117
BATTLE
118
1
An hour before sunrise the next morning Valotin and his forces came out of the thermals and
spiraled down towards Dragons Hill. The large dragon felt it prudent to arrive in the dark so
as to not warn the enemy of their presence. As they spiraled down large birds could be seen
taking off from the dragon’s backs and swooping down towards the mesa. Adam stood off to
one side near a petrified tree and the large Himalayan Harpies gathered about him. Jake,
Queenie, and Rah awaited Valotin on the large second mesa that had previously been made for
them.
Hail mighty Valotin, Fourth of the Ancients, welcome to Dragons Hill. Jake called in proper dragon etiquette, greeting him. Your forces are most welcome at this time. Hail Lady Valeria, my
Queen is most happy you have come.
Hail Jake, First of all the Ancients; we are honored to be of service, answered Valotin in true dragon form.
James and Elizabeth dismounted, paid their respects to Jake and then were greeted warmly by
Daniel and Kate. All of Valotin’s riders dismounted and after proper greetings to Jake, they
joined their leader, James. Daniel greeted each one, calling them by name.
Kate spotted Vail and Lady Amanda among the crowd and went over to them.
“Amanda,” she said hugging her, “Vail, it’s so good to see you. I see your leg has completely
healed. You both look wonderful and happy.”
“We are Kate,” answered Vail smiling. Reaching out he pulled another couple over, “Kate, I’d
like to introduce Seth and Lady Hannah.”
Having already heard all about Seth, and the part he played in destroying NaTas, she greeted
them both warmly. “Welcome to Dragons Hill, I hope you both enjoy your stay with us.”
Daniel called them all together, “Riders, come,” he said waving them all to follow. “We will all go below for a belated breakfast and I will fill you all in on what has happened here.” They
gathered together and headed below talking among themselves.
Up above Valotin and Jake were conferring on battle plans. Jake filled Valotin in on the latest
information they had received from the woman called Miranda.
So this devil means to take us out in the old way, he commented. He will find it an impossible task
as we have all been faced with it before.
Jake grunted, If the Harpies can find the location of these devices, as Adam has promised, he said, then the threat will be removed.
119
They are formidable allies Jake, replied Valotin. In the final battle with NaTas’s forces they
actually attacked one of his dragons en masse, and took it down.
I did not think that would be possible, said a surprised Jake.
They will accomplish this task easily; chuckled Valotin at Jake’s response, those vultures have
never faced an adversary like them.
Excellent Valotin, Jake answered, it must be accomplished quickly.
Jake stared at Valotin for a long moment and then said, between the two of us my brother; I
believe that this creature has another plan in mind. I am certain that all this is mere window
dressing to keep us occupied while he puts in play his true plan. He knows that he cannot defeat
us in battle; I believe that he has other designs. Think Valotin, what sure way is there to defeat us,
if not in battle.
Valotin thought for a bit and as the truth slowly dawned on him, he blurted out, No! He
wouldn’t dare!
Yes, I believe he would. Jake shifted his large body and continued. I ask a favor my brother; I
wish to send all the women and children to Dragon’s Bay for safety’s sake - especially Kate. I
know they will be safe there in the care of your dragons and riders.
Of course Jake, Valotin answered with concern. I will see to it immediately, they will be on their
way by noon.
I thank you my friend, said Jake nodding his head to Valotin, and the sooner they are safely
secured the better. Best not make too big a show of it when they leave.
Essex will look to them and keep them safe, Valotin proudly said, and Vail will keep them from
worrying about the battle. The Shaman will put his people to watch over the children, they will be
fine.
Jake felt better knowing that Essex and Vail would be watching over Kate and the other
women and children.
We must send out your spies throughout the camp. They must use their skills to spot this Dixon
and his cohorts before they do any damage. Now do you understand why I insisted Daniel ride me
into battle?
Valotin shook his large head; this human, this…Dixon- he is truly lost, mad beyond reason.
120
Down in the Great Hall Daniel was filling the newly arrived Riders in on all that had taken
place, beginning with Lady Victoria’s abduction. He introduced Joe to them and explained
that his town was being used to train Jake’s Army. He relayed their battle plans and informed
them of Adam’s plans for the Harpies.
Vail stood and excused himself saying, “Terribly sorry ole boy, but Jake and Valotin are calling
me to the top.”
Vail and Essex received their orders from Jake and Valotin. Essex promised to keep a watchful
eye out for any intruders. Understanding Jake and Valotin’s concerns, Vail offered to leave in
a quiet manner, so as not to attract any attention. One dragon at a time would leave the mesa
in 15 to 20 minute intervals.
Daniel had already been informed of Jake’ plans for Vail and Essex and he was secretly glad
that Kate would not be here for the battle as he fared she would be a prime target. He had had
a terrible time convincing her to go to Dragons Bay, and after several hours of arguing she had
finally relented and agreed to go. It was one of the few times they had ever argued since their
joining.
Kate realized that Jake was only thinking of her welfare; but that didn’t mean that she
wouldn’t worry about Daniel and Jake while the battle waged. Daniel had placated her with
the picture of her lying on a sandy beach ‘soaking up some rays’, and little Billy playing in the sand with the other children. She agreed only after considering that Billy could also be a target of this madman.
Lady Elizabeth and Lady Amanda were thrilled that the children would be at Dragons Bay for
a visit. They would be well protected and both knew that the Shaman would deem it an honor
from Jake that he would entrust the Lady Kate to his protection.
Daniel helped Kate with their luggage and also informed her that Lady Sally was bringing
Oreo and Tabs along. The sun and salt water would be good for Tabs bones; he had never
really healed well after the great battle and the warm sand would be welcomed. Kate was
packed and ready to go. She didn’t like the idea of being parted from Daniel for so long.
“Please Daniel, don’t take any risks; I want you back, alive.”
“I have Jake in my corner Kate, I’ll be just fine. Don’t worry woman, keep Billy happy and
enjoy yourself,” Daniel told her half-heartedly.
He looked at her and marveled at her beauty. Right now she was lovelier than he could ever
remember. He kissed her and his son and hugged them tightly.
“Squeeze Daddy,” laughed Billy. “Don’t worry Mommy will be safe with me.”
121
Daniel laughed at his young son and the serious tone to his voice, “I trust her to your care and
protection my young knight.”
Earlier Kate had gone to Jake and asked him to keep Daniel safe. For the first time she was
really scared. Just the fact that Jake was removing her from the battle told her how serious the situation was and she worried about the both of them.
Please Jake, let me stay and fight with you. Kate pleaded to her friend; you know I am not afraid,
I feel like I am running away.
You are my rider and my friend my Lady, Jake told her; this creature means to kill you in order to
get to me. I cannot do what I must if I have to worry about you. You must go with the other women
and be safe.
In the end Kate relented and agreed with Jake, she must go. She and Daniel and Billy reported
to the mesa. Lady Ashley joined Kate and they mounted Queenie, who was sitting beside Lady
Elizabeth and her dragon, Lady Valeria. Little Billy was very excited and clung to his mother
as they seated themselves.
As they took off Kate looked below at Daniel and Jake, she waved and blew them a kiss.
“Be safe my loves,” she whispered.
122
2
Daniel went to the Riders Hall with the rest of the Riders. Jake looked at him and understood
his feelings immediately; his Queen had also left with the women. He loved Kate in a way that
Daniel could not; but he also loved his Queen.
Which of the women stayed behind Daniel?
Lady Beth insisted on staying, Jerry couldn’t get her to agree to go. Daniel continued, Lady
Victoria wouldn’t leave Joe, she said he came for her, and she would be there for him. But we
managed to convince the rest of them to go.
Good Daniel, it is less for us to worry about. Jake turned his large head towards the opening and listened, Ah, Daowyn has landed. Joe, Victoria and Stuart came into the Riders Hall, Daowyn was right behind them.
Jake began the briefing; Adam has reported that his Harpies were successful. The devices Dixon
created are large crossbows. He plans on taking down a few of us, this will not happen. Rah, I
want you and Lady Jennie to destroy these weapons; we now know their locations and the Harpies
will direct you to them.
Daniel picked up the briefing, Elliott, Lady Dee, Lee Chin; we have need of your special talents. I
would like you to go below and mingle with the townspeople. We are sure that Dixon has made his
move by now. He is sure to be below with the various people we have here from the surrounding
towns. Sam is the only one who knows what you are up to; so if you get any feelings let him know
immediately.
All three nodded and bowed slightly to Jake and left the Hall. They immediately went to a cave
that had been prepared for them and changed into clothing more apropos to a poor townsman.
They entered the Great Hall where most of the people were one at a time and began to mingle
with the various groups of frightened people.
Joe, are your people ready? Daniel asked already knowing the answer.
Joe smiled, we’re as ready as we’re ever gonna be Daniel; Jake’s Army is itching for a fight. At the mention of that Jake lowered his head to Joe. That’s what they call themselves Jake, their
own choosing, Joe said with a shrug of his shoulders. The large dragons behind Jake chuckled.
Good, they are going to get one. The harpies spied a large force headed your way; they should be
there within the week. Daniel informed them. I believe they will try to out flank you by sending a
small force to your rear to pick off your leaders. Joe, you will appreciate this next bit of news.
Jake chuckled loudly and all turned to him, it seems that your furry friend had taken matters into
her own hands, Joe. She and several of her friends will cover your backs. There will be no
surprise attack from the rear.
123
Joe laughed; it seems we have many ‘friends’ in this battle Jake.
Jake turned to Victoria and continued.
And Lady Victoria, your friend Duke has been just as busy. He made contact with several packs of
wolves and they have agreed to join the battle as well. When the devils pass thru the forest they
will be met by a welcoming committee they will soon not forget. My dragons will fly above and
give cover as best they can when the monsters attack.
Now we wait, said Joe solemnly. I will return to Evansville and make the necessary preparations
and fill my people in on what to expect.
Lady Victoria, Jake said turning to her, will you do me a favor and stay here at Dragons Hill? I
have a special task for you.
Taken off balance, Victoria answered, Sure Jake, anything I can do.
She followed Joe out to say goodbye, commenting that she had no idea what Jake wanted. Joe
was grateful; he worried about her being injured in the coming fight.
“You just be careful Joe. Stuart,” she said turning to the large man and giving him a hug,
“don’t let him take any chances.”
“Don’t you worry Ms Victoria, I’ll look out for him; been doing it for years,” she was lost in his massive arms as he hugged her back.
Then she and Joe faced each other. Staring into each other’s eyes Joe took her hand in his and
held it to his heart. They kissed long and passionately and then hugged each other for a long
extended moment. Just as Stuart was getting uncomfortable, they released each other. Joe
gently caressed the side of her face then turned and mounted Daowyn. They were off in a
matter of seconds. Vicky watched till she couldn’t see them anymore, and then she went back
into the Riders Hall to Jake’s side.
The large dragon looked down at her with love and understanding; he will be fine Lady
Victoria, I promise you. Now, I have a request to make of you, one which could prove to be very
dangerous.
Ask away Jake, Vicky quickly answered,