds, before gently extracting an object with its tongue. It laid the item on the ground in front of them, and Ean picked it up.

It was an old, worn scabbard with a blade inside. The grip was made of some odd metal, and the elf unsheathed it slightly. The gleam of sharp steel greeted his eyes, as did the runes carved upon the blade.

The dragon lowered his head again, and impressed another memory upon him. Elidyr, swinging a sword in elegant moves while a dragon watched.

"This was his?" A hum of approval. "I thank you." Turning to the others, he revealed what the dragon had found. "Looks like Elidyr left something of his behind. I think we should take care of it for him." Ava took the blade in her hands, awed at the craftsmanship.

"This is an incredible sword." She murmured. "A shame he left it behind."

"Will you carry it?" Iya asked the pirate, and she looked shocked.

"Me? But why?"

"I agree." Ean said. "You have aided us so much in sailing, and I think it's high time we repay you. Besides, who worthier to wield it?"

"What about Emma?" Ava asked, but the woman shook her head.

"I already have a blade. Take it, Ava. You deserve a sword like that." The pirate looked at the sword for a moment longer, then acquiesced. Belting it over her other weapon, she looked at the two elves.

"Thank you. I will use it with pride." The dragon snorted in approval, and Ean turned back to face it.

"We should be acquainted if we're going to be spending some time together. I'm Ean Okho, and this is Iya Tiki. We're from the Vale." The others followed suit, giving their names and homes, and the dragon's eyes flickered from one person to the next, marking them down. His head bobbed up and down as if to confirm what he had heard, and another memory flashed into Ean's mind.

"Beregond? Is that your name?" A low hum, and the elf smiled as he reached out to touch the dragon's cheek. "I like it."

"Very noble." Emma commented. "A name befitting the last dragon."

"Can he get us out of this volcano?" Jack asked, and Beregond turned to look at the boy. He wore a look that seemed to say: Obviously. He knelt down, allowing access to his forelegs, and in turn, the saddle.

There was a few moments of confusion


as everybody climbed aboard and figured out how to strap themselves down. The bags were secured similarly, with a harness system threaded through the base of the saddle.

"Are these still okay?" Ava asked, and Ean shrugged.

"Don't know. Guess we'll find out." His answer made Emma turn pale, and Iya tapped him with her staff.

"Don't tease them." She turned to Jack and Emma, both of whom looked the most worried. Nicholas seemed oddly stoic, while Gavin and Rye were exchanging nervous looks. Aside from the two elves, Ava seemed the most at ease on the saddle, or perhaps she was hiding her fear well. "Beregond won't let you fall, right?" The dragon snorted as he moved forward into the middle of the cavern, gazing up at the blue sky.

Then, with a mighty leap, the dragon flung himself into the air, beating his wings furiously. They shot upwards, and Ean let out a whoop of delight. He felt at home on the dragon's back, as though he had done it many times before. He glanced at Iya to see her eyes sparkling as they climbed out of the volcano and into the open sky.

It felt as though they were at the peak of the world. The clouds themselves were below them, and he thought he could see the ocean through the gaps between them. Already, the entrance to the cavern seemed miles away. Lava flowed smoothly down the side of the mountain, and disappeared into the mists. It was the most incredible view Ean had ever seen, and for a moment, it felt as though he were home. Far above him, somewhere within the sky, his family waited for him.

I will return. I promise you, Elidyr. We'll make things right again.

Beregond ceased climbing, and Ean stroked the small patch of scales he could reach.

"Can you take us down? Our ship is in the cove." He felt the dragon assent, and the saddle began to tilt downwards.

"This is insane!" He heard Gavin shout as gravity took hold of them once more, and the dragon shot downwards into the clouds below.

Someone screamed, and he yelled with delight again as they plunged headlong into the mists. It was shockingly cold, and Iya yelped as the water hit her skin. Then they were through, and he saw the ocean stretched out in every direction away from the volcano. They plummeted past the fiery rock until Beregond stretched his wings out once more, slowing their dive into a glide.

"Well, the straps work at least." He said to Iya. He knew he was grinning, and she rolled her eyes.

"You are so crazy."

"Come on, tell me that wasn't fun." He teased, and his mate smiled.

"Maybe in small doses. My hear nearly leapt out of my skin." They were still high above the ocean as Beregond began to circle the volcano, soaring ever downwards. Ean twisted to see the others, who looked as though they had come within an inch of death.

"Are you okay?" He called, and they nodded. Emma had both hands clenched tightly around Rye's arm, and he laughed at the sight. "He's just tired of being cooped up. He won't do it again."

"I hope not." Jack said, his eyes wide with a mixture of horror and delight. "Still, this is amazing." Gavin looked similarly awestruck, while Rye and Ava looked as though they couldn't say anything at all. Nicholas was gazing at the volcano, a pensive look on his face.

It took several minutes to descend close enough to the ocean for Ean to spot the ship.

"There she is!" He called, and Ava peered down at the water.

"That's her, but why'd they leave the cove?" As they drew nearer, Ean saw that the entrance to the port had collapsed. It appeared as though the shaking of the mountain had forewarned the crew, and they'd escaped before the rocks came crashing down. He heard shouts of fear as the crew spotted the massive figure descending from the sky.

"Take us as close as you can." He called to Beregond, who gave a snort of assent. Ean unbuckled his straps and stood, moving to the edge of the saddle.

"I'll go warn them." The elf said, and dove off the edge of the dragon. As he did, there was a flash of red light, and a griffin shot towards the boat below.

As the elf approached the deck, he transformed once more, and landed upon the wooden planks with a thud. Two of the crewmembers stood there, wielding spears, but they relaxed upon the sight of the disheveled elf.

"It's okay!" He called to the crew. "We found a new friend!" As Beregond touched down smoothly into the water, Ava stood and waved to her crew. They responded enthusiastically at the return of their caption as the dragon moved closer to the ship, allowing other others to hop on board.

"Captain!" One of them cried. "What's happened? And what in the name of the Goddess is that?" Ean grinned at them.

"It's a really long story."