Sky Raiders: Book Ii

© 2015 Kenneth Stephenson. All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means without the written permission of the author.

Published by AuthorHouse 08/18/2015

ISBN: 978-1-5049-2446-7 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-5049-3219-6 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-5049-2447-4 (e)

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models,

and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1

THE FALL OF TERRAT

N ow the thousand years of peace Idos had promised his people were at an end and all the gods Idos had created took council with him in his home in the stars. Here, they all took the form of men and women while in council but Idos forbade them to do likewise away from his house. This was one of the laws Idos had given them all. No god could take council with men beyond the edicts of Idos himself. Each of the gods had a fondness for mankind knowing they were the focus of his plan but none of them loved mankind more than Terrat the god of the earth. His heart ached passionately for the men Idos had destroyed in the conflict between his chosen people from the Island and the men from the Kingdom of Messiria. All the gods were distraught by their destruction but Terrat was moved to anger with Idos and confronted him boldly.

See now these men you have destroyed were our children also and my tears for them weigh heavily on my heart so that I cannot bear it. Terrat exclaimed passionately. These men grew powerful in the earth outside the paradise we created for the Sons and Daughters of the Great Father. Their struggle was difficult beyond that of your chosen people. They had to overcome the sparse resources and vastness of the earth but they would have overcome even your chosen people save you intervened on their behalf. But you had no pity on them because they chose to worship gods of their own imagination. Terrat continued and his anger grew fierce as he came to his feet to accuse Idos to his face. Did you not perceive that this would be the natural course they would choose being separated by many generations from the truth of your existence? As free men capable of coming to their own conclusions, I tell you now some of them have chosen to worship me and credit all of creation to my hand. Terrat concluded and his indignation showed in his face.

Now Idos rose to his feet to face Terrat but he was not angry with him for he knew what Terrat did not understand because he had not revealed it to him. And how do the men of this age know you name and revere it above mine? Idos sighed heavily and looked to the others in counsel with him. None of you shall execute your will with men apart from that which we agree upon in this counsel. Idos charged them and turned again to face Terrat. Take care in your words to me Terrat and the tone in which you chose to take council with me. Idos rebuked him calmly without resentment. Where were you when I formulated the plan for my domain and brought the seeds of man from beyond the stars? What wisdom do you possess that I have not granted to you. Do you not know that the power of life and death is in my hands only? Idos said and he turned his gaze to hold out his hand to Astral, the goddess of the stars. Astral holds in her house The book of life. In this book is each man and woman’s name with the record of their deeds in the earth. Take heart for I will tell you now that these men you mourn for have not perished. They sleep in the earth and the seas awaiting the fruition for my plan for all of them. In the last season I will resurrect them all. Idos revealed to them as he turned back to Terrat. You have served me faithfully in this first season. I am well pleased with all you have accomplished but there are yet six seasons in my plan for my creation and I warn you now. I will see the fulfillment of my desires for it in your presence or your absence." Idos said sternly and gestured to Terrat to take his seat again.

Terrat’s heart was wounded by the rebuke of Idos and he looked to the rest of the council for comfort but only scorn was on all their faces save Lumirus. Her heart was torn between her love for Idos and her pity for Terrat. He took his seat and sat in silence to hear Idos speak.

Was my spirit and my truth not in the eyes and ears of every man that sprang forth from the seeds Orig spread over the whole earth? It is I and I alone that have created the perfect kingdom for them all. This time in these seasons brings growth and understanding to them and you also. Judge now, who is worthy to rule for this is how it shall be for all time. There are things that are a mystery to them and you also until the season that I have chosen to reveal it. It is in each man’s hand, and in yours also to chose who is worthy to rule this kingdom. Some will choose false gods and others will seek this position for themselves. This is my only question to them and you also. The glory shall be mine and mine alone but do not become faint of heart. You too shall find gratification beyond what you can imagine for yourself. This also is true for my people in the fulfillment of my purpose for this domain. In the final season, all will be revealed and all will be resurrected for my kingdom is eternal as is all I have created. Chose carefully your course for in the seventh season, some will be resurrected to pay the price for their transgressions in my prison. Stay faithful for you know my love for you all and my children also is everlasting and I would not see you suffer unjustly. Go now to your own house and contemplate the wisdom of my words and set your heart to what course you deem desirable for you. Idos concluded and the seven gods that Idos had created departed unto their own homes. Now Idos was left alone at his own house and he wept for he knew already what course Terrat would choose.

All were convinced that Idos was faultless save Terrat. He felt offended and no longer considered the plan Idos had for his kingdom perfect. His heart went out to the men beyond the island paradise and he considered them more worthy because of the hardships they had overcome. So Terrat set his heart to take the domain of Idos from him. He plotted a way he might accomplish his task in secret. He knew Idos was too powerful to confront directly and held to secrets of wisdom yet unrevealed to him. Now Terrat knew all the gods were loyal to Idos because he took council with them secretly to search their hearts for an ally in his purpose. Only in Lumirus did he find a sympathetic ear.

Lumirus, the goddess of the moon, had deep affection for Terrat and he spent much time with her in her home and she also in his. Terrat was cunning and he used Lumirus’s infatuation with him to his advantage. In time, he seduced her to transform into the form of a woman and he transformed into that of a man and Terrat made love to her. They did so on the dark side of the moon away from the eyes of the other gods for Idos had forbade them this pleasure. Now Lumirus found the experience extremely enjoyable and she could not refuse Terrat when he came to her. Lumirus went also into the house of Terrat deep in the earth to share the intimate pleasure they had found together and over time Terrat secured in her a reluctant ally to his deception.

Lumirus would not struggle against Idos. Her love and respect for her creator was too strong but she agreed with Terrat to keep this one secret from him. The forbidden embrace was indeed powerful as was Lumirus’s desire for Terrat and she soon pursued him aggressively to share the illicit intimacy with him. Then one secret became two and two became three until they shared a multitude of intimate secrets together. As time passed, Terrat moved to begin his corruption of all creation and darkness became a safe place for Terrat to work.

He went about his labors as night fell over the earth and corrupted the seeds of the beasts on the land and in the sea and in the air, stopping only when the light of Ratton crested the horizon. He knew Ratton the god of the sun would reveal his progress to Idos. Astral was too far away in her labor in the stars to serve the purpose of Idos to see what Terrat was doing and the other gods labored primarily in the light of Ratton. Lumirus did not betray him for she feared the wrath of Idos and her desire for Terrat was intense. When Lumirus questioned or opposed any of Terrat’s actions; he would remind her she was as guilty as he and deny her the intimate embrace. It was Lumirus’s desire for Terrat and her fear of Idos’s wrath that bought him her silence.

Terrat grew clever and his subversion of the seeds of Orig grew mightily in their number and their stature but the seed of mankind eluded him. Terrat labored below the earth and built for himself a network of caves even unto all the seven continents on the earth. He avoided the island paradise of the chosen of Idos for fear they would reveal his labors in their prayers to Idos for they alone remained faithful and prayed daily. Terrat hid his purpose in the caves even from Lumirus and took the form of a man again and called to the daughters of mankind when they ventured close to an entrance to one of the caves. Over time he took for himself seven wives granting them great power in the earth but warning them all not to reveal themselves as his wives in the light of day. Terrat held in his power the secret of time and he used it on his offspring so that years became as months and months became as days and days became as minutes unto them but there was a price to pay for his haste with them. Their intellect could not keep pace with their physical maturation.

Now the children of Terrat that his wives bore him took many forms and some were exceedingly strong and tall and grew into giants in the earth. Terrat kept them hidden in the caves warning them also not to reveal themselves in the light of day. No matter what form Terrat’s children took, they did not flatter the image of mankind. Terrat soon realized mankind would always find the sight of them repulsive so he gave a select order of his offspring the power to transform their image into the likeness of mankind as Idos had created them. Again, he found there was a price for their transformation and all those who made the transformation grew weak quickly and soon withered and died. One of Terrat’s children discovered, on his own, that if he drank the blood of a man whom Idos had created, he was sustained for a time and Terrat was very pleased with him and called him from that day Corsair.

In the course of time Lumirus discovered the children of Terrat first and her jealousy burned in her heart against the seven wives of Terrat for it was not possible for her to bear him children as they did. Her heart ached seeing the children of Terrat and she pleaded with him not to share the intimate pleasure with any more of the daughters of mankind but Terrat refused her. Lumirus was devastated and retired to her own house regretting the choices she had made and wept because of Terrat’s refusal. She knew Terrat was dissatisfied with all his children and she reasoned if she could only bear him a child he would repent from his current purpose and return to her only. So Lumirus sought council with the only one she knew that could provide a remedy to her situation and flew to the house of Idos.

Lumirus fell at the feet of Idos and wept intensely as she made her confession to him. I have committed acts counter to your purpose and also unto your creation. My desire was for Terrat and myself and I have succumb to his temptation and lay with him in the manner you forbade to us but my transgression against you did not end there. I bear witness now to his strife against you and all your creation and remained silent because of my yearning for him. Even now, Terrat seduces the daughters of men. They bear children with him and my jealousy burns now until I cannot abide with it. I beg you now, put enmity between his seed and theirs and grant me also that I may bear him a child and restore his desire only unto me. Lumirus pleaded with him. Idos was devastated by the depth of Terrat’s deception and fell on his knees with her and wept also for a time. Then Idos rose to his feet and kissed her cheek and her forehead before he called mightily to all the gods of his council summoning them to his house.

The moon eclipsed the sun and the light of Ratton did not shine on the earth as the council met. Terrat was unaware of the confession Lumirus had made to Idos and sat patiently waiting to hear what Idos would say. I am undone with grief for you. My ears have heard this day that one of you has chosen a path to make himself my adversary. Idos said softly staring at Terrat intensely. What cause did I give you Terrat that you would chose this path for yourself and seduce my precious creations to strive against me? Idos asked and all present could see the pain in his features and were aghast at his accusation. Terrat looked to Lumirus who wept on her throne and knew instantly that she had betrayed him to Idos. Urgently, he surveyed the faces of the other members of the council and he found only scorn and disbelief among them. Your treatment of all who did not find their birth on your island paradise is unfair and a bitter disappointment. Terrat replied indignantly standing to face Idos. If they had suffered as my people have, they would not embrace you as god either. Terrat added and the council gasped at his boldness and disrespect. "Your people? You claim that which was never meant for you Terrat and my heart is heavy for you and your company. I beg you now repent of this transgression against me and my creation and I will restrain my wrath toward you and all that support you." Idos whispered angrily but Terrat’s success on the earth had only strengthened his resolve and he felt certain he would find more allies in the council if he stood against Idos now.

Quickly he transformed into a large black dragon and grabbed Idos in his talons to crush him. The rest of the council fell back off their thrones in disbelief. In an instant, and before Terrat could respond, Idos also transformed into an immense golden dragon and escaped the grasp of Terrat and turned to face him. Terrat issued a ferocious stream of fire at Idos and glanced at Lumirus for support but she cowered behind her throne fearful of the wrath of Idos. Terrat flew at Idos in a rage of fury and attacked him with tremendous energy and they rolled across the ground. Idos threw him off easily and stood again to face him again. Terrat realized that he could not defeat Idos alone and looked to the other members of the council. He blew another great blast of fire at Idos and called mightily to the other members of the council. Do you not see now that we can throw off the restraints that bind us and claim this domain for our own purpose and pleasure? Terrat shouted and he smiled when he saw Ratton and Astral both transform into immense dragons and move to his side. Again he spread his wings and made ready to attack Idos but Ratton and Astral both grabbed him and wrestled him back to the ground standing on his chest.

Terrat blew fire at them but it was to no avail and he soon ceased to struggle against them looking to Idos angrily. KILL ME THEN! For I will not suffer another six thousand years under your thumb! I reject you and your plan for us all! Terrat concluded and transformed back into the image of a man. Idos also transformed back to the image of a man and in his right hand were chains. So you have chosen. Bind him. Idos ordered handing Orig the chains and Orig and Atmon did as Idos commanded quickly.

You are correct Terrat. The power of life and death is in my hands only! Idos shouted as he paced in front of him angrily. You are fools! Terrat shouted to the other gods as they placed the chains on his feet and hands. There is much that he keeps secret from you that would fill your being with intense pleasure. Just ask Lumirus if what I speak is not true. All you need do is join with me as equals for I would not rule over you as Idos does. Terrat chastised them pleading his case. Speak no more of this Terrat for your wisdom falls on deaf ears and your failure is complete. Ratton scolded him and Idos fell on his knees in front of Terrat. His eyes were full of remorse as he drew his sword. Terrat…, what is this evil that you embrace so fervently? Why is my love for you and the position I have given unto you suddenly not sufficient to satisfy you? Do you truly prefer death to serving me? Idos questioned him. Now Lumirus ran quickly and laid her body between Idos and Terrat seeing Idos prepared to kill him and she cried out. I beg of you. Do not extinguish the flame of life in Terrat. His hand is against you now but have pity on him and me also that one day we may find redemption in your eyes. Lumirus pleaded and kissed the feet of Idos as he stood over them.

Idos returned his sword to his belt. "The power of death is in my hand but it is not in my heart for either of you. Idos replied and walked some distance from them. He turned and facing them held out his arms to them. A soft blue light surged from Terrat and Lumirus into the palms of Idos. All who observed saw the energy that he pulled from Terrat and Lumirus forcefully. It flowed from them into the hands of Idos as a stream of intense blue and white light. My light and my wisdom no longer abide with you Terrat and you shall not take council with us ever again. I shall return you to your home in the earth and it shall be from this day forward as a prison to you. You and all you have created will not perish for my promise is eternal but you and your company will find discomfort in the light of day. The rays of the sun shall smite you and all your company. The world shall judge whether it is your wisdom or mine that holds righteousness to rule over this kingdom. Darkness shall be your domain for you have chosen to make me your adversary and I will grant you this desire. The scent of everything you create will be an abomination in the nose of my sword so that you may not hide from him even in the darkness. I shall never rise up personally to contest with you or your company nor shall any other god unless you present yourself in person to contest with the men of earth. You may have success if your wisdom exceeds mine in the hearts of men. " Idos said and turned to Lumirus.

I have heard your pleas to me and see now the repentance in your heart is genuine. I will not remove you from your position nor will I refuse you council with me because you have repented truthfully. Your love for Terrat does not escape my eyes but neither has the iniquity you have shared with him against my command to you. I place his fate in your hand also that Terrat may find redemption through your love for him. I shall grant the desire of your heart with him and you shall learn for yourself the pain that will accompany bearing children unto him. I will not suffer your children’s presence in my house or anything else Terrat creates but they shall be called Dark Angels and have my eternal promise also. They will be judged by their conduct so bid them choose carefully whether they follow their father or me. Idos commanded and spoke softly again looking intensely at Terrat.

"I warned you Terrat that my purpose for my creation would come to fruition as I desire in your presence or in your absence. You shall bear witness painfully now that I am worthy of this glory. You will learn in agony now, there is nothing in my domain that exists save my hand was not on it. Even unto time itself for by my hand each second’s duration is determined and by my hand they accumulate into a minute and the minutes into hours and the hours into days as I desire. Idos stated and turned his back to him and stepped away. I give now into your hand the keys to my prison in the dark dimension. Summon all those who would hear your voice and follow you into it for they shall be your only advisors unto the last season should you contest with me to the end. Idos concluded and he threw over his shoulder a single iron key on a chain and it fell at the feet of Terrat. You can release no one from my prison save those I declare have finished their sentence but you may gather whomever will accompany you into it and you alone may move freely between these two realms. He said and Terrat picked up the key confused by what Idos meant. Now Idos turned and faced all the members of his council and they all saw his tears. In this hour, I place the power of death in each of your hands so that you may cause any living creature on the earth to sleep until the last season if it suits your purpose but the power of eternal death is in my hands only. You shall not smite Terrat in this manner nor shall he smite any of you. Consider carefully how you will exercise this power in my creation." Idos said as he departed from them to another chamber in his house.

So Atmon and Orig escorted Terrat back to the entrance to his cave in the earth before they took off his chains. Terrat turned to them still full of anger and he spoke. So you too will follow blindly and not take council with me in my home? Terrat pleaded and they shook their heads. What council would I share with one who has chosen to be adversary to my creator? Repent Terrat and we shall take your plea to Idos so that he may judge and forgive you quickly. Orig stated and Terrat’s face burned red. "I will not. If you cowards had but joined me, we would be in possession of this domain to do as we deem fit. You give undue credit to Idos and you shall bear witness to it as I take from him all he possesses piece by piece. When you have had your fill of this tyrant, seek me out and I will be your advocate to remove the chains that bind you to him." Terrat exclaimed but they turned and departed unto their own houses.

Now Lumirus returned to her own home also to contemplate all that had transpired and Idos had said. She knew that Terrat was angry with her for betraying him to Idos but her love for him was strong and burned in her chest with worry for his well being. All the other gods came to her home to comfort her and take council with her individually regarding her circumstances but she would not be consoled. Atmon was last to visit her.

Is the iniquity you shared with Terrat so overwhelming that you cannot reason justly as to why Idos forbade it to you? Atmon asked her but she rebuked him for she grew tired of being chastised by the other gods. It is no longer forbidden between us as you witnessed. Idos himself granted it to me and him also but this is not what draws me to him. Lumirus replied uneasily. I know the heart of Terrat. His mind is focused on revenge against Idos for his rejection and his rebuke but there is still a glimmer of hope that I can draw him back to us. Idos saw this and that is why he encourages me to continue to pursue Terrat’s redemption. Lumirus stated and Atmon frowned at her. You know my love for you is as a brother to a sister and I beg you now. If you return to take council with Terrat, do not revisit the pleasure you shared with him previously. I fear it will result in disaster for all concerned. Atmon warned her. Lumirus sighed heavily considering Atmon’s council. Idos warned me. Bearing his children would bring pain to my circumstances so I do not consider it wise to feed my desire for him in this manner again. I will wait a few days to let his anger with me dissolve and then I will go to him to console him and build a bridge between him and Idos. Lumirus said before Atmon finished his time with her and departed to his own house.

So Lumirus waited seven days for Terrat’s temper to cool before she ventured to the earth and sought him out in the caves. Now Terrat was cunning and devious and he knew Lumirus’s heart and her desire for him. He had not ceased his cohabitation with his other wives even though they no longer bear him children. He worked diligently though fruitlessly to increase the number of his offspring. Now when Lumirus came he set his countenance to deceive her. He knew the Dark Angels would be a valuable asset in his struggle with Idos but he also knew he would have to trick Lumirus into bearing them. He did not seduce her on her first visit or even the second or third but rather worked his charm on her pretending to be distraught and at a loss to choose what path to take for his future. He cried frequently in her presence expressing the loneliness he felt being rejected by Idos and the council. He thanked her for her concern at his well being but he also expressed utter depression seeing no remedy for his circumstance. He played her patiently keeping all his other activities a secret from her. It was not until her seventh visit to his home that he set his mind to seduce her again.

When she came to him he had already taken the form of a man as before and he waited for her. He was sitting in the darkness and weeping softly as she entered. What troubles you Terrat and why do you take this form today. Lumirus asked him and he turned his gaze to her looking deep into her eyes. You see all these children I have fathered with the daughters of men and they are an abomination to all creation and to me also. He said standing to look over the balcony from his castle in the cave. The torches lit the cavern where a waterfall fell into the pool on one side of the huge cave. He turned to Lumirus and tore the shirt covering his chest as he cried out. This is the form Idos loves most in his kingdom and all my efforts fall miserably short. They are a constant reminder to me of how I failed to please him and you also. Terrat wept heavily and collapsed on his couch. It would have been better for us all if he had killed me for my loneliness consumes me even now. Terrat cried and Lumirus transformed also into her form as a woman and sank to the couch with Terrat to console him. Do not speak of this, for you know I could not bear the thought of it for you or my own existence without you. Lumirus sighed and she wept with him stroking his long dark hair. It is hopeless for me. I am doomed to languish without seeing the sun again in these caves. I have no excuse for it has transpired because of my own arrogance. Terrat said and wept on her shoulder. There is forgiveness in the heart of Idos for you also. Why do you not summon him and fall on his mercy. Lumirus asked and he turned his gaze to her again and their eyes met. "As certain as I am that your words have wisdom, I am also certain that Idos has a number of years in his head that I must suffer in this prison of my own design before my transgressions are paid in full. Did he not command that I would never take council with him again and the earth would be my prison until the final season? It would serve no purpose now for me to fall at his feet even though I long to cease our conflict. Terrat whispered and he kissed her neck softly. I fear I will find no comfort save that which you bring to me so tenderly for many years yet to come. I wish I had never taken the daughters of men as wives and clung only to you as you desired. Maybe he would have forgiven me as quickly as he did you and I would not feel such loneliness as I do now. Terrat whispered and he laid his head on her breast. I will speak to Idos for you and be your advocate. Lumirus whispered and Terrat pulled her lips to his and kissed her passionately. You are my salvation and my only comfort Lumirus and my love for you is eternal. Terrat whispered and kissed her again with even more passion and his hands moved to embrace her intimately. Lumirus surrendered to his kiss but Atmon’s warning was in her ear. Please do not tempt me to revisit this pleasure with you for I am fearful now of its consequence. Lumirus whispered as Terrat urged her relentlessly caressing her. Idos spoke of the pain we would find if we bore children together but he did not forbid it to us. Terrat whispered. I know in my heart that our child would be beautiful for all that you touch reflects the beauty that is in you. Terrat whispered and he touched her in the way he remembered that melted resistance from her mind. Terrat please…, I am frightened. Lumirus whimpered but her body surrendered to him as the intensity of their embrace escalated. Is there not pain in the rearing of any child? I have suffered and continue to do so but I will suffer gladly in the fulfillment of your desire and mine to share a child. Terrat whispered urgently as he pushed the gown from her shoulders. I beg you Lumirus. Have pity on me and let us revisit the pleasure of this embrace that you may bear me a son to rebuke my loneliness. You know I love you and I will love you and our child even more for this gift you give me. Terrat sighed and Lumirus ceased her struggle with him staring into his eyes as Terrat pushed the gown from her frame. Grant me a son Lumirus and I will give you my sworn promise to resolve the conflict between myself and Idos and our son will be a witness and a companion in this task. Terrat whispered as he moved slowly to complete the intimate embrace with her. Lumirus found no strength to resist him. Her passion grew quickly overcoming her fear until soon they were entwined in the erotic embrace and Lumirus found intense pleasure in sharing it with Terrat even beyond what they had felt before.

From that day forward, whenever Lumirus came to Terrat she found no desire to resist him and they took pleasure together in his house at every occasion. Soon Lumirus bore him a girl child and though she was beautiful; Terrat urged Lumirus to continue expressing his desire for a son. Lumirus bore him seven children that were indeed beautiful, black as the night, having the likeness of mankind but also bearing wings so they flew. Three daughters and four sons Lumirus bore Terrat and they grew quickly as Terrat’s other children had but their intellect kept pace with their physical maturity because their mother was Lumirus.

Now Lumirus was not deceived forever and she perceived, slowly at first, Terrat’s heart and mind were still set to be adversary to Idos. She pleaded with him earnestly at every occasion to find remedy for his circumstance with Idos. Lumirus soon learned the pain that Idos had warned her about. She fought with her own children to reject Terrat’s desire for them to join in his cause against Idos. Lumirus too was torn between her devotion to Idos and her love and desire for Terrat. She strived desperately to share the wisdom of Idos with her children and she became distraught seeing they all had a heart for their father also and some of them heeded Terrat’s reasoning more than hers. For the love of her children, Lumirus drew them all to her home and ceased to visit Terrat even though her desire for him was tremendous. She forbade her children also to visit Terrat and it was horrifically painful to her each time they disobeyed her and there was strife between Lumirus and Terrat and all their children which were called Dark Angels.

CHAPTER 2

TO SAIL THE SEA

N ow it was the first week in the season of Idos and it had been two years since Idos had saved his people from destruction at the hands of the men from Messiria. Sandista had been restored and her wall and her gate were reinforced. The Great Father had ordered all the prisoners released and banished from the island save one man. It was Ambassador Freeman who they had found in chains in the bottom of the flagship. He alone found favor in the eyes of the Great Father and the supreme council hearing his testimony as how he had been deceived also by Commodore Marantz who was the commander of the fleet that had attacked them. The Great Father gave him a position at the academy in Archemeius and he taught the language of the Messirians and their customs. Prince Patrick, who had survived the destruction of Sandista, took his rightful place as King of Sandista with his bride Willetta. A marble statue of King Jeffrey was erected inside the entrance to the city gate to honor him and the other martyrs from the invasion.

The great father and all the royals were in the city square to celebrate the day of their deliverance as The Day of Idos as ordained by the supreme council. The celebration would rotate from capitol city to capitol city in each year over the course of time. Commander Rebecca was the head of the Sky Raiders who trained in Sandista. It is so good to see Sandista returned to its glory again. Commander Rebecca said smiling at Maj Richard who she had promoted to join her staff. They stood together below the statue. Richard had become much more than an intimate friend to Rebecca but they kept it a secret because she was his superior. Now Richard had been a joker and a scoundrel with women but his devotion to Rebecca was real now. He pressured her to marry him and make legal their circumstance but Rebecca hesitated fearful of what the military council might do if they were discovered. Her love for Richard had grown strong but she knew the law and saw no easy remedy for their circumstance. The law in Sandista was less severe when it came to matters such as these but Rebecca was still concerned with the supreme council. She and Richard were both in the service of the central government from Paternus and so she kept her affair with Richard a secret.

The music from the orchestra echoed across the city and there were a few feathery white clouds in the sky to disperse the rays from the midday sun. A dragon circled overhead and landed atop the castle as they gazed skyward. I have grown so far detached from the messengers in my new duties with the Raiders that I recognize only a scarce few of them. Richard said and turned his eyes back to Commander Rebecca. Have you seen Maj Regina since breakfast? She asked him and he shook his head no. She went to the docks to take council with Admiral Lance regarding the preparation of the fleet. He replied and Rebecca smiled at him again. Will you be my escort to the dining hall to enjoy the midday meal? Rebecca asked and Maj Richard held out his arm. I will…, but I must excuse myself quickly once we finish so that I may check the progress at the new stables. He replied and chuckled. It seems my boss is adamant that they be completed before the sixth day. He jested as Rebecca took his arm to walk with him toward the castle. She smiled also. "It is imperative Major. There are too many dragons and entirely too many squabbles between the Raiders and the messengers to house them all together any longer. Commander Rebecca stated. They walked through the entryway to the dining hall and the large redwood doors. It will be finished as you have directed and I will make sure it meets your requirements." Major Richard replied and they sat down at one of the long tables in the dining hall to order.

There were several large ships in the harbor of Sandista patterned after the ones that had invaded their shores. The engineers had never built a ship of this size before but they learned quickly from the example of the captured ships. Maj Regina brushed her hand over one of the large brass colored cannons as she walked the deck aboard one of the ships. Her long red hair flowed easily over her shoulders for she had no intention of flying today. It would appear you are quite prepared for your voyage. The ships are magnificent and the perch for each dragon and its cage is more than adequate. Major Regina said as she and Admiral Lance departed stepping onto the dock. Yes, all ten ships are fitted as this one and I have sufficient storage for a prolonged journey. Admiral Lance reported. The ships were indeed large having four masts to catch the air. Each ship would carry one dragon and the perch was at the bow of the ship built on top of a cage. If we hurry we can meet Commander Rebecca in the dining hall and I can give her my report. Would you care to be my escort Admiral? Regina smiled and so did Admiral Lance. I believe I have time to share the midday meal with you and would consider it an honor. He replied presenting his arm to her. If I might be so bold, do you have an escort for the dance and the festivities tonight for I would gladly fill that position for you also? He added and Regina smiled graciously but apologetically at him. Unfortunately I do. Major Cameron fills that position having asked me previously but I would relish an embrace with you on the dance floor should I see you there. She said enthusiastically and Admiral Lance laughed. You Sky Raiders are so close. You leave sparse opportunities for another man to enjoy your company. He smiled and Regina pouted playfully knowing full well the Admiral was flirting with her and she felt flattered by the thought. Cameron is my fiancé. I fear the only embrace I can share with you would be on the dance floor. She replied as they neared the end of the dock.

As they stepped down onto the white sand of the beach, Admiral Lance suddenly turned to face the ocean. He looked nervous and fearful as he took several steps toward the sea. What evil is this? He exclaimed as he paused and gasped. What troubles you Admiral? Major Regina asked for he was making her nervous. The tide goes out at midday? This is not natural. He replied and as they watched Regina could see the water was retreating from them. Admiral Lance took another step forward and his face was white as a sheet. Something is happening! He shouted and Regina heard the panic in his voice as he took another step forward. Quickly the sea began to recede in front of him and it rose up into a wall of water as tall as the dock itself. The path to the wall was dry and the sea on both sides of the path was held back by some unseen force. Admiral what is this? Regina gasped as she rushed to his side and they walked nervously toward the mysterious wall together. I know not. Admiral Lance sighed nervously staring at the wall.

Abruptly a vision of a man appeared in the sea on the other side of the wall of water and they both stared at him paralyzed with fear. Regina stepped close to the Admiral and gripped his arm. The man stepped through the wall and stood in front of them. You do not fear the sea? He asked Admiral Lance directly and smiled warmly at him. His voice was deep and majestic echoing in their ears. The man was tall and powerful and his image pulsed with and unknown energy. Fear and anxiety stole all the strength from Regina’s legs. She fell on her face before him but Admiral Lance stood fast before the man mesmerized by his presence. I do not. My life and all that I love is in her. Admiral Lance replied and the man’s smile broadened. As it is with me also, you find favor in my eyes. What do they call you? The man asked softly. I am Admiral Lance commander of the fleet of the Great Father. He replied but did not move. Then I am truly fortunate for it is you I seek. The man responded and Admiral Lance lost strength in his legs also and fell to his knees. Idos has sent me to instruct and guide you on your journey to fulfill his purpose. The time has come for his people to venture from the island and take possession of the seven continents. Now Admiral Lance covered his face with both hands and trembled with fear as the realization of who the man was slowly took form in his mind. Who are you and who am I that Idos would send his messenger to seek me out. Admiral Lance whispered nervously. I am Aquino, the god of the sea, and I will watch over you and secure your safety in my domain. He replied. Regina lifted her eyes and the magnificence of Aquino’s image and the sound of his voice was so far beyond anything Regina had experienced before, she could not move. You will take seven ships to each of the continents and they will depart from this shore in the first week of their season. Seven shall you sail in the first week of the season of Orig and then seven more in the first week of the season of Ratton and so you shall repeat this task until the last fleet sails in the first week of the season of Lumirus. Atmon, the god of the skies, will fill your sails to steer you to your destination as he changes the course of the wind each season and together we shall guide and protect you all. Aquino stated and Admiral Lance looked up to him. I pray your forgiveness at my naivety, but I have but 10 ships prepared to sail and this plan requires 49. He questioned and Aquino smiled down at him. Deliver my message to the Great Father for this is the command to his people from Idos. He would not command you so if it was not in your power to fulfill his purpose. Take care in this undertaking for evil has spread even unto the house of Idos. Terrat, the god of the earth, has chosen to be adversary to Idos and he has been dismissed from council with us all. He is powerful and strives to corrupt the whole of creation to set his plan for the earth above that of Idos. His domain is in the center of the earth and darkness is his ally for Lumirus, the goddess of the moon will not strive against him. Have no fear for the sword of Idos shall reveal him and all his company to you. See now, the whole of creation is in conflict due to the fall of Terrat but fear not for you have the promise of Idos and he will not forsake or abandon you. Aquino said softly as he backed up into the wall of water again and departed from them. Regina felt Admiral Lance’s hand grab her arm and lift her up. Run quickly Major Regina! He shouted pulling her toward the shore and they ran with all the speed they could muster. As Regina looked over her shoulder, the wall collapsed and great wave came rushing toward them and they tumbled in it as they washed ashore.

Admiral Lance pulled Major Regina to her feet as she coughed up the saltwater she swallowed as the wave surprised her. I fear our plans for the midday meal must be delayed. You shall be my witness to the Great Father for I am certain he will consider me touched by the sun in my revealing of this experience without your support. Admiral Lance gasped tugging at her arm again as they moved toward the castle. Major Regina followed him into the castle and as they passed the dining room, Commander Rebecca called to her so Regina paused on the stairs. We are going to find the Great Father. Major Regina gasped breathlessly and Rebecca giggled. Should you not change before you present yourself to the Great Father? Your uniform is soaking wet. Rebecca said. We took council with Aquino! Regina replied excitedly and Rebecca laughed standing to address them. Did you fall from the docks into the water? she asked thinking that was what Regina eluded to when she said they took council with Aquino. No the sea fell on us once our council was finished. Regina said hastily. You should come and hear what message Aquino delivered to us from Idos. Maj Regina said pulling at her arm insistently. Commander Rebecca realized suddenly that there was no jesting in Regina’s demeanor and she spoke sincerely. Aquino, the god of the sea spoke to you? Rebecca asked and Regina nodded yes. Now Rebecca moved quickly and followed her and Admiral Lance as did Major Richard.

So Admiral Lance delivered the message to the Great Father and the whole council who were in his chambers in the castle. Major Regina was his witness and after some deliberation, the Great Father doubled their efforts both at the docks in Archemeius and at Sandista in constructing new ships. The next week, the Great Father called all the royals into council at Castle Paternus. The first seven ships were ready to sail on the appointed day as Aquino had told them but they had not decided who would make this first voyage. All the Kings and Queens of the seven cities together with the Great Father and the Supreme Council met at his castle and selected by name each man and woman that would make the first great voyage. They deliberated for seven days behind closed doors to select the most worthy among them to represent the Sons and Daughters of the Great Father. The best and brightest from each city and each discipline was chosen to establish their first city beyond the shores of the island and they elected to name it New Mesina. Once the list was finished, they had but seven days for all to prepare and set their state of affairs in order before they sailed.

Because the success of this first voyage was so crucial, it was decided that Commander Rebecca and all her staff with the Sky Raiders should serve and protect in this first endeavor. So as they made preparation, the Sky Raiders that took to the ships were Commander Rebecca, Maj Regina, Maj Richard, Maj Cameron, Maj Arthur and his wife, Maj Andrew and his wife and Maj Anthony. Major Daniel was promoted to Colonel and made headmaster at the academy of dragon riders at Sandista and Commander of the Sky Raiders for the Island of the Seven Kings. On the second day of the first week in the season of Orig, the ships set sail under the command of Admiral Lance.

Now the sea was smooth and the breeze was steady that blew them northward from the island. The first three weeks at sea were calm and uneventful and slowly everyone was settling in becoming accustomed to life on the ocean. Each morning at first light, the Sky Raiders took flight and made several turns around the fleet. They flew sometimes in formation and other times solo or in pairs so that the dragons had interaction with each other. All could see, this lifted the spirits of all the dragons as well as the Raiders and the whole company aboard the ships. Commander Rebecca had debated with herself whether to