Dawn of Legends: A Tale for Christmas Vol 2

A

Legends aren’t just born. They are made. Join young Kris Kringle, his wife Jessica, and a weary band of toymaker elves as they set out on an epic journey across the harsh arctic wilderness of the North Pole.

Along the way they will battle ancient evils, unlock new magical talents, and with a little luck...find a new home.

How do Mr and Mrs Clause live so long?

Where does their workshop get its energy?

F O R

C H R I S T M A S

-

V O L .

Dawn of Legends

Amid the pages of this classic family-friendly adventure, children will get answers to age-old questions like…

TA L E

How can the elves survive in the freezing cold of the North Pole?

Legends” the prequel to his multi-award-winning picture book and chapter book adventure “Zach’s Quest.” Matt is a nationally recognized video producer and editor. He lives in the Chicagoland area with his beautiful wife and three amazing children.

Matt Dragovits

Matt Dragovits is proud to bring you “Dawn of

Matt Dragovits

illustrated by

J.J. Varabkanich

2

Matt Dragovits Illustrated by J.J. Varabkanich

Dawn of Legends A Tale for Christmas Vol. 2

by Matt Dragovits Illustrated by J.J. Varabkanich ©2024 Matt Dragovits All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any other form or for any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage system, without written permission from Headline Books, Inc. To order additional copies of this book or for book publishing information, or to contact the author: Headline Books, Inc. P. O. Box 52 Terra Alta, WV 26764 www.headlinebooks.com mybook@headlinebooks.com ISBN: Library of Congress Control Number:

P R I N T E D I N T H E U N I T E D S TAT E S O F A M E R I C A

This book is dedicated to all the hard-working parents who have done their absolute best to remain children at heart in an everchanging world. I hope my Christmas adventure allows you to bring a little magic to your sons and daughters while also rekindling that childhood spark in your soul as well.

Centuries ago, long before our modern age of computers and technology, magic filled the world. Creatures of both light and darkness walked the Earth using ancient knowledge to perform wondrous feats. Among all the enchanting stories passed down from generation to generation, no adventure is as important to children of the world as the origin of the one and only Santa Claus.

Our tale begins…

Chapter 1 A procession of small footprints and deep sleigh tracks stretch for miles across the harsh arctic landscape. Freezing winds blow with elemental fury as even the polar bears, caribou, and puffins seek shelter from the biting sting of ice and snow. The only sound, which can barely be heard above the roaring winds, is the fierce barking of dogs as they struggle to pull heavy-laden sleighs packed with supplies.

“I don’t know how much further we can make it, Kris,” shouts a short, aged man with pointy ears. He grabs hold of the sleigh and braces again against the howling winds. He struggles to see through his ice-coated spectacles. His thick, white beard, which normally hangs well past his stout belly, flails back and forth in the tempest.

Up ahead, a lone figure stops and turns. He is a young man with fierce orange hair and crystal-blue eyes. Snow and ice coat his thick, short beard. His skin appears cracked and windblown.

Yet, despite his rugged and beaten appearance, his voice rings with life and determination.

“I’m going to scout ahead and see if I can find shelter for us to wait out this storm. Stay here and hold this position. With a little luck…”

Suddenly, the ugly blaring of a battle-horn cuts off the young man’s voice. The ground starts to tremor as a ghostly silhouette of monstrous creatures appears in the distance. While the beasts stand tall and upright like men, something about their forms just 7

Dawn of Legends

doesn’t feel right. But before any member of the elven caravan has a moment to process what is happening, the beasts charge across the open field.

Panic ensues. Cries of fear and confusion spread as the little toymakers scramble back and forth between sleighs. Each elf turns to the other for guidance, but none of them have a clue as to how they might defend themselves against the impending threat.

The monstrous horde races closer with every breath. In the span of just a few heartbeats, they are close enough for the elves to make out details they would honestly rather not see.

The beasts have leathery green skin. It is stretched over powerful muscles that bulge with inhuman proportions. Some are tall and imposing. Some are short and stalky. Others are lean and gangly. All of them are trouble, for the creatures are beings straight out of a nightmare…goblins!

The fiends press forward through the deep snow in leaps and bounds. They wear overlapping layers of thick furs and heavy boots to protect them from the intense cold. The goblins growl, snarl, and sneer as they force their way across the open field. They are eager to raid the vulnerable elf caravan that will certainly have something worth stealing.

“Jessica!” the young man shouts as he turns to a woman further back in the caravan. “Jessica! Turn around! Run! I’ll do my best to hold them off!”

Kris scans his immediate surroundings, but there is nothing to use as a weapon. No sticks. No rocks. No anything. He glances toward the back of the caravan to view the tool sleigh. It is filled with hammers, knives, and other metal instruments he could at least try and use to defend himself, but it is too far away to reach in time. Left with no other option, Kris raises his fists. Although it will likely mean his life, he is prepared to stand his ground. He will do whatever he can to keep this goblin army from mowing down his wife and his dearest friends.

8

Matt Dragovits

But as the goblins continue to bear down on the caravan, another horn sounds in the winter air.

This note is different. It is musical and powerful… clean and pure. Its crisp tone carries over the winds, announcing the arrival of a second army racing in from the East. At first, it appears to be a large herd of polar bears and caribou charging across the open tundra. But as one of the polar bears gets closer, Kris can see that there are riders atop each animal. The riders are shorter and leaner than most men. In fact, they are similar in height and build to his own traveling companions. Yet these riders appear to be more muscular and fierce. Their clothing, which is a mix of leathers and furs, allows them to blend into the environment.

Their weapons are comprised mostly of swords, staffs, bows, and arrows. These elves move like a true force of nature, racing headlong toward battle atop their powerful steeds.

The nature elves close in on Kris much faster than the goblins who are on foot. Within seconds, the elf pack reaches Kris, but they don’t stop. The lead elf pauses for the briefest of moments to cast a sly grin and a nod of salutation. His white hair whips in the wind as he raises a simple yet rugged sword. The scratches and stains all along the sword’s surface indicate it has seen battle many times before. The elf scans the approaching goblin horde and takes note of both their number and arrangement. His emerald green eyes go wide as he sees something, or someone, that captures his interest. He nudges his young polar bear, Luc, in the flanks and they continue racing forward.

The white-haired elf is followed just a few paces behind by a small contingent of both male and female warriors. In addition to the elves, a large, hairy, white blur charges past. The massive creature moves upright like a man, yet the earth-shaking roar it lets out confirms the feral power within. The creature is moving so fast that it can barely be seen. The beast and the entire war party continue at breakneck speed. They know they must engage the goblin horde before it can reach the helpless caravan elves.

9

Dawn of Legends

A clash of swords on shields rings through the air. The snow and wind make the battle difficult to observe, but it is clear the elves have fully engaged the goblins and prevented their advance.

From out of the chaos, an attractive yet rugged female nature elf named Holly dashes back to Kris and his caravan.

“You must move on,” she shouts while grabbing Kris by the arm and leading him away from the fight. “We will do our best to protect you, but we can only buy you so much time. You don’t have armor or weapons and from the look of your crew…” Holly glances at the workshop elves huddling timidly next to their heavily loaded sleighs. “You aren’t prepared to fight.”

“You’re right.” A human female voice chimes in while approaching. The woman lowers her protective hood, and we see her fiery red hair and pale blue eyes. “We cannot fight. In truth, we were seeking refuge from others who wished us harm.”

Jessica grabs Kris by the arm and looks into his eyes. “Is there nowhere in this vast world where good people can just live in peace?”

Holly keeps walking at a quick pace while leading the caravan away from the battle. You can tell she is wrestling with a thought.

“Okay.” She ultimately decides. “Continue North along that ridgeline. You will eventually run into the Glacius River, where we have our boats docked. Take them and continue North until you see a marker on the East bank of the river. Dock the boats there and follow the path until you reach the valley between the mountains. Take refuge there. You will find food, water, and shelter.”

Kris hesitates.

“Just know that you can trust us,” Holly shouts while motioning to her own pointy elf ears.

“I don’t know what to say,” Kris replies while giving a solemn nod. “You are saving our lives. How can we ever repay you?”

10

Matt Dragovits

“If you don’t get moving right this second,” Holly shouts.

“I can’t guarantee we will be saving your lives. You need to get moving. NOW!” Kris needs no further instruction. He waves his hands and motions for the elf caravan to follow. He moves as fast as possible, trudging a course through the deep snow as the sleighs follow.

With every step North, the sound of battle fades from his ears.

With every step, they move closer to salvation. *** The days pass by with great difficulty and the nights aren’t any easier. Aching muscles, grumbling stomachs, and nearly frozen limbs are a burden shared by all. The biting arctic winds and sub-zero temperatures of the barren landscape are a constant reminder to Kris, Jessica, and the toymaker elves of just how alone and truly desperate they are.

After what feels like an eternity of travel, but in reality is just a few days, their eyes light with a faint and simmering hope. The elven valley lies before them.

Thousands of trees line the hills on all sides. Virtually the entire village is protected from the wind and invaders by the natural mountainous formation. Dozens upon dozens of shelters are scattered across the fields and hillsides. The shelters vary from structure to structure. Some are fastened together out of tree branches and rope, while others look to be formed out of the very snow and ice. They are simple in design but look rugged yet comfortable.

The Northern Lights bathe the landscape with a mystical, shimmering glow, giving a truly magical and welcoming feel to the elves’ new haven.

“We made it.” a tired feminine voice calls out from behind.

“We actually made it!”

11

Dawn of Legends

Kris turns in time to see Jessica approach. She is busy unwrapping layers of ice-coated scarves and shawls. Her eyes are tired, but the tender smile she gives Kris warms his spirit. She steps up and wraps her gentle arms around his waist. The embrace breathes a semblance of life back into his sore and aching limbs.

Kris looks down and returns her smile. He chuckles at an inside joke. “Trying to steal my warmth, are we?”

“I’m just taking a moment to let this sink in,” Jessica replies while scanning the encampment. “It feels like we’ve been on the run for so long. The idea of having a place where we can stop and breathe is most welcome.”

Kris nods in agreement and then gently nudges Jessica back.

“Yes, you are right. And though we all desperately need the rest, there’s work that needs to be done.” Kris takes off his hat and runs his fingers through his thick orange hair to shake out the snow.

“Time for me to rally the troops.”

Kris trudges through the snow toward the caravan elves while shouting as heartily as he is able. His voice carries and echoes across the entire valley. “Welcome to your new home!”

The caravan elves shout in joy.

Some raise their arms and cheer, while others jump up and down in excitement. Others literally collapse to the ground. All share weary smiles. Tears of joy can be seen streaming down many of their exhausted and dirty faces.

Amid the celebration, a lone caravan elf steps forward and raises his arms for silence. It was time to snap them all back to reality.

12

Matt Dragovits

“Okay, let’s get to it!” he shouts while grabbing his hammer and raising it high. “The storm has subsided for now. We need to take advantage of the time we have!”

With that said, he steps over to a massive sleigh and dramatically whips one of the protective leathers from off the bundle. Underneath is a giant toolbox with drawers labeled saws, screwdrivers, hammers, nails, nuts, bolts, and more. The other elves quickly follow his lead, and in no time at all, the valley is filled with the sound of elves doing what they do best… building.

13

Chapter 2 A battered and bruised host of nature elves wearily force their way North. At the head of the pack, Jax, the white-haired warrior elf from earlier, is engaged in a heated conversation with a taller and even more muscular elf named Tristan. Tristan’s arm is in a sling, while Jax has a bandage wrapped around his forehead.

They are each riding polar bears that match the elf ’s unique size and fighting style. Tristan’s polar bear, Judah, is massive. It has layers upon layers of armor that is scuffed and dented from the recent battle. Jax’s polar bear, Luc, is leaner and more muscular and is wearing light armor that is also significantly damaged.

“We can’t just leave him,” Jax growls in frustration. His polar bear also casts an accusing gaze at Tristan and roars in agreement.

“He turned the tide of battle for us. We must go back!”

“I’m sorry, Jax, but we cannot.” Tristan coughs while grimacing and placing a hand over his bruised ribs. “You know the importance of what we’ve accomplished this day. We captured General Lodus. After countless years of battle, we finally have the goblin leader in our grasp. We must get back to the village and secure his capture. We’re way too exposed out here in the open.

We must get him to my father. He’ll know what to do.”

“But Tristan,” Jax argues. “He’s not just an animal. He would never abandon me… or any of us for that matter. He’s my friend.”

Luc the polar bear gives another hearty growl of agreement while locking eyes with the son of the elf chief.

14

Matt Dragovits

Tristan meets the bear’s gaze and then turns to Jax. He sees the desperation in his friend’s eyes, but he is powerless to act differently. The weight of leadership demands he do what is best for the clan. He mournfully looks away. “I know that.”

He grimaces through clenched teeth. “Don’t you think I know that? But this is bigger than you, or I, or any individual. With the goblin general captured, we may finally be able to cease this eternal conflict.”

“But…” Jax starts.

“Look around you!” Tristan shouts in frustration while sweeping his arm to the side. “Look at our people.”

Jax glances back at his fellow elves. Many are wearing bandages, limping, or leaning on one another for support. All of them look exhausted beyond measure.

“We need time to heal, Jax. We cannot wage this war forever.”

“Do you honestly think they’ll just stop?” Jax asks heatedly.

“If anything, they’ll push back harder. They won’t take the capture of their leader lightly.”

“No,” Tristan replies sternly. “Without their general to coordinate strategy, their attacks will be severely diminished.

And we are not the only ones who took injuries this day.”

Tristan urges his polar bear to move closer to Jax. “It was your hand that brought General Lodus to heel, my friend. You now possess his power staff. With it, we might come to better understand how…”

“Having his power staff just means a rescue will be easier for us to…”

“Enough!” Tristan curses. His exhaustion from the battle and his frustration with this conversation are too much to bear.

“First, we must regroup at camp. We had not planned to walk all the way back to the village. We need to send notice. Send your owl, Strig, with a message to my father and mother. They may have returned from the foraging expedition by now. They will make the final decision.”

15

Dawn of Legends

Jax remains silent. He bites his tongue while making a pointed effort not to look at his friend… and leader.

“Trust me, Jax.” Tristan continues while urging his polar bear to greater speed. “We will not abandon our friend. That is not our way. You know this. But you must have patience.”

Jax nods in submission while nudging Luc to match Judah’s speed. He keeps his gaze forward, doing his best to trust Tristan at his word. But after a few moments, he can’t help but glance back over his shoulder. Way off in the distance, smoke can still be seen drifting on the winds. It is a fading symbol of their recent battle and the capture of his oldest friend.

16

Chapter 3 What was an uninhabited campground just a short time ago has now turned into a major construction zone. The toymaker elves have rapidly spread out across the entire valley. Some groups are busy cutting down trees while others are working hard at stripping bark so they can shape the wood into usable boards.

The elves are incredibly efficient and talented in their labors. Not a scrap of waste can be seen. Even the sawdust is gathered and sprinkled along the pathways for better traction while walking.

Kris makes his way through the campsite, admiring the scores of cozy yet intricate little homes. They all look incredibly sturdy and have a more angular Victorian design style. They are a sharp contrast to the existing, organically designed nature elf homes.

“Great job, Ethan,” Kris calls out.

A young elf pauses in hammering to salute. “Nice work, Emma, Julianna, and Seraphina!” Kris applauds while looking at the beautiful artwork the little girl elves are painting over a doorway. “Keep up the great work, Andrew.” A little blonde elf smiles widely in acknowledgment of the praise.

As Kris continues to inspect the workstations, a short, incredibly cute 17

Dawn of Legends

brunette elf nicknamed “Little Bits” approaches. She is happily scanning a scroll while nodding in satisfaction.

“We’re making great progress, Sir,” she exclaims while walking quickly to match the human’s longer stride. “Actually, we’re running ahead of schedule!”

“I wouldn’t expect any less.” Kris smiles while patting Little Bits on the shoulder. You run a tight ship.”

Little Bits beams with pride and then dashes off to urge another team of workers on to greater speed. They have just downed another massive tree and are preparing to start stripping the branches.

As Kris looks on with admiration and pride, he can see a large procession of nature elves approaching from the distance. *** Tristan and Jax are riding side-by-side a few feet behind an older male and female elf. The senior couple are each riding massive elks. The male elf, Maethor, is wearing similar clothing to the other warrior elves, although his clothing contains a bit more embroidery, which makes it look more regal. His dark brown hair has hints of grey and is bound by a weathered leather band. The female elf, Melissë, is wearing a simple yet beautiful robe. Her deep brown hair is crowned by a thin, elegant band of twisting silver and white leaves.

As the long procession of nature elves reaches the border of the village, Kris and Jessica make their way forward to greet them. The sound of construction fades as toymaker elves pause in their work. They hold a collective breath in anticipation of the meeting.

Kris and Jessica bow deeply as they reach Maethor and Melissë.

The nature elves do not respond immediately. Maethor gives Kris and Jessica a curious look. He rises on his elk and scans 18

Matt Dragovits

the valley. He smiles widely while nodding in appreciation. He is clearly impressed by the massive amount of work that has been done.

“My son is the one you should be thanking,” Maethor states with pride while glancing over his shoulder. “It was he and Jax that led the scouting party that ultimately came to your aid.”

Maethor nudges his elk to the side, making room for Tristan and Jax to ride up on their polar bears. Both warriors have deep scratches, scorch marks, and dents on the little bit of armor they have left.

Kris bows once again. “We never had the time to properly thank you.”

Jessica smiles warmly in agreement. “We are forever in your debt.”

Tristan nods in acceptance and then waves his hand toward the construction site. “It appears you had no trouble finding our camp… or settling in, for that matter.”

Kris shares an anxious look with Jessica before answering. “I hope we didn’t overstep your invitation. We are not used to this extreme weather, and we needed stronger shelter after our long journey.”

Maethor gives a hearty laugh that breaks the tension. “Ha! No apology is needed. You managed to do all of this in just a few weeks’ time?” Maethor gives a sweeping gesture that encompasses the entire valley. “We are simply impressed.”

Melissë motions toward a specific grouping of homes close to them. “The beauty of your designs and how you’ve made them seamlessly integrate with our existing homes and nature is quite breathtaking.”

Tristan nods in agreement. He hops down from Judah and approaches Kris. At this point, other elves have started to move closer to the conversation. The closest of all is the cute little brunette elf nicknamed “Little Bits.” As she looks up at Tristan, it is obvious she is star-struck by his appearance. When Tristan 19

Dawn of Legends

notices her staring at him, he can’t help but fight back a smile. He steps toward her.

“It appears we have more in common than a simple enemy.”

Tristan looks at Little Bits and then shifts his eyes to her long, pointed ears. “We have never encountered others like us. For countless centuries, we believed we were alone. We never knew other races of elves existed.”

Tristan bends down to eye level with Little Bits. He reaches forward and tenderly nudges Little Bits’ chin up so she is forced to look directly into his eyes.

“Tell me.” He queries. “From where do you come? And why?”

Little Bits tries to answer, but her knees feel like jelly. She knows she is probably even making ‘goo-goo’ eyes as her skin flushes warm, but she just can’t help it. This hulking warrior elf was asking her something. He was expecting an answer. What did he ask again? “Think, Lizzy, think.” She chastises herself. But she just can’t focus. All she can think of are those deep, dark eyes and those impressive muscles. Aughhh. she thinks to herself.

Tristan nudges her chin once more, patiently waiting for an answer. Little Bits finally snaps out of it and the words come pouring out.

“We call ourselves the Kringles. You’ve met Kris and Jessica.

They are the only two humans in our group. We elves are toymakers from lands far South of here. For generations, we worked with royalty and used our skills to bring happiness to children all across the country. When we met Kris and Jessica, we were able to deliver the toys on a much greater scale.”

As Little Bits takes a breath and prepares to speak, Maethor urges his giant Elk forward. “A noble cause indeed, but why are you here then? Did you get lost? How did you come to need the aid of my son? The North is no place for you to wander unarmed.”

“It was not by choice,” Kris replies solemnly. “As strange as it may sound, there were those who did not appreciate the goodwill 20

Matt Dragovits

we tried to share. We were forced to flee North and find a new home.”

Kris steps forward so that he is centered between Maethor and Melissë. He glances at one and then the other. “If your men and women had not rescued us, we would have fallen to those creatures.” Kris kneels in thanks. Jessica steps up to her husband’s side and also bends the knee. “We are in your debt. Every single one of us.”

As Kris finishes his sentence, every toymaker elf in the village takes a knee and nods their head in thanks and respect. Silence fills the valley until a lone voice breaks the peace.

“Yes,” Jax whispers. “You are.”

“Now is not the time, Jax.” Tristan hushes.

“Now is the perfect time,” Jax continues while urging Luc forward. “They should know the cost of their rescue. Yeti is lost to us. My oldest friend has been taken prisoner. Their freedom came at his expense. We need to get him back. We need…”

“Enough.” Maethor commands.

Jax stops mid-sentence and then locks eyes with the elven ruler. And while the younger warrior elf is upset, angry, and passionate about his friend, he is not ready to challenge Maethor.

“You know where they’ll take him.” Jax pleads. He cannot survive in those depths. The heat will destroy him. He is a creature of ice and snow. We cannot…”

“I said enough,” Maethor commands once again. And this time, Jax heeds his word.

Maethor continues. “Thanks to your sword arm, we have General Lodus captive. At the very least, that gives us leverage.

And while the goblins may be brutal, they are not fools. They will try to negotiate. We have some time.”

Jax understands the logic behind his ruler’s words, but that

21

Dawn of Legends

doesn’t make them any easier to accept. He wrestles visibly, fighting the urge to speak out once more.

Melissë steps forward and gives him a sympathetic smile.

“Please, Jax,” she said. “Don’t be so hot-tempered. We need cool, collected minds to prevail.”

All eyes fall on Jax, and the scrutiny is more than he can bear. He pats Luc on the side and the young polar bear nods in agreement. Elf and beast nod in acceptance and then dash off.

Kris steps forward with arms outstretched. “I did not mean to cause your people harm. So, Jax was his name? And he lost a friend during our rescue?”

Melissë nods.

“And what was the elf ’s name?” Kris asks. ”Yeti?”

Tristan approaches Kris and lays a reassuring hand on his shoulder. “Yes, his name is Yeti,” Tristan explains. “And he is a friend, but he is not an elf.”

The female warrior elf, Holly, steps forward and joins in the conversation. “Jax and Yeti have been together since Maethor and Melissë first found them. You see, Jax was not born into our tribe. He was rescued as an infant. He was lost and alone, on the verge of death.”

Melissë nods and continues the tale. “At first, I thought he was wrapped in furs, but it was actually a young Yeti protecting Jax from the cold. Jax has no memory of his past or from which elf clan he came. His earliest recollections are of his furry protector.”

Maethor nods in agreement. “We brought Jax into our tribe and made him one of our own.” Maethor makes a gesture that encompasses Melissë and Tristan. “He became a member of our royal family in everything but blood.”

Melissë looks toward Kris and Jessica with a bit of sadness in her eyes. “But in some ways, he acts as though he is still an outsider, no matter how much time passes.”

Jessica wipes a tear from the corner of her eye. “That’s so sad.”

22

Matt Dragovits

Melissë nods in agreement. “We have done our best to nurture friendships, but Jax has always felt more at home with the creatures of the wild than with his fellow elves. He is attuned to the forces of nature like no other elf in our history. It is likely how he maintains his friendship with Yeti.”

Maethor peers toward the distant mist-shrouded mountains, almost as if lost in time. “You see,” he explains. “Yeti is a creature of legend. He is something that elves, humans, and even goblins have feared for centuries. In your tongue, I believe he is known as an abominable snowman.”

23

Chapter 4 “Scan far and wide, Strig,” Jax instructs the funny-looking arctic owl resting on his arm. “Do your best, my friend. I need to know.”

Jax lifts his forearm higher. The owl hoots in understanding and takes flight. Despite his goofy appearance, Strig soars with grace and speed, covering massive distances in no time at all.

As soon as Strig is clear, Jax whistles loudly. The sound draws the attention of a nearby arctic wolf. The dark and grizzly beast stalks in close and then lunges toward Jax. Jax catches the beast in mid-air and tackles it to the ground.

The two tumble across the frozen earth, each fighting for the dominant position. Jax finally manages to put the beast in a headlock and then proceeds to scratch aggressively behind the creature’s furry ears. The wolf grins widely, showing an impressive mouthful of fangs.

“Alert the pack.” Jax commands while staring into the wolf ’s pale grey eyes. “Find their scent. Track, but do not engage. Go!” The large wolf growls in agreement and then dashes off. As soon as it is clear, Jax spins rapidly while drawing his sword. He points in challenge while shouting toward a 24

Matt Dragovits

copse of pine trees. “Come out.” He commands. “I know you’re there. There’s no use hiding.”

From behind the patch of trees, a small female figure emerges.

She lowers her hood and gives a hesitant smile. She does her best to stay calm even though her heart is racing.

“You seemed troubled.” She finally manages to speak. “I didn’t want to see you run off and get yourself hurt, or worse. Especially after how you helped save all our lives.”

Jax does not respond immediately. He simply sits down on the snowbank, pulls out his sword, and starts to sharpen it. After a few moments, he raises his eyes toward Little Bits. “We were already on our way to fight back the goblins. It was just dumb luck that we came to your aid.”

“I don’t believe in luck.” Little Bits responds while taking a few hesitant steps forward. “Sometimes help is simply the answer to a prayer.”

“A prayer to who? You didn’t even know we existed before the battle.”

“A prayer to God, silly.” Little Bits chuckles.

Jax looks at her with genuine confusion in his eyes. He shrugs, rises, and puts his sword away. He nods farewell to Little Bits and starts to walk off. “I’ve never seen any ‘God’.” He responds. “And I certainly don’t pray. Anything I’ve ever wanted in life, I worked for. My actions and efforts get results. Praying seems about as effective as…” Jax motions to the sky. “…wishing on a star.”

Little Bits frowns but then takes a hurried step after Jax. “And what about your friend?” she asks. “The one who got captured?

Are you going to tell me you haven’t prayed for his safe return?”

Jax turns back toward Little Bits with heat behind his eyes.

Clearly, she has triggered a nerve.

“No,” Jax responds defensively. “I’m not saying that. I do hope he’s all right. But that doesn’t mean I’m going to hold my breath waiting for some unseen force to change things for me. We need to take action. We need to do something!”

25

Dawn of Legends

Jax’ temper continues to rise. He takes a step toward Little Bits and she reflexively steps back in fear. Jax notices her distress and forces himself to calm down. Before he can speak, though, he sees Tristan and Judah approaching. “Thank you for your concern.” Jax gives a slight nod of respect. “But I’ll trust my sword arm before I’ll trust some spirit in the sky.”

Without another word, Jax turns away. In one swift move, he mounts Luc and the two of them dash off.

“Jax, wait.” Little Bits shouts, but it is too late.

“You’re better off leaving him alone for now,” Tristan calls out while approaching. “He needs time to cool off.”

“I was just trying to help fix things,” Little Bits said, sighing.

Tristan reaches Little Bits and smiles warmly. “And I thank you for that. But Jax is Jax.” Tristan pauses to stare at Luc’s fresh tracks in the snow. “In a way, Jax is like the animals he calls friends. He is like a force of nature. You can’t make him see anything. He needs to find the answers on his own.”

Tristan dismounts from Judah and stands toe to toe with Little Bits. She is quite a bit shorter than the elf prince, so she is forced to look up into his eyes. Tristan meets her gaze.

“So,” he kneels while planting his sword in the frozen earth.

“We were never formally introduced. May I ask your name?”

“My name is Elizabeth,” Little Bits answers. “But everyone calls me Little Bits.”

Tristan scowls at hearing this. “That’s not very nice.

You’re short, yes, even by elf standards, but they shouldn’t make fun.”

Little Bits begins to chuckle. “They don’t call me Little Bits because of 26

Matt Dragovits

my height.” She laughs. “They call me it because I’m a whiz at working with little gears and electronics and other ‘little bits’ of technology.”

“So,” Tristan nods. “You’re good at building things?”

“Yes.” “How good?” Tristan asks with genuine interest.

“Uhm,” Little Bits smiles. “Really, really, really good, I suppose. At least, that’s what EVERYONE tells me.”

Tristan nods in admiration. “Well, that sounds impressive.

But…” Tristan takes a moment to walk over to a nearby snowcovered pine tree. He plucks off an unopened pinecone. “Can you do this?”

Tristan cups the pinecone and then begins to roll it back and forth. He quickly blows warmth into his hands and the pinecone glows with a golden light. The cone slowly expands into its full hardened form. Little Bits stares on awestruck, mesmerized by the beautiful symbol of nature.

“How?” She stammers while quickly snatching the pinecone out of his hands and inspecting it. “How did you do that?”

Tristan gives her a deadpan smile and states flatly. “Magic.”

“No. Seriously.” Little Bits asks. “How did you do it?”

“I told you,” Tristan continues with a twinkle in his eye.

“Magic. I’m not kidding.”

Little Bits’ eyes go wide.

“Most of us can channel nature in some capacity or another.

We can manipulate the energy using our own life force. My mom is the strongest of us and Jax is the weakest.”

“So, he’s weak in magic?” Little Bits wrestles with this information. She takes a moment to glance back at the tracks Jax and Luc had made. She crinkles her nose while trying to sort it out. “But I heard your father say Jax can actually commune with animals. In fact, he looked like he was doing something just like that when I approached.”

27

Dawn of Legends

“It’s not that he’s weak in magic,” Tristan explains. “It’s more like he doesn’t have the discipline to control the powerful life force within himself.”

Tristan notices that Little Bits is starting to shiver a bit from the cold. He reaches over to a pack on Judah’s side and pulls out a warm, thick blanket. He drapes it over her shoulders and then continues. “In respect to the animals, it’s not so much that he talks to them, as much as he communicates with them. They have a sort of kinship.”

“Doesn’t he have ANY elf friends?”

“You’re talking to his best friend right now,” Tristan smirks.

“I consider Jax to be my brother, even if we do tend to butt heads quite often. And while we don’t have the same skills in magic, we do share a common sense of adventure.” Tristan glances over at the tracks in the snow. The wind has already cleared most of them away, leaving little trace that Jax and Luc were there.

“Seeing Jax like this,” Tristan grimaces. “It’s incredibly hard for me. I’d love nothing more than to charge into battle and help him rescue Yeti. I want to be at his side through this. I want to be his friend. But as the son of the Chief, I have a responsibility to our tribe that I must put ahead of my own wants and needs.”

“That’s a tough spot to be in.” Little Bits nods in understanding.

“I can appreciate where you are coming from, though. I’ve become very important to my ‘tribe’ too. I rarely get to do what I want. I spend nearly all my time working for the greater good.

It’s rare that I get to work on a project that feels like it is all mine.”

“Exactly.”

“But I can relate to what Jax is going through a bit too.” Little Bits takes a step away from Tristan and averts her eyes. She looks to the skies and pauses.

Tristan gives her a moment, unsure of where she is going with this. But when she doesn’t respond, he walks over and stands at her side. He gives her a playful nudge. She turns to him and forces a weak smile. There is a solitary tear forming in her eye.

28

Matt Dragovits

“Elizabeth?” Tristan asks. “Are you alright?”

Little Bits starts to speak but struggles for the words. She coughs to clear her throat and then continues. “I can relate to Jax because…”. Little Bits hesitates but then pushes forward. “I can relate to Jax because I never knew my family either. They passed away when I was very young.”

Tristan is caught completely off guard. He struggles to find words. Moments pass. All he eventually manages to whisper is.

“I’m sorry.”

Little Bits nods and then starts to walk. “I’ve learned to accept it.” She turns and gives Tristan a forced smile before motioning for him to walk with her.

“I have an entire family that loves me now. I don’t let anything stop me from doing everything I can to make life better for my fellow elves.”

“Well,” Tristan grins widely, trying to use his charm to bring Little Bits back around. “You all certainly know how to build houses!”

“We are good at making things.” Little Bits beams with pride.

“But I do worry a bit about energy. There are plenty of trees around, but I don’t really want us to keep cutting them down for warmth. I don’t suppose you know how to pull energy from nature for heat?”

Tristan plucks a pinecone off a nearby tree while talking. “We can.” He answers. “But it’s not very efficient.” Tristan draws the energy from the pinecone and blows a warm breeze toward Little Bits. Her cheeks go flush for a minute, but within seconds, she is cold again. “We would have to channel all day long to keep the heat going. We’ve learned to live with the cold. Although, you did come at a very good time.”

Little Bits looks at Tristan curiously, expecting a deeper explanation. None is given.

Tristan casts a devilish grin. “Follow me.” He chuckles and then dashes off.

29

Dawn of Legends

Little Bits hurries after Tristan as he runs up and over hills and through patches of pines. It takes all her strength and speed just to keep up. The elf prince finally stops at the peak of a steep incline. He pauses and waits for Little Bits to catch up.

“You do realize your legs are nearly twice as long as mine?”

Little Bits frowns while huffing for breath.

“Yeah, but you’re not cold anymore, right?” Tristan laughs.

Little Bits thinks for a second and can’t argue the point.

“Okay, you got me there,” she giggles.

“Don’t worry,” Tristan replies. “It was worth it.” And with that said, Tristan steps back and makes a sweeping gesture with his arm. Little Bits steps up to the ledge and views a beam of light shining down from the brightest star in the Northern sky.

From this angle, she can see how the light strikes the earth in a concentrated beam and then spreads out across the entire elven valley.

“Oh my gosh,” she exclaims.

“Pretty impressive, huh.” Tristan nods with pride. “As an elf, you can see how the star sends a continuous stream of energy to the earth. Unfortunately, even our most talented magic-users cannot channel the power. It’s just too strong.”

“How did we not see this already?” Little Bits asks. “We were right beneath it the whole time!”

“I asked that same question the first time I saw the energy from a distance.” Tristan smiles. “This is how my Mom explained it. She said it’s sort of like trying to see a pool when you are already underwater. You need to step out and give yourself distance to gain perspective.”

“So, what is it,” Little Bits asks while staring intently at the stream of energy.

“Starlight,” Tristan answers. “It only appears from that one specific star in the sky. And it only does it for a few months of the year.”

30

Matt Dragovits

“It’s the Star of Bethlehem,” Little Bits explains. “You do know what that is, right?”

Tristan gives her a bewildered look.

Little Bits looks dumbfounded. “The Star the three wise men followed to find Baby Jesus.”

The explanation does nothing for Tristan. “I have no idea what you are talking about,” he answers.

“It’s the symbol of the birth of Christ!” she stammers in disbelief. And then, as she realizes just what she is saying, Elizabeth turns to the star, falls to her knees, and makes the sign of the cross.

Tristan takes all of this in stride. He waits for Little Bits to return to her feet. “So, who is this Christ you speak of? You obviously have a lot of respect for him. Was he a powerful king?

A warrior? What did he do to earn such devotion?”

Little Bits’ eyes nearly bulge out of her head. “He’s the son of God! He was born a very long time ago. He lived, suffered, and died for mankind. He was a king, but not in the manner you are thinking. His sacrifice re-opened the gates of Heaven and provided mankind with the opportunity for salvation.”

Tristan looks at Little Bits dubiously. “That’s a bit much to take in… or believe, for that matter.” He looks up at the star again, and for the first time in his life, he allows the energy to truly and deeply wash over him. “Although,” He continues.” I always wondered if it had some deeper significance.”

Little Bits smiles while staring at the beautiful light before her. As she does, a feverish light of her own begins to burn.

“That’s it!” she cries. She pulls out her sketchbook and starts to draw rapidly.

“What?” Tristan asks. “What is it?”

“A series of mirrors,” Little Bits answers, but more to herself than to Tristan. “I bet that would do the trick. I could bounce the energy, break it into multiple streams, control the pathways.”

31

Dawn of Legends

“What are you talking about, Elizabeth?” Tristan asks while looking at the sketch Little Bits is feverishly drafting.

“We could harvest it in waves,” she beams with pride. “We would just need a way to channel it accurately so we could store it long-term.”

Little Bits looks up to Tristan and smiles from ear to pointed ear. She then grabs his hand and leads him rapidly down into the valley.

“I need to get a closer look,” she cries. “Let’s see just how good at creating things I really am!”

32

Chapter 5 The melancholy howls of a battered and bruised beast echo through the dimly lit caverns of Mount Frostbite.

Yeti cries out in frustration as he continues to struggle against the iron manacles that bind him to the cavern wall. He is bound just a few feet away from a subterranean lava flow that emanates a continuous wave of heat and steam. Yeti falls to his knees in exhaustion, struggling to take in a few ragged breaths.

As a primal creature of nature who draws strength from ice and snow, the intense heat is a deadly drain on his life force. He is nearly spent.

Two large goblins approach but barely take notice. They are too wrapped up in their own conversation to pay any attention to their captive.

Both goblins are warriors, but the younger one has scars on his armor to prove it. But that isn’t the only difference between the two. The younger goblin has a very different appearance from most of the other goblins in the cavern. His skin is a deep green, and he has the beginnings of horns protruding from his forehead. Separating the horns is a series of subtle ridges that run down his forehead and then continue down his pointed jaw. But the biggest physical difference is the large leathery wings jutting out from his back. The young goblin takes a step forward, stabs his sword into the cavern floor, and reaches for a pitcher of water.

He chugs it down thirstily and then uses his forearm to wipe the dripping saliva from his chin.

33

Dawn of Legends

Before the younger goblin can speak, the older goblin slams his fist into a nearby wall. The force of the blow echoes through the chamber, but the goblin simply dusts the debris from his callused knuckles. “It’s been nearly a month already, Grife.” The elder goblin snarls. “Your father rots away in that blasted elf camp while we sit here cowering in the darkness.”

Grife takes another drink and then tosses the pitcher toward Yeti. He deliberately makes sure it lands just out of the creature’s reach, adding to the beast’s torment.

“He’s my father, Mason.” Grife growls in defense. “Don’t you think I want to free him? The elves are stronger than ever before.

Their numbers have nearly doubled thanks to those new elves that joined their clan. I’ve scouted from above. These new elves are quite handy at building things. Who knows what weapons they may have crafted?”

Mason steps forward and picks up the empty pitcher. He crushes it with one hand and then tosses it into the lava flow.

“Bah,” he sneers. “Weapons mean nothing. Instruments of wood and metal. Power is all that matters!”

34

Matt Dragovits

Mason reaches past Grife and traces an intricate rune pattern on the rock wall. The pattern glows beneath his fingertip.

Mason pulls back his arm and then slams his powerful fist into the center of the glowing rune. The wall explodes outward in a deadly barrage of rock shards. When the dust clears, there is a new opening in the cavern wall.

Mason pats the dust off his military-style uniform. The stalky, muscle-bound goblin is wearing a sleeveless kilt-like attire that has an ancient rune pattern adorning the border. His grey and white hair is tied back in a ponytail and is bound by a series of ornamental ringlets. A similar ringlet binds the end of his cleanly trimmed beard. Of all the goblins, Mason alone takes pride in his appearance and his status. And while Grife is the son of the General, Mason is the most powerful warrior among their ranks.

“No one is questioning your might,” Grife answers. “In all our history, there has never been a Gatekeeper goblin with your strength and skills. But all that power does us little good in the open valley of the elves where we are surrounded on all sides by that infernal snow and ice!”

Mason grudgingly nods in agreement.

“We need a plan if we are to free my father.” The winged goblin continues. “I can’t do it alone. I need your experience and your wisdom, not just your raw power.”

“Then you shall have it, my boy,” Mason responds while clasping Grife on the shoulder.

“I’m not the tactician my father is.” Grife continues. But I do have an idea of how to rescue him. At least, I have the beginning of a strategy. But it will require more numbers than we currently possess. We need strength of arms.”

Mason nods as he releases his grip on Grife. “Then I shall journey deeper into the bowels of Mount Frostbite and raise the call. If anyone refuses, they shall answer to me. Continue developing your plan in the meantime. We shall have your father free before the next turn of the moon.”

35

Dawn of Legends

Grife smiles and reaches out his arm to clasp Mason’s. The two goblins nod in solemn agreement. Not another word is spoken between the two. Mason simply releases his grip and then storms through the opening in the cavern he just made. A few moments later, another explosion can be heard, and then a few moments later, another. Before long, the explosions can barely be heard as Mason tunnels his way into the depths.

Grife charts his own course through the caverns while formulating his plan. He eventually reaches an opening that displays the night sky. He steps forward but is careful to stay far enough back to avoid the wind and snowfall. Grife stares off into the distance toward the elf ’s village.

“I will set you free, father. And with your freedom, we shall finally defeat the elves and descend on mankind. We shall finally hold them accountable for their sins against the earth and against us.”

36

Chapter 6 Kris and Jessica are seated around a warm campfire, enjoying the hospitality of Maethor, Melissë, and an assortment of wilderness and toymaker elves. The men are passing around an ornately carved wooden pipe. They are laughing and grinning as they exchange stories of their youth. Jessica nods to herself in satisfaction as she notices how the two groups have already blended so well. The smiles and the conversation among them warm her heart more than the campfire before her.

Her eyes fall on Melissë as the beautiful elven Queen leans comfortably on her husband’s chest. Their love is evident, even after so many years together.

“Such a beautiful night.” Melissë sighs. I can’t remember a time when we had such peace.”

“It has been far too long.” Maethor agrees.

Jessica can’t help but join in on the conversation. “It’s amazing,” she exclaims. You’ve fought this battle for centuries, yet mankind has no idea of the sacrifices you have made.”

Maethor gives her a solemn look. “We do good for the sake of good, not for reward or recognition.”

Jessica glances at her husband and gently places her hand in his. “Sounds a lot like someone I know.”

Kris nods warmly and then looks to the elven couple. “But why do the goblins seek to destroy mankind? Why is there so much hatred in their hearts to begin with?”

37

Dawn of Legends

Melissë glances toward Maethor and he gives her an approving nod. She continues, “Power. Greed. Envy. You may as well ask why evil exists at all. Evil has always been. All it takes to thrive is for those of good heart to stand by and do nothing.”

Kris nods in thoughtful agreement. “Well, at least you have a moment of peace. It’s too bad you couldn’t have captured this General a long time ago. With all your magical abilities, I would have thought…”

Melissë cuts in before Kris can continue. “We are not the only ones who possess magic.”

Maethor rises and stands proudly while placing his hand on the hilt of his sword. “The goblins are incredibly powerful foes and General Lodus is exceptionally crafty and cunning.

They utilize a vast network of tunnels within the mountain that provides them with both heat and shelter from the storms. They also use their higher ground to spy on us. We are forced to live in the open where we are exposed to the cold. This was not strictly by choice, but because it serves another important purpose. The cold works as a natural barrier. The goblins cannot withstand it. This is one of the other reasons they want to move south. They desire warmer lands where they can go forth and multiply. We elves live in a constant state of preparedness. We wait for their attacks, and then we counter.”

“And why don’t you spy on them in return?” Kris asks. “It might buy you more time to prepare.”

Melissë rises. “We have great vision and we do get close, but once we reach a certain perimeter…”

Maethor finishes her sentence for her. “Let’s just say that this tactic has not worked well for us.”

38

Matt Dragovits

Kris nods in understanding. He winks at Jessica and continues. “Well, then maybe it’s time I started to repay you for the kindness you’ve shown us.”

Kris reaches behind his bench and scoops up a good mound of snow. He packs it tightly into a large crystal sphere about the size of a bowling ball. He motions for everyone to scoot in closer.

As they do, Kris waves his hand over the snowball and it begins to glow with a faint light. Slowly, the light bends and twists in upon itself with magical transformation. Within seconds, an image shifts into focus. It displays their very own campfire, as seen from above.

Gasps fill the air as Kris waves his hand again. The image rapidly transforms into a scene of Little Bits and Tristan working together on designs for a magnificent mechanical structure. Kris waves his hand again and they view Jax riding Luc, racing with an assortment of other wild animals. Kris waves his hand a final time to reveal smiling children nestled in their beds.

“What magic is this?” Melissë exclaims excitedly. I have never seen it like!”

“It is something I learned from a dear old friend of mine,” Kris answers. “I use it to help determine which children are deserving of the toys we make.”

Melissë nods in approval. “A truly impressive feat!”

Maethor stares deeply into the globe. “Can you use it to seek out the goblins?” He looks up with hope in his eyes. “Can you use it to determine their whereabouts?”

“I can try,” Kris answers. He waves his hand again and they view an image of the snow-capped mountains. The image pans until it reaches the largest mountain in the entire north pole, Mount Frostbite. The image zooms closer and closer until the group can view openings peppered across the mountainside.

But as the perspective reaches the first entryway, the snow globe starts to flicker. Bursts of multi-hued patterns surge across its 39

Dawn of Legends

surface as glimpses of angry goblins cut in and out. The snow globe flickers one final time and then winks out entirely.

“What the…” Kris stammers while trying to bring the image back into focus. “I’ve never seen that happen before.”

Melissë and Maethor share a knowing look.

“What?” Kris asks. Do you know what caused that?”

“Gemstones,” Melissë responds. Magical gemstones. They exist within the quarries of Mount Frostbite.”

Kris scowls in frustration, his hopes dashed. “Well, I’m sorry,” he said. “I had hoped this might help.” Kris sets the snow globe on the ground. Melissë reaches down and instantly scoops it up.

“Nonsense,” she replies. “This is an amazing and useful tool regardless of that limitation. I would ask that you teach this magic to me so that I may better defend our people.”

Kris gives a simple nod.

“It’s true,” Melissë continues. “We cannot see into the heart of our enemy’s lair, but we can certainly see much further than we had ever dared hope and at much less risk of harm to our scouts.”

Kris smiles warmly. “I’d be happy to teach you.”

And with that, Kris sits down next to Melissë and starts to guide her hand over the snow globe. “The first thing you need to do,” he instructs. “Is clearly picture in your mind who or what you are hoping to see.”

40

Chapter 7 The high-tech sound of electronic wizardry fills the air as Little Bits moves from one workstation to the next. One team of elves is busy soldering microchip boards. Others are installing dials, knobs, and switches. Others are running cables, wires, and conduits. Several other elves are riding baby polar bears that are running on a treadmill connected to a massive generator to provide electricity. Elizabeth makes a few quick notes on her clipboard and then continues. The toymakers are working sideby-side with nature elves to bring life to her concept. As the project manager, Little Bits is very proud of the work they’ve done. Both teams have been working round the clock, day and night.

What really amazes her, though, is how quickly the nature elves picked up on the highly technical instructions she gave them. Although… she laughs to herself… they are elves after all.

Little Bits makes her way over to the master control panel and starts checking various meters and gauges. Everything is proceeding according to plan and staying well within the safety parameters she has set. The structure is nearly complete!

Lizzy’s concentration is broken as a friendly voice calls out.

If it were anyone but HIS voice, she wouldn’t have let herself become distracted. But… “After watching you for the past few weeks,” Tristan calls out while approaching with a basket of food in hand. “You would think I would get used to the speed at which you operate.”

41

Dawn of Legends

“I’ve got a great team helping me.” Little Bits replies with pride as she gestures to an area where nature elves are using their magic to thaw frozen gears while the toymaker elves shift them into proper alignment.

“Yes,” Tristan answers. “But still, just to imagine a device this grand is inspiring. Then, to bring it to life in such short order. It’s just impressive.”

Little bits blushes at the compliment. Then, after a moment of awkward silence, she gives Tristan a playful jab on the arm. “So, what have you been up to? Any luck on getting general pruneface to crack?”

“Unfortunately, no,” Tristan responds. “He’s as tight-lipped as ever. We’ve been unable to get even a shred of information from him. And he won’t even consider a peace treaty. He knows that elves won’t take the drastic measures required to force information out of a captive. He feels relatively safe, if not inconvenienced. Too bad the goblins have never shown us that same courtesy.”

“Which is why Jax is so worried about Yeti, right?” Little Bits asks.

“Yes,” Tristan nods while looking skyward to view the highest levels of the structure. “I’ll never understand how goblins can be so filled with anger and hate.”

“Are all goblins that bad?” Little Bits asks. “Have you ever met a good one?”

“Never.”

“But why do the goblins hate mankind so much? Why do they want to bring such destruction into the world? Does anyone even know?”

Tristan looks back at Little Bits and considers answering. But instead, he takes a few steps toward the heart of the structure.

“It’s something we don’t like to talk about.”

Little Bits hurriedly follows, her curiosity piqued. “I promise not to tell.” She smiles while crossing her heart. “You know I’m 42

Matt Dragovits

a great problem solver. Maybe I can help with this. Please let me try.”

Tristan takes a moment to ponder whether he should share any more information. He takes a few steps away from Little Bits and sits on a nearby bench. He pats it as an invite for her to join him.

“My great-great grandfather once told me,” Tristan whispers.

He pauses and casually glances over his shoulder to make sure that no other elves can hear. “That goblins and elves were once of the same race.”

Little Bits gasps and her face goes a little pale.

“Yeah,” Tristan nods. “That was pretty much my reaction, too.”

“So… I’m…” Little Bits grimaces. “I mean, WE’RE related to those horrible creatures?”

“In a sense,” Tristan answers. “Long ago, when the elves first learned of the existence of mankind, there was a great argument among our people about how we should address it. Some elves felt that the humans were so distant and lived such short lifespans that they couldn’t possibly pose a threat. They felt that no action should be taken. They wanted to give humans a chance to evolve toward a more peaceful existence. But a significant group of elves felt otherwise. They saw humans as a destructive force to Mother Earth. They saw the wars and witnessed the weapons of mass destruction that humans used against one another. They saw the carnage that humans unleashed. Many elves felt it was only a matter of time before the humans came North and threatened our way of life.”

“Which side did your great-great-grandfather agree with?”

“He believed in the potential for good within all creatures.

He hoped the young human race would learn. He hoped they would grow to find their own path. He believed that they would come to live in harmony with nature just as the elves have always done.”

43

Dawn of Legends

“So, what happened?”

Tristan’s jaw tightens. This tale is obviously not one the elves are proud of. He steps away from the Divine Reactor and leads Little Bits over to a small grove of trees. He places his hand on a branch and channels out a portion of the energy. His hand begins to glow as he reaches down to scoop up a mound of snow. He tosses it high into the air so that the flakes can fall and disperse.

Each snowflake glows and twinkles as it falls. The glowing particles begin to swirl and twist into a constellation-style image of warrior elves.

“War,” Tristan finally answers as he looks Elizabeth directly in the eyes. “War among the elves.” Tristan turns his head in shame.

“And that was the terrible irony of it all. We waged war with one another, with our elven brethren, out of fear for a potential enemy that was very far away.”

Tristan takes a moment to compose himself and then lifts his head high. “Ultimately, my great-great-grandfather and his people won. They drove the opposing elves away from our woods and deep into the northern mountains. But after centuries of living in those depths, something happened.”

Tristan waves his hand and the glowing snow particles take on another shape. The warrior elves fall to their knees and begin to twist and morph. Even the shadow versions give the appearance of a painful metamorphosis. And as the creatures rise back to their feet their forms have shifted. They are no longer the streamlined and elegant bodies of nature elves. Instead, they are the ugly and brutish forms of powerful goblins.

“The elves,” Tristan grimaces. “Who had always been creatures of light, devolved into creatures of darkness. The fear and anger within their souls somehow transformed their outsides as well.”

As Tristan finishes his tale, the last of the glowing snow particles burn out and wither to the ground.

“That’s so sad.” Little Bits sighs. “And in all the years since, you’ve never been able to find a path to peace?”

44

Matt Dragovits

“Most goblins don’t even remember their true history,” Tristan answers. “The few goblins we have captured and interrogated are unaware of the reason they fight. It is blind hatred at this point.

It’s hard to find peace with a people that despise knowledge and are consumed by hatred that is ingrained in them from birth.”

“But there’s always hope,” Little Bits replies in a wishful tone.

Tristan nods, but not convincingly. It is obvious he has strong doubts.

“Yes,” he answers. “There is always hope. But my hope is to find a way to stop the war, not change the hearts and minds of the goblins.”

Little Bits nods in disagreement. “That’s very hard for me to accept. I ALWAYS think something can be fixed if you just approach it from the proper perspective... and you have the right tools.”

“That’s very decent of you,” Tristan answers.” You have a noble heart, Elizabeth.”

“But you don’t agree?”

“I’m sorry, Tristan replies. “I don’t. History and personal experience have taught me otherwise.”

“Well,” Little Bits sighs while giving Tristan a gentle punch in the arm. “Hopefully, one day, I can prove you wrong!”

“That would be something,” Tristan answers. “I just hope the goblins never prove me right.” *** Stomping feet and angry growls echo through the bowels of Mount Frostbite as Mason leads a growing contingent of goblins.

“Hold here,” he commands. The gatekeeper approaches an ornately carved rune at the end of the cavern wall. He traces over the pattern, causing it to glow. He rears back and slams his fist. But instead of an explosion of rock and dust, this time, the 45

Dawn of Legends

stone simply glows and shifts. Layer after layer of rock folds back until an opening to a private chamber appears. Mason enters and views five powerful clan leaders seated at a round table. They are drinking ale and playing a simple card game.

The gatekeeper approaches the table and locks eyes with the first clan leader. The goblin simply nods in assent. Mason nods in thanks and silently moves on to each council member in turn.

He receives approval one after the other. The powerful gatekeeper gives a simple grunt of thanks and then exits back through the opening to rejoin his goblin horde. He can’t help but bust out a fiendish smile of success as he raises his callused fist in triumph.

The goblins cheer in support and then proceed deeper into the depths, eager to swell their ranks further.

46

Chapter 8 The leather backpack isn’t large. It didn’t need to be. Jax didn’t plan for this to be a long trip. He quickly tosses some important items in while running through his mental checklist: a knife, rope, food rations, a canteen, bandages, a few matches, a blanket, and some candles. “That should do it.” He thinks to himself while slipping the backpack over his battle armor.

Jax takes one final look around his cavern home before heading for the exit. But before he passes through the threshold, his eyes come to rest on the power staff he won in combat by defeating General Lodus. Even though he knows it is useless to him since he isn’t a magic user, he can’t help but feel an unusually strong desire to bring it.

Jax reaches forward to grasp the thick oak handle. The energy source within the gem instantly awakens and begins to swirl within the stone’s multi-faceted surface. The pattern is both mesmerizing and disorienting. Jax stumbles as he attempts to take a step. His thoughts and vision become fuzzy. He feels as if there is an unseen power tugging at him from within… a nameless force calling his name.

An impatient growl from outside breaks the trance. Jax shakes away the mental cobwebs and slides the gemstone staff into a special holster on his back. Once it is out of sight, Jax can once again concentrate on the task at hand. He gathers his shield from a mount on the wall and then sheathes his sword. As he does, a loud trumpet sounds in the distance. It is a call for assembly. Jax 47

Dawn of Legends

clenches his teeth and mutters a curse of frustration. He cannot suffer any more delays. He has waited long enough. Let the other elves respond to this summons.

Jax proceeds to ignore the call, but as he does, the trumpet sounds a second time, this time even louder.

Despite Jax’s reluctance, he knows he cannot ignore his family responsibilities. He is a valued member of the clan. Others rely on him. He grudgingly exits his cave and climbs onto Luc’s back.

He gives his furry friend a gentle nudge, and the two of them make off toward the village.

With each step, Jax grumbles to himself about the delay.

He had made up his mind. He was ready to act. He should be heading in the opposite direction.

Despite his frustration, Jax nudges Luc on to greater speed.

It’s best to get this over with.

As elf and polar bear crest the final hill, they see a massive group of elves surrounding the Divine Reactor. And while there is a great deal of activity at the base of the machine, all eyes still turn to him. He rides as far into the crowd as he’s able before dismounting. He pats Luc and tells his friend to hold fast.

Jax closes the remaining distance, all the while feeling uneasy.

“Why are all the eyes still glued on him?” It is only after Maethor gives a questioning nod at Jax’s armor that the young elf realizes his mistake.

“Going somewhere?” Maethor asks.

“No,” Jax responds. He meets Maethor’s eyes with a bit of defiance. “Not yet.”

The two elves stand toe to toe while the crowd looks on. The tension is incredibly uncomfortable. Fortunately, Melissë is there to help temper the two strong-willed men.

“I know this hasn’t been easy for you, Jax,” she replies while placing a hand on her husband’s forearm, signaling that she would prefer he stand down and let her handle this.

48

Matt Dragovits

“Easy?” Jax almost laughs. “Easy? No. Easy is definitely not the word I would use.”

Melissë nods in understanding. Her simple kindness begins to melt Jax’s tough exterior.

“Maethor and I have been discussing Yeti,” she continues.

“Please do not think we have forgotten him.”

Jax turns with a sudden glimmer of hope in his eyes. “So, is that what this is all about? Are we finally planning a rescue?”

Melissë averts her eyes to look at the Divine Reactor. She turns back to Jax. “Not today,” she answers while guiding Jax closer to the amazing structure. “Today, I have a favor to ask of you.”

Jax looks at Melissë with an expression of both frustration and suspicion. “What is it?” he asks.

“I would ask that you lend me the gemstone staff you won from General Lodus,” she answers. “Gemstone magic is a critical component of the device that Elizabeth has designed.”

Jax growls in frustration. He looks at the crowd and sees all the expectant faces.

“So,” he answers in a near-whisper. “You summoned me here to inform me that we won’t be rescuing Yeti. But you still need me to help test a device that delayed us for weeks and won’t work without my help?”

Melissë simply nods. Tristan steps forward.

“Jax. This is important. If Elizabeth’s design works, it will help all of us. It will improve life for every single elf in the village.”

Tristan reaches up and places a hand on his friend’s shoulder while locking eyes with him. “I know you don’t always feel like you are one of us. But please, put your emotions aside and look to the greater good.”

“Please, Jax,” a single female voice calls out from Tristan’s side. “I know this will work. But we can’t test my device without your gemstone.”

49

Dawn of Legends

Jax stares for a moment at Little Bits and then slowly walks up to the Divine Reactor. He glances at the controls. There is an obvious housing where the gemstone is designed to fit. Without saying a word, Jax removes the gemstone staff that is strapped to his back. He breaks the gemstone out of the mount and places it into the Divine Reactor. He exits the structure, walks past all the elves, leaps onto Luc, and heads back toward his cave without uttering a single word.

“Thank you.” Little Bits calls out as she watches him leave.

Jax glances over his shoulder and gives a weary smile and a slight nod. He rides off without even waiting to see if the Divine Reactor will work.

“Father.” Tristan implores, “How much longer must we wait?

This is tearing him apart.”

“I understand that, son,” Maethor replies. “But sometimes leadership is about addressing the greater good over your own personal desires.”

Tristan nods. “I do understand that. Trust me. I’ve said those very same words myself. It’s just… sometimes the burden can feel too heavy to bear.”

Maethor nods in understanding. As clan chief, he knows that truth all too well. “The time to rescue Yeti is near.” Maethor continues. “Our warriors have healed. We have restocked our supplies for the village. I gave Elizabeth the time she needed to finish construction. If this new device provides the energy she suspects, I will feel much better about leaving our home to marshal an attack.”

Tristan can’t help but smile. “Thank you, Father.”

“No thanks are necessary, my son. Yeti is one of us. It was never a question of if... but when. I have to trust that our tough, furry friend will live up to his legendary reputation. His strength must endure.” Maethor smiles while nudging his son forward.

“Are you ready to see how smart your admirer is?”

50

Matt Dragovits

Tristan grins at Maethor’s comment while nodding in agreement. “Absolutely.”

Father and son step forward together. As they approach the Divine Reactor, the sun’s rays reflect off the various glass and metal components. It is dazzling to behold. Maethor pauses and takes in the true majesty of the device. He can’t help but be impressed by the hard work that went into its design and construction.

Little Bits is bustling as always, running through a complicated series of adjustments to the control panel. She is flipping switches, adjusting dials, checking meter readings, and more. Finally, she looks over her shoulder at the large crowd and shouts. “Okay, it’s time for the show!” And with that, she presses a big red button that activates the device.

All eyes fall on the metal dome at the top of the Divine Reactor. It slowly opens to reveal a beautiful stained-glass inner dome. The stained glass instantly starts to channel and redirect the light from the Star of Bethlehem. It allows a significant amount of starlight energy to flow straight into the heart of the machine. The remaining light reflects in an intricate geometric pattern via a complex series of rotating mirrors that spin around the outside of the device. The dancing light show ends where all the rays meet and shoot a focused beam of light directly into the gemstone heart. Power instantly begins to surge. Every energy meter rapidly climbs toward 100. The hum of electricity across the power lines is deafening as the Divine Reactor struggles to contain the raw power of the Star.

“It’s working!” Little Bits cries out while grabbing Tristan’s arm in excitement. “It’s working!”

The crowd cheers wildly as the unbridled energy of the star continues to flow into the Reactor. However, it only takes a few moments for the gauges to reach 100, and within seconds, they blow past the red line. The hum of electricity gets so loud that the elves start to cover their ears while stepping further and further 51

Dawn of Legends

away from the structure. Many start to flee. Little Bits frantically starts adjusting the controls on the device in order to regulate the flow. Tristan looks up and notices a massive burst of energy surging directly toward the gemstone heart of the device. It is just a few feet away from where Little Bits is standing. The young warrior elf lunges forward, tackles her to the ground, and shields her with his body just as the power surge reaches the gemstone housing and causes a massive explosion.

Smoke billows from the control panels as sparks of electricity spray the area. Shouts of alarm and panic fill the air. Little Bits comes to her senses and slowly pulls herself out from under Tristan. She quickly starts to shake him while brushing crushed glass out of his hair. “Tristan? Tristan!” she cries.

The elf prince is visibly stunned, but he begins to stir. His mother and father push through the smoke and rush to his side.

“Son?” Maethor questions while clasping Tristan on the shoulder. “Son, are you alright?”

Tristan sits up while rubbing the stars from his eyes. “Yeah, I think so.” He mutters while trying to rise, but his legs deny him.

Maethor quickly gives him a hand while Melissë assists Elizabeth. She turns toward Tristan while dusting the dirt and debris from Elizabeth’s clothing. “That was a very brave thing you did, my son.”

Little Bits looks at Tristan in awe. She is clearly smitten. “Yes.” She whispers, “Yes, it was.”

Maethor and Melissë smile at each other while looking from Tristan to Little Bits. There is an awkward moment of silence before Melissë steps forward and inspects the shattered gemstone housing.

“Well,” she frowns. “It appears your device moved us in the right direction. This “Divine Reactor” channeled more energy than any elf or team of elves has ever done using magic. But it appears the star is beyond even your technological reach.”

52

Matt Dragovits

Little Bits steps forward and looks at her broken creation.

“No,” she replies.

“No?” “My design is solid.” Little Bits answers while taking out a notepad and jotting down some data. “It worked exactly as I had planned. The gemstone was the unknown variable.”

Little Bits steps forward and picks up the fallen gemstone.

Remarkably, it is still in one piece. “It simply couldn’t store that much energy. We will need a gemstone that is significantly bigger than the one we used.” Little Bits hands Melissë the gem and lowers her head. “I’m sorry. I failed.”

Melissë turns toward Maethor and they share a meaningful look.

“Perhaps not.” Melissë answers. “At least, not entirely.”

“What do you mean.” Little Bits asks while looking up with renewed hope in her eyes.

Maethor steps forward. “How certain are you that the device would work with a larger gemstone?”

“Very certain.”

Melissë reaches down and lifts Elizabeth’s chin up so she can look intently into her eyes. “This is not something to answer quickly, little one. You must be absolutely sure.”

Little Bits takes a moment to inspect the Divine Reactor. She jots a series of equations down on her notepad and works out the calculations. She turns back to the elven leaders. The entire clan can be seen behind them. Every single one of them is staring at her with expectant eyes. Little Bits takes one more glance at her notepad and then clears her throat. “I’m 100% certain. It WILL work. I have no doubt whatsoever.”

Maethor and Melissë look over at Kris. The leader of the toymaker elves gives them a reassuring nod. He has total faith in his charge.

53

Dawn of Legends

Maethor takes a moment to survey the assemblage before him. He knows the weight of the decision he needs to make.

“Then we will do what must be done.”

Melissë turns to her husband, and he nods solemnly for her to give the orders.

“Tristan,” she calls out. “Get Jax and assemble a strike team. You’re heading into the heart of Mount Frostbite!”

54

Chapter 9 Flaming torches and billowing smoke fill the twisting tunnels as a growing pack of goblins storms through the heart of Mount Frostbite. Mason stands tall at the procession’s head.

The gatekeeper roars as his powerful fist slams into yet another cavern wall. Shards of rock fly everywhere as a wide opening is created.

“I sense we are ascending.” A big, young goblin grunts before running his tongue over two large fangs protruding from his lower jaw. The goblin’s powerful muscles bulge as he taps a ridiculously large club off the ground. Seconds pass as he waits for a response. When Mason doesn’t answer, Flarg presses his question. “Is this the full force we will bring to bear against the elves?”

“First, we will join forces with the goblin clans that live near the peak,” Mason answers gruffly. “Our combined might will crush the elves underfoot.”

The younger goblin pauses to consider this. It is obvious that he is not convinced. “And what of Tanas?” Flarg asks. “Are we not going to seek his aid for the battle to come?”

Mason sneers and then spits. He grabs Flarg and shoves the thick goblin aside before passing through the opening he created.

“I don’t need sorcery to destroy the elves.”

Mason storms forward, forcing the goblin pack to hurry their pace. He traces another rune pattern on the far wall, slams his fist into it, and the wall crumbles. The new opening leads to 55

Dawn of Legends

a vast chasm with a long, intricately carved stone bridge. On the far end is a wide stairwell leading up.

“Magic is not something to despise,” Flarg calls out while maintaining a safe distance. “The very gift you use to open these passageways is beyond understanding. You, yourself, my ‘gatekeeper’ friend, are a creature of high magic.”

Mason turns toward Flarg with venom in his eyes.

The powerful young goblin steps back a pace. “I meant no disrespect.” Flarg continues speaking while bowing in subservience. “But don’t you think if we were able to destroy the elves without the aid of magic, we would have done so centuries ago?”

Mason grumbles under his breath while storming across the bridge. Flarg’s words have struck a nerve.

The other goblins follow, albeit quite a bit more cautiously.

Most are afraid of the dizzying heights the bridge spans. One false step and you were done for.

Once Mason reaches the other side of the chasm, he turns to Flarg and begrudgingly nods in agreement. He clenches his fist and lashes out at a nearby wall with full force. No runes are traced. No magic utilized. This opening is created from the sheer force of will of the strongest goblin in Mount Frostbite.

When the dust settles, the goblins see a long, deep stairwell leading into the darkest depths of the mountain. Faint, ominous light emanates from below. Mason hesitates for the briefest of moments and then heads downward. Flarg nods in approval and then matches step with his leader. They are taking a great risk, and they know it, but to win this war, they must risk the wrath of Tanas. They need to disturb the most ancient of their race.

56

Chapter 10 The warrior elf, Holly, has a lot on her mind as she prepares to join the highest ranks of the elven village. She takes in a deep breath to compose herself. “Stay calm,” she whispers while glancing in the mirror to check her appearance. “You’ve got this.”

She tightens her belt, adjusts the dagger on her hip, and then throws on a thick shawl before racing across the village to join the gathering. It appears she made quite an impression on the two humans when she first aided them during the goblin attack.

Kris and Jessica had personally requested that she join the team to help plan the assault on Mount Frostbite.

Both the toymaker elves and the nature elves are buzzing with chatter. The entire compound is aware of the impending battle and there is an equal mix of nervousness and excitement.

The nature elves have been through many battles before. Their nerves are steeled to this sensation. But the toymaker elves, who had only one brief and terrifying experience with the goblins, are incredibly nervous about what is to come.

As Holly approaches, two guards at the command structure nod in acknowledgment. One of them pulls aside the heavy curtain so that she may enter.

The site takes her breath away. Elves and humans circle a massive war table of intricate elven design. The four legs have been carved to simulate rushing water. The border is a beautiful weave of frozen branches with glittering oak leaves. The surface

57

Dawn of Legends

displays a 3-D map that uses etched ice carvings to display exquisite details of the terrain.

Holly scans the surface. Their village is on the side of the table closest to Maethor and Melissë. There are distinct landmarks for the Glacius River, the Breakneck Ravine, the YK Mine, and other mile markers that help the group develop a stronger sense of the terrain.

“Welcome, Holly,” Tristan calls out while gesturing toward an open space at the table. To one side of her, she sees Kris and Jessica, as well as two other elves she knows all too well.

The first elf has a pointy nose and angular features. His quick movements and playful grin make him appear both friendly and sneaky. Yes, Sly has always been the group’s perfect scout. Alongside him, as always, is his big brother Tyler. This elf is dressed in rugged yet worn hiking gear that has a ton of pockets and instruments. He is the village’s expert mountain climber and explorer.

“It’s nice to see you here,” a voice calls out. Holly turns and greets Julie, a beautiful magic-user who is as kind as she is gifted.

Julie is dressed in a sweeping robe of fashionable design and is wearing several pieces of jewelry that have small gemstone fragments embedded in them. While she is just as much a “woodland” elf as anyone in the room, she has always had a strong sense of style.

58

Matt Dragovits

“It’s nice to be here,” Holly answers, smiling warmly.

Little Bits steps up to join the conversation. She reaches her hand out eagerly toward Holly. “Nice to see you again.”

“The pleasure is mine. I keep hearing very positive things about you. It seems you’ve made quite the impression on EVERYONE in the village.” Holly gives a quick sidelong glance at Tristan. She can’t help but smirk at the implication. The young elf prince shrugs and grins. He counters her mischief by gesturing toward Jax. Holly glances in Jax’s direction and their eyes lock for the briefest of moments, but it is still enough to cause Holly’s cheeks to blush. Tristan fights back a chuckle before turning toward his father. Time to get back to business.

The elven leader’s powerful voice breaks the silence. “Jax will lead the ground team to rescue Yeti,” he begins.

As Maethor speaks, Melissë uses her magic to create miniature models of each person as they are mentioned. The characters are made of ice but have amazing detail. They look like intricate chess pieces formed by magic.

“We will need to coordinate the air and ground assaults to create maximum confusion for the goblins,” Maethor continues.

“Once we enter their caverns, they will be at full strength, drawing power from the heat of their domain. We will no longer have the benefit of cold on our side.”

Suddenly, Julie leans forward with great intent. Her eyes glow with a visible light that is reflected in her gemstone jewelry. The excitement in her soul resonates through her magical talismans.

59

Dawn of Legends

“Wait,” she asks eagerly. “What do you mean by ‘air’?”

Melissë and Santa share a knowing glance while stifling their smiles. The elf queen then steps forward. She tries to hide her own excitement as she addresses the assembly.

“In addition to using snow globe magic to communicate over vast distances,” Melissë pauses and gives a nod of respect to Kris and Jessica. “The Kringles have shared another new resource to help fight the goblins. And it is truly amazing.”

Several of the eyes in the room are transfixed. Each elf wonders what wondrous surprise they can expect from their new friends.

“But this is something that needs to be seen, not heard.”

Melissë smiles and ushers Julie toward the door. “Let’s all step outside for a moment.”

The entire group moves as one. Some of them already know what the surprise is, and others are just as eager as Julie. As they exit the command structure, they are greeted by Walt, an incredibly thick and muscular elf. He leads one of Santa’s largest reindeer over to the group and then hands a set of reins to Melissë. She turns to Kris.

“With your permission?” she asks.

Santa nods with a smile.

Melissë winks at Julie and then, with one swift movement, leaps up and lands on the back of Blitzen. She gives him a friendly pat on the neck and then nudges his flank with her heel.

The reindeer lunges forward with incredible power and after just a few quick strides, he leaps into the air and takes flight.

A combined gasp of awe can be heard as all eyes track Melissë flying into the sky.

“That’s a good boy,” she whispers to Blitzen as the village shrinks beneath her. She steals a personal moment to enjoy the wind in her hair and the soft glow of the moonlight. This sensation is unlike anything she has ever known, and she wishes 60

Matt Dragovits

it could last forever. But now is not the time. She does a quick pass of the encampment and then circles back in for a landing.

As soon as Blitzen’s hooves touch the ground, Melissë slips down gracefully and hands the reins over to Kris. She can’t help but smile from ear to pointed ear as she turns to her best friend with a joyful grin. Julie is frozen in disbelief.

“Does that answer your question?” Melissë laughs.

Julie breaks out of her stupor. She eagerly steps forward and inspects Blitzen from antler to hoof. “Simply amazing,” she whispers. The various gemstones that make up her jewelry glow with a faint light while she is in the proximity of the magical creature. “Please,” she asks while turning to Maethor. “Please tell me I’m on the air team!”

Melissë nods with a warm smile and then motions for everyone to move back inside. Julie is the last to enter. She can’t help but stare longingly at the flying reindeer.

Once inside, Melissë renews her magical control over the ice table. A series of reindeer form on the surface alongside the existing elf characters.

“Yes, Julie,” Melissë instructs. “You are on the air team, along with myself, Tristan, Little Bits, and Sly. At the mention of his name, Sly gives Julie a devious wink.

She frowns at the attention and forces herself to stand straighter, casting a dismissive, if not slightly interested, scowl.

“It will be my task,” Melissë continues. “To lead us to the gemstone quarry, but Julie will assist in making the task faster or to lead the team in the event that I am captured or worse.”

The assembled elves take a moment of silence to let Melissë’s comment sink in. This assault on Mount Frostbite is unlike anything they have ever attempted before. They will be entering the stronghold of a powerful enemy that has battled them to a standstill for centuries. And the goblins had done that while at a significant disadvantage.

61

Dawn of Legends

“I will be able to help assess the best gemstone based on size and cut.” Little Bits offers. “For the most part, bigger is better, but the overall shape will need to be taken into account for maximum performance.”

Tristan steps forward and addresses the crowd. “I will act as team leader to coordinate movements with the ground team and to modify strategy on the fly if need be. Once we land, Sly will take the advance position as scout.”

“But how will we stay in touch once we enter the mountain?”

Walt asks while tapping his massive war hammer in his palm.

“Even though the snow globe magic is amazing, we know it won’t work within the mountain.”

Melissë nods in understanding as members of both teams look toward her for an answer. “That is a very good question, Walt.”

The elf queen removes Jax’s gemstone from her pocket and then both she and Julie hover their hands over it. It begins to pulse slightly in response.

Julie and I will use our magic-sensing abilities to try and keep track of Jax’s location. While each gemstone does have its own unique energy signature, it will become much more difficult the closer we get to the gemstone quarry. We will communicate as effectively as we can for as long as we can. But once the other gemstones cause too much interference, each team will be on their own.”

The air and ground teams look toward the members of their respective groups. There is a silent understanding that they are all putting their lives in each other’s hands.

The silence is interrupted as Maethor uses the hilt of his sword to tap the edge of the table. All eyes turn toward him. “All right, everyone. We know our jobs. Head back to your homes.

Pack your gear and say your goodbyes. For tomorrow, we storm Mount Frostbite!”

62

Chapter 11 As he makes his way across the bustling village, Kris can’t help but think of the enormity of the events that have transpired these past few weeks. What started out as an effort to find safe haven from some bitter humans has now turned into a life-anddeath battle against the forces of evil.

It is a lot to take in.

Kris continues to wander. He knows sleep will not come easily. Eventually, his footsteps take him to the outskirts of the village and he finds himself approaching the cave that Jax calls home. There are several voices coming from within, so Kris moves toward the open doorway. He knows he wasn’t invited to this particular meeting, but he also knows how important it is for him to absorb as much information as possible. He needs to be fully prepared for the battle to come.

He glances inside. Holly instantly notices and urges him to step up and join the meeting.

A slender gloved finger points to a crude map carved into the earth. Rocks, twigs, and pinecones represent the various team members and landscape features for the upcoming assault. This map is nowhere near as impressive as the one from the command tent, but it gets the job done.

“I still can’t believe we’re really going to do it!” an excited voice calls out. “We’re finally going inside Frostbite.”

Jax turns toward the voice and sees Tyler grinning wildly. As always, the miner elf has smudges of dirt on his face and hands.

63

Dawn of Legends

He is already sporting an updated outfit with countless pockets that are each bulging with tools. The buttons and zippers are barely able to contain the assortment of devices the tracker elf plans on bringing.

“This isn’t a sightseeing trip,” Jax responds while tightening the straps on Tyler’s backpack.

“I know. I know.” The excited elf responds. “But I’ve always wanted to see what ancient secrets were hidden in the depths of that mountain. I’ve scaled virtually every other cliff in the North.

This is going to be amazing!”

Jax tightens yet another buckle on Tyler’s backpack, but a bit more aggressively this time, making sure the force is noted.

“Tyler! Focus! If we’re going to rescue Yeti, we need you to be at your absolute best. We are ALL relying on you.”

64

Matt Dragovits

“No problem,” Tyler responds while flipping his pick-axe in the air and then snatching it mid-spin. “I’m on it. But just because this is going to be the most dangerous thing I’ve ever done doesn’t mean I can’t still be excited.”

The miner smiles widely and then looks toward the other elves. They don’t share his enthusiasm. Tyler’s eyes come to rest on the new human who now calls their village his home. The anxiety behind those eyes forces Tyler to take it down a notch.

“Okay, I really do get it. This isn’t fun and games. It’s a rescue mission. Don’t worry. We’ll get Yeti back. You can count on me.”

Tyler puts on his most serious expression and turns toward each elf in turn. They nod in acceptance, and then each begin their own side conversations. Kris takes this moment to pull Jax aside.

“I’m glad to see you’ve got a firm handle on this,” he whispers.

“I know I’ll primarily be handling communications with Melissë and Julie, but just know that I’m here to support the effort in any way I can. I don’t take it lightly that Yeti has been held captive after he helped save me and my people.”

Jax nods in understanding but doesn’t say a word. Instead, he walks over to the wall and takes down a shield and sword. He hands them to Kris. “Best to try and get comfortable with these.”

Santa graciously accepts the valuable gift. He holds the shield in a defensive posture while taking a few practice swings with the sword. The effort is good, but the movements are a bit clumsy.

Jax steps forward and helps Kris adjust his stance and the position of his shield. He adjusts his grip on the sword to give Kris better control and balance. “I’ll have Holly run you through a few offensive and defensive moves before we leave. Any knowledge is better than no knowledge.”

“I couldn’t agree more,” Santa replies while smiling warmly.

“Thank you, Jax. For everything.”

And for the first time since they met, Jax responds with a smile of his own. But the reception is short-lived as he turns back toward the crude map on the floor to resume their plan of action.

65

Dawn of Legends

“We’re going in as quietly as possible. I don’t expect to get Yeti out without a fight, but we don’t need the entire mountain swarming on us, either. That’s why we’re bringing Walt and Holly.

Pound for pound, Walt is the strongest among us, and you’d be hard-pressed to find a more skilled elf with a staff than Holly. But I can tell you this…”

Jax steps clear of the group and draws his own sword. Without warning, he moves with lightning speed through a complex series of slices, thrusts, and parries. He stops abruptly and sheathes his sword. “I am NOT leaving that mountain without Yeti, even if I have to fight every last stinking goblin in that cursed mountain!”

66

Chapter 12 Dawn came quickly. A chill wind and light flurries greeted the sun’s rays as it crested the horizon. Members of both strike teams gathered quietly at the Northern edge of the village. The ground team is dressed in clothing of the purest white, while the air team is wearing a camouflage blend of white on sky blue. All eyes fall on Maethor as he is raised into the air on an ice platform courtesy of his wife’s magic.

“All right,” he shouts over the growing winds. “You all know the seriousness of the task at hand. You know what you need to do, and you know what the members of your team need to do.

Does anyone have any questions before setting out?”

The members of each team look toward one another. Sly and Tyler check each other’s packs and pockets to make sure they are fully equipped. Melissë and Julie conduct simple rune spells to warm up their magical senses. Walt and Holly run through a quick battle kata to loosen their joints and hone their weapons.

Kris and Jessica simply hold each other’s hands to steady their nerves. And Jax, well, he just stares toward Mount Frostbite, eager to be underway.

“All right then,” Maethor continues. “It’s time to strike.” The elf leader turns toward Jax. The stern, commander-in-chief expression he normally wears melts as he addresses the young elf, who is like a second son to him. “You have a lot of ground to cover, my boy and Tristan’s team will be able to move much faster in the air.” Maethor steps over to one of the polar bears and grips 67

Dawn of Legends

the fur-lined leather saddle that has been bleached white. “Do you feel comfortable with Sly’s new harness design? Do you feel it is up to the task?”

Before Jax can answer, a voice calls out from beneath the neighboring polar bear. “I’d say it’s a success.” The muffled voice laughs heartily. A thick, dirty hand bats away the hair to reveal Tyler’s smiling face. “There’s no way the goblins will see us riding like this!”

As Tyler completes his sentence, he twists a nob on the harness. A spring mechanism engages and rapidly spins him up and around the girth of the polar bear, leaving the grinning elf suddenly topside.

Maethor gives an approving nod.

“Little Bits had a last-minute modification to improve on my brother’s design.”

Maethor nods again as he looks at Little Bits. “I must say, Little One, that you are constantly impressing me with your technical abilities. You have become a most valuable member of our clan.”

Little Bits blushes as Tristan gives her an approving grin.

“Yeah,” he smiles. “She’s one of a kind!”

If Little Bits was red before, her blush deepens further. She dares not look up, for the attention is more than she is prepared to accept. To save her the discomfort, Jax dashes past and leaps on top of Luc. With one swift movement, he latches himself into the white, fur-covered harness.

He cracks a grin before speaking. “If we’re all quite finished complimenting one another,” He shouts while nudging Luc to rear up in anticipation of a run.

“Wait.” Maethor commands while raising his hand. “Just one more thing.”

The elf leader reaches into his pocket and pulls out the gemstone that was formerly mounted to Lodus’ staff. It is now housed in a leather encasement with a thick cord that makes it a 68

Matt Dragovits

necklace. Maethor tosses it to Jax, who quickly snatches it from the air.

“You should be the one to carry this. You won it in battle.”

Maethor smiles. “It is yours.”

Melissë steps up to Jax and places a motherly hand on his cheek. “May its magic bring you luck and power this day.”

Jax nods in solemn acceptance and places the leather cord around his neck. He makes a hand gesture indicating his team should mount up. Holly mirrors Jax’s movements and mounts her polar bear in one smooth stride.

The remaining team members fall in line. Jax draws his sword and points the tip toward Mount Frostbite. The group surges forward as one. Tristan raises his own sword in salute and shouts in support. “Bring Yeti home, my friend!”

Jax turns and locks eyes with Tristan. He gives an uncharacteristically warm smile and nods in agreement. “We shall!” He shouts. “Good luck to you as well, brother! Good luck to all of you!”

With that said, Jax urges Luc forward. The mighty bear roars in excitement and races with all his might. He, too, is eager to rescue his wild friend.

The rest of the ground team match the aggressive pace and within seconds, they disappear into the windswept arctic plains, leaving behind a young elf prince who is suddenly a bit shaken.

Tristan turns to his mother and father. His eyes are watery, and it’s not from the biting cold. “Brother…” he whispers to his parents. “After all this time, after all these years, he finally called me brother.”

69

Chapter 13 Frigid winter winds howl across the arctic plain, whipping up torrents of snow and ice. Wave after wave slams into the immovable base of Mount Frostbite, biting into its surface, but doing little to affect its ancient foundation.

Mason surveys the land from thousands of feet above, just below the mountain’s peak. He kneels beneath the protection of a rocky outcrop, maintaining a vigilant eye against intruders.

Despite this perfect vantage point, Mason is unable to see anything beyond a few short miles. The snowstorm is just too thick.

The Gatekeeper turns as he hears approaching footsteps.

From out of the shadows of a nearby cavern, one of his fellow goblins appears. The goblin is tall and lanky with a bald, sloping forehead and bulbous eyes. His excessively pointy nose and pointy chin accentuate the other sharp features of his limbs. He wears only a baggy pair of pants and boots, not nearly enough clothing to protect him from the winter storm that is blowing just a few feet beyond the cavern opening.

“Hello, Mason,” Yert calls out. “Any sign of the elves?”

“Nothing.” The powerful goblin replies while dusting some errant snowflakes off his skin. Where the flakes landed, Mason’s skin instantly discolors as if burned, but the proud goblin pays it no mind. It is more of an annoyance than anything. Weakness is something Mason refuses to show to his fellow goblins.

“Isn’t that a good thing?”

70

Matt Dragovits

“No,” Mason grumbles. “And it should be you up here looking, not I.” Yert cowers before Mason’s angry gaze. “It’s been quiet every night for the past month. I only stepped away for a moment to warm myself by the fire.”

“Well, you’re here now.” Mason points to the ground far below. “Tell me what you see.”

Yert nods and starts to scan the arctic expanse below.

“No,” Mason grumbles. “You can’t see from that angle. Step up to the ledge with me.”

Yert’s big eyes grow even wider as he steps further back. “I am not dressed for this weather. Let me go grab some furs.”

Mason scowls in disgust. He calmly walks over to Yert and snatches the unsuspecting goblin by the neck. The thin goblin is no match for Mason’s raw power. The Gatekeeper takes a few steps toward the edge of the ledge, where neither of them is protected by the outcropping. The snow begins to burn Mason’s skin, which he ignores, but it’s a different matter for Yert.

“Aaarrrrggghhhh,” he cries as the snow begins to burn his flesh. “Mason, please. Have mercy.”

“Earn your keep.” Mason sneers. He thrusts his arm forward with Yert in tow. The tall goblin dangles over the edge of the cliff with only open-air beneath him for thousands of feet.

“No!” Yert cries. I meant no disrespect.”

“Then do your job,” Mason roars. “What do you see?”

Yert does his best to control his fear and shut out the pain. He scans the ground below. His vision is vastly superior to any other goblin. It allows him to see for miles and miles into the distance.

Yet despite that ability, all he sees is a small pack of polar bears making their way across the open fields.

“There is nothing out there,” he cries. I see nothing but snow and wildlife for miles and miles.”

Mason nods in satisfaction while tossing Yert to the ground.

He reaches down and traces a fresh rune on the hard earth. He 71

Dawn of Legends

slaps his open palm against it and the rocks begin to rise up.

They continue to shift into position till they form a protective structure. Yert quickly races inside.

“I had expected a response by now,” Mason grumbles.

“Perhaps they just don’t care enough about the beast to try and rescue it.” Yert answers while breathing into his hands for warmth.

“No,” Mason replies. “They care. It is one of their greatest weaknesses. But Maethor is no fool. He will strike when he feels the time is right. I may not like the elves, but I know enough to respect them as a worthy enemy.”

Suddenly, the sound of flapping wings draws the attention of both goblins. As they turn their eyes skyward, Grife comes in for a landing. He is wearing protective clothing, but his exposed wings have dozens of small burns.

“I’ve circled the entire mountain and traveled miles up and down the range.” He informs them. “They won’t be sneaking in on us from behind. I’m going to do another pass just to make sure.”

Grife takes a step toward the ledge but is stopped by Mason’s powerful grip. “No.” He commands. “This storm is growing. I can feel it in my bones. Take shelter and get something to eat.”

“I can handle it,” Grife responds while making a weak attempt to wrestle free from Mason’s grasp. It is obvious the young goblin is exhausted. “My father would expect no less of me.”

“Your father is not here,” Mason replies while releasing his grip. “And if we are to free him, I will need you to be in one piece.

You cannot withstand the fury of the storm that is moving in.

Rest. Yert will be on watch tonight.”

Yert looks up from his protective shelter and gives a resigned nod of agreement.

“Have you won Tanas over yet?” Grife asks as he and Mason head into the protective shelter of the mountain.

“Not yet.”

72

Matt Dragovits

“Can we defeat the elves without him?”

“It is a bold plan that Flarg and I have crafted,” Mason responds. “And we can win, but to guarantee success, we need the dark magics that only Tanas can bring to bear.”

“Perhaps it would be helpful if I spoke with him directly. I am General Lodus’ son, after all.”

Mason nods in disagreement. “Family means nothing to Tanas. You and I seek to conquer the elves since they are a barrier to humans and to warmer lands. Tanas holds a darker secret. It is a secret that he will not share. His history and his malice go much deeper. It is wise to tread lightly.”

Grife clenches his fists while struggling visibly. “I don’t know how much longer I can wait.”

“Patience,” Mason instructs. “Come. Let us review the strategy with the council. It is what your father would have us do. We should be prepared to act, with… or without Tanas’ aid.”

73

Chapter 14 The ground assault team struggles for every inch of land they cover. The surging snowstorm buffets the polar bears from all sides. It takes every ounce of strength they have in their powerful frames to muscle through. In an ironic twist of fate, the specialized harness that Sly and Little Bits created provides special protection to the elves. By riding beneath the polar bears, they are shielded from the brunt of the storm by thick, warm fur!

As the elves finally approach the base of Mount Frostbite, Jax scans the area. “Move toward that indentation.” He shouts over the whistling winds. “It will help shield us from the storm.”

“About time!” Tyler shouts as he pokes his head out from beneath his ride. Hair is sticking to the young elf ’s tongue, and his face is a sickly shade of green. “I’m not sure how much longer I could have kept this up.”

Tyler barely reaches the protective outcrop before he frees himself from the harness. He lands on the ground with a dull “Thud.” He huffs in and out deeply, sucking in the winter air to help drive away the nausea. He forces himself to his hands and knees and then looks toward the other members of the team.

Kris is also slow in rising to his feet. “You and me both.” He replies while doubling over and taking in deep breaths of oxygen.

“That made my sleigh feel like a joy ride!”

The remaining polar bears lumber forward and join the other members of the pack. Each ground team member releases themselves from their harness and quickly moves to lay flat 74

Matt Dragovits

against the mountain wall. Tyler is the only elf who breaks formation. He takes a few more seconds to catch his breath and then ensures that all his pockets are zipped shut and that all of his tools are secure. He gives Jax a quick nod and then races out into the snow along the base of Mount Frostbite. The adventurous elf is eager to begin his recon. He disappears within the snowfall, courtesy of the white camouflage.

The other elves get to work. Holly moves the fastest. She is eager to prove her value to the team. She slips on her boot spikes and then pulls out two hand picks. She steps up to the base and looks skyward. Time to tackle the mountain!

Holly rears back, takes a firm grip on the pick in her right hand, and then lunges forward with a mighty swing. A deafening ‘crack’ sounds, but the pick barely scratches the surface of the weather-hardened ice. Holly quickly drops her pick in frustration and shakes her hand to try and regain sensation. The sharp impact has vibrated her nerves, making her fingers and arm numb all the way up to her armpit. Undeterred, she follows up with a powerful kick. Her boot spikes slam into the side of the mountain but have virtually no effect. Holly stumbles back, catches her balance, and then looks to Walt with genuine concern.

Walt grimaces and decides to try another tactic. Rather than put on his own spikes, he takes a rope and grappling hook from out of his pack. He lets out some line and then starts spinning the hook in a circular motion to build momentum. His powerful arms swing the rope faster and faster until he finally lets the hook fly. It zips high into the air, traveling an unbelievable distance.

But once it comes in contact with the ice, it simply bounces off and falls back to the earth, unable to find hold.

Jax witnesses all of this in silence. He stands slack-jawed in disbelief. A crease of worry lines his brow as his mind considers other possible ways to scale the mountain. He scans up and down, left and right, looking for anything they might use to at least gain an initial foothold for their climb. But there is nothing 75

Dawn of Legends

for as far as the eye can see. The entire base of the mountain is one continuous sheet of ancient ice that is impervious to their tools.

Realizing this, Kris reaches down and scoops up a small mound of snow to create one of his magical snow globes. He stares intently into its surface. The image is incredibly blurry, obviously affected by the proximity to the gemstone quarry. Kris concentrates harder and the image shifts slightly but still doesn’t come into focus.

“You can do this.” Jax encourages while approaching. He places a supportive hand on Kris’ shoulder. “Don’t just think you can do it. Know that you can do it.” Kris nods and then grabs some more snow and packs the globe even tighter. He uses all his force of will and concentration to visualize the aerial team.

Slowly, the image becomes clearer and within moments, he can see Melissë smiling at him as clouds and stars whisk by behind her. Jax sees Tristan in the snow globe as well. He is flying as close to his mother as possible so that he can be involved in the conversation.

“Have you reached the base of the mountain?” Melissë asks.

Jax smiles as he sees his owl friend, Strig, perched on Melissë’s shoulder. The silly owl has his little tongue sticking out as the wind whips his feathers. He is obviously enjoying the free ride.

“Yes, we’re here,” Jax answers as his smile turns into a frown.

“Tyler has already started a recon of the area. It doesn’t look good, though. The entire base of the mountain is one solid sheet of ice in both directions, and it runs at least a hundred feet high.

There are no openings of any kind where we can get a foothold to start a climb.”

“What have you tried so far?”

“Everything at our disposal,” Jax replies in frustration.

“We’re going to have to change strategies,” Tristan shouts from his reindeer. “We won’t be able to conduct a coordinated 76

Matt Dragovits

attack. We’ll have to go in first and then send the reindeer down to bring you high enough to enter.”

“But the reindeer will be seen if they drop that low.” Melissë disagrees. “Flying reindeer are sure to draw instant attention.”

“We don’t have a choice,” Tristan argues while speaking directly to Jax. “We either do that, or we don’t try to rescue Yeti at all. And without both teams engaging the goblins to split their forces, we would have the entire mountain of goblins coming straight at us. We need to divide their attention if we are to have any hope of success.”

“Sound reasoning.” Melissë agrees with a begrudging smile.

“You are your father’s son.” The elf queen looks back to Jax. “Okay, we’re going to circle in closer to the peak. Hopefully, this storm and our camouflage will allow us to…”

“We’ve been spotted!” A voice shouts out from among the airborne elves. And before anyone else knows what is happening, Sly forces his reindeer into a reckless nose-dive that puts him on a collision course with a small stone structure near the peak of Mount Frostbite.

Sly plummets through the sky at breakneck speed as the rest of the aerial team do their best to follow.

Tristan attempts to focus on Sly’s target. At first, it appears to be just snow and rock, but as they close in, the elves can make out Yert racing across the snow toward a cavern entrance. The goblin turns and stops at the last second. He inhales deeply. Tendrils of smoke seep 77

Dawn of Legends

from his nose as internal heat builds within his throat. He lunges forward and bellows with all his might, belching out a massive fireball directly toward Sly. The nimble elf draws back on his saddle and pulls hard on the reigns to angle away. His reindeer’s massive antlers barely divert the deadly threat.

The fireball careens back toward Mount Frostbite and strikes a massive ice sheet on the side of the mountain. The ground begins to tremble and give way. A deep crack expands across the surface. It only takes seconds for the crack to grow until the ice separates. Gravity quickly takes hold. AVALANCHE! Tristan and the rest of the aerial assault team land their reindeer far above the tumbling rock, ice, and snow. They quickly scan the mountaintop, but Yert is nowhere to be seen.

Tristan turns to his mother with a look of dread in his eyes.

“There goes the element of surprise.” *** Miles below, at the base of Mount Frostbite, all eyes are pointed toward the heavens. What started as a low rumble is rapidly increasing in intensity. None of the ground team can make sense of it. “What is that?” Walt questions while squinting.

“The clouds are dark, but there’s no lightning. It can’t be thunder.”

Tyler suddenly comes barreling around the corner. “What are you all doing just standing there!” he cries with sheer panic in his eyes. “That’s an avalanche! RUN!” Kris doesn’t even take time to think. His body acts before his mind can process Tyler’s words. His legs race to carry him away from the mountain as fast as humanly possible. Self-preservation and the subconscious will to survive can be an amazing thing!

Kris vaguely realizes that Holly and Tyler are a few steps ahead of him. They are both racing for the open fields in a mad dash to avoid being crushed. Every step and every breath gives them an increased chance of survival.

78

Matt Dragovits

Kris turns to look over his shoulder as the snow and rock begin to strike the earth behind him. He trips on a small tumbling boulder and crashes to the ground. Hard. As he struggles to rise, all his rattled mind realizes is that he is about to be buried beneath a mountain of snow and rock. He covers his head and braces for the impact. This is not how he thought his story would end. How will Jessica take the news of his demise? What will the children of the world think?”

But before Kris can contemplate another negative thought, he feels strong hands lifting him up from each side. Walt is on one side and Jax is on the other. Neither of them speaks a word.

They just keep pace, running with every bit of strength they can muster. Hoping against hope that somehow, they will reach a safe distance from this terrifying force of nature.

Despite their best efforts, it’s not enough. As the ground shakes and heaves, Jax turns to try and gauge just how much distance they need to travel to reach safety. In that instant, he sees a massive wall of snow and rock crest above them. There is no escape. They are going to be buried alive.

With their last ounce of strength, Walt, Kris, and Jax lunge forward and hit the ground. They quickly put their hands over their heads and curl into a fetal position to try and protect themselves. Each of them knows that the next thing they feel will be the suffocating impact of the frozen earth.

The blow comes, but it takes their bewildered senses a moment to realize that they have not been crushed to death. It is not ice and snow that is now suffocating them, but a massive mound of muscle, fat, and fur.

And while Luc may have used his own body to shield them from injury, they are now all pinned beneath the snow. Luc, Kris, Walt, and Jax struggle for breath while trying to wriggle free.

They are packed tightly against one another, with little room to maneuver. Fear envelops them and panic quickly sets in. At first, Jax can only hear the rapid beating of his heart, but then another 79

Dawn of Legends

sound joins the frenzy. It is the sound of scratching, clawing, and muffled shouts. Jax holds his breath as a beam of light finally breaks through above him.

Holly reaches down and clasps his forearm. She pulls with all her might and breaks him free of his icy prison. She smiles wearily while trying to catch her own breath. When she smiles, it is the most beautiful sight Jax has ever seen. “Thank you.” He finally manages to gasp.

Holly nods with a smile and then proceeds to help Tyler dig Kris and Walt out. Jax attempts to rise and assist, but his legs fail him. He topples to his backside. And there he stays. He realizes that the best thing he can do right now is try to catch his breath.

Moments later, Kris plops down beside him and sighs in relief.

The human’s eyes are heavy and sweat lines his brow. “Whew,” he gasps. “I didn’t think we were going to make it.”

Jax nods in agreement and the two of them share a moment of solitude. Jax eventually rises and lumbers over to Luc. He scans his friend for injuries. The bear has a significant number of bruises and scratches across his body, but he still stands strong

80

Matt Dragovits

and proud. Once Jax is confident nothing is broken, he wraps his exhausted arms around the bear’s neck. He reaches up and scratches his friend behind the ears while looking deeply into the beast’s eyes. “I owe you one!”

Luc nods in agreement. He gives Jax a toothy grin, followed by a big wet lick.

As the dust and debris begin to settle, Kris looks back toward the mountain. “Well, I’ll be.” He smiles with a twinkle in his eye.

All the elves turn as one and stare in the direction of Kris’ attention. What was recently an unscalable wall of ice has now become a climbable bank of snow and earth. Jax can’t help but grin as he realizes they now have a way into Mount Frostbite.

“Well,” he whispers to himself while looking toward the heavens.

“I guess sometimes prayers do get answered, just not in the way we expect!”

81

Chapter 15 The dark, dank chamber of Tanas’ inner sanctum is deeply unnerving. Shadows dance across the ancient walls as a stream of magma provides the only light. The intense heat from the lava flow creates a distortion field for one’s vision, giving everything in the room an unearthly feel. A lone figure stands at the far edge of the room. He is covered from head to toe in a simple, tattered robe that is adorned with mystical runes. A single, withered hand extends from the depths of his sleeve. Sinewy fingers clasp a long, wooden staff that has a massive ruby gemstone at its head.

Grife wipes sweat from his brow while bending a knee in supplication. “I implore you, great Tanas.

You know what is at stake. Without your aid, my father will remain a prisoner.”

From his position on Grife’s right-hand side, Mason nods in 82

Matt Dragovits

agreement. He, however, remains standing. The proud goblin gatekeeper is unwilling to pay homage to the true ruler of the mountain.

“Your father is secondary to our plans.” Tanas hisses while stepping forward. As he does, his gemstone casts a faint glow and Grife can now see the wizened old face that was protected by the shadow of the robe’s hood. For a moment, Grife wonders if his vision is playing tricks on him. The ancient being he is speaking to has goblin features, but they are not quite as brute-like. This creature’s features are more refined. As the goblin ruler continues his approach, Grife can make out regal clothing layered beneath the ragged robe. They are tattered and worn but appear to have once been the finest of garments.

“You ask for my intervention,” Tanas continues while increasing the brightness from his staff so that the hellish glow reflects brightly in his eyes. “And I shall swear to give it. However, I care nothing for your petty family sensibilities. My goal is as it has ever been. I desire the destruction of humans and our rightful dominion over all the earth!”

Tanas raises his staff and then slams it down with incredible force. The very earth shakes as an explosion of light blinds both Grife and Mason. They are forced to shield themselves from the incredible power that is emanating from the wizard’s gemstone.

“No longer shall we skulk in the darkness of this accursed mountain tomb. Our time of exile is at an end.”

Tanas locks eyes with Grife. The winged goblin nods in agreement and then keeps his head bowed in respect. Tanas then turns his gaze to Mason and the powerful goblin nods in agreement. Tanas holds his stare, expecting more. Energy seeps from the gemstone and channels into Tanas. The aged wizard’s eyes glow with an intensity that cannot be denied. Finally, even Mason succumbs to Tanas’ awful might. The proud gatekeeper goblin bows his head in respect, acknowledging the undeniable power of the mage.

83

Dawn of Legends

Tanas gives a weak smile and then nods in acceptance of their fealty. As he waves his hand to dismiss his guests, an intense rumbling vibrates throughout the mountain. Tanas looks to Mason and the gatekeeper goblin snaps to action. He races to the nearest wall, traces a rune pattern on its surface, and then slams his fist to create an opening. He and Grife exit with utmost urgency.

Tanas barely acknowledges their departure. He is content to allow his lessers handle whatever annoyance caused the disturbance.

84

Chapter 16 Little Bits’ fingers tremble as she clings to her reindeer’s fur.

In concept, the idea of this adventure had been exciting, but the reality is a different matter altogether. Flying on the back of a reindeer is a truly magical experience at first. But the brutal winds and the intense cold are proving quite difficult to endure.

The wilderness elves have lived in the arctic environment for generations. Her time is measured in weeks.

The height and speed are also far greater than she had imagined. It is with little wonder, then, that when her pointed boots finally touch the ground, the elf, who spends most of her time walking the floor of an engineering workshop, heaves a deep sigh of relief.

But there is no time to catch her breath. No time to dawdle.

That goblin who escaped must surely be alerting others to their presence. She had been nervous about encountering these creatures when all she had to worry about was their size and strength, but after seeing how the goblin actually belched a fireball at them, she realized they were on an entirely different threat level than she had imagined.

Little Bits flips open her backpack and takes a quick inventory of her supplies. As her numb fingers rifle through her tools, she senses a slight rumbling beneath her. At first, she thinks it is just her nerves or some type of after-shock from the avalanche. That thought quickly changes when she sees the other members of the team putting their hands and ears against the ground. It must be 85

Dawn of Legends

something more. Tristan waves his hands and urges the reindeer to take flight. Best not to take chances.

The tremor repeats with an almost rhythmic pattern. It’s as if the mountain has a heart that is beating louder and louder and louder.

It is only when a nearby wall explodes in a burst of cascading rock and dust that Little Bits realizes it wasn’t a natural sound at all. It was a series of explosions that had been getting closer.

The intense winds quickly blow away the dust and debris, leaving the elves exposed. They scramble to hug the side of the mountain, hoping that their elven camouflage does its job.

Little Bits nervously glances toward the source of the explosion. It is strangely quiet and dark. She looks over at Sly. The normally playful elf has a better angle and a better line of sight, but he just shrugs his shoulders. Whatever it is, he can’t see it either.

But then Sly’s eyes go wide. His jaw slacks open and his hairs literally stand on end. Little Bits turns just in time to see a heavily clothed, winged goblin race past. He leaps off the cliff ’s edge and his huge, leathery wings spread out to take flight. Within seconds, he is spiraling away from them, searching the area for intruders.

Little Bits tries to calm her frazzled nerves. Her heart is ready to pound out of her chest. Her breathing comes in fits and spurts.

Her knees begin to tremble. She is afraid she is going to pass out. But then a firm hand takes hers. She looks over and sees Tristan standing tall and strong. He has one hand on the hilt of his sword, ready to take action if necessary.

Elizabeth’s nerves slowly begin to calm as the winged goblin flies further and further away. She closes her eyes and leans back against the wall, focusing on her breathing in an effort to relax.

Her brief moment of peace is shattered as an angry, guttural voice shouts. “You said there were elves!” The goblin thunders.

“Where are they? Where did they go?”

“I… I don’t know…” Yert stammers while moving away from 86

Matt Dragovits

Mason and out toward the edge of the cliff. This time, the spindly goblin is layered in furs to protect himself. He peers down the side. “Perhaps they started to climb down?”

“Or perhaps,” Mason sneers in mockery. “They flew off on flying reindeer.”

“I know what I saw,” Yert responds angrily.

Mason steps forward and growls. He rubs off some of the snow from his skin. He is obviously being burned quite a bit.

“You better hope so.”

The gatekeeper goblin quickly surveys the mountainside.

He takes a solid look around and then turns toward Yert. The spindly goblin glances around as well, but puts no real effort into searching. He is too eager to get out of the cold.

“Come with me.” Mason commands. “If they’re out here, Grife will find them. In the meantime, we have work to do.”

Mason turns and storms back into the mountain with Yert just a few steps behind.

Tristan seizes on the opportunity.

“Sly,” he whispers. “Do you think you can track them unnoticed? We’re not going to get a better shot at finding the heart of the mountain.”

Sly nods with his trademark smirk. “I’m on it.”

Melissë steps forward and smiles warmly at her young friend.

She and Sly have always enjoyed a good laugh or a good story together. He holds a special place in her heart. “We’ll be just a few steps behind. We need to attempt contact one more time before the gems cause too much interference.”

Sly gives a wink and then dashes forward in a series of stealthy moves. He disappears through the opening just as Melissë takes out a snow globe and begins to focus…

87

Chapter 17 Jax and the ground team continue to push their way through the massive rocks and icy boulders that make up the new base of Mount Frostbite. The avalanche provides them the opportunity to forge a new path, but it sure isn’t an easy climb.

Warm exhalations mist the icy air as the team pauses to catch their breath. The first cavern opening is finally in view.

“Tyler,” Jax instructs. I need you to scout ahead. You’ve always wanted access to these caverns. Well, now’s your chance.”

Tyler nods while gripping his pickaxe firmly. “You got it.”

“Move as fast as you can, but be safe,” Jax warns. “Don’t forget, we’re entering their territory now. These are their lands. We’ll follow a short distance behind. Keep moving toward the heat.”

“Why toward the heat?” Kris asks.

“The goblins would want to keep Yeti weak,” Holly explains.

“They would never want to risk him gaining his full strength.”

Kris nods in understanding as Jax turns back to Tyler. “Stay safe, my friend. We don’t want to have to rescue you both!”

Tyler gives a smirk and then quickly scales the remaining distance to the entrance. His years of experience allow him to move at a fast pace, easily picking the most secure footing for what would normally be a treacherous climb. The ground team follows suit. They make sure to utilize the path that Tyler sets.

As soon as the spelunker elf reaches the mouth of the cave, he bends down and picks up a handful of dirt and rocks. He proceeds to rub it all over his white clothing, turning it grey.

88

Matt Dragovits

“Great idea.” Jax acknowledges. “Everyone. Do the same.”

As the team starts to create a new form of camouflage, Tyler stalks into the cave and begins to scout.

“How will we keep in touch?” Kris asks Jax. “You know my snow globes won’t work within the mountain. I had no idea we would be splitting up.”

“Tyler will leave markers for me to pick up on,” Jax explains.

“A subtle nudge of dirt. Some stealthily placed rocks. A twig on the ground. These will be the signs that we look for.”

Jax reaches into Kris’ satchel and pulls out one of the snow globes. “Melissë infused these with her magic. They will stay frozen much longer than normal. It should only be when we reach the most intense heat that we need to worry. Have trust in our team and the plan. This isn’t our first mission.”

Jax places an assuring hand on Kris’ shoulder to try and bolster the human’s confidence.

“But it is your most dangerous one?” Kris can’t help but ask.

“You’ve never been inside Mount Frostbite. None of you have.”

Kris looks toward each member of the team in turn. Their silence speaks volumes.

Jax grudgingly nods yes while he finishes rubbing dirt into his clothing. He rises and pats the dirt from his hands. “This is our mission.” He states simply. “There is no going back.”

Kris nods in acceptance while giving a stiff upper lip.

“Okay,” Jax commands. “Let’s move out.”

The group proceeds as one, with Holly moving the quickest.

She takes her position alongside Jax and gives him a playful nudge in the ribs, followed by a wink and a smile. She then reaches into her vest pocket and pulls out a short rod. She tugs rapidly on both ends and it expands into a full-size bow staff to be used as a weapon. Jax nods in approval and then draws his own sword.

Walt witnesses this and grips his heavy war hammer. Kris follows their lead. He reaches for the sheath at his side and pulls out his own small sword.

89

Dawn of Legends

“I have to say.” He chuckles nervously. “This is not how I’m used to looking or acting.”

“Just do your best.” Holly smiles. “We’ll try to absorb the brunt of any attack.”

“You can count on me to do my best,” Kris responds with confidence. “I’ll carry my own weight. Too much is at stake!”

Jax pauses and turns back toward Kris. He is beginning to have more respect for this human who has quickly made his way into the hearts of their entire village. “Let me carry these.” Jax offers while reaching for Kris’s satchel full of snow globes. ”I’m used to armor and gear while fighting. I’d rather you have your arms free so you can defend yourself properly.”

“Thank you,” Kris answers while handing over the satchel.

He grips his blade more firmly and takes a defensive stance like he had been instructed.

Jax smiles and then turns with the bag. One of the globes begins to flicker softly, but it is too faint to be noticed. It pulses over and over as if trying to grab their attention. Jax’s gemstone necklace pulses ever so faintly in rhythm, the two magics competing for dominance but canceling one another out.

90

Chapter 18 “Nothing,” Melissë utters in frustration. “We’re not getting a response.”

The elf sorceress rises from her position on the cavern floor and signals for Julie to stop her efforts as well. “Either Kris is near gemstones that are causing interference, or we are.”

Melissë runs her hand over her snow globe while voicing a quick magical incantation that helps it maintain its frozen core.

“I’ll try again in a little while, but I think it must be coming from their end. Neither Julie nor I are sensing any magical energies yet.”

“Okay,” Tristan responds while pressing forward. “Let’s move then. I don’t want Sly getting too far ahead of us.”

Little Bits shuffles closer toward Tristan as they make their way through the dark corridors. She stays just a few steps behind as he navigates the twisting tunnels. She can’t help but appreciate how quickly he picks up on the most subtle markers that Sly has left. Light scratches on one wall instruct them to bear left.

A few pebbles scattered at another intersection instruct them to stay left. A snapped branch wedged in a crevice directs them to proceed with caution. But even more impressive than these markers is the fact that Sly leaves no trace of his own passing.

There are no footprints at all. There is no indication, other than his intentional markings, that he’s passed this way. Julie, on the other hand, uses her magic to mask their trail.

91

Dawn of Legends

The team travels for what feels like hours, but Little Bits knows it can’t have been very long. Her anxiety is making every second stretch into what feels like an eternity.

“Is it just me?” she asks while wiping sweat from her brow, or is it getting warmer?”

“It’s not you,” Tristan answers. He peers as far into the distance as possible and sees a faint orangish glow bouncing off the walls.

“We are nearing the lava flows. It takes pressure and heat to form gemstones. Sly is definitely moving us in the right direction.”

Tristan attempts to take a step forward, but his mother reaches out and places a hand on his forearm to stop him. She glances back toward Julie with questioning eyes. “Do you sense it?” she asks. “Do you feel it as I do?”

Julie steps up alongside Melissë. She closes her eyes to concentrate and then raises her arm. Her outstretched hand drifts left and right, swaying between two corridors.

“Yes, I do,” she finally answers. “The energy is pulling me to the right.”

“To the right?” Tristan grimaces. “That’s the opposite way Sly went.”

Melissë looks to her son and waits for him to make a decision.

He is the leader of this mission. It is his responsibility and his alone. All eyes fall on him as he wrestles with the tough choice at hand.

“I have to trust that Sly will double back eventually.” He decides. He then bends down, gathers a few stones, and makes a subtle marker for Sly to pick up on. “Sly is the stealthiest elf there is. I doubt the goblins will be able to detect him.”

“Are you willing to bet his life on that?” Melissë asks.

“No,” Tristan answers with resolve. “But I have to believe that even if they catch him, they will want to hold him as leverage.

They know we still hold General Lodus, and that gives us a bargaining chip. For now…” Tristan rises and dusts off his hands.

“We need to push forward toward the gemstones.”

92

Matt Dragovits

Melissë nods in agreement. “Not an easy decision, my son.

Not easy, but wise nonetheless.”

Tristan nods in humble acknowledgment of his mother’s praise. He advances down the corridor ahead of the team as Melissë and Julie continue to “feel” the air to help guide their path.

Melissë turns to Little Bits as they proceed. “Take comfort, my friend. Now that Julie and I are tuned in to the magical signature of the stones, we should be able to lead us straight to the quarry.

Soon, you will select the gem that will serve as the heart of your Divine Reactor!”

93

Chapter 19 Jax and his team are on edge. They have no choice but to stay hidden in the shadows. A slow-moving stream of lava weaves across the cavern floor, casting a dim light from ground to ceiling. Steam rises from the liquid fire as it bubbles and spurts.

Flaming magma droplets spray into the air, causing Yeti to cringe and cower in his stalactite cell. He rages against his iron bonds as an overwhelming force of goblins laugh and jeer.

Jax struggles to hold his position as he watches from a distance. Seeing his lifelong friend suffer beneath their torment is too much to bear.

“Har, har, har.” Flarg laughs as he brandishes a torch in front of the emaciated Yeti. “Not so big and powerful now, are you beast?”

Yeti recoils from the flame while whimpering out a weak growl. He struggles once more against his thick chains, but to no avail. All he can do is back away until he is restrained by the massive stalactite formations encircling him.

There is no escape. His icy blue eyes are drawn and sagging.

His body is withered and bruised. The intense heat, lack of food, and sleep deprivation 94

Matt Dragovits

have placed a heavy toll on the once-powerful creature. He is but a shadow of his former self.

As Flarg continues to wave his torch, Jax instinctively lunges forward, but he is quickly held back by Holly. “Not yet,” she implores. “There are way more goblins here than we expected.

We don’t have the strength to take this fight on. We need a plan.

We need to try and split their forces or wait for backup from Tristan’s team.”

Jax nods in bitter agreement. He sets the satchel of snow globes on the ground. Several of them are starting to melt despite the magical spell that Melissë placed on them.

Jax motions a hand sign to Walt. The burly elf responds by placing his hammer in its harness and then crouching as low as possible. The two elves stealthily move out in opposite directions.

They need a better view of the cavern. They also need to know if there are even more goblins outside of their immediate view.

As soon as Jax takes a few steps away from the satchel, one of the snow globes starts to glow faintly. The globes are finally outside of the restrictive magical influence of Jax’s gemstone necklace.

Kris notices and quickly rushes forward. He uses his body to shield the light before they are detected. He waves a hand over the globe to dim its light while at the same time focusing on the image within. Melissë appears on the other end, but the image is flickering in and out wildly.

“We’ve found the gemstone quarry,” she informs them. “I can’t talk long. I had to step away just to reach you. It is taking all my strength to keep this connection open.”

“I imagine we can’t be too far apart,” Kris answers. “I don’t think this connection would be possible otherwise.”

“I believe you are right, but this is still incredibly difficult to maintain.”

Kris focuses intensely on his end to help Melissë compensate.

“Thank you.” She smiles. “That helps.”

95

Dawn of Legends

Kris nods silently.

“Tristan took care of the guards.” Melissë continues. “Julie and I are working with Little Bits to select a gem. We already have one that we think will work, but Elizabeth wants to grab a few more, just in case. We should be ready to depart momentarily.”

Melissë looks past Kris to try and see the other members of the ground team. She notices they aren’t in sight. “What is the status on your end?”

Kris looks over and sees Jax and Walt holding their positions.

They are communicating with silent hand symbols. Walt doesn’t look happy at the information that Jax is sharing. “Not so good,” Kris whispers. We’ve tracked down Yeti, but there are dozens of goblins in the area. The entire cavern is littered with them. Quite honestly, I don’t know how we’ll…”

“Is Jax there?” Melissë interrupts.

“He’s close by,” Kris answers. “He’s scouting the perimeter of the cavern. He and Walt are trying to determine their numbers and come up with some type of strategy.”

Kris glances toward Jax and notices just how close the headstrong elf has moved towards Yeti’s prison. Kris gulps.

“What?” Melissë asks as her image starts to flicker. “What is it?”

As if in answer to her question, the brute goblin named Flarg jabs his torch toward Yeti once again. But this time, he does more than just frighten the winter creature. The flame gets too close and ignites Yeti’s fur. Yeti howls in pain while trying to extinguish the flame. Flarg just laughs even harder.

Yeti falls to the ground and desperately rolls around the hard earth to try and smother the flame, but it refuses to go out quickly. His hair is just too dry.

“Oh no…” Kris mutters while accidentally dropping the snow globe.

The entire cavern erupts like a tinderbox. Jax rushes forward, unable to restrain himself any longer. He swings his blade with 96

Matt Dragovits

all his might and slices Flarg’s torch in half. He presses forward and slams the pommel of his sword right into Flarg’s face, knocking the monstrous goblin out cold.

The remaining goblin horde instantly swarms toward Jax. On her end of the snow globe, Melissë hears that something is amiss even if she doesn’t know the details. “Hold on,” she shouts. “We’re on our way!”

Kris gulps while uttering a quick prayer. He draws his sword and prepares to enter the fray. By the time he has taken a few steps forward, he realizes that both Holly and Walt have already fully engaged the enemy. Holly is a blur of motion as she dashes in and out of the cavern terrain, using her nimble elf agility to take full advantage of the landscape. She swings her staff with frightening accuracy. One goblin goes down as his knees are taken out. Another is blinded as her staff pokes him in the eyes.

Another goblin doubles over and gasps for air as she strikes him

97

Dawn of Legends

in the jewels. Yet another goblin sees stars as her staff catches him upside the head.

Walt charges into the frenzy like a battering ram. He knocks goblins to the ground left and right as he swings his war hammer with terrible force. His attack is nowhere near as graceful as Holly’s, but the results are the same. He leaves a trail of unconscious goblins in his wake. In no time at all, he is fighting alongside Jax. The two of them attract goblins to them like a moth to a flame. “So, this is the plan, huh?” Walt chuckles anxiously. “Not much of a strategy.”

“I always thought you liked a good brawl,” Jax shouts while kicking a goblin in the head. He follows up with his sword and slices through the weapons of two more approaching goblins.

“A good fight is one thing,” Walt grunts while swinging his hammer defensively as a group of goblins try to team up on him.

“But this, my friend, this is madness!”

Holly sweeps in from behind and attacks the group that is about to sideline Walt. The miserable creatures don’t know what hit them. “I have to agree with the big guy on this one, Jax.” Holly frowns. “Not sure where we go from here.”

Jax looks at Holly and sees several small wounds across her body. She is sweating heavily, and it is obvious the fierce battle is starting to take its toll.”

“Tristan and the others know we’re here,” Kris shouts as he rushes in through the open path that Holly made.

“How long till they get here?” Holly asks.

“I have no idea. I don’t even know how the heck they are supposed to find us.”

“Looks like we’re on our own till then.” Walt roars as he takes a deep breath and grips the handle of his war hammer even tighter.

Suddenly, Yeti lunges forward from the confines of his cage.

His fur is still smoking, but the flames have been extinguished.

He looks toward Jax before letting out a deafening howl that 98

Matt Dragovits

echoes throughout the mountain. The ferocity of his bellow forces the goblin horde to step back. The winter beast snarls through clenched teeth and then bellows again, using the strength of his spirit to drive the goblins back.

The goblins recoil to a safe distance, but then quickly regroup after their initial shock wears off. They start breathing in and out heavily. Whisps of smoke start to emanate from their nostrils as an internal glow pulses in their throats. It is time for the creatures of fire to utilize their strongest asset. *** Tristan and the team race deeper and deeper into the mountain, using Jax’s gemstone as a beacon. The echoes of Yeti’s cries confirm that they are moving in the right direction, but the mountain is a labyrinth of twists and turns. They reach a fork in the path and pause for just a second to catch their breath. One path has a slight descent, while the other is a much sharper drop.

“I’m trying to track them.” Melissë vents in frustration. “But Jax’s gemstone is one pattern in a sea of energy signatures. It’s hard to isolate him among all the other stones in this mountain.”

Julie steps forward and tries to share her magical strength, but it’s just not enough.

“The energy is fading in and out.” Melissë curses in frustration.

I just don’t know which way to head.”

The mountain echoes again with a thunderous roar.

“This way!” Tristan shouts as he races down the sharp decline.

“Hurry. We need to go deeper into the mountain.”

“How can you be certain?” Little Bits asks. “These caverns bounce sound everywhere. There is no way to tell where the source is coming from.”

“You’re right,” Tristan answers. “But thankfully, Jax helped me learn a little bit of the Yeti language. Those aren’t just cries of 99

Dawn of Legends

pain you’re hearing. They are instructions. Yeti has our scent and he’s helping guide us to him.”

Another howl of rage echoes through the cavern and Little Bits realizes that not every howl sounds the same. “A Yeti language.” She smiles to herself while racing after Tristan. “Very cool.” *** Kris dives for cover as another volley of fireballs shoots his way. He barely escapes their fury as they whiz past him and crash into the far cavern wall. He rubs his eyes to try and clear away the smoke and tears. The scene before him is one of absolute chaos.

Jax has become separated from Walt and Holly. He is swinging his sword wildly while trying to fight off a half dozen goblins who are circling in for the kill.

Walt and Holly have their backs to each other in a defensive maneuver. Walt isn’t swinging his hammer with the same power as earlier and Holly’s staff has been cracked in two. She is now using it as two separate sticks that have a much shorter reach. All three elves have bruises on their skin and scorch marks on their clothing. Despite their imminent defeat, they fight on valiantly.

Kris grips his small sword while looking down at the satchel of snowballs. So far, he has been lucky that the goblins have focused nearly all of their attack on the most imminent threats and have left him relatively unchallenged. That luck quickly comes to an end as a nearby goblin decides to use him for target practice. The fat goblin gives an evil grin before taking in a deep breath. Kris cringes at the sight, knowing a fireball is imminent. He knows he cannot close the gap in time to attack with his sword, and he has nowhere left to hide. At this range, he is toast.

And then he remembers something critical… something he failed to remember as they traveled within the heated depths of the mountain. The goblins hate the cold! Kris quickly reaches 100

Matt Dragovits

into the satchel and pulls out a snowball. He whips it as hard as he can, just as the goblin is about to belch out his fiery blast. The snow strikes the goblin square in the mouth. Bullseye!

The goblin shrieks in pain and scampers away for safety. Kris grabs another snowball and scans the battlefield for his next target. His eyes light up as he sees the aerial assault team appear up on the far side of the cavern. Reinforcements have arrived!

But there is still a substantial force of goblins separating the two teams.

“Kris!” Tristan shouts above the sound of battle. “Use the rest of your snowballs. Clear a path to us. It’s time to get out of here!”

Jax turns with desperation in his eyes. It is only through sheer force of will that he is able to continue fighting. “No!” He cries.

“Yeti is still chained. We’ve got to get him free.”

In answer to Jax’s cry, Walt surges forward and forces his way through a defensive wall of goblins. He leaps into the air and swings with all the force his fatigued muscles can muster. The hammer strikes the massive shackle that is holding Yeti captive.

An ear-ringing echo resounds through the cavern. But as the dust settles, the lock is unharmed. Walt turns in surprise and confusion, unsure of what to do next.

“We’ve got to go,” Tristan shouts as more goblins start appearing from other cavern openings. The beasts are howling with glee, eager to join the fight. Melissë and Julie quickly use their magic to block off several openings, but there are just too many goblins to contain. “We’re being overrun. We have no choice!”

But then a nimble little shadow races out from behind Tristan. The form moves with surprising speed. Tristan reaches out to stop her, but he is too late.

“I can do it,” Little Bits shouts while dashing across the battlefield. An onslaught of goblins quickly give chase, but due to her small size and nimble elf agility, they are unable to lay a finger on her.

101

Dawn of Legends

“Elizabeth!” Tristan shouts while he and the rest of the aerial team do their best to fight off the goblin horde.

Little Bits quickly reaches Yeti’s side. Jax, Walt, and Holly surround her and use their bodies as shields to buy her time. She drops her backpack and pulls out some small tools to try and pick the lock.

“Kris!” Tristan shouts. “We can’t wait any longer. Use the snowballs. Clear a path for us to reach you.”

Kris instantly follows Tristan’s command and hurls a rapid series of snowballs at the largest concentration of goblins that are swarming toward Jax and the others. It has the desired effect. The goblins shriek and howl as they scramble to avoid the incoming barrage of ice-induced pain. Tristan and his team surge forward, ready to join the ground team and make their escape. They only travel a few feet when the wall nearest them explodes and knocks them to the ground. As the dust clears, Tristan looks up to see Mason and Yert standing arrogantly in the opening.

“Not so fast.” Yert laughs maniacally. “Not so fast.”

Mason smiles and then charges directly toward Jax and his teammates. Walt sees him coming and spins to take on the attack. He raises his hammer and prepares to engage.

But just before the gatekeeper goblin is within striking range, Mason reaches down and slaps the ground. Instantly, a mound of rock juts up beneath Walt’s feet and forces him into the air. Mason lashes out at the airborne elf with a mighty fist, striking him with a thunderous blow that sends the elf reeling to the ground. Mason looms large over the fallen elf and prepares to end him.

102

Matt Dragovits

Before Mason can bring down his mighty fists, Holly lunges forward and cracks the gatekeeper goblin across the knees. The goblin buckles in pain. He is slow to rise as Holly circles around and then races in for another attack, but Mason is only feigning injury. Once Holly is within a few feet, he strikes the ground again. An earthen wall springs up directly in front of her. Holly is unable to stop. She slams into the wall with full force and then buckles to the ground.

“No!” Kris cries as he races to put himself between Mason and Yeti. He reaches into his bag to grab another snowball.

Surely, this monster cannot withstand an ice attack. But as Kris reaches into the bag to grab his final snowball, all he pulls out is a slushy mess. The magic that sustained the snow globes has finally expired.

Kris’ eyes go wide as he realizes he is utterly defenseless as this giant brute of a goblin barrels toward him. He dives for cover and just barely avoids being mauled.

Only Jax remains standing between Yeti and Mason. He uses his body to protect Little Bits while preparing to engage the goblin warrior.

“How are you doing with that lock?” he cries.

“I’ve almost got it.” Little Bits replies while frantically trying to get the mechanism to release. “The insides must have gotten mashed together from Walt’s blow. It’s all jammed up.”

“There’s no more time!” Tristan shouts from across the cavern floor. “There are too many of them, Jax. We’ve got to make a run for it!”

“I’m not leaving Yeti,” Jax shouts while raising his sword to engage Mason. “Leave me if you must!”

Mason laughs as he draws his own sword. “Pathetic elves.” He sneers. “I had hoped for better sport than this.”

Jax simply stares the massive goblin down while preparing to meet the attack.

103

Dawn of Legends

Tristan shouts again. “There’s no more time. Pull back, EVERYONE! Follow my lead. Mom… Julie… buy us what time you can.”

A defensive wall of magic springs up around Tristan and his team. Walt and Holly hobble into the circle while fighting off the goblins closest to them. Little Bits sees this and releases the lock.

She turns toward Jax with helpless eyes and prepares to follow Tristan’s command.

“No.” Jax pleads while countering a blow from Mason and returning the attack with his own wild swing. “Little Bits, please.”

He cries. “He’s my friend. He’s my best friend.”

Little Bits can’t help but turn her attention back toward the lock. Her sweaty fingers work frantically to get the mechanism to release. The sound of sword-on-sword looms overhead, but she does her best to shut it out. Only this lock remains. Only this mechanical puzzle that she alone can… “Click.”

“Got it!” she cries. Yeti quickly grabs the open lock and hurls it at Mason. He shakes loose his chains and growls in challenge.

Mason sneers. He dashes out of Jax’s sword range and quickly traces a rune pattern on the closest wall. He slams his fist and the rock ceiling directly over Little Bits and Yeti instantly collapses.

Yeti does his best to shield Little Bits from the massive falling rocks, but it’s not enough. Both of them are struck down.

After seeing his friends crushed by the cave-in, Jax loses it.

He goes into a berserker rage and launches himself at Mason with everything he has. Mason tries to hold his ground against the deadly barrage, but Jax is relentless. Even the mighty gatekeeper is forced to step back beneath the incessant fury of Jax’s onslaught.

Jax reins down blow after blow. The bewildered goblin stumbles back and falls to his knees. He quickly traces a small rune and slaps the ground. His gatekeeper magic creates a series of chasms between him and Jax. The nimble elf quickly leaps across each span and then lunges with all his might. He raises his sword to deal the killing blow. Mason raises his own sword 104

Matt Dragovits

in defense, only to see Jax change his tactic at the last second.

Jax parries the blow and then rolls beneath Mason’s blade. He reaches up, grabs the end of Mason’s long ponytail and uses the momentum to swing himself up and behind the powerful goblin warrior. Jax quickly slides his blade up beneath Mason’s thick neck.

“Enough!” He cries.

The goblins freeze at the sight. Never in their combined memory have they seen Mason bested in combat.

The elves take quick advantage of the opportunity. They rush forward and remove the rocks covering Little Bits and Yeti.

Although he is withered and bruised, Yeti still manages to rise under his own strength. Little Bits tries to move, but both of her legs are broken. Tristan lifts her tenderly and cradles her in his arms. “It’s going to be alright, Elizabeth,” he whispers while looking at his mother. Melissë quickly casts a spell and a field of protective magic wraps itself around Little Bits’ legs to serve as a splint. It doesn’t heal them, but it helps prevent them from being jostled about.

“Now,” Jax shouts at Mason. The battle-weary elf stares down the countless goblins who are starting to press in from all sides.

“It’s time you open another door for us ‘gatekeeper.’ But this one will be a tunnel to the outside.” Jax presses the blade harder against Mason’s thick skin. “And no tricks. You will be coming with us.”

Mason fumes in anger at his humiliation, but realizes he has little choice. He bends down and traces an intricate rune pattern on the floor. He slams his hand down palm-first, and a large, smooth opening forms. The tunnel descends at a curve for quite some distance. The goblins start to surge forward as they realize the elves are going to escape. Mason growls and they stop dead in their tracks.

105

Dawn of Legends

The elves leap into the chute one by one and are instantly carried away. The goblins howl in growing protest as tendrils of smoke fume from their angry mouths. Jax gives them a devilish smirk before prodding Mason into the opening. He gives the goblin pack a sweeping farewell bow, sheathes his sword, and leaps into the open shaft.

106

Chapter 20 Jax careens uncontrollably down the smooth stone chute. It is a much, much sharper decline than he had expected. The tunnel twists violently, forcing the team members to spiral away from the heart of Mount Frostbite at insane speeds. Tristan does his best to protect Little Bits as they continue to accelerate, but it isn’t easy. The walls and floor become a blur and it is nearly impossible to avoid the little bumps and imperfections in the walls.

“Stop!” Jax shouts as he tries to close the gap between himself and the gatekeeper goblin. Mason laughs haughtily before slamming his thick fingers into the very rock itself. He stops immediately while Jax goes whipping past. The elf and goblin’s eyes meet in a contemptuous glare.

Jax curses as he struggles to stop, or even slow down, but he is simply moving too fast. The last thing he sees is Mason smirking while using his free hand to trace yet another rune.

The tunnel walls instantly begin to shift and change course as if the rock itself were alive.

The elves are powerless to alter their speed or direction.

Melissë and Julie try to cast a spell to counter Mason’s magic, but this is his domain. His expertise and brute strength in this arena are unmatched.

Walt, Jax, and Holly try to use their weapons to find purchase in the rock, but the blades just bounce off. They cannot penetrate the stone.

107

Dawn of Legends

Tristan gasps as he peers through the darkness into the distance. “Oh no…” he mutters. “Please… no…”

The tunnel is about to come to an abrupt end.

The speed at which they are traveling and the ultra-smooth surface of the stone make it impossible to avoid. Shouts of frustration and panic echo through the tunnel as the entire party is flung out into the open night sky.

The entire party experiences a fleeting moment of weightlessness… and then gravity takes hold.

The cliff face becomes a blur as elf, human, and winter beast plummet. Frigid winds blast them as they fall, tossing them end over end. Even the bravest of their number cry out in absolute terror.

Kris twists and turns to orient himself to the ground. He scans the horizon while letting out a high-pitched whistle. He prays that his friends are in range.

Only Yeti, a creature of nature that was designed in every way to survive the harsh mountain terrain, is able to slow his descent. He reaches out with his long, powerful limbs and latches onto the closest ledge. The stone crumbles beneath his grip and gives way, but it slows him enough so that he is able to reach out for the next ledge, and then the next, and then the next until he finally crashes down on a thick shelf of ice that is able to support his weight. Stars dance before his eyes, but he quickly shakes off the rough landing. He races to the edge of the cliff and reaches out. The act is as desperate as it is futile. Jax is just too far away, and he is moving way too fast. All Yeti can do is watch his friend continue to fall.

Jax can feel Yeti’s pain as he hears the beast’s mournful wail.

It is the sound of a heart breaking.

The painful cry resonates inside Jax and stirs his own buried emotions. He is struck with an overwhelming sense of regret.

He scans the skies for her… for Holly. When he locates her, he is comforted by the fact that she has already found his eyes, and 108

Matt Dragovits

they speak volumes. Despite their desperate situation, Holly still manages to give Jax a weak smile. If this is the end, she can at least go to her grave, knowing that there was an unspoken bond between them. It wasn’t all in her head. Regardless of his cold exterior, Jax truly did care for her.

Jax returns Holly’s smile, but then his smile grows wider, beyond even Holly’s wildest hopes. Jax motions for her to turn around. She steals a quick glance over her shoulder just in time to see Dasher come sweeping in beneath her. She quickly straddles the magical creature before it angles toward Jax. Cheers fill the air as additional reindeer swoop in for the rescue. One after another, the elves find salvation on the backs of Kris’ magical friends.

But not all of the elves are cheering.

Tristan stretches out a free hand, trying desperately to reach Comet. The reindeer grunts noisily while struggling to close the distance. His powerful legs thrust him forward with every breath, but Tristan and Little Bits are too close to the mountain wall. It is impossible for Comet to manage a rescue.

As the two elves hurtle toward the frozen earth, the elf prince glances down to gauge how much time they have before impact.

But instead of the distant ground, he sees a jagged mountain ledge coming up quickly. He must act immediately, or they will be crushed!

Tristan draws in his legs and then kicks back out at the mountain wall with all of his remaining strength, hoping to alter their trajectory. It works, but the jarring force of the impact combined with an intense rush of pain up his leg forces him to lose his grip on Elizabeth. They angle away from the ledge in time, but Elizabeth’s head still manages to graze the very lip of the cliff. The impact causes her to tumble end-over-end in an uncontrolled freefall.

109

Dawn of Legends

“No!” Tristan cries as Comet quickly swings in to save him.

“Elizabeth!” he cries while taking the reins and forcing his reindeer into a near-suicidal nosedive.

The ground is racing up way too quickly to meet Elizabeth.

Tristan knows he won’t reach her in time. Tears form in his eyes and blur his vision as he frantically reaches for her. His mind cries out in denial. No… this can’t be happening…

He was the leader.

He was the one in charge.

Her death. Elizabeth’s death… will be on his hands.

Darkness envelops Tristan’s spirit as grief overtakes him.

But then, a small, winged savior comes racing in toward Little Bits. It is Strig, and he is determined to help! The wind buffets the little owl’s wings, causing him to flail, twist, and turn.

He flaps even harder, struggling with all the strength he can muster. He finally manages to swoop in close enough to get his talons around Little Bit’s belt. He flaps and flaps and flaps some more, pulling them away from the jagged mountain wall. But despite his best efforts, Strig cannot slow them down enough.

Elizabeth continues to fall as the exhausted owl fights valiantly to keep them aloft. Both elf and owl crash into a massive snow drift at the base of Mount Frostbite.

Tristan leaps from Comet before the reindeer has even touched down. He races to Elizabeth’s side and gently cradles her small, broken form while wiping blood-stained hair out of her eyes. “Elizabeth...” he sobs. “Elizabeth…” he pleads.

But she does not wake.

He quickly lifts Elizabeth and places her on top of the fastest reindeer. He hops up behind her and holds her fast. “Mom!” he shouts. “Mom. I’ve got to get her back to the village.”

Julie quickly steps up and weaves a spell that helps stop the bleeding.

110

Matt Dragovits

Melissë joins her and reinforces the spell she had previously cast. The magical splints re-align on Little Bit’s broken legs.

“We have done what we can,” Melissë informs her son. “Make haste. Get her to the village infirmary right away. We’ll catch up.”

Tristan nods in agreement and then quickly scans the base of the mountain. Every single one of them is battered and bruised, barely able to stand, but none of them are worried about themselves. All eyes are on the small body cradled in Tristan’s arms. Their worry is well-founded, which only makes it much harder for Tristan to bear. Jax steps forward, wanting to say something, but he finds the words hard to form.

“I’ll wait here and travel back with Yeti,” he finally utters.

“Now that he’s in the snow, his strength should return quickly.”

Tristan looks down with rage seething behind his eyes. “I don’t care what you do,” he curses. “You never listen to what I say anyway. Stay out here and freeze for all I care.”

Jax does not respond. He doesn’t know how to. Never before has he seen his brother so enraged. Clearly, Elizabeth has come to mean even more to Tristan than Jax realized.

Jax stands in isolation. All eyes fall on him. He wants to say something that will make it better. He needs Tristan to know just how sorry he is. But all he can do is hang his head in abject misery.

“What about Sly and Tyler?” Holly asks while stepping forward. “They’re still in the mountain somewhere.”

“They will have to lay low for now,” Tristan commands.

“We’ve got no choice.” The elf prince nudges his reindeer in the flanks. Comet races forward, and within a few strides, they take flight.

The other elves and Kris quickly follow suit. Only Holly hesitates while looking sorrowfully toward Jax. She pauses and glances over at Yeti. “Take care of him, big guy,” she whispers.

Holly gives Jax a quick nod and then mounts her reindeer and takes flight.

111

Dawn of Legends

Jax stares at the sky as she leaves. Within moments, the entire herd of flying reindeer and their riders are out of sight.

The emptiness doesn’t take long to strike him. Once again, he is a lone elf out in the wilderness. He turns to Yeti and forces a smile, but the sight of his old friend doesn’t help this time. It just forces him to acknowledge a sad and bitter truth.

He may have just traded the life of one friend for another.

112

Chapter 21 Tanas sits in solidarity at one end of an intricate, stone-carved council table. Normally, the ancient structure would support 13 members. Time has taken its toll, but there are still subtle traces of elven influence within the design. Directly across from Tanas is a massive throne with a name etched across the top stone header. Several letters are missing due to the erosion of time. All that remains are the letters K, R, U, and S. For some reason, even Tanas avoids taking a position at this seat.

The table is reminiscent of the elven ice table, yet this piece is dark and twisted. It is a warped reflection of that beautiful design.

Tanas is lost in thought. He stares both longingly and with contempt at a fleeting image in his gemstone. The dark wizard waves his staff and the vision of Melissë flying through the skies on a reindeer fades out of view.

Tanas’ concentration is broken as an opening quietly forms on the far side of the council room. The arrival of Mason, Grife, Flarg, and Yert does not have the normal explosive fanfare associated with Mason’s visits. The goblins quietly approach and take their seats. Only Mason takes a seat within reach of Tanas.

All remain silent as they wait for the goblin elder to speak.

Yet he remains silent.

Tanas simply shifts his gaze from one goblin to the next, daring them to meet his eyes. Even Mason stares down at his own battered fists, pretending to inspect them for damage while honestly just trying to avoid Tanas’ hateful glare.

113

Dawn of Legends

“You come to me empty-handed,” the dark mage whispers.

None of the goblins move. Not a single one of them responds.

Tanas repeats himself. This time, slightly louder. “You come to me empty-handed.”

This time, the goblins begin to squirm, struggling to give their leader an answer that will save them from his wrath.

A dark energy seeps from the mage’s eyes as he raises his fist and slams it down onto the table with inhuman force, causing chips of stone to crumble beneath his fury. “You come to me empty-handed!” he roars.

Tanas’ thunderous voice echoes through the corridors of Mount Frostbite, causing nearby goblins to scramble in fear. He raises his staff and a blinding light envelops the council room.

“You come to me empty-handed!” He bellows while swinging his staff with arcane fury.

An intense surge of energy arcs out from the gemstone, lifting Yert and sending the spindly goblin whipping across the chamber. He tumbles end-over-end before slamming into the cavern wall. Yert groans in agony. He wrestles against an invisible force that keeps him pinned. Each breath is a struggle, both from the impact of the blow and from the energy field that is crushing him. Tanas continues to approach with his staff outstretched.

A greenish flame burns behind his eyes. “For all your vaunted vision, you did not see the invaders until it was too late!”

“Master,” Yert pleads. “I did see them. I attacked them. I sounded the alarm.”

“Too little. Too late.”

“I am but one goblin, master.” Yert trembles. “I did my best.”

“And your best was not good enough.” Tanas sneers before turning his back on his captive. He raises his staff again, and this time, metal manacles fly across the room and bind Yert to the wall. They fasten around his wrists, ankles, and mouth.

Yert struggles against his bonds, but while doing so, he notices something else… or more like SOMEONE else. There is 114

Matt Dragovits

a humanoid shadow shifting in the darkness. Yert squints and focuses his vision. He is barely able to make out Sly. The stealthy elf tracker is a shadow hidden within the shadows.

“Mrelphh… mrelphh…” Yert mumbles as he struggles even more fiercely against his bonds. He needs to alert his brothers of the enemy’s presence! But the skinny goblin’s actions don’t yield the desired results. The manacle around his mouth constricts even tighter. Yert doesn’t care. He continues to rage against the cold, hard iron that holds him to the wall. There is a spy within their midst! “Mrelpphhhh! Mrelphhhh!”

“Enough,” Tanas roars. He waves his hand and a blast of energy shoots out from his staff. It strikes Yert with a wave of concussive force, knocking him out cold.

Tanas turns his attention back to the three remaining goblins.

“Now, where were we?” he continues.

Mason sneers at the farce, knowing full well what Tanas is about to say.

“Oh, yes,” The dark wizard continues. “We were discussing your humiliating failure.”

Mason has had enough. He rises, steps forward, and stands tall. “It was not a total failure.” He boasts. “The elves that breached our mountain are no more. Their bones line the ground at the base of Mount Frostbite.”

“Fool!” Tanas shouts as he points his staff at Mason and releases a powerful blast. The energy slams into the gatekeeper and forces him to take a step back. But the attack does not have the same impact it had on Yert. The two goblins lock eyes as Tanas increases the intensity of his attack. He forces Mason back with wave after wave of unrelenting mystical energy. The Gatekeeper goblin resists through amazing strength of will, but even he is eventually forced to one knee in submission.

Tanas withdraws his attack and then steps toward Mason.

“They live.” He sneers. “They all live…”

115

Dawn of Legends

Grife steps up. His wings are severely burned from his recent flight in the winter storm. He is dumbfounded by Tanas’ words.

“What? How?” “It does not matter,” Tanas curses. “Just know that they escaped. And now they have the Yeti back in their possession as well as several of my most valuable gems.”

Grife stretches out his wings in a grand posture. He is eager to make things right. He is, after all, the son of a General. He will take ownership of this failure even if no one else will. “We must go after them.” He urges. “We can catch them before they make it back to their village.”

“Not with their method of travel and the fury of the incoming storm,” Tanas answers while placing an almost grandfatherly hand on Grife’s shoulder. He pauses before speaking again. If nothing else, the elder goblin respects the youth’s determination.

“For now, we bide our time. We must plan before we strike.”

“You mean?” Grife asks eagerly.

“Yes,” Tanas continues. “It is time to liberate your father and break the elves once and for all.”

Mason rises from his knee and strides back toward Tanas.

“My warriors stand at the ready. How shall we proceed?”

Tanas nods while urging Flarg to step closer to the table. He uses his magic to create a detailed map that covers miles and miles of the North Pole. “The elves hit us on two fronts at once,” he sneers. “It is time we return the favor. We will attack them at their base, just as you and Grife have been planning, but that will only be the tip of the spear. It is time I brought the full power of my magic to bear. Now, listen closely…” *** From his position in the shadows, Sly becomes a silent party to the conversation. He takes out a small pad and charcoal and quickly takes down notes. But as the details of the plan become 116

Matt Dragovits

clear, the usually jovial elf goes pale and his eyes grow wide. His hand trembles as he writes, fearing not only for his own safety, but for that of everyone he loves. In truth, for that of his entire race.

117

Chapter 22 A long and twisting corridor is crammed from one end to the other with sweaty, stinking goblins. The brutish creatures are pushing and shoving past one another, jockeying for the best position to view the goblin elder. Most of the goblins in attendance have never laid eyes on Tanas. In truth, his very existence is the stuff of legend. But now he stands here before them. The myth made flesh.

Tanas does not make eye contact with any of the goblins as he makes his way through their ranks.

At the far end of the tunnel, there is a large opening that allows the wind and snow to gust inward. Only Mason, Grife, and Flarg have the courage to stand anywhere near it. And even they do so with a fair measure of caution.

Tanas, however, does not slow in his stride. He continues to walk straight toward the winter vortex. At the last second, Mason reaches out and grabs the dark mage by the sleeve.

“It’s a full-blown blizzard out there,” he cautions. Mason nods toward his winged companion. “Grife will scout again as soon as the storm has passed.”

Tanas shakes his old, weathered robe loose and lets it fall to the ground. The goblins are now able to view his ancient garments. He gives an arrogant sneer and then strides proudly into the open. The snow instantly strikes his exposed skin from every angle. He turns to look back at the goblin horde as the ice and snow continue to pelt him. He does not flinch. He does not 118

Matt Dragovits

waver. He does not show any indication of the pain that must be coursing through every nerve in his aged body.

“How?” Mason stutters in awe. “How is this possible? Even I…”.

Tanas steps toward the proud Gatekeeper. He lowers his staff and runs his hand over the magic gemstone, wisping away some of its magical aura. He waves it over his throat and the spell causes his voice to boom with the force of thunder. “You are strong, Mason.” Tanas proclaims before all present. “Of that, there is no doubt. But now, prepare to witness TRUE power!”

Tanas reaches into his pocket and pulls out six mediumsized gemstones. He steps further out into the storm, where the snow is thicker. He tosses the gems in a pattern, raises his hands, and begins to recite an ancient incantation. Tendrils of magical energy stream down to the snow and then eerily creep toward the gemstones. Slowly, snow starts to accumulate around the gems, like metal shavings being drawn to a magnet. The stones shake and tremble as snow forms around them. Within seconds, icy creatures start to materialize and grow. It’s as if the creatures are pulling themselves out of the frozen earth itself. The magic

119

Dawn of Legends

continues to surge around their massive, hulking forms until the energy finally comes to rest in their deep eye sockets.

The snow golems stand taller than elves, goblins, or even humans. Their bulky, powerful forms cast an imposing silhouette against the storm that is raging behind them.

The goblins stare on transfixed, frozen in place. They had heard legends of the magic that Tanas could bring to bear, but none had expected anything like this. It is only when the snow golems begin to move that the goblins jump.

“Fear not,” Tanas instructs them. “They are under my command. They are incapable of hurting you unless I direct them to do so.”

Tanas gives a meaningful look toward Mason and then motions for the Gatekeeper to join him out on the snowy plateau. The powerful goblin hesitates at first, but then pride gets the better of him. He steps forward with his chin held high. He barely winces as the snow begins to blast and burn his exposed skin. Wherever the flakes touch, the color begins to shift from a deep green to a sickly shade of gray.

Tanas simply nods in approval, happy that the warrior finally knows his rightful place. The dark mage reaches into his pocket and pulls out another gem. This one, however, is bound in a woven leather necklace. Tanas places it around Mason’s neck and then recites another incantation. The gemstone necklace pulses with waves of energy that create a glowing shield around Mason, instantly preventing the snow from striking his skin.

“Unbelievable!” Mason gasps. “But if this is possible, why wait? Why have we not used this magic before?”

“Do not question my charity.” Tanas sneers. This magic does not last forever, and it comes at a grave cost. Even now, it drains the power of my precious gemstones. This exercise was to show you the great aid I shall provide in the battle to come.”

Tanas lifts his staff high and then slams it down with massive force. The snow golems instantly crumble. Tanas quickly retrieves 120

Matt Dragovits

the fallen gems. He turns and looks fiercely toward all the goblins present. “Now go and work the gemstone quarry with vigor.

We shall need many more gemstones to build my army and to provide you and your kin with protection. Go! Now!” Mason nods with what can only be described as true humility. He quickly enters the cavern tunnel and races past the other goblins. He comes to a large, blank wall and traces an incredibly intricate rune pattern. It is the most complex pattern he has ever made. He even uses his body to shield prying eyes from the details of his work. He takes a deep breath and draws his arm back. He tightens his fist and then swings forward with all his might. The wall erupts with thunderous force, creating a massive opening. Mason brushes the dust and debris from his leather tunic and then storms through the opening. He does not bother to look if others will follow. They had heard their leader’s command. The quarry awaits. There is work to be done.

121

Chapter 23 Blistering cold winds buffet the frozen plain erasing a long procession of footprints that stretch all the way from Mount Frostbite to the border of the elf village. The few footprints that remain unfilled are staggered and misshapen, as if the person creating them was struggling for each and every step.

At the head of the path is a creature that is covered from head to toe in ice. His body shivers uncontrollably as he tries in vain to dust off the snow that just won’t stop accumulating.

His stomach growls in protest, no longer able to fuel his efforts.

He needs sustenance to continue, but his rations gave out many miles back.

Despite the weakness in his limbs, the determined elf presses forward. His muscles scream in defiance. Every movement causes pain. Every breath is an effort. Yet, in his heart, he knows he must make it to camp. He needs to tell others what he’s learned. He has to warn them. He must… he must… collapse from utter exhaustion. *** The campground has undergone massive changes in just the past few days. Magic-wielding elves are busy building defensive ice wall formations. Worker elves and polar bears are carving out deep trenches in the earth to make access to the village more

122

Matt Dragovits

difficult. Toy-maker elves are busy constructing towers, cannons, and other defensive structures.

While the village still has an “elvish and toy-like” feel running through all of the designs, there is far less whimsy.

From atop one of the highest walls, Julie is using her magic to help lift and rotate the heavy machinery that forms the base and arm of a giant catapult. She nods in satisfaction as the team quickly bolts it into position and anchors everything securely in place. The teams are making great progress, but there is so much more that still needs to be done. Time is not on their side.

As Julie is about to head down the stairs to confer with Melissë about what task she should prioritize next, she notices something moving on the outskirts of the village. She approaches the nearest elf and asks her to look as well. “What do you think?” she asks. “Is it a spy… a scout?”

The elf grabs a pair of binoculars to get a better view. “I still can’t tell from this distance,” he answers. “Whatever it is, it just stopped moving. I honestly can’t imagine the goblins venturing out this far during a snowstorm, but it’s best not to take chances.

I’ll send out a scouting party.”

“Hold on one second,” Julie instructs. She quickly packs a snowball and uses the magic Kris taught her to view the intruder from a safe distance.

As soon as the image snaps into focus, Julie drops the snowball. She races out of the village as fast as her legs will carry her. “Sly!” she cries out while motioning for other elves to follow her. “Hang on! We’re coming!” *** The world slowly comes into focus as Sly forces his eyes open. The light is overwhelming, and he quickly turns his head to the side to avoid the intensity. He shuts his lids again, but not before seeing Little Bits on a bed just a few feet away. Both of her 123

Dawn of Legends

legs are in casts and her head is heavily bandaged. The medical instruments next to her show that she is in stable condition, but that’s the only visible sign of life.

Sly takes in a deep breath. Every fiber of his being feels exhausted, but he wants to join the conversation he hears buzzing about him. It’s not that he just wants to join in. He absolutely NEEDS to join in.

The tracker elf forces his eyes open once more and then slowly inches himself up into a seated position. His fingers and toes throb in pain from the effort as blood pumps into his nearly frostbitten digits. He takes another deep breath and then raises his head.

“It does us well to see you, my friend,” Tristan says, smiling.

“Glad to be back.” Sly winces while trying to shift to a more comfortable position. He steals a moment to scan the room.

“Where is my brother? Where is Tyler?”

He turns to his other side as a gentle hand is placed on his arm. Julie smiles warmly while trying to brace Sly for the news.

“We have not seen or heard from Tyler since we got split up in the Mountain five days ago.”

Sly takes a moment to absorb the news. It’s a lot to process.

“If you escaped,” Tristan assures him. “We have great hope that he did as well. With any luck, we’ll see him arrive safely in the village soon. As you know, it’s a long trek back without the aid of a polar bear or flying reindeer. I’m just sorry we didn’t see you coming. We have been searching, but it’s a lot of ground to cover when looking for just one elf who is dressed in camouflage.”

Sly nods in agreement. “I get that. I wasn’t exactly trying to be seen. But with respect to my brother, he may want to stay where he is. I’m not so sure our village is ‘safe.’”

“What do you mean?” Maethor asks while taking a hurried step forward.

“Plans,” Sly mutters to himself while organizing his thoughts.

He attempts to continue speaking, but his body starts to shiver 124

Matt Dragovits

uncontrollably. Julie quickly places another blanket around him and then uses her magic to cast a warming spell. Sly smiles in appreciation before turning back to his leader.

“Big plans,” he continues, “The goblins are preparing for war.

Not just a skirmish. Not just a rescue mission. I’m talking all-out war. I heard an incredibly old goblin we’ve never seen before. He was talking about how he could use his magic to….”

“Wait,” Maethor commands. “When you say ‘old,’ how old are we talking?”

“Older than any elf or goblin I’ve ever seen,” Sly answers.

“Truth be told, he makes you look like a child by comparison. In fact, he didn’t look quite like a goblin or an elf. He almost looked like something in between.”

Melissë and Maethor share a nervous, knowing glance between them.

“Did you catch his name?” Melissë asks, fearful of the answer.

“I’m pretty sure they called him Tanas.”

Melissë steps closer and takes Sly’s hand in hers. The intensity in her gaze is unnerving.

“You’re sure?” she asks. “The name you heard was Tanas?”

Sly looks around the room and notices that everyone is staring at him. The entire group seems to be holding their collective breath, waiting for his answer.

“Yes.” Melissë looks back toward Maethor with a growing look of concern. Her husband stands strong, but he can’t help but adjust his stance and stiffen his lower lip as he subconsciously places a firm grip on the pommel of the sword at his side.

“This is very important. Important beyond measure,” Maethor continues. “How much of Tanas’ plan did you overhear?”

Sly forces a proud smile, pushing past the fear that threatens to overtake his weakened body. “I heard pretty much everything they said about their main assault on our village. But they mentioned a second attack as well.” Sly pauses to tighten the blankets around 125

Dawn of Legends

him. He coughs weakly and then slowly continues. “Mason… I believe that was the name of their Gatekeeper. He used his magic to create an opening in the wall. They left before I could hear any more details.”

Melissë breathes a sigh of relief. “Well, that’s still something.

In fact,” she smiles warmly at her exhausted friend. “It’s more than we could have dared hope for.” Melissë pauses a second to grab a bowl of warm soup from a nearby cooking pot. She brings it over to Sly and waits for him to take a few sips. Once she feels he has a little more sustenance, she continues, “Tell us EVERYTHING you heard. And please, don’t leave anything out.

Try to recall every last detail, no matter how insignificant or trivial it might seem.”

Sly nods, takes another sip of the broth and revels in the warmth it brings. “The first attack will be led by Lodus’ son, the winged goblin named Grife. He plans to bring a massive ground force against our village with the goal of freeing his father.”

Maethor smiles at the news. “And as you saw, we have begun fortifying our defenses. On top of that, the Divine Reactor is nearly operational. We will have more power at our disposal than ever before.” Maethor pauses to look at the concerned group before him. He raises his voice and projects confidence he doesn’t totally feel himself. “We’ve held them back in the past.

We shall do so again.”

Sly winces as a spasm of coughing racks his system. “I pray you are right. But the attack will be different this time. There are more goblins in the mountain than we’ve ever seen before, more than I believed existed. They were everywhere.”

Sly closes his eyes for a moment. He takes a deep breath and forces himself to continue. He is exhausted, but he needs to let his friends know what they are up against. “And this Tanas character.

He has powerful, dark magic. He told the other goblins that he could cast a spell that would protect them from the snow for several hours.”

126

Matt Dragovits

Tristan steps forward at the announcement of this news.

“That does not bode well, Father.” The damaging effects of snow and ice have always been our strongest asset.”

Before Maethor can reply, Sly continues. “It gets worse.”

A deafening silence falls across the room. All eyes are glued to Sly, wondering what grave news he could possibly share that is worse than what he just disclosed.

“This dark mage… Tanas… he can breathe life into creatures that are not flesh and blood. While I was there, I saw him create a massive creature out of solid stone. He said he could make creatures out of snow and ice as well. Not just one or two, but an entire horde to complement the army of goblins already at his disposal.”

“Golems,” Melissë whispers. “He is making golems. This is ancient magic of the foulest order.”

Tristan turns to his mother and then back to his father, unsure how to process this news. “So how do we defend against these creatures? None of the training or battle strategies we’ve ever employed have prepared us for this. Do you know how to defend against such beings?”

“Golems are the stuff of legend,” Maethor answers. “Even I have only heard of them through tales passed on by my grandfather.”

Melissë steps forward and casts a spell that projects the image of a snow golem in the air before her. “As beings of snow, they are susceptible to heat and flame.” Melissë pauses while casting a second spell. An image of fire appears in her free hand. She hurls it at the projected image of the golem and it melts into a puddle.”

“And what of the stone golems?” Tristan asks eagerly.

“Golem.” Sly coughs. “There was only one stone golem.

Powerful as he was, this Tanas seemed to only have enough strength to bring one creature of stone to life. I guess the snow golems are a bit easier to create.”

“And thus, they will be easier to destroy!” Melissë speaks 127

Dawn of Legends

confidently while striking her staff on the ground. The image of the melted golem and flame instantly wink out. “Julie and I will work to fight magic with magic. I will also speak with the Kringles to see if they have any other magical tools at their disposal that might aid us in the battle to come. We’re going to need every ounce of help we can get.”

“Agreed,” Maethor states flatly while making eye contact with everyone present. “Truly, this will be the battle of our lifetimes.”

128

Chapter 24 Tanas, Mason, Flarg, and several goblin commanders are gathered in the council room. They are busy surveying a highly detailed map that is littered with scores of miniature scale figures representing the massive, combined forces of the goblins and the golems. The battlefield also includes a much smaller collection of figures that represent the estimated force of the elves.

The conversation comes to a halt as Grife enters. He gives a hard yank at the leather cord around his neck. It snaps easily, allowing a burned-out gemstone to fall to the floor.

Grife’s wings are a sickly shade of grey. He stumbles, but then catches himself as he makes his way to the corner of the room.

He reaches down toward a scrap pile and then tosses some fresh wood into the smoldering fireplace. The embers smoke, but the wood does not ignite. Grife curses. He begins to breathe in and out deeply, attempting to build up his internal flame. He desperately needs to exhale a fireball to restart the kindling, but no whisps of smoke appear around his nostrils, and no red glow emanates from his throat. He is utterly spent.

Flarg steps forward and with one massive fireball belch, sets the wood ablaze. Grife nods in thanks and then reaches into the flames. The heat quickly travels up his arms and into the core of his being, rejuvenating his health.

“I misjudged how long the protection lasts,” he finally mutters.

129

Dawn of Legends

“An easy thing to do.” Tanas agrees. The wizened old mage steps toward the winged goblin. “Not all gems harness the same power. And the more you draw on the gem, the faster it burns out. It has taken me centuries to fully understand and respect their capabilities.”

Grife stares at the massive gemstone at the head of Tanas’ staff, thinking just how much power that single gemstone must contain. “I have scouted the elves’ base from high above. I am confident I have finally determined which structure holds my father.” Grife makes his way back over to the map and points a clawed finger at a building in the heart of the elf compound. “It would stand to reason that this is the prison. None of the other structures have guards posted both day and night.”

Tanas reaches forward and tips the building over on its side.

“Then that will be the first target to fall.”

Mason steps up and looks back and forth between Grife and Tanas. “Surely, they will expect us to try and free General Lodus.

And with both Flarg and I holding back for the 2nd phase of our attack, how do you expect to free him?”

Tanas casts a wicked grin. “In a word… chaos.”

Grife, Mason, and Flarg look at each other in confusion.

They had expected a more comprehensive game plan from their aged leader.

“Neither I, nor you, nor any of the goblins in this mountain are particularly good at strategy.” Tanas continues.” At least, we are not nearly as good as Grife’s father or as good as that cursed elf leader, Maethor. But we do have a much larger army at our disposal.”

Tanas picks up the model of Maethor and crushes it in his hand. “We will launch a full-frontal attack that will put the elves on the heels of their stupid pointed shoes. We will use our superior numbers and force them to concentrate on us. Then, while we have them focused on their front lines, Grife will swoop 130

Matt Dragovits

in from the rear. I will use my magics for a special diversion that will buy him time to free his father.”

“What kind of diversion?” Mason asks.

“That is for me to know and the elves to find out.” Tanas smiles. “Suffice to say, you will know it when you see it.”

“How do you expect us to wage this war without knowing these details?” Flarg grumbles. “You expect us to…”

“I expect you to trust in me!” Tanas roars. “This battle will cost me dearly. You do not need to know every last detail of my plan. Just know that you have more power backing you for this attack than you have ever had or ever will.”

The room goes silent as the goblins absorb the impact of Tanas’ words. They look at one another in confusion, unsure how to respond.

“What does that mean?” Grife finally asks. “Ever will?”

“If you fail.” Tanas continues. “It will be for all time and it will be because you did not take advantage of the precious aid I am giving. I will not have the physical strength or the raw gemstone might to launch an attack like this ever again.”

Grife falls to one knee in subservience. “I had not realized this, Lord Tanas. I did not understand the true cost of your aid.”

Grife looks up to Tanas in sincere thanks. “On behalf of my father and myself, I thank you.”

The aged goblin nods in acknowledgment and then makes his way back to his chair near the map. “Now leave me,” he commands. “I need to marshal my strength. By the next full moon, we will be ready to strike.”

“And what would you have us do in the meantime?” Mason asks.

“I know you are powerful, Mason,” Tanas responds. “In truth, you are the most powerful gatekeeper our race has ever seen. But even you will be put to the test to succeed in the task I have given.

Even your great strength will be stretched to the absolute limit.

Prepare yourself for that.”

131

Dawn of Legends

Tanas pauses and then takes a moment to look at each goblin present to emphasize the import of his words. “Truly, this will be the battle of our lifetimes…”

132

Chapter 25 Even though he knows he desperately needs the rest, Tristan cannot pull himself away from Elizabeth’s bedside. The elf prince has been working around the clock to fortify the village’s defenses.

He has spent countless hours giving Kris and the workshop elves training in sword and shield. He has sat in on lengthy council meetings to discuss strategy. The few remaining hours he has left were meant for rest, but sleep refuses to come. Every time he closes his eyes, he sees Elizabeth in freefall. When darkness comes, he re-lives the heart-wrenching experience of reaching out to her and being utterly powerless.

There was nothing he could do to prevent her from striking the side of Mount Frostbite. He knows this, and yet the guilt won’t go away. The only thing he can do to keep that nightmare from returning is to be at her side. He needs to know, with utter certainty, that she is still alive.

Tristan reaches down gently to smooth a stray hair from her face and for the first time in days, Little Bits begins to stir. Tristan springs out of his seat in surprise.

“Uhmmm…. Uhhhh….” Little Bits groans as she tries to move. The fragile elf winces in pain before she realizes that her legs have been strapped down to ensure proper healing. She reaches up to her head and feels the thick bandages. “I must be quite the sight,” she manages to utter.

133

Dawn of Legends

Tristan reaches for her hand. He stares deeply into her big brown eyes. “Right now, Elizabeth, you are the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.”

Little Bits begins to blush and then tries to shift her weight again, causing more pain.

“Easy.” Tristan cautions. “Take it easy. You’ve been through a lot. Even with my mother and Julie taking turns working their healing incantations on you, you still managed to give us quite a scare.”

“Yeti?” Little Bits asks. “Did we get him out? Did we rescue him?”

“Yes,” Tristan answers. “Thanks to you.”

Little Bits smiles widely and then allows herself to ease back on the bed. Tristan doesn’t seem as thrilled as she is.

“And the gemstones? Did we bring the gemstones back?”

“Yes,” Tristan answers. “Gemstone. We brought back one large gemstone. Several of the others are scattered along the side of Mount Frostbite from when we were tossed into the sky.”

Tristan still does not smile.

“Then why so glum?” Little Bits asks. “I would think you would be happy.”

Tristan rises from his chair and stalks away from the bed. He doesn’t want Elizabeth to see the anger and sadness in his eyes.

“You almost died.”

Tristan takes a moment before speaking. He needs to compose himself. He fights back the tears and the rage that are welling up within him. “If Jax hadn’t been so headstrong!” Tristan lashes out and kicks the chair, which goes tumbling across the room. He takes a deep breath and does his best to contain his frustration.

“It’s not his fault,” Elizabeth whispers. “He was trying to save someone he loves. I bet he would have done the same thing for you or for just about anyone in this village.”

Tristan turns. He stiffens his jaw and holds back his frustration. “You sure have a lot of faith in him.”

134

Matt Dragovits

Little Bits smiles and closes her eyes. “I’m a good judge of character. It’s why I like you so much.”

Tristan picks up his chair and makes his way back across the room. He places it backward so he can sit and rest his arms across the upper support. “I think you realize that the feeling is mutual, Elizabeth.”

Little Bits doesn’t open her eyes, but she can’t help but crack a smile. “I was hoping so. But you can flirt with me later.” Little Bits peeks her eyes open and chuckles. “Right now, I need to know if the Divine Reactor works. Did the gemstone do the trick?”

“Nobody knows yet,” Tristan answers. “We’ve been waiting for you to wake up. We weren’t sure if all the settings were adjusted properly. We didn’t think we could just pop it in and start her up.”

“Good thinking.”

“It’s been known to happen.” Tristan smiles.

“Well,” Little Bits winces as she struggles to sit up. She starts to loosen the straps holding her legs in place. “No time like the present.”

“Right now?” Tristan asks in disbelief. “You need time to heal properly.”

Elizabeth waves a dismissive hand. “I’ll manage.” She scootches to the edge of the bed and tries to rise but instantly falls toward Tristan. He catches her and then sets her back down gently.

“Just one second.” He grins. “I think I have something that may help.” Tristan walks toward a covered object in the corner.

He pulls the blanket away and reveals a hand-crafted wheelchair of elven design. “I guess it pays to have friends who are handy with tools.”

Little Bits smiles as Tristan wheels the chair over, lifts her, and gently places her in the seat. She tries to propel herself forward, but her body is still very weak. “Oh,” she mutters to herself. “This design simply will not do. The craftsmanship is beautiful, so I’ll keep that, but I’m going to have to work on the mechanics.” Little 135

Dawn of Legends

Bits glances over her shoulder to look up at Tristan. “Do you mind giving me a hand for now?”

Tristan takes a deep bow and then sweeps in behind her. “As you wish, my lady. No need to ask where we’re headed.”

“Nope.” Elizabeth smiles widely. “Time to bring my creation to life!” *** Word of Elizabeth’s awakening spreads through the village like wildfire. Elves from every home race toward the Divine Reactor. They are eager to not only celebrate her recovery but also to see if her sacrifice, and the sacrifice of all those who journeyed to Mount Frostbite, will pay off.

As Tristan and Elizabeth crest the hill, they are greeted by an entire assembly. Maethor, Melissë, Kris Kringle, Jessica Kringle, Julie, Holly, Walt, and Sly all approach and start clapping, hooting, and hollering in joyous celebration.

Little Bits is thrilled by the welcome, but her keen eye can’t help but be distracted by the sight before her. An additional defensive structure has been built around the Divine Reactor to protect it from potential invaders. Little Bits looks up at Melissë.

“So, how long was I out?”

“Two weeks.”

“And you did all of this in two weeks?” Little Bits asks. “That’s impressive, even by my standards!”

Maethor steps forward and places a hand on Little Bits’ shoulder. “We had strong motivation.”

“What do you mean?”

Melissë looks to her husband and hints that he should hold his tongue. She then turns back to her creative little friend. “That is not for you to worry about right now. Today, I want to see just how smart you are!”

Melissë reaches into her satchel and pulls out the large 136

Matt Dragovits

gemstone they mined from the heart of Mount Frostbite. She gently places it in Little Bits’ lap. She makes a sweeping motion with her arm and the elves in attendance step back to reveal a path.

Little Bits can’t help but smile widely. A tear forms in her eye as she processes the sight before her. In addition to everything else they did, her friends also paved the walkways leading up to and throughout The Divine Reactor. They were thoughtful enough to ensure easy access for its creator.

While Tristan has been pushing Little Bits up to this point, her excitement takes over. She needs no more motivation. She reaches back, grabs her wheels, and propels herself as quickly as she can. She flies down the path at a reckless pace, slipping and sliding and laughing all the way. Then, just as she is about to reach the control center, she is forced to come to a screeching halt. A massive form has lumbered out to block her path. She looks up at the giant wall of muscle and fur and sees two icy blue

137

Dawn of Legends

eyes staring lovingly down at her. A moment later, Jax steps out from behind Yeti.

As the two elf ’s eyes meet, Jax can’t help but turn away. Little Bits senses both his discomfort and his shame. She reaches out and places a hand on Yeti’s soft fur. The monstrous creature kneels and lets her stroke his massive paw. Jax forces himself to take a step toward them both. Little Bits gives him a warm smile.

“He is truly magnificent,” she whispers sincerely. “I can see why you love him so much. I would have risked everything to save him, too.”

With that said, Little Bits continues rolling forward. Yeti gives her a friendly departing growl and then he turns back toward Jax. A sympathetic smile cracks the winter creature’s face. While the situation is deeply uncomfortable for his oldest friend, it is necessary.

The rush of emotion battering Jax is overwhelming. The normally stoic elf struggles to maintain his composure. His lips tremble as he fights to hold back tears.

Even with everything that happened to her, Little Bits understood. Her words were genuine. She understood how much he cared about Yeti. She truly understood why he acted how he had. And not only that. In the end, she forgave him.

It was a lot to take in.

Jax watches fondly as the crippled little engineer wheels her way forward. But then she stops, looks over her shoulder, and winks at him. “You coming?”

Yeti roars and trods forward, not giving Jax a moment to refuse.

Within seconds, the rest of the group join Little Bits, Jax, and Yeti to huddle around the control center of the Divine Reactor.

Little Bits tenderly places the gemstone into the heart of the machine, where it fits perfectly. She then adjusts several dials, checks the readings on the gauges, toggles a number of switches to the “green” positions, and then turns to her friends.

138

Matt Dragovits

“Okay, here goes everything!” she shouts in excitement while playfully slamming her hand down on a big red button.

Slowly, the polished metal dome at the top of the Divine Reactor opens, allowing radiant energy from the Star of Bethlehem to strike the inner crystal dome. Once again, the light reflects off the dome and bounces into the surrounding mirrors, which have now started to rotate. The energy reflects off the mirrors and converges at the precise point below the dome.

The energy channels down the thick glowing tube toward the gemstone heart. Energy pulses wildly across the entire device as power levels quickly rise on every gauge.

Little Bits reaches out and clenches Tristan’s hand, remembering that this was the point where everything went wrong during their first attempt. The energy levels continue to spike as more and more energy surges from the star into the device. The needles on every gauge quickly max out. Little Bits can feel the energy in the air, but this time, the gemstone starts to pulse in tempo with the surging power of the star. All readings peak and level out. Waves of light beat to an unseen rhythm.

It’s as if the gemstone has become the living heart of the Divine Reactor.

“It’s working!” Little Bits cries in excitement. She spins around to look at all her friends. “It’s really and truly working!”

Melissë steps forward and bathes in the radiant energy coming off the pulsing gemstone. Her hair begins to flow in the air as an aura forms around her entire being. She looks down at Elizabeth with unabashed pride and admiration. “Yes, Elizabeth.

Dear one. It is truly working.”

Chaos ensues as every last elf, human, and animal in attendance shouts and howls with joy and triumph. Hats are thrown into the air as a chorus of celebratory song breaks out.

Jax steps forward to experience the magic firsthand. As he does, the gemstone pendant he won from General Lodus begins to pulse near his chest, matching the rhythm of the Divine 139

Dawn of Legends

Reactor. But before Jax notices, Tristan steps up. The two have not spoken in the time since the accident. Both elves stare at each other for only the briefest of moments. The last vestiges of tension melt away. Tristan steps forward and gives his ‘brother’ a massive hug. As they separate, Jax’s gemstone slips beneath his tunic, hiding the magical glow from view.

“I never meant…” Jax stammers. “I never meant for her to get hurt. I just… It’s just…”

“I know,” Tristan responds. “I understand. But now is not the time to dwell on it. Now is the time for celebration… and action.

This changes everything.”

Little Bits overhears the conversation and can’t help but wheel over to join in. “See Jax.” She grins while punching him in the arm. “All you needed was a little faith.”

“I can’t argue with these results,” Jax admits while basking in the heavenly glow. “Maybe there is something to this ‘Christ’ person you were telling me about.

Jax motions toward the Divine Reactor and as if on cue, the entire metal housing around the gemstone begins to glow with a heavenly light. It burns brighter and brighter as if the star itself has come to Earth. Everyone in attendance is forced to shield their eyes before the blinding, supernatural light. It grows so intense that the elves and the Kringles drop to their knees. But then, just as quickly as it had started, the energy fades.

As her eyes begin to adjust, Melissë sees something etched in the gold plating above the gemstone. She quickly steps forward to inspect the markings. What she sees is an image of a kneeling man and woman. There is a baby in a manger resting between them. The child’s arms are stretched up toward the gemstone.

Above the gemstone, a winged man with a sword and shield hovers protectively. Melissë reads the inscription, which is written in old elvish, and lets out a soft gasp. She turns toward Kris and Jessica and re-reads the inscription aloud.

140

Matt Dragovits

“May the Lord bless and keep this holiday home so that children the world over may celebrate the birth of the Savior.”

Melissë falls to her knees and is immediately followed by everyone in attendance. She looks toward Maethor as tears flow unchecked. “After all these years,” she sobs with joy. “Finally… after all these centuries, I finally understand the source of our magic.”

141

Chapter 26 The familiar sounds of hammers hammering and saws sawing once again fill the night air as the elves refocus their energy. Even though the threat of invasion looms heavily on their minds, there is a new sense of purpose that fuels their spirit. What once felt like imminent destruction now feels like a fight that can be won.

The completion of the Divine Reactor and the heavenly message sent down to them has imbued a new sense of faith in their cause.

The once-welcoming elf village now looks more like a military compound. Defensive walls are being reinforced along the entire perimeter. Within that protective space, blacksmith elves toil at sharpening swords and strengthening shields. Seamstress elves work on sewing leather jerkins and mending boots. Warrior elves fasten chain mail while polishing armor. Every single elf is working around the clock and putting all their strength and effort into protecting their home against the impending attack.

Maethor and Melissë make their way across the compound while inspecting the various workstations. They provide words of praise and encouragement, particularly to Kris Kringle’s people.

The nature elves have long experienced the fearful sensations that threaten to claim your spirit on the eve of battle. They have lived under the threat of attack for their entire existence. They were taught from birth how to overcome the fears and anxieties that could weaken their resolve and destroy their confidence.

The toymaker elves have had no such training.

142

Matt Dragovits

To best prepare them, Melissë and Julie have integrated the toymaker elves into teams that make the best use of their skills while also taking into account their unique personalities. The goal is for them to best complement their nature elf counterparts.

While this training is vital to the toymaker elves’ survival, Melissë can’t help but feel regret for the loss of their child-like innocence.

Melissë approaches the Kringles as they provide instruction to a team that is constructing a full-size cannon.

“You need more powder.” Kris points out while shoveling in more of the black substance. “This isn’t just a scaled-up version of our toys. It needs to be able to fire these iron balls long distances.”

The elves nod in understanding and start to pour even more powder into the cannon. Maethor motions for Kris and his wife to step aside for a private conversation.

“You and your people have helped a great deal in preparing for the battle to come.”

Jessica pats the gunpowder from her coat and then looks to the elven leaders. “You welcomed us into your home and allowed us to make it our own. This fight is ours as well. We will do everything in our power to protect this village.”

Maethor nods in acknowledgment.

“And we thank you. Melissë answers. “But while we welcome your aid, we will not allow you to neglect your other duties.”

Kris gives a quick glance toward his empty sleigh and the lifeless toy workshop.

“It is no coincidence,” Melissë continues. “That Tanas has chosen this particular time to strike.”

“No,” Kris agrees. “I imagine it isn’t.”

Maethor looks in the distance toward the Divine Reactor and then up to the sky, where his eyes rest on the star. “He seeks to not only destroy our village but also to stop you from your annual ride.”

143

Dawn of Legends

“I had considered that,” Kris answers. “But I wasn’t sure if he even knew.”

“Tanas is older than any of us.” Melissë answers. “Older by far than any elf alive.” The female magic user takes her husband’s arm and begins to walk. She motions for Kris and Jessica to follow. “I believe, and Maethor agrees, that he would never use his gemstones to rescue Lodus or to simply attack us. You are also a target.”

“Us?” Jessica questions. “But why target us? We aren’t warriors. We aren’t a threat.”

“Tanas sees the free will of man as a dark and dangerous thing.” Melissë continues. “He wants dominion over the human race, the very world itself.”

Maethor nods in agreement. “But he also fears both man and elf. Deep down, Tanas remembers that there is strength in goodness, loyalty, charity, and friendship. He is going to use every spell and weapon at his disposal to crush our spirits. He needs to prevent us from being a force of good for mankind.”

Jessica shivers and clasps her husband’s hand tighter. Kris looks at her and raises his chin in resolve. “Then we will fight even harder.”

“No.” Maethor answers.

Kris and Jessica share a confused look.

“It is not that we don’t value your aid or feel that you would make a considerable contribution,” Melissë explains.

“You will do as you have always done,” Maethor instructs.

“You will prepare to honor the birth of the Christ-Child. This task cannot be ignored. We have witnessed and felt his glory.”

Melissë nods in agreement. “To deny this would be to insult the great gift he has given.”

“You have lost precious time already.” Maethor continues.

“Assemble your workers and get back to completing the toys on your list. We will follow the plans you have laid out to help defend our village.”

144

Matt Dragovits

Kris steps forward and extends his hand. Maethor clasps it firmly.

“Well,” Kris answers while looking over at his wife. “Guess it’s time to rally the troops. We’ve got a lot of work to catch up on!”

145

Chapter 27 “Swing those hammers!” Flarg roars while cracking his whip.

“Break that rock. Strike with all your might!”

The goblin foreman growls while surveying the workers at his end of the gemstone mine. His crew has been working virtually non-stop since Tanas assigned them their task. And while they have extracted several gemstones, they have not hit a motherload. They need more.

“Those who do not find their own gemstone shall not have protection from the snow.” Flarg looks down at a rather pathetic goblin who is resting on one knee. He looks like he is ready to collapse from exhaustion. Sweat is dripping from his brow and his breathing is labored. Flarg cracks his whip again while snarling at his pathetic brethren. “And trust me, every last one of us will be attacking the village… protection or not.”

The weak goblin quickly rises and starts swinging his hammer wildly. Flarg nods in approval and makes his way further through the mine, eager to motivate anyone else who isn’t towing the line. *** It was about time… Jax realizes. Honestly, it was well past time. He reaches for the door handle and enters, knowing full well that the person he is seeking is busy at work.

The room he walks into can only be described as organized chaos. Tools litter the worktables. There are several instruments 146

Matt Dragovits

that Jax is familiar with; hammers, screwdrivers, saws, and more. But there are other tools that are completely alien to him.

He inspects one table and sees a large magnifying glass that is positioned over a small board that is littered with dozens of little metal channels and suspended cubes. Small wires lead from that board over to other boxes and screens that flash numbers and wavy patterns. Jax shrugs. Too high-tech for him.

He rounds the corner and sees Little Bits bustling away. Her body is suspended by a leather harness that supports the bulk of her weight. The overhead suspension system she designed gives her the ability to freely and quickly move around her workspace.

Jax stands in silence while waiting for her to notice him. He can’t help but marvel at the work she is still putting in.

“Cat got your tongue?” Little Bits giggles without even looking toward him.

Jax snaps out of his stupor. “Just impressed.”

“Well,” Little Bits answers with a grin. “To be fair, I did have a bit of motivation on this particular creation.” She places an affectionate hand on the armrest of a new wheelchair.

Jax winces at her comment and unconsciously shifts back toward the door.

“No, Jax,” Little Bits quickly calls out while shuffling toward him. “Please. I didn’t mean to cast blame.”

“You don’t need to cast it. I know where the blame lies.”

Little Bits hesitates. She cannot argue that Jax’s headstrong nature did contribute to her being crippled, but she also is fully capable of taking responsibility for her own actions. In truth, it’s a tough situation all around. But for her friend to truly heal, Elizabeth feels she needs to let Jax come to this on his own, so she remains silent.

The warrior elf kneels down and inspects the device that is helping Little Bits stand. “Is there any hope that you will walk again?”

147

Dawn of Legends

“There’s always hope.” Little Bits answers. “But for the foreseeable future, I think everyone should be ready to start calling me “Wheels” instead of “Little Bits.”

“That’s not funny.”

“No,” Little Bits agrees while taking a wrench from off the table. She continues on with her work while chatting. “I guess it isn’t. But I’m not about to feel sorry for myself. Children are born every day that must overcome much greater obstacles than this.”

“What do you mean?”

“Hmmm,” Little Bits murmurs. “That’s right. I guess you wouldn’t know of such things with how you’ve been isolated from the rest of the world your entire life.” Little Bits takes a seat in her new wheelchair and tests a few of the controls. “Down South,” she continues, “And all around the world, children are born every day who face unbelievable obstacles. Whether it’s a physical or mental handicap, an illness, or the result of an accident, despite these injuries, I have seen an unbelievable spirit within them. They choose to live life to the fullest. They push with every ounce of energy they have while rarely feeling sorry for themselves. These boys and girls just want to love and to be loved. They are a true inspiration.”

Jax nods in admiration.

“Sometimes these kids are called “special needs children.”

Lizzy flicks a switch and the motor on her new wheelchair hums to life. “I simply call them special. And if they can still endure after everything they face, I can endure as well.”

Jax smiles warmly at Little Bits as her words sink in. He had always been proud of how the village looked to him as a warrior.

His skill with the sword and his courage on the battlefield had put him in a place of honor among his fellow elves. But as he listens to this amazing little elf before him, he is truly humbled.

Elizabeth is dealing with what is clearly a life-changing event, and she is handling it with both grace and dignity. Jax can’t help but feel she is the bravest elf he knows.

148

Matt Dragovits

“If you’re done gawking.” Little Bits chuckles. Can you hand me that screwdriver? I need to adjust the idle on this bad boy and then it’s time to go for a test drive!”

149

Chapter 28 Pain courses through Grife’s wings. Once again, his protection is failing. The intense snowfall is destroying his magical barrier by the second. The winged goblin is about a half mile out when the gemstone flickers and goes dark, leaving him exposed to the raw fury of the winter winds. He cries out in pain while trying to use his wings to shield his face and eyes. The winds make it even more difficult as he comes crashing to the ground. He limps quickly to the nearest cavern opening while brushing off the pain of the harsh landing. He needs shelter, and he needs it now.

Mason stands just a few feet inside the corridor. He is holding a large torch that he quickly waves at Grife. The heat instantly starts to heal the blistering wounds.

“What news from the village?” Mason asks. “Tanas has completed his spells. We are poised to attack tomorrow, just before sunset.”

Grife takes the torch from Mason and presses it directly against some of his worst injuries. He sighs in relief from the flame’s healing power. “It was hard to get a good view,” he answers.

“Those flying reindeer are patrolling the skies around the village.

From what I could see, their defenses are getting stronger by the hour. And that massive structure that used to be lifeless now pulses with energy. I’m not sure what it is, but I get the sense we will want to destroy it at our first opportunity.”

“Hmmmm….” Mason considers Grife’s words. “If it is a key to their defense, perhaps we should take it out before rescuing 150

Matt Dragovits

your father.”

“No!” “No?” “I mean no disrespect, but my father must come first.” Grife takes a moment to catch his breath and then hands the torch back to Mason. “He may have overheard what it does. This device may be worth capturing instead of destroying.”

Mason nods in agreement. “Good thinking, boy. You are your father’s son.”

Grife nods with pride at receiving the rare compliment.

“We will stick with the plan then.” Mason marches forward, traces a rune, and opens a new doorway. “It falls upon you to rescue your father. Whether this tower is magical or technological in nature, General Lodus will know best. We will leave it up to him to decide whether we will capture it, or whether we will destroy it.”

151

Chapter 29 Tristan hoped to have a word alone with Jax before the upcoming battle. It is nearly dusk, and although he hates to admit it, he isn’t feeling the confidence he presented to the rest of the village.

Sometimes, it was hard being the son of the Chief. You had to convince others to feel something even if you didn’t feel it yourself. They looked up to you. They were counting on you. You had to give of yourself to help them be brave, even if there was nothing left to help carry you through. It was your duty to instill in them a sense of confidence and courage so that they could face their fears head-on. Sadly, there was rarely someone you could confide in to voice your own doubts and insecurities.

And although they often quarreled and didn’t always see eye to eye, there was no one in this world that Tristan trusted more with his secrets than Jax. The elf prince tightens his saddle, slides his sword into its sheath, and prepares to mount Judah. The massive polar bear steps away and lets out a deafening roar. It isn’t a roar of defiance or even of worry. If anything, it sounds excited. Tristan steps up and scratches behind his friend’s ears. “You okay, boy?” Judah smiles and then motions with his head, pointing toward the Northern Plains.

Tristan scans the horizon. At first, he just sees a dust-up of snow whipping around, but then the ground begins to vibrate.

152

Matt Dragovits

The cloud of snow grows larger and appears to be getting closer.

The earth begins to tremble as Tristan hears the first sound of a stampede. He reaches for his sword, wondering if this is some new attack cooked up by Tanas. But before he can draw his blade, Judah nudges his sword arm down. The giant polar bear tilts his head and then motions for Tristan to look closer.

As the hazy cloud of snow and ice gets closer, creatures start to come into focus within the swirling mist. Tristan can see Jax at the head. He is followed by a massive pack of wolves who are running side-by-side with an army of polar bears. They are joined by a fleet of arctic owls, with Strig flying proudly at the front.

Jax slows their pace and the army of winter beasts comes to rest just a few strides short of Tristan and Judah.

“I’m glad to see your friends are willing to help us.”

Jax nods and smiles.

“Tomorrow is Christmas Eve.” Tristan continues. And my father is convinced that Tanas will strike. We’re just not certain when. But thanks to Kris Kringle’s snow globes, we’ll have at least some advance notice.”

Tristan looks to his friend, then to the animal pack, and then to Mount Frostbite. “It looks like your army is ready for this. Are you ready for this?”

Jax slides down from Luc and moves to stand alongside his closest friend. Both of them stare off into the distance. “I guess I’m as ready as we ever are for battle. What do you think of our odds?”

“Truthfully?”

“Of course.”

“I wish I could say I was confident of victory. I wish I could say that we will prevail.” Tristan clenches his teeth while wrestling with his thoughts.

“But…” Jax prods.

153

Dawn of Legends

“But I just don’t know,” Tristan confesses. “I’ve never seen our father and mother act the way they have these past few days. I can tell that they are expecting the worst from this Tanas character.

I’ve seen something in our father’s eyes that I have never seen before.”

“Fear?”

“In a word, yes,” Tristan answers. “But I know it’s not fear for himself so much as it is fear for our Mom… and for me… and for you.”

“For me?” Jax questions while turning to meet Tristan’s eyes.

“Of course, for you.” Tristan scoffs. “Just because you like to live out here on the outskirts of the village, and just because you commune more with your animal friends than you do with us, it doesn’t mean that he doesn’t still love you. He took you in as a child and raised you as his own. You ARE his son. Any one of us… my father, my mother, or myself would lay down our lives to protect you.”

Jax turns to Tristan. He wants to respond, but he struggles for the words. He has kept these emotions at bay for as long as he can remember. Ever since he was orphaned, he has put up walls. He has been afraid to let others get too close. He was afraid that if he opened up that part of himself...if he truly cared for them and became a part of their family...it would somehow end. He could not endure the pain of losing his family a second time. Instead, he kept them at arm’s length. He accepted the safety and comfort of isolation. He thought he had been protecting himself, but all he had truly done was deny himself the bonds that make a family strong.

“You okay?” Tristan asks. “I didn’t mean to darken your optimism. I just think it’s going to take everything we have and more to win this battle.”

“Well,” Jax grins while motioning to his animal friends. “I guess it’s a good thing I brought some ‘more’ to help.”

154

Matt Dragovits

Tristan nods and then mounts Judah. “Well, win or lose, I will be proud to fight at your side.”

Jax mounts Luc and nods in agreement. “To the end, my brother.”

“To the end.”

155

Chapter 30 Dawn came quickly. Sleep had not. Kris slowly rises from his bed to the sound of wartime preparations. For many years, the night before his Christmas ride had been restless. This was nothing new. In the past, he had worried if he was being fair to all the children. He had worried if all the toys had been completed and wrapped in time. He had braced himself for some of the terrible weather he had to face in different parts of the world. All of that now seems almost trivial as he tugs up his boots, dons his coat, and steps out to greet an ominous day.

The compound is buzzing from one end to the other with last-minute preparations. In the town center, he can see Maethor commanding a platoon of nature and toymaker elves who are standing in military formation. Tristan inspects their posture and their weapons while doing his best to bolster their courage.

Although Kris can’t hear what is being said, he can see the anxiety in some of his friends’ eyes. Holding a sword of steel is much different than making a toy sword. Preparing for battle is much different than fleeing a town run by a despotic mayor.

Risking your life to fight evil is much different than dedicating your life to spreading goodwill and cheer. Although Kris shares the exact same fears as his elven friends, he takes comfort in the knowledge that they are fighting for what is right and good for humanity.

Honestly, though, his biggest hope is that they won’t need to use the skills that Tristan has taught them. Pretty soon, they will 156

Matt Dragovits

be relieved of duty and back at work making toys. The young elf prince had just wanted to give each team one final refresher on offensive and defensive basics in the event the goblins breach the walls.

Kris keeps all of this in mind as he makes his way to the workshop. Hopefully, the distraction of a good day’s work will keep him from dwelling too much on the impending battle. On his way across the village, Kris sees Little Bits go whizzing by on her new wheelchair. He laughs out loud as she blows him a kiss before revving the throttle and zipping away at ridiculous speed.

Kris laughs so hard he nearly loses his breath. Of all the elves he has ever known, there has never been one that impressed him more than Elizabeth.

With a rosy smile on his face, Kris enters his workshop.

The room is filled with the sounds of hammers and saws and work being done, but no voices can be heard. Only a murmured chatter as elves whisper to one another while glancing nervously out the windows.

Kris steps up to his desk, picks up an old music box, and winds it. The melody begins to play. He quickly walks to the nearest group of elves and although he has never been proud of his voice, he begins to sing in earnest. “Oh, you better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout…”

The room goes absolutely silent.

All eyes fall on Kris as he clears his throat.

“Santa,” One of the manager elves calls out in distress. “How can you sing at a time like this?”

157

Dawn of Legends

“Yeah,” another elderly elf agrees. “I’m barely keeping it together. It’s taking everything I have just to stay focused on finishing these last toy soldiers.”

Elves across the room begin to whisper in agreement. Santa is stunned. His own doubts and fears try to take root. Maybe they were right. Maybe he should stay focused on the upcoming battle. Maybe…

But then, a single, tiny elf walks up to him. She takes his hand and starts to sing while pointing at the Manager elf. “You better not pout, I’m telling you why. SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN!” The little elf releases Santa’s hand and then makes her way around the room while singing as loudly as she can. Her beautiful voice starts to cut through the tension. Slowly, one elf joins, and then another. Kris smiles as he prods the others to sing along. In no time at all, the entire workforce is singing loudly. Some elves even pick up musical toy instruments and start to play along.

Santa beams with pride. His elves never let him down. He could ALWAYS count on them. He turns back to his desk, grabs a seat, and instantly gets lost in his work.

The hours pass by quickly, and before Kris realizes it, it’s well past noon. He decides to stretch his legs, so he heads out for some fresh air.

The sun is high in the sky, but other than a large group of clouds hovering near Mount Frostbite, it is a clear day. Normally, that would be a great thing, but since snow has always been a natural weapon that assisted the nature elves, it feels like a bad omen.

Kris charts an indirect course as he makes his way across the compound, greeting friends along the way. He does his best to project an upbeat, positive energy even if he doesn’t truly feel it in his heart of hearts. On the far side of the village, he sees a group of elves practicing magic. He decides to stop and watch. He can’t help but nod in appreciation as he notices that a number of his 158

Matt Dragovits

own elves have joined the ranks of the elven mages. Melissë had run his toymaker elves through a battery of tests and determined that several of his friends had innate magical abilities. And while they didn’t have the time to become truly proficient in their skills, Melissë was able to teach them a few practical offensive and defensive spells.

As if to showcase this ability, Melissë and Julie raise their arms while tracing runes in the air. Over two dozen snowmen rise out of the ground. The snowmen don’t have a gemstone life imbued in them, like Tanas’ creations, but they are similar in size and shape. As soon as they are formed, the magic users begin to cast their own counter-spells. Long, sharp icicle lances rise out of the earth and skewer the snowman where they stand. Some are pinned to the spot, while others are decimated from the strike. The magic users cheer at their success and then quickly reassemble and prepare themselves for the next test that Melissë is sure to bring.

Suddenly, the ground begins to shake violently, but it isn’t the magic-users doing. The rumbling is so intense it forces Kris to brace himself in a doorjamb for balance. He turns to his right, anticipating the beginning of the goblin attack, but instead, he sees Jax and Yeti at the head of a massive band of charging polar bears, gray wolves, and arctic owls. The creatures aren’t performing any specific task so much as getting used to running together. Kris watches intently as two polar bears split wide, allowing a trio of wolves to come charging forward at assault speed. The polar bears then close ranks again to protect the remainder of the wolf pack.

“It’s pretty impressive, isn’t it?” Jessica asks as she approaches Kris with two cups of hot cocoa. She hands one to him and then sips her own before speaking. “It’s simply amazing how Jax is able to communicate with the animals.”

159

Dawn of Legends

“I know.” Kris agrees. “We’ve worked with our reindeer for several years, but it still takes plenty of coaxing to get them to follow my commands. I may have to ask Jax for some tips when this is all over.”

“Yes,” she whispers while trying to sound hopeful. “When this is all over.” Jessica looks up and gives Kris a faint smile. He can see the fear hiding behind her eyes. He sets his cocoa on a windowsill and draws her into a comforting embrace.

“I know,” he says. “I know that ‘tomorrow’ isn’t a guarantee right now. But we must believe. We need to have faith.”

“I know,” Jessica whispers while nuzzling closer. “I keep telling myself that. I really do. But it’s hard sometimes when I stare up at that massive mountain when I see those dark clouds forming, when I think of all those nightmarish creatures that are getting ready to attack. It just…”

Jessica’s sentence is cut short as a crystal-clear musical note pierces the cold winter air. All eyes fall on a trumpeter standing next to Melissë. She holds a dimming snow globe in her hand.

She turns to Maethor and he gives a somber nod. He then turns his eyes toward Mount Frostbite as the sound of distant battle drums begin to beat.

Maethor turns to the compound, raises his sword, and gives the command. “Battle stations!”

160

Chapter 31 The goblins are ready to brawl.

The weather is on their side. Their magic-imbued gemstones are at full strength. Not a snowflake has fallen during their entire approach to the elf village. The mirage Tanas created has successfully masked them from being discovered. And now, as the ancient sorcerer finishes summoning the last of the snow golems for their army, they are at full strength.

Tanas lifts his staff and a tower of frozen earth rises beneath him. From this icy platform, he surveys his massive force. There are well over 200 goblins shaking their swords and rattling their shields. Roars of challenge sound out as many of them start to belch fireballs into the air. He will not be able to contain the beasts’ fury for much longer.

The snarling, grumbling denizens of the mountains are reinforced by over 50 snow golems. The magical beings stand as still as statues, waiting on their master’s command.

But the finishing touch is Tanas’ own personal bodyguard, the indestructible, 12-foot-tall stone golem.

The dark wizard sneers in delight as he surveys the meager defenses the elves have put together.

Cannons, archer towers, catapults, trenches… how pathetic. They just don’t realize what they are up 161

Dawn of Legends

against. From Tanas’ perspective, the village is ripe for the taking.

The ancient mage takes a moment to scan the skies. It doesn’t take long for him to locate Grife. The winged goblin dives toward the army at dizzying speed and then swoops up at the last second to make a perfect landing.

“All is ready, Master.”

“Then be off with you,” Tanas commands. “If you fail, do not bother to return.”

Grife nods stiffly and then flaps his powerful wings to take flight. He doesn’t bother to look back. He has waited too long for this mission. Soon, his father will be free!

Tanas watches Grife streak through the sky and nods in approval. While he honestly wasn’t friends with any of the goblins he ruled, he could at least respect the loyalty and strength the young goblin warrior always exhibited.

Tanas turns his attention back toward the village. He pauses and then takes in a deep breath. He grips his staff firmly while reciting an incantation. Dark energy begins to trail down from the gemstone. Tanas raises the staff as the energy stream continues to flow. It tracks down his arm, over his shoulder, and up to his throat. As the energy comes to rest around Tanas’ voice box, the dark wizard shouts with his magically enhanced voice.

The sound waves travel for hundreds of feet and cause the very earth to tremble as if they were a physical force.

“Maethor, last surviving son of Aelthor.” Tanas challenges. “I call upon you to meet for parley. Refuse at your peril.” *** Without hesitation, Maethor moves toward the thick, wooden gates at the front of the elf compound. Melissë rushes forward, steps in front to block his path, and places a cautionary hand on his chest.

“You know he cannot be trusted.”

162

Matt Dragovits

Maethor gently removes his wife’s arm. “Yes, I do. But he is not the only one capable of surprises.”

Maethor twists the sword of his hilt to reveal a small embedded gemstone.

“I had Julie and Little Bits fashion it for me while you were busy. Julie was willing to part with one of her most treasured pieces.”

Melissë reaches up and gently runs her fingers through the grey streaks in her husband’s hair. “Very well,” she whispers lovingly. “This must be done. We will be watching through a snow globe. A simple hand sign is all it will require for us to take action.”

Maethor nods in understanding. The large gates at the perimeter wall swing open, and the elf chieftain strides out of the complex.

It doesn’t take long for him to cover the distance to reach Tanas. Goblins howl with anticipation as he approaches. Some even start to build up their internal fires. They are eager to strike down the elf leader, but Tanas stays their hand. Instead, the dark mage leaves their protection and steps forward to meet Maethor one-on-one for parley. While honor was something Tanas cared little for, he is keenly aware that SHE is watching.

Once it is just the two of them, and they are well out of earshot of his army, the mage casts a truly wicked smile.

“It has been a long time, Maethor.”

“Not long enough.” The elf chief responds stiffly. At the very sight of Tanas, Maethor is barely able to control the anger that builds up within him. It has 163

Dawn of Legends

been centuries since the two had shared company and Maethor is not prepared for the raw emotion that awakens in the presence of his mortal enemy.

Tanas does not respond, but he does start to slowly circle Maethor. Despite his immense magical powers, the wizard makes sure to keep a respectful distance. He also makes a very deliberate attempt to portray himself as old and feeble.

“Speak your mind, Tanas.” Maethor growls. “Or prepare for battle!”

The ancient mage continues his circle around Maethor. Each time the bottom of his staff touches the ground, it leaves behind a gemstone buried in the snow. The stones are too small for Maethor to notice.

“Your forces do not stand a chance against my magic.” Tanas sneers. “Surely you realize this?”

“I do not accept that.”

“There is no need for this bloodshed.” Tanas continues. “I care not for this war or these beasts.” Tanas makes a sweeping gesture toward his army. “You KNOW what it is that I truly desire.”

“After all these centuries,” Maethor growls. “You still seek to possess her as if she were a thing for you to own.”

Tanas stands tall and sticks out his chest, doing his best to look regal. He desperately wants to convey some shred of dignity that is inherent in his bloodline. “In all our vast history,” Tanas boasts. “She is the only elf who has ever come close to me in raw magical power. She should be mine. She WILL be mine!”

The blood in Maethor’s veins comes to a boil. His fury can no longer be contained. He lunges forward while drawing his sword in one swift movement. He slashes down with thunderous force on the powerful wizard. “She is my wife!” he roars. “So long as I draw breath, you shall not come near her!”

Tanas stumbles back beneath the sheer brutality of Maethor’s skillful attack. He is barely able to throw up a magical shield to defend himself.

164

Matt Dragovits

The elf chief surges forward with a flurry of strikes. His blade sings as it arcs with deadly accuracy and visceral strength. His love for his wife and his desire to protect his village propels him.

Every fiber of his being cries out in fury.

Tanas buckles beneath the onslaught. He falls to one knee and struggles to maintain his defenses. He starts to utter an incantation that pulls wave after wave of energy from his gemstone staff. His shield begins to thicken.

Maethor doesn’t care or even notice. He has become a force of nature. Everything he holds dear in this world is counting on him. He moves with the stealth of a fox. He strikes with the power of the bear. He attacks with the ferocity of the wolf. He reigns down blow after blow on Tanas’ shield. He will not fail!

The evil mage crumbles beneath the non-stop barrage. He tries to draw in more energy from his staff but cannot find the strength. He looks up in fear as cracks begin to form across his entire magical shield. He panics as he notices the gemstone embedded in Maethor’s sword. He realizes that the very next blow will shatter his protection.

“Mercy!” Tanas cries as he lowers his shield and dives to the ground to avoid a deadly strike from Maethor’s blade.

“Mercy,” he whimpers. “Please. I beg of you, Maethor. Take pity. Have mercy on an old, old man. It was only love that ever drove my actions.”

Maethor hesitates for a fraction of a second, unable to bring his blade down on the defenseless, pitiful creature. But in that moment of hesitation, Tanas swings his magical staff in a wide arc and sends a wave of blinding energy from the gemstone.

Maethor raises his free hand to shield his eyes from the intense light. Stars dance before his eyes as his dazed vision struggles to compensate. All he can make out are six blurry patches of snow glowing with an eerie green light.

“Coward,” Maethor shouts as he swings his sword in a defensive fashion. He thrusts his blade forward, arcs it to the side, 165

Dawn of Legends

and slices to the back, doing his best to protect himself from a sneak attack as he struggles to regain his vision. But all Maethor hears is Tanas’ twisted, condescending laughter.

The remaining stars in Maethor’s eyes finally begin to dissolve, but the dark mage is now well out of striking range.

Suddenly, massive snowy arms reach out from the frozen earth. They brace themselves against the ground and push. The surrounding snow is rapidly drawn into their forms as they rise.

Within seconds, six massive snow golems surround the elf chief.

“You pathetic fool.” Tanas sneers. “Your mercy shall be your undoing.”

Tanas waves his staff again and the ground rises up to form a frozen throne. He sits down comfortably, rests his staff across his legs, and leans back. He utters a simple command.

“Attack.”

166

Chapter 32 In all the years they have been friends, Tristan has never seen Jax move so quickly. Everyone else had stood frozen in place, transfixed as the nightmarish snow golems sprang from the earth and surrounded Maethor. Only Jax had acted. He had leapt onto Luc in one swift motion while whistling for Yeti to follow.

Tristan was only a few steps behind, but with every second counting against them, he wasn’t sure if it would be enough.

Even now, as he races against time to save his father, he can see the snow golems reigning down blows. His father is doing his best to fend off the attack, but six against one are terrible odds, even for the most skilled of fighters. And the fact that the golem’s limbs grow back the instant Maethor severs them makes it a truly losing battle.

Tears form in Tristan’s eyes as he urges Judah to greater speed. But his polar bear is a beast of power, and even this short run is taxing him greatly. Try as he might, the massive polar bear simply cannot catch up with Jax, Luc, and Yeti.

The elf chief continues to fight valiantly, but the overwhelming force of the snow golems is taking its toll. Maethor’s body is battered and bruised. His face is swollen and bloody. Yet he fights on. With one swing, he takes out a golem at the waist.

The return slice severs a golem’s head from its shoulders. But as Maethor steps back into a defensive posture, the largest of the golems surges forward. The elf chief has no choice but to stab the massive creature through the midsection.

167

Dawn of Legends

The icy beast smiles in triumph while freezing the blade in place. Maethor struggles to pull his sword free, but it is held firm.

The other golems seize the opportunity and swarm, tackling the elf chieftain to the ground. Maethor struggles fiercely against their overwhelming weight, but he is pinned.

Tanas rises from his icy throne and strides arrogantly toward Maethor. He takes slow, deliberate steps. He intends to savor this victory, to enjoy the bitter taste of Maethor’s defeat.

Once he reaches the elf chief, Tanas grips his staff with both hands and begins to channel. The gemstone shakes with arcane power as it draws in the life force of nearby trees and arctic wildlife. The dark energy coalesces around the tip of Tanas’ staff and morphs into the shape of a glowing executioner’s axe. Tanas raises the magical blade high and smiles with unholy glee. He swings the staff with all his might, bringing down a killing blow toward the center of Maethor’s chest.

Then suddenly, a weathered steel blade slices the air and knocks Tanas’ staff from his grip. The energy-infused gemstone strikes the largest snow golem and it explodes in a spray of icy fragments.

Yeti and Luc roar with feral rage as they join the fray. It takes only seconds for them to tear the other five golems apart. Jax leaps down and helps Maethor to his feet just as Tristan arrives on Judah. The elf prince reaches down and quickly pulls his father up into the saddle.

Tanas screams in rage as he quickly retreats toward his goblin army. “Attack!”

The ground shakes as the massive force of goblins and snow golems race across the open field. The air is filled with the sound of drums and battle horns as the beasts are stirred into a berserker rage.

“Move. Now!” Jax shouts while putting himself between his king and the approaching horde. Tristan nods in thanks and then races off. Getting his father to safety is paramount.

168

Matt Dragovits

Jax whistles for Luc. The elf warrior mounts his polar bear and then turns to Yeti. “Come on, buddy,” he shouts.

But the winter beast does not heed the command. Instead, he scrambles across the snowy field and collects the six fallen gemstones. He turns to the approaching enemy, slams his powerful fists into the ground, and roars in challenge. He stands strong, ready to take on the entire army all by himself.

“I appreciate your courage, old friend.” Jax shouts over the blaring battle horns, “But it’s time for us to go. We need you.”

Jax turns Luc back toward the elf village and starts to retreat.

Yeti grudgingly joins. Once their backs are turned, Tanas starts to cast another spell. The dark mage grabs the gemstone at the head of his staff and begins to extract the energy. It cascades over his fingertips in a spider-web-type fashion. He mutters a dark incantation and then whips his hand forward. The energy shoots toward Jax, Luc, and Yeti in the form of a thousand glowing spikes.

Jax looks over his shoulder just as they are about to be skewered. But right before impact, a blue wall of mystical energy rises from the earth. The spikes strike the barrier and instantly dissolve into harmless particles.

Tanas curses in frustration but then stops abruptly. He blinks and stares into the distance. A twisted smile of respect forms on his lips as he recognizes the elf who thwarted his attack. There, within his grasp, is that which he covets above all else.

It has been centuries since he’s seen her, but her beauty is timeless. Even now, the vision of her threatens to steal his breath away. And today, finally, thanks to the power of the gemstones he’s hoarded over the centuries, she will finally be his to possess.

169

Chapter 33 Maethor’s battered body is raced toward the protection of the compound. While everyone is concerned about his injuries, there is no time to dwell on it. He is alive and breathing. That needs to be enough for now.

Tanas’ army of goblins and snow golems are descending on the village with reckless abandon. There is no organization or structure to their attack. They charge forward in a full-frontal assault, hoping to catch up with and overtake the fleeing elves.

From atop one of the ramparts, Little Bits issues commands to multiple teams of nature elves. “No,” she instructs. “Make the angle higher, otherwise it won’t reach them. Add a little more powder and then stabilize that wheel. We can’t have the cannon kicking back!”

The elves hustle to follow her instructions. Little Bits gives a nod and then lights the fuse. She signals for the elves to cover their ears.

“BOOM!” The cannonball hurtles through the air with the force of a small meteor.

Goblins scramble for their lives as the cannonball strikes a full row of snow golems and blows them to powdery bits.

The elves on the rampart cheer in celebration as the goblin army freezes in 170

Matt Dragovits

place. Many cower in fear as they scan the elven city, wondering what other terrifying weapon might be unleashed upon them.

Those few moments are exactly what Tristan needs. He quickly makes good on their escape. Once inside the village’s defensive perimeter, Melissë races over to Maethor and starts working her healing magic.

Yeti and Jax enter the village just a few steps behind. The mythical beast continues to protest their retreat. He turns back toward the invading army and howls in challenge. He beats his mighty chest, storms around in a circle, and pounds his fists against the ground. Yeti’s eyes turn toward the skies. He bares his teeth in a feral snarl while growling loudly. Even the nearby elves take a step back in worry.

“It’s okay, buddy.” Jax urges while trying to direct his friend’s anger. “Save your energy. We’re going to need...”

And then Jax notices what has his friend so triggered. There, weaving in and out among the clouds is the winged goblin. Before Jax can utter a warning, Grife dives at blinding speed toward the far end of the compound.

“Tristan!” Jax cries out. “Follow me. We’ve got to reinforce General Lodus’ prison. The goblins are trying to…”

But it was already too late. *** The elf guards are caught by complete surprise as a massive fireball decimates the rooftop of General Lodus’ prison. Before the soldiers can even draw their swords, the powerful goblin takes full advantage. He uses his thick, leathery wings as a shield while lashing out with powerful taloned blows. He overwhelms them with sheer ferocity before they even know what is happening.

Grife quickly lifts a fallen sword from one of the unconscious elves and slides it through the door handle to prevent reinforcements from entering.

171

Dawn of Legends

Shouts of anger and frustration ring through the air as the exterior guards bang and kick in an effort to gain entry. Realizing the futility of their actions, they race to the armory and grab axes. Within seconds, they are chopping feverishly at the thick wooden door.

Grife puts another sword through the door handles and wedges them tight. The elves aren’t getting in any time soon. To their credit, they had done an excellent job of building the prison structure. The walls and door were incredibly secure. Too bad they hadn’t put the same care into the ceiling.

Grife strides calmly over to his father. He smiles victoriously while reaching toward the manacles binding his father’s wrists.

“The keys are on that elf ’s waistband.” General Lodus points out.

Grife smirks. He reaches down and snaps the manacles open with his bare hands. General Lodus smiles with pride. “That’s my boy!”

The goblin general quickly picks up a sword for each hand and prepares to fight their way out. “You ready, son?”

Grife nods. He walks over, removes the swords from the door handles, and lets the guard elves who have been trying to hack down the door see who they are up against.

Father and son growl fiercely in challenge.

The elves glance at the floor and see their unconscious elven brethren. The unnerving sight gives them pause. None are eager to take on such formidable adversaries. Yet, despite their fear, they manage to raise their swords. They know they must do whatever they can for the sake of the village.

General Lodus charges forward. He engages the guards in combat. They are no challenge for the veteran goblin warrior. He easily disarms the guards and forces them to back off.

Grife steps through the opening, flaps his powerful wings, and becomes airborne. The elves shield their eyes from the kickup of whirling snow and dust.

172

Matt Dragovits

The winged demon reaches down with clawed feet and grabs his father by the shoulders. He flaps harder and harder until he is able to lift them both off the ground.

General Lodus swings his sword defensively to bat away any feeble attempts the elves might make to prevent their escape. “It’s been a nice stay. Har, har, har..” He laughs. “But it’s time for me to take my leave… har, har, har.”

Grife continues to flap his mighty wings, carrying them further and further into the sky. The elf guards race over to a weapons rack and desperately gather multiple bows and several arrows. They knock the arrows and take aim, but it is too late.

Their quarry is already out of range. Their most valued prisoner is now free.

And it couldn’t have happened at a worse time.

173

Dawn of Legends

174

Chapter 34 The goblin general lands amid his army to thunderous applause. He strides among the troops, taking a quick inventory of his forces and the weapons at his disposal. He only pauses momentarily to give a quick nod of thanks to Tanas. He turns to his goblin and golem army.

“Concentrate all your power on the towers. We’ll need to take out the archers before we can advance.”

The goblins stand in stunned confusion. Most are still surprised to see their leader returned to them.

“You heard me!” General Lodus roars while taking a massive sword from a nearby goblin and making it his own. He walks over to another goblin and grabs his battle horn. He raises it to his lips and blows with thunderous force.

The ugly trumpeting sound carries across the snowy plains.

He blows again and again, riling up his troops while working to instill fear in his enemies.

“I want them to know we are coming!” he shouts while slamming his sword against his shield.

The other goblins quickly join in on the chorus. They begin growling and snarling and shouting with maniacal rage.

“Line up,” General Lodus commands. “I want to see rows of twenty with alternated spacing.” The military commander surges up and down the line, whipping the unruly goblins into shape. “I said line up!” he roars.

175

Dawn of Legends

The goblins race to follow the command. They line up so quickly that some of them trip over one another in the process.

“Now, inhale deeply.” The General commands while stabbing his sword into the ground. “Build your inner fire!” he growls. He takes in his own deep breath. His throat and sternum instantly begin to glow. “I want you to light up the sky!”

The goblins smile and begin to take in deep, guttural breaths.

They smirk and sneer as they compete to see who can glow the hottest and brightest.

General Lodus grips his sword and raises it in the air. He points toward the nearest Tower.

“Take it down!” he roars.

The goblins brace their feet, arc backward, and then thrust their heads forward, extending their throats. They belch out a volley of massive fireballs that roar through the sky like a rainfall of comets. Even Tanas smiles as he witnesses the deadly barrage heading directly toward the elven village. *** “Release the nets!” Tristan roars, forcing his troops into action.

Elves race for a series of levers spaced along the walls and quickly pull. On the perimeter of the village, a series of springloaded nets trip. Massive wooden supports spring up to a 90-degree angle. Tightly woven nets run from edge to edge.

As the fireballs strike, dozens upon dozens are deflected and bounced back. But under the intense barrage, holes start to form and catch fire. Within just a few minutes, the nets are no more.

Melissë, Julie, and three other magic users race along the ramparts. “Space out,” Melissë shouts. “Do not cause the fireballs to explode. Instead, use a spell to dampen their velocity. Try to prevent them from reaching the village.”

176

Matt Dragovits

The elven magic users nod in understanding. They instantly start casting spells, trying to stop as many of the fiery projectiles as possible. They work as hard and fast as they are able, but the relentless attack eventually breaks their defenses. Several of the archer towers are struck and ignited. Elves scramble for safety while others rush forward to try and extinguish the fires.

On the banks of the village, Tristan, Walt, and a division of elves prepare to return fire with the cannons Kris designed. They operate under the same principle as his toys. They are just much larger and way more powerful.

“Angle that one 12 degrees higher,” Tristan instructs. “Tilt this one a few more degrees north.” He grabs a canon and helps move it into position. “Make this one hit the ground a few feet in front of them. Let it land short so it will skid and bounce across the terrain.”

The elves smile eagerly. While they would have preferred peace, they have no choice. They are ready to fight to protect their families.

“Fire!” Tristan shouts.

“Boom. Boom. BOOM!” The cannons fire off in rapid succession, filling the air with a volley of giant iron-wrecking balls. The spheres rip through the air with incredible accuracy, speeding directly toward their targets. In a flurry of violent explosions, the snow golem army is devastated. The cannon balls blow them into powder, leaving only mounds of broken snow.

The goblins turn in dread, having lost a massive portion of their army in one fell swoop.

Tristan, Walt, and the other elves shout in cheers of triumph.

They hoot and holler while giving each other celebratory hugs and high-fives. But their excitement is short-lived, for where the golem army had stood, the ground begins to glow.

Tanas smiles and continues waving his staff. Dozens of arms spring back up from the ground and begin to pull themselves 177

Dawn of Legends

up out of the earth. While the creatures had been destroyed, the gemstones and the spell cast upon them were still intact.

“No…” Tristan gulps. The young elf prince can only stand and stare in a state of total disbelief as the golem army re-forms.

Then, as one, they turn toward him and his team. *** “Ignore the towers!” General Lodus commands. “They are no longer a threat.” The goblin leader storms up and down his ranks, prodding the re-formed snow golems back into formation.

He looks into the soulless eyes of the nearest creature. “Move forward and continue to absorb the cannon fire. Let’s bleed their ammunition dry.”

General Lodus turns to the largest detail of his goblin army.

He points to the far corner of the elf encampment. “Target all of your firepower on the southwestern portion of the wall just below that destroyed archer tower. Don’t hold anything back.”

The goblin general drops his arm with a chopping motion and the goblins begin to belch fireballs as quickly as they can re-build their internal fire. Volley after volley of flaming missiles streak through the air with devastating accuracy.

As the fiery attack looms high over the village, Melissë races to the defense. She quickly weaves a magical shield and braces for impact. The first dozen fireballs strike and are quickly diverted, but the barrage doesn’t let up. Despite her legendary magical strength and her incredible force of will, Melissë cannot do this alone. The magical shield begins to crack. Fireballs begin to penetrate her defenses.

Julie races to join her friend and mentor. She quickly weaves a reinforcement spell. The beautiful magic user has scorch marks and scratches all across her face. Her clothing is singed and tattered. Yet she stands firm, doing her best to hold the line.

178

Matt Dragovits

The onslaught of fireballs continues as both Melissë and Julie struggle to hold the village’s defense. Their combined magical abilities allow them to hold their ground, but then a massive shadow appears overhead… and it isn’t a fireball. The stone golem is barreling through the air with devastating force. It slams through the magical shield and causes it to explode into a thousand glowing shards.

The backlash of energy causes Melissë and Julie to be thrown violently through the air. When they land, neither one stirs.

Without the magical shield to protect the southern wall, the fireballs strike in rapid succession, blasting a massive hole in the elves’ defensive perimeter.

The goblin and golem cheers can be heard across the battlefield. The perimeter wall has been breached. *** Total panic erupts inside the compound. Amid the chaos, Maethor and Sly stumble forward in a desperate effort to protect Melissë and Julie. The two elves struggle against their own devastating injuries and the surging crowds. With great effort, they are able to drag the unconscious magic users onto medical sleds. Once the women are fastened in place, Maethor slaps a polar bear on the rump and it dashes across the compound, pulling the women in tow.

While most of the elves are racing away from the massive opening that has been created, a small contingent of battlehardened elves push forward to meet the approaching goblin and golem army head-on.

Jax, Yeti, Luc, Tristan, Judah, Walt, Holly, and Little Bits are joined by an animal army consisting of wolves, polar bears, and arctic owls. While they are severely outnumbered by the invading goblin and snow golem force, they press forward with grim determination. They will not surrender their home!

179

Dawn of Legends

As the goblins race across the open field, General Lodus whips them into a frenzy. He maintained their discipline for as long as he could while coordinating the initial attack on the compound’s defenses. But now that they have an access point into the village, the chaos they create by running wild will be perfectly fine.

The goblins race out in front of the slower snow golems. They growl and snarl, roar and laugh, as they press toward the elven defenses. Some of the larger goblins are able to simply hurtle the large trenches that have been dug, while others wait for snow golems to use their large bodies to fill the gap, creating makeshift bridges.

The opening in the wall is just a few feet away and there are only a handful of elves and some wild beasts standing in their way. Just a few more steps and the goblins will overrun…

“Spoing! Boing! Ba-Doing!” The golems look to the sky in dumbfounded awe as dozens upon dozens of goblins go hurtling through the air. Kris’ giant spring-loaded traps erupt in rapid succession from beneath the snow. Once again, the toymaker has proven his worth!

The elves and animals take full advantage of the confusion.

Massive polar bears and grey wolves race forward and attack the snow golems with tooth and claw. At the same time, a band of elves help Sly wheel in another cannon to aim at the next wave of goblins. The elves learned their lesson from earlier. They will not waste ammunition on magical creatures. That task falls on the remaining magic users.

As if on cue, a small group of elves steps up behind the warriors. With a collective motioning of their hands, they cast a defensive spell that forces massive icicles to spike up from the ground, pinning the golems in place. The monsters struggle to advance but are held firm.

Tristan turns to Elizabeth before charging forward. “It’s probably best if you hold back.”

180

Matt Dragovits

Little Bits smirks in defiance and then presses one of the many buttons on her modified wheelchair. The segmented sections of her two main wheels shift and transform and then lock into place.

They are now in the form of triangular snowmobile treads. At the same time, two little exhaust ports extend out the back of the seat. She revs a throttle with her foot, blows Tristan a kiss, and then zips out onto the battlefield. The goblins instantly scramble to catch her, but she is way too fast. She presses another button on her armrest and a series of miniature missiles shoot out from hidden compartments. They fly with insane accuracy and start blowing apart the nearest snow golems that are not pinned down.

“Quick, Little Bits!” Jax shouts while racing across the battlefield. He and his owls begin to rummage through the snow.

“Grab the gemstones before the golems can reform!”

Little Bits nods in understanding. She darts forward to scoop up some gems but is quickly surrounded by a wily pack of goblins. The monsters press their attack, but Little Bits is quicker.

She presses another button, causing little arms with scoops on the end to extend from the sides of her chair. She throttles forward and the arms start cycling through in a Ferris-wheeltype motion, scooping snow at the bottom of the rotation and then hurling it through the air when the scoop reaches the top of the arc.

The goblins try to shield themselves from the attack. The snow stings like crazy, but it doesn’t have the same effect it normally would due to the protection of their gemstone necklaces. Once Little Bits realizes this, she quickly races away, just barely avoiding their clawing reach.

“We’ve got to press the attack!” Tristan shouts while leading a charge toward the largest portion of the army. “We need to buy time to repair the wall. We can’t let them get organized enough to hit us like that again!”

Walt smiles wickedly while raising his war hammer. He charges forward with berserker power and slams the nearest 181

Dawn of Legends

golem square in the chest. The creature explodes in a cloud of powder. Walt calmly reaches down, scoops up the gem and puts it in his pocket. “One down, dozens more to go.” He laughs. The burly elf raises his hammer again and charges forward, ready to dish out some more payback.

Jax can’t help but smile. And while he wishes he could launch headfirst into battle like Walt, now was the time to be strategic.

Now was the time for cool heads to prevail.

Instead of charging forward, Jax directs his wolves and polar bears to hang back and attack any goblin or Golem close to the wall opening. They need to buy more time. He instructs Strig to lead a pack of snow owls to create chaos in the goblin ranks.

The owls divebomb the goblins using razor-sharp talons and beaks. Their timing is perfect. They strike right as the goblins are about to belch out a massive volley of fresh fireballs. The result is priceless. The fireballs shoot every which way. Some strike other goblins. Some strike the snow golems. One even hits General Lodus square in the butt.

Although it is hilarious watching the general trying to extinguish the flames from his backside, Jax has no time for laughter. He looks to his left and sees Holly racing headfirst toward another squad of approaching goblins. The brave elf plans to take them on all by herself.

Crazy girl. Holly was more like Jax than he would like to admit. Still, he whistles and motions for Yeti to split off and back up the female warrior. As tough as Holly was, Jax would never forgive himself if something happened to her. *** Kris and Jessica race through the compound with a small army of toymaker elves on their heels. They have sheets of wood, hammers, nails, and other construction materials loaded on a massive sled that is being pulled by polar bears.

182

Matt Dragovits

Kris can’t help but be overwhelmed by the sights before him.

He turns to Jessica and sees the same sheer panic reflected in her eyes. Everywhere they look, there is devastation. The archer towers are burning. Most of the cannons have been destroyed and the few remaining in operation are running low on ammunition.

All of the spring traps and net shields have been tripped. Teams of battle-weary elves are struggling to put out fires or tend to the wounded. Melissë and Julie, their two most powerful magicusers, are just now coming to their senses. Never before in his life had Kris seen such wanton destruction. Never before had he seen firsthand the true face of war.

Despite the fear running through his veins, Kris is impressed by the steadfast resolve of the elves. Even though the enemy is at their gates… even though their shields are battered and broken… even though their faces are tired and worn… the elves fight on with courage and passion. This is their home and they will defend it with every last ounce of strength they can muster.

183

Chapter 35 On the outskirts of the village, Tanas, General Lodus, and Grife casually make their way toward the battle being waged at the breach in the perimeter wall. The goblin leaders are actually laughing as they watch the mayhem unfold before them. Once the trio approaches within a few hundred feet of the fighting, Tanas raises his arm and signals for Lodus and Grife to stop.

He steps forward, closes his eyes, and begins to recite an incantation. He weaves his staff in the air, tracing a rune pattern in the sky. The gemstone at the tip of his staff begins to glow brighter and brighter. In the distance, the storm clouds that have been forming over Mount Frostbite begin to thunder and churn. Tanas re-traces the rune pattern over and over while repeating the ancient words. General Lodus and Grife take a few steps back. The clouds continue to darken and spread as thunder rumbles loudly. Suddenly, a massive bolt of lightning streaks from the mountaintop and strikes Tanas with all its force.

The sorcerer moves in rhythm with the strike, letting the energy course through his limbs to be re-directed. The blast thunders out of his fingertips and streaks directly toward the elven village.

“No!” Kris shouts while grabbing Jessica and diving beneath a nearby supply wagon. The lighting strike obliterates a second section of the wall just a short distance from where their repair effort is underway.

Stone fragments and splintered wood tear through the air as the deafening explosion rocks the village to its core.

184

Matt Dragovits

The goblins cheer loudly while surging forward. They press their attack while the elves are dazed and disoriented. Jax and the team struggle to think clearly while doing their best to meet the incoming force.

To make matters worse, Tanas raises his staff and shoots a series of blasts at his golems that are pinned by the icicle skewers.

The strikes blow the icy creatures to pieces.

Tristan watches with confused eyes. “Why?” he mutters to himself. But it only takes a few seconds for him to get an answer.

The gems start glowing. The magical creatures quickly re-form and then continue to advance.

All seems lost when a feral roar echoes across the battlefield.

Yeti howls in absolute rage as he races headfirst at the incoming army.

The legendary creature goes into a full-blown frenzy as he reaches his first victims. He grabs goblins by the heads, ankles, or whatever limb is closest and starts hurtling them through the air. He picks up one goblin and uses him like a club to swing at other victims. The goblins quickly back up, knowing they are no match for the unbridled fury of the winter beast.

Yeti turns round and round, seeking additional targets for his anger. His eyes come to rest on a full force of snow golems. He charges forward without hesitation, reaching out with massive claws that rend the golems into icy chunks. Limbs fly to the left and right. The golems swarm on Yeti, trying to use sheer force of numbers to bring him down. The winter beast howls in acceptance of the challenge, eager to give the magical creatures a battle they won’t forget.

Jax uses this brief opportunity to race from elf to elf, helping them to their feet while trying to re-organize their defenses. As he scans his surroundings, he sees that Tanas, General Lodus, and Grife have already entered the compound through the second opening. They have crossed the courtyard and are rapidly closing in on the Divine Reactor.

185

Dawn of Legends

They only come to a stop when two elven leaders limp directly into their path.

Maethor and Melissë are both exhausted. They lean into one another for strength and support. There are wounds on their bodies and tears in their clothing. Their armor is dented or missing altogether. Their eyes are battle-weary. Despite all of this, they refuse to yield. Both man and woman share the grim determination of warriors who are incapable of submission.

“You shall go no further.” Melissë commands. She raises her arms and a stream of energy flows directly from the Divine Reactor into her. “You shall not defile the Divine Reactor with your wretched touch.”

Tanas grins while taking a step forward. “We shall see.”

Maethor lunges forward to engage the dark mage, but he is quickly met by both Grife and General Lodus. The clang of steel-on-steel echoes through the compound as Maethor fights valiantly against two seasoned foes who are both fresh for battle.

Tanas sidesteps the confrontation and continues toward Melissë.

“I can feel the power of this device from here,” he states with genuine admiration. “I know not what manner of magic this contraption contains, but it dwarfs even my gemstone staff.”

Melissë steps forward and thrusts her hands toward Tanas. A dazzling beam of crystalline energy shoots through the air and strikes the goblin elder with full force. He stumbles to one knee as the power continues to buffet him.

Melissë struggles to maintain the connection. She uses all of her willpower to channel the beam of energy at Tanas. Sweat drips from her brow as her limbs begin to shake. Every breath is an effort as she struggles to stay on her feet.

As Melissë’s attack begins to falter, Tanas looks up with a knowing smile. He takes a moment to amass his dark energies and then slams his staff against the ground. The earth tremors at Melissë’s feet, knocking her off balance and breaking her 186

Matt Dragovits

concentration. Her spell rebounds and the backlash of energy breaks her connection to the Divine Reactor. She falls to her knees, gasping for breath.

“In time, you may have bested me.” Tanas smiles while crouching down to meet his vanquished foe. “It does not need to end like this,” he chides. A genuinely caring tone entering his voice. “Together, we can harness this power for our own. We can use it to fashion this world as we see fit. We can save the humans from themselves. It is not too late, young one. As I told you centuries ago, those who were born to wield such power have the obligation and the right to do so.”

Melissë looks up at the wizened old creature. She wipes the sweat and grime from her face. Even now, she looks beautiful.

“And,” she answers, “As I told you then. It is not a right that we were blessed with but a responsibility. Your power has corrupted you to the core, Tanas. You are now as ugly on the outside as you have ever been on the inside.”

Tanas seethes at the blistering words. He pulls back from Melissë with venom in his eyes. “If you shall not rule at my side,” he curses. “Then you shall serve at my feet!”

In a fit of untempered rage, Tanas draws in all the power he can control. He aims his staff at Melissë and fires.

In her weakened state, the elf sorceress knows she cannot possibly defend herself. Despite that knowledge, Melissë summons her last remaining bit of magical strength to throw up a shield. It forms just as Tanas’ strike hits. The shield shatters instantly, but it does manage to divert the blast. The deflected beam ricochets and severs one of the main power lines running off the Divine Reactor. The magical device instantly begins to surge with unbound energy. Every gauge instantly redlines as sparks of electricity shoot wildly from the control panels.

The reactor pulses with ever-increasing energy, threatening to explode. Everyone in the vicinity, both elf and goblin, race for cover. Maethor, alone, charges forward and dives on top of 187

Dawn of Legends

Melissë, doing his best to shield his wife against the impending explosion.

“No!!!!” Jax cries as he finally reaches the Reactor. “Mom! Dad!” The desperate elf knows he has only seconds to act, or they are all dead. He shields his eyes and presses forward into the raging electrical storm. It batters him relentlessly with wave upon wave of searing current. He valiantly struggles with each forced step.

He scans the Divine Reactor and instantly notices the ruptured power line.

He knows what he must do.

Jax forces his way past Maethor and Melissë while uttering fateful words of farewell. “I love you, Mom. I love you, Dad. Thank you… for everything.”

Maethor lifts his head and turns just in time to see Jax reach down and grab the severed power lines. “No!!!” he cries as he witnesses the energy channel directly through his son’s body.

Jax’s life force serves as a living, breathing conduit for the raw energy of the Star of Bethlehem.

Maethor struggles to reach Jax. He wills himself to move forward, but his strength is spent. Despite the determination of his will, his body has no more to give.

The Divine Reactor continues to surge but does not explode.

Electricity rages through Jax’s body as he fights to maintain his grip on the two cables. His body feels as if he is being pierced over and over again by a thousand tiny needles. The pain is unbearable.

It is unlike anything he has ever felt. He struggles desperately to hold tight while mouthing a silent prayer. The magical energy surges violently through his limbs. His entire nervous system is afire. He cries out in agony as the convulsions seek to overtake him. Melissë stirs as she hears his cry. She looks up and sees her adopted son being electrocuted. The baby boy she found in the woods so very long ago is dying right before her eyes. She fights back tears while struggling to muster even the slightest shred of 188

Matt Dragovits

magic. Every fiber of her being pleads to cast a protective spell, but she is utterly and completely spent.

The air around Jax crackles with uncontrolled electrical fury as his gemstone necklace begins to pulse in rhythm with the energy waves of the Reactor. It’s as if the two magical conduits are sharing a connection to the same divine source.

The necklace grows brighter and brighter, creating an aura around Jax. It surges in intensity until even Maethor and Melissë are forced to shield their eyes. The energy continues to build as the Divine Reactor’s free flow of starlight cascades through it.

The gemstone glows so powerfully that the energy within can no longer be contained. It splinters and cracks into a thousand shards. Each fragment hovers in mid-air before dissolving into a collective field of pure energy.

Jax is enveloped by the glowing energy field. His eyes are transformed to the purest white as the particles saturate his body from head to toe. He shakes uncontrollably as the unbridled forces of nature are absorbed into every fiber of his being. Streams of energy shoot from his eyes and mouth as a torrent of snow and ice whisk around his pulsating form.

Kris and Jessica arrive just in time to witness Jax’s frightening transformation. The energy continues to surge violently around him. “He can’t hold on like this for much longer,” Kris shouts.

“We’ve got to repair the connection.”

“But it’s a live feed,” Jessica warns. “We’ll be caught up in the power stream, too. It will likely kill us!”

Kris gives Jessica a knowing nod. It is the look of someone who is resigned to their fate. “They risked their lives for us. They are still risking their lives for us.”

Jessica nods in return. She wipes the hair out of her eyes and forces a weak smile. “And we will do the same. Just tell me what to do.”

Kris wastes no time. He races into one of the nearby supply depots and dashes back out with a large roll of electrical tape, a 189

Dawn of Legends

length of thick cable, and a few tools. “It’s low-tech, but it should work as a patch for now.” Kris steps forward to start the repair, but Jessica stops him. She shouts over the deafening crackles of electricity. “No matter what happens,” she cries. “It’s been a wonderful life, my dear. I love you. Always have…”

Kris smiles as he fights to choke back his own growing fear.

“Yes, it has. And I…” Another wave of energy surges from the Divine Reactor and nearly knocks Kris and Jessica to the ground. They shake the stars out of their vision, regain their balance, and push forward. Sweat drips into their eyes and slicks their fingers as they struggle to repair the damage. The two of them work feverishly to re-route the energy pathway. The powerful electrical storm expands and envelops them in its surging field. The pain is overwhelming. It is far, far worse than they could possibly have imagined. Husband and wife cry out in pain as unyielding heavenly energy surges through every fiber of their being. Despite the pain, despite their utter exhaustion, they struggle in their appointed task.

The entire Divine Reactor glows and surges with the fury of an untapped star. Jax cries out as millions of energy particles rip through the air and drive their way deeper into his skin. His body convulses as it glows brighter and brighter. Finally, a wave of unimaginable force explodes outward from the heart of the Divine Reactor, sending Kris and Jessica hurtling through the air.

The silence after the explosion is deafening. It takes several moments for everyone’s senses to return.

The remaining electrical charge in the air starts to dissipate as the Divine Reactor’s gauges drop back to normal. A low electrical hum resounds in the Kringle’s ears as they stumble to their feet.

The repair worked!

Jax remains hovering in the air as a miniature vortex of ice and snow keeps him suspended. The energy surrounding him coalesces and settles into the core of his being… into his very soul. He closes his eyes while placing his hands on the sides of 190

Matt Dragovits

his head. His senses reel as he perceives energy and nature on a superhuman level. The sensations coursing through his body are almost too much to process.

Tanas and General Lodus rush forward amidst the confusion, eager to attack their vulnerable foes. The goblin general reaches Maethor first. He raises his sword as a sickening smile stretches across his wart-ridden face.

At the same time, Tanas raises his staff and draws dark energy from the gemstone. His eyes burn with fever as he extracts far more power than ever before. He shouts with hatred and fury. “A creature of magic you may now be youngling, but still, you will fall before my ancient might!”

Jax’s gaze rests on Tanas, and a new awareness reflects in his eyes. As the dark torrent of energy streaks toward him, he deflects it with his bare hands. He turns his gaze on the startled wizard. Without uttering a word, Jax shoots a concentrated beam of pure elemental energy from his eyes.

“No…” Tanas gasps as he swings his staff in a defensive arc, barely deflecting the blast in time. The energy arcs away at a sharp angle but manages to find a new target. It strikes General Lodus square in the back just as he is about to slay Maethor.

The goblin general doesn’t even have time to cry out. He is instantly transformed into a statue of pure ice.

“No!” a heart-wrenching cry shouts out from the battlefield.

Grife stumbles forward and claws at the frozen statue of his father. He hugs it desperately while clenching his eyes shut. “No! No! No!” he shouts in disbelief. “Father! I just got you back… this can’t be real… this isn’t happening…”

Grief overtakes the young goblin, and he is stunned to inaction.

Jax turns his attention to Maethor and Melissë. The elven chief nods in solemn thanks. Melissë simply stares at Jax in wideeyed astonishment.

191

Dawn of Legends

Tanas curses and then starts to recite another dark spell. He turns his attention toward Kris and Jessica. The two humans are still visibly shaken and make easy targets. The dark wizard points his staff at the unsuspecting couple and fires. Jax notices and whips his arm up. A protective wall of ice springs out of the ground and absorbs the blast.

“Enough!” Jax commands.

The newly realized magical being turns his full attention toward the dark wizard. Jax rolls his hands in a spherical motion, summoning a whirling ball of polar energy out of thin air.

Tanas braces for the attack as Jax compresses the energy into a concentrated sphere of elemental force.

But before Jax can strike, he feels a soft hand upon his arm.

He looks down and sees Holly staring up at him with pleading eyes. She is bleeding and bruised. Smoke and ash cover her hair, face, and clothing. The proud warrior is barely able to stand. Her strength has been completely spent.

“Help,” she mutters before collapsing.

Jax catches Holly and cradles her in his arms. He surveys the battlefield and sees his friends being cornered and overrun. He quickly glances back toward Tanas and curses as he realizes that both the dark mage and Grife have used the distraction to escape.

Jax gently sets Holly on the ground and races toward the battle. The goblins and snow golems are laughing and rioting as they pin back the remaining elf forces. Even Yeti looks to be in trouble as he fends off a brutal pack of snow golems. The stone golem is nowhere in sight.

Jax summons the polar winds at his command to take flight.

His body trembles as he struggles to control the raging forces within. He raises his arms to his sides as the energy continues to build. Jax’s entire form begins to radiate raw power. He focuses his attention strictly on the golems, or more precisely, on the gemstones that imbue them with life. Jax slams his hands forward in a thunderous clap. The resulting magical shockwave levels the 192

Matt Dragovits

entire army of snow golems, turning them into lifeless mounds of powder. The gemstones fall to the ground and wink out, and this time, the creatures do not re-form.

The goblin army looks around in shock… and then fear.

“To me!” Maethor shouts as he summons what little strength he has left to push forward. It was time to seize the opportunity.

“Let’s route these beasts from our home!”

Despite their injuries… despite the long day of fighting… despite the absolute tiredness in their aching bones… the elves rally a final time around their leader. Roars of challenge fill the air as they charge the goblin army.

Melissë stumbles to her feet. Sly quickly steps forward and helps shoulder her weight. The two friends limp back toward the broken section of the perimeter wall. Once there, Melissë and Sly gather several of the gemstones that once provided life to the snow golems. The sorceress cups them in her palm and starts to draw from their power. But rather than use the energy to strike down the fleeing goblins, she weaves a different kind of spell. She closes her eyes and stretches out a hand. The gemstones begin to glow, and so do the ones on the necklaces that the goblins are wearing.

“I think it’s time we stripped you of that protection.” She smiles as she pulls her arm back. The energy from the gemstone necklaces resists at first, but then Melissë redoubles her effort.

She takes a firm stance and reaches out with both arms for another magical pull. This time, when she draws her arms back, the spell around the gemstone necklaces breaks and the goblins are instantly able to feel the cold around them.

Jax actually laughs aloud as he sees the goblin necklaces go dark. He looks toward Melissë and smiles in appreciation.

He gives her a wink and then takes in a deep breath. When he exhales, he blows out a gale-force wind! The icy blast whips across the arctic plain and strikes the vulnerable goblins from the tip of their toes to the top of their heads.

193

Dawn of Legends

“Yeowchhh! Aarrgghhhh! IIEEEYYHH!” They cry while scrambling. The creatures can’t flee quickly enough.

The elves, who were just on the verge of defeat, cheer in triumph. They quickly start packing their own snowballs and hurl them at the fleeing invaders. Little Bits races after them with her modified wheelchair, scooping up mounds of snow and hurtling it at them in rapid-fire succession.

Jax stops his attack and lets his friends enjoy their fun. They pelt the escaping goblins as fast as they can, targeting their backsides for good measure! The goblins stumble and trip over one another as they flee for their mountain home.

The elves, Kris and Jessica, rejoice! Cheers of triumph and jubilation echo across the encampment. Even though they barely have the strength to stand, every last one of them celebrates in one way or another. For Maethor, Melissë, and Tristan, it’s an exhausted family embrace to celebrate the victory. For Kris and Jessica, it’s a tender, emotional hug. For Yeti, it’s a tremendous roar that shakes the ground! For the toymaker elves, it’s a total eruption into dance and song. The nature elves laugh heartily and instantly join the merriment in their own woodland way.

The magic users from both elf clans take a moment to weave a light show of pulsating energy that illuminates the evening sky!

Never has the North Pole seen a celebration such as this! *** Despite the jubilation, there is one person who does not join in. She can’t share this joy. Not yet. She is uncertain of just what it is that her friend has become.

Holly slowly and calmly makes her way toward Jax. He instantly notices her, but then hesitates to smile as he sees the apprehension in her eyes.

194

Matt Dragovits

Jax releases the winds, keeping him suspended in the air. He drifts down, just inches in front of Holly. He smiles as she’s never seen him smile before.

“I may look like I’m made of ice now,” he consoles her. “But I assure you, I am still warm inside.”

Holly places a hand on his chest and feels the beating of his heart. He places his hand over hers and stares into her almondshaped eyes. “Thank you,” he whispers.

Holly gives him a quizzical look. “For what?”

“For being you,” he responds while smiling once again. “For always being you…”

Holly can’t hold back her emotions any longer. She leaps up and gives Jax a hug, nearly knocking him over in the process.

He laughs as he catches his balance and then hugs her back. He winks while summoning the polar winds to lift them both into the air. He holds her close to make sure she doesn’t fall.

All Holly can do is smile. “Finally…” She thinks to herself while nestling into Jax’s warm embrace. “Finally.”

195

Chapter 36 A deafening roar brings the celebration to an abrupt stop. All eyes fall on Yeti as the massive winter beast stoops down to one knee and places his palm against the ground. As if on cue, loud storm clouds rumble in the distance. All eyes hesitantly turn toward Mount Frostbite. The darkness that had been isolated to the mountain’s peak is now spreading at a rapid pace.

Intense thunder and lightning crack across the sky. Between the flashes of light, the elves notice a solitary figure approaching through the opening in the perimeter wall. At first glance, it looks like a small snow golem. But as it gets closer, Sly races forward.

“Tyler!”

The stealthy elf dashes across the grounds and catches his brother just as he is ready to collapse. Melissë and Julie quickly work in tandem to cast both healing and warming spells. Their nearly-frozen friend cracks a faint smile as the magics start to soothe his aching body.

“Don’t worry, brother,” Sly grunts while helping shoulder his weight. “We’ll have you set up in the infirmary in no time. They’ll take good care of you, just like they did me. You’re home now.

We’ve won!”

“No time,” Tyler mutters through cracked lips. “There’s no time.”

Maethor steps forward and kneels in close. “No time?” he questions. “The snow golems have all been destroyed. The goblins have been routed. General Lodus has been vanquished.

196

Matt Dragovits

Tanas has fled to his mountain tomb. They have been soundly defeated…”

“You won the battle.” Tyler winces as he tries to put weight on his frozen toes. “But Tanas isn’t through. He still plans to win the war.”

The elf chief pauses to think. A memory snaps to the surface, causing him to grimace. “The second attack Sly had spoken of. I had hoped the forward attack on our frontlines, combined with Grife’s sneak attack to release his father, had accounted for both.”

Maethor turns to his wife. “A snow globe… quickly!”

From out of the pack, Kris steps forward. He already has a snow globe in hand. Melissë steps up and joins her magic to his, concentrating with all their might to get a view as close to Mount Frostbite as possible. This time, they are able to zoom in quite far, the gemstone interference reduced now that the mines have been picked clean.

“Do you see Tanas?” Maethor asks. “Do you see Mason?”

“I’m sorry,” Kris answers. “But from this distance, we just can’t focus in close enough to see individuals. We’re just too exhausted. Our magic is not strong enough.”

“No need to apologize,” Maethor replies while placing a consoling hand on his human friend’s shoulder. “I had only hoped.”

As Kris and Melissë let the image begin to fade, another hand reaches in and lays itself on top of theirs. Melissë looks up to see Jax smiling at her. The image in the snow globe instantly snaps into sharp focus and begins to zoom in even closer.

Melissë turns to her son and grins. “You do realize that you and I are going to be spending a SERIOUS amount of time together when all of this is through?”

“Of course,” he answers. And then, after a pause. “Mom.” Melissë smiles warmly at her other ‘son.’ She leans in and pecks him on the cheek as a solitary tear runs down her cheek.

She forces herself back to the task at hand.

197

Dawn of Legends

“Okay,” she commands. “Together now. Push in as far as we’re able. Let’s see what this scoundrel is up to.”

The perspective in the snow globe zooms in quickly and there is a collective gasp as the crowd views Mason using his gatekeeper magic to open massive rifts in the mountain. He slams his fist into the ground over and over, forcing the very ice and rock to crack open. Lava from the heart of Mount Frostbite pours forward and strikes the snowbanks. The snow melts instantly and the condensation rises into the air.

On a nearby plateau, Tanas has both Flarg and the Stone Golem standing nearby for protection. The sorcerer is in a deep trance. He is using his dark magics to trap and funnel the condensation, feeding it directly into the storm clouds overhead.

Far above, Grife rings the peak in ever-widening circles, using the flapping of his wings to push any errant condensation back toward the eye of the storm. The dark clouds grow even darker.

“He plans to use the very power of nature against us,” Melissë warns. “If he can harness the fury of that storm…”

Jax removes his hand from the globe and summons polar winds to lift him off the ground. “I’ve got to put a stop to this. I’m the only one who can get there in time.”

“That’s not true,” Kris interjects while stepping forward. “I can use my sleigh to fly a team there. We can stop him together!”

“No.” Maethor commands.

“No?” “You need to finish preparations for your annual ride.

You’ve lost too much time already. The children of the world are counting on you.”

“But you need me,” Kris pleads.

“Santa.” Melissë steps forward and starts to guide Kris back toward his workshop. “You have done more than your share to aid us in this battle. We will not have Tanas win by destroying the hopes and dreams of children.”

198

Matt Dragovits

Santa nods in acceptance. He turns to his battered and weary toymaker elves and shouts out with the energy they’ve come to expect. “You heard the lady! We’ve got work to do!”

Melissë smiles as she turns back to her family. She approaches Jax but is forced to limp a bit as she walks. “I do not have the magical strength left to help you in this battle.” Melissë winces while taking in a deep breath. “You will need to take this fight on alone.”

Jax nods in agreement and prepares to take off. But before he can leave, a snowball pelts him in the back of the head. All eyes turn to view Little Bits smiling as she dusts the snow from her gloves.

“Oh no, he won’t.” She shakes her head. “At least, not totally alone.”

Tristan smiles as he gets an idea. He quickly positions himself on the rear supports of the modified wheelchair. He is careful to avoid the rocket exhausts. “Got room for one more?”

Little Bits blushes and nods. Then, a fierce roar startles the crowd. Yeti pounds the earth with both fists and then takes off in a frenzied run, heading straight for Mount Frostbite. Within seconds, he is a fast-moving blur on the horizon. Jax takes off in pursuit.

“Hang on tight.” Little Bits laughs as she presses a button on her armrest. The two rockets on the back of her motorized chair roar to life and send her and Tristan swerving across the winter landscape at breakneck speed.

199

Chapter 37 The winter landscape passes by in a blur as Tristan holds tightly to Little Bits’ motorized chair. He glances to his left and sees Jax flying alongside them. The sight is simply amazing to behold.

Jax points to the mountains while trying to gauge how far they need to travel. “Is that the fastest this thing can go?” he shouts over the wind and the hum of the motorized chair’s engines.

“I thought we were going fast,” Little Bits answers in protest.

“I didn’t really design this thing for two!”

“I’m not jumping off.” Tristan laughs.

“I’ve got an idea,” Jax shouts. “You both better hang on tight.”

Tristan smiles as he crouches further down while reaching his arms around to hug Elizabeth. “Okay,” he laughs. “If I must, I must…”

Jax speeds forward and communicates his plan to Yeti. He drifts back until he is behind all three of his friends. He reaches his arms back and draws on his newly found powers. Snow and wind quickly build up in a rushing torrent behind him. “Here we go!” he shouts.

Jax thrusts his arms forward and a powerful gust of air surges. It lifts all three of his friends into its jet stream and carries them forward at incredible speed. At first, the chaotic wind tosses Tristan, Little Bits, and even Yeti around like rag dolls.

Jax concentrates his control and eventually stabilizes the group.

200

Matt Dragovits

They race across the arctic plane in a smooth current, traveling with the speed of a hurricane.

Little Bits nods in appreciation as she shuts down the engine on her motorized chair. “Won’t take long at this pace,” she shouts.

“No, it won’t,” Jax replies. He lifts his arms higher and the current bends to his will. It raises them up at a sharp angle and steers them directly toward the peak of Mount Frostbite. The closer they get, the more aware they become of the awesome size and fury of the dark storm.

“Wow,” Elizabeth gulps as she looks toward the ground below.

It rapidly falls further and further away. “I thought the reindeer moved fast.”

Tristan nods in agreement while holding Elizabeth tighter.

“Yeah, I have to say, and no offense to Kris, but I’m really not that fond of air travel.”

“Don’t worry,” Jax answers. “We’re almost there.” Jax turns to Yeti. “Okay, here we go, buddy.”

Yeti growls eagerly in response.

“You ready to dish out some revenge?” Jax asks.

Yeti roars even louder. The volume drowns out even the storm. The legendary creature bares his teeth in a feral snarl while thumping his massive chest. Jax diverts a portion of the air current and aims it directly toward Flarg and the Stone Golem.

Little Bits waves at Yeti as he plummets headfirst toward battle.

“Have an abominable time!”

Jax stifles a laugh but stays focused. He continues flying toward the pinnacle of Mount Frostbite. He turns his attention toward Tristan and Elizabeth and then forces their air current to split from his own. “Grife is all yours,” he shouts. “Do you have any surprises left in that chair to help take him out?”

“I might have a few.” Little Bits grins as she and Tristan are whisked further and further away.

Jax nods as he watches his friends disappear against the snowy peak. He circles back toward the dark mage and starts to 201

Dawn of Legends

marshal his strength. If the power of the storm is any indication, it will take all of his newfound powers to bring down their ancient enemy. *** Yeti charges across the mountainous slope, eager for a rematch. As he draws near, Flarg steps forward with a twisted smile. The large goblin reaches up and pats the thigh of the massive Stone Golem at his side. By all appearances, Yeti is severely outmatched.

“You remember me, don’t you, beast?” Flarg laughs while belching out a flame to light his torch. He begins to wave it in a slow, menacing fashion. “You do, don’t you?” Flarg grins. The large goblin takes another step forward as the flame reflects in his evil eyes.

Yeti pauses. He remembers his time in captivity and the torture he received at the hands of the cruelest of goblins. Caution enters his mind. He takes a hesitant step back… but only one.

The mythical creature looks at the torch and then at the snow all around him. He is in HIS element now. He is not trapped in the hot, sweltering heat of the goblin’s mountain home. Yeti growls in challenge while pounding the ground with his fists. He lets out a deafening roar and charges forward with ferocious intent.

Flarg laughs as he takes a defensive step behind the Stone Golem. He quickly draws on his internal fire. He waits until just the right moment and belches out a massive fireball. Yeti easily dodges the attack, but the move puts him within striking distance of the Golem. The massive stone creature swings out with thunderous force.

Yeti rolls to the side, barely avoiding the golem’s powerful swing. He steps back and circles around cautiously, unsure how to take on both flame and stone at the same time.

202

Matt Dragovits

As Yeti growls in frustration, an icy blast strikes him from behind. But rather than inflict pain, the artic force rejuvenates him. Not only does it energize his body and heal his wounds, but it also magnifies the very essence of his winter soul.

Yeti turns to see Jax flying a short distance above. He is using his newfound magic to enhance Yeti’s existing connection with nature. Yeti howls in delight as his form surges with renewed strength, size, and power. He turns back to Flarg and the Golem.

He is now eye-to-eye with the inhuman creature that was born of dark magic.

“He’s all yours, buddy!” Jax shouts.

Yeti howls in excitement and charges forward. The smug expression that was spread across Flarg’s ugly face quickly transforms into fear.

The abominable snowman strikes with the raw force of nature unleashed. The blow sends the massive stone golem tumbling end-over-end until he slams into the side of the mountain. The impact shakes the very earth, causing a landslide to crash down on top of the dazed creature. Yeti howls in delight and then slowly turns to face his former tormentor. *** Grife winces in pain as another one of the accursed missiles strikes his wing. He flaps feverishly, doing his best to stay airborne. He needs to maintain his distance from the two elves and their miserable vehicle.

“Give up, Grife,” Tristan shouts from the back of Elizabeth’s motorized chair. He motions for Elizabeth to stop and then raises his hands in a peaceful gesture. “It’s over. It’s time to cease this endless war. You are young like us. We can stop this cycle of violence. You have a chance to choose a different path.”

Grife flies in close and lands just a few feet away so that he can look the elves directly in the eye. “Peace,” he spits. “You dare 203

Dawn of Legends

talk of peace after your kind turned my father into a statue of ice!”

“He is the one who attacked us,” Elizabeth shouts. “Your father left us no choice.” Little Bits touches her keypad and makes sure she keeps a missile targeted on Grife… just in case.

The winged goblin studies the two elves while wrestling with inner turmoil. His entire life has been spent chasing honor and respect within the goblin ranks. All he ever wanted to do was gain favor in his father’s eyes. He worked every day to live up to the impossible standards of the Goblin Commander. This life of ceaseless conflict with the elves is all he’s ever known. To consider change now would turn his entire world upside down. No. Peace just wasn’t an option.

Grife begins to flap his wings to take flight. He sneers at the elves with a mixture of contempt and regret. “War is my life.

My father is gone. I alone can continue his legacy. I alone must assume command of the armies.”

“I wouldn’t do that,” Little Bits threatens.

Grife scowls. He takes in a deep breath and summons his inner fire. “No. There will never be peace between elf and goblin.

Not while I draw breath.”

Grife thrusts forward and exhales a massive fireball. Little Bits flips a switch and a missile shoots out to intercept. The two projectiles meet in a fiery explosion. As the dust settles, Tristan and Elizabeth see the winged goblin escaping toward the peak.

Little Bits throttles the engine and gives chase. This battle is far from over. *** Kris does his best to shut out the chaos of the past several days. He sits at the front of his sleigh, holding a candle for light.

He is rapidly scanning through the naughty and nice list for a second time. Elves are racing back and forth from the workshop 204

Matt Dragovits

to the sled, loading present after present in a mad dash to make sure that every good child gets exactly what they asked for.

“Santa,” the most senior toymaker elf calls out as he steps forward with a long checklist in hand. “It was close, but it looks like we’ve completed every last toy. The final present is being loaded into your sack right now.”

The senior elf jumps up as a loud crack of thunder echoes across the sky.

Santa looks up at the ominous clouds that continue to expand from Mount Frostbite. There is a thick blanket of darkness that covers the entire sky for miles and miles. Lightning jumps from cloud to cloud. The sky feels heavy and grey, as if the clouds are trying to suffocate the world. Only the flashing strobes of lightning provide fleeting moments of clarity. Santa glances at his watch in the aftermath of a flash. It is nearly midnight.

From out of the darkness, his wife approaches. She is holding a lantern in one hand and a cup of steaming hot cocoa in the other. Kris steps down from the sleigh and eagerly accepts the warm drink.

“Have we ever seen a storm like this?” she asks.

“Never.” Santa sighs. He looks to the heavens with genuine fear. “In all these years… never anything like this.”

“How long can you wait it out?” Jessica asks, afraid that she already knows the answer.

“I should have left already.” Kris takes another sip of the cocoa and lets the 205

Dawn of Legends

warm, sugary fluid comfort and energize him. “If I don’t leave soon, there is no way I’ll finish before dawn.”

Santa hands the empty cocoa mug to his wife. He steps back up into his sleigh, reaches for his toy sack, and cinches it tight. He grabs the reins and prepares to sit when Jessica suddenly races up into the sleigh alongside him. She wraps her arms around his waist and holds him close. Her voice is trembling. “I know you feel you need to do this despite the danger. But if you don’t make it tonight…” Jessica pauses as she fights back a sob. She struggles to maintain composure as a flood of raw emotion threatens to overtake her. “If you don’t make it tonight,” she continues. “If this storm takes you… children of the world will never again know the joy of Santa Claus. I will never…” Jessica trails off. Her body trembles with worry.

Kris holds her tightly in a comforting embrace. He gives her the time she needs to cry out some of her fears. He takes a step back and lifts her chin up to meet his eyes. “Hey,” he smirks.

“We’ve survived freezing arctic wastelands, goblin attacks, magical snow creatures, and dark wizards. I think I can handle some bad weather.”

Kris looks back up at the angry clouds and does his best to put on a brave face. He kisses Jessica lightly on the forehead and then ushers her out of the sleigh. As soon as she is clear, he gives her a reassuring nod and then snaps the reins.

The reindeer jump into action. Their powerful muscles charge forward as hooves dig into the hard-packed earth. Within seconds, they are racing across the arctic plane, and in the next instant, they are charging across the winter sky, ready to face the unnaturally powerful storm.

206

Chapter 38 Angry lightning flashes back and forth across the sky, mirroring the intensity of the battle raging between Jax and Tanas. With each passing moment, Jax gains greater control of his newfound elemental magic. Blasts of hailstones stream from his outstretched hands as icy blasts project from his eyes. Tanas glows with a demonic green light that envelops his entire form, shielding him from the attack. The massive gemstone at the head of his staff pulses wildly as he uses it to suck the life force from the surrounding trees. Jax watches with disgust as scores of pines wither and die.

“You possess great power, young one.” Tanas sneers. “But I have been a master of magic for centuries. As an elf, I, too, can harness magic from both the gemstones and nature. Not only will you fall, but I shall harness your magic for my own!”

Shock floods Jax’s senses as he processes Tanas’ revelation.

And he is not alone in his surprise.

Just a short distance away, the gatekeeper goblin clenches his fists as his blood starts to boil. “An elf!” Mason curses while opening yet another massive lava rift to fuel the storm. He strikes the earth with thunderous fury, unleashing his full power upon the mountain. Lava shoots into the air in burning hot fountains as pressurized steam pushes it higher and higher. But all the while, Mason keeps a keen ear attuned to the conversation overhead.

207

Dawn of Legends

“An elf!” Jax spits in disgust, the words bitter in his mouth.

“So that is why you have lived so long. That is why you, alone, among all the goblins, control real magic.”

“It is far more than that, you ignorant fool.” Tanas laughs with twisted pride. “The goblins are MY creation. They possess only the power and the vulnerabilities that I instilled in them!”

Tanas thrusts his staff forward and unleashes a vicious attack.

Blades of dark energy shoot out from his gemstone in rapid-fire succession.

Jax manages to throw up an ice shield in time, but the sheer brutality of the assault threatens to penetrate his defenses. He concentrates all of his power on the shield and manages to strengthen it long enough for Tanas to pause.

“You fight well,” Tanas smiles while drawing even more power from his gemstone. “But now, it is time I put an end to this farce.”

Tanas raises his staff and a multi-pronged torrent of dark energy shoots out. Jax destroys stream after stream of the snakelike tendrils as they attempt to ensnare him.

Jax flies erratically to avoid their touch. He blasts the tendrils with streams of polar energy from both his eyes and his hands.

But as soon as he strikes one, it splits into two. The more he destroys, the more tendrils he is forced to avoid.

As Jax struggles to come up with a tactic that might repel the attack, one of the energy tendrils snakes forward like a serpent and strikes with blinding speed. It wraps around Jax’s ankle and begins to tighten.

Jax fights to stay airborne as additional tendrils ensnare him from all sides, binding him in a cocoon of dark energy.

He struggles fiercely against his bonds, but the bands constrict, crushing the air from his lungs. He glances toward the heavens and sees Kris flying high above. The sleigh is riding headfirst into the storm and the reindeer can barely keep it aloft. The storm threatens to overtake them at any moment. Just one strike of lightning and it will all be over.

208

Matt Dragovits

“No,” Jax cries. “It can’t end like this.”

A frozen tear runs down Jax’s face. The orphaned child of nature looks toward the Star. “Please, God.” he prays. “If you are really out there. If you are truly listening. Please. I beg of you.

Help us!”

Jax holds his breath, waiting for the miracle.

Seconds pass.

A blast of lighting nearly strikes Santa and his sleigh.

But no rescue comes.

The tendrils constrict tighter.

But no rescue comes.

Jax looks to the heavens, searching desperately. No army of angels descends from the clouds to provide aid. No prince of peace drops from the skies to defeat the evil in the world.

Instead, an unexpected sense of peace permeates Jax’ being.

His mind calms. His breathing steadies. Rather than struggle in anger against his bonds, the warrior elf relaxes. He collects his thoughts and gathers his energy. He can barely hear Tanas shouting in triumph. The beating of his own heart thrums in his chest as wave after wave of power surges within his spirit.

The force in his soul becomes so overwhelming that Jax is unable to contain it any longer. With one massive cry, he sends out a gust of hurricane-force wind that decimates the tendrils.

The shockwave knocks Tanas to his knees.

Jax thrusts out one hand and shoots a rapid-fire stream of icicle shards at Tanas. The mage reacts quickly. He throws up a thick defensive shield. But Jax’s attack is relentless. He forces Tanas to use all the magic at his disposal to prevent the shards from penetrating.

While Jax has the sorcerer on his heels, he seizes the opportunity. He spins his free hand rapidly and summons a powerful vortex of arctic winds. He thrusts his arm toward the heavens. The vortex tears through the sky and punches an 209

Dawn of Legends

opening in the thick storm clouds. Light from the stars can be seen shining through.

“GO! NOW!” Jax shouts. “I can’t hold it for long!”

Santa snaps his reigns. The powerful reindeer team races with all their strength toward the opening, but it gets smaller and smaller as they approach.

Jax turns his attention back toward Tanas and realizes that the dark elf is not ready to concede so easily. The ground all around Tanas has turned a sickly shade of grey as he draws the life energy from the very earth itself. From within his protective shield, Tanas has formed a concentrated sphere of crackling dark energy. The mage smiles wickedly in anticipation. He draws back his staff and thrusts his arm forward, eager to decimate Santa, his sleigh, and all the reindeer. But right as the energy is about to discharge, a small series of rockets explode at the sorcerer’s feet, forcing him to misfire.

The sphere of dark energy thunders through the air and just barely misses the sleigh.

“No!” Tanas cries as he watches Santa escape through a small opening in the clouds. The darkness quickly closes back in behind the sleigh, making it impossible for Tanas to fire a second shot.

“You insignificant little brat!” Tanas curses.

“It’s Little Bits.” Elizabeth chuckles. “Thank you very much.”

Tanas lashes out with a strafing attack from his magical staff.

Little Bits throttles her motorized chair and avoids his assault.

She returns fire with another missile launch, but Tanas easily strikes down the projectiles now that he’s prepared for them. The dark elf looks past Little Bits and sees that Grife is engaged in battle with yet another elf.

“Enough!” he roars while sending wave after wave of deadly magical energy arcing through the air in a wild, unpredictable fashion.

Little Bits does her best to avoid the lethal barrage, but the assault is overwhelming. Just as one of the larger blasts is about 210

Matt Dragovits

to strike her, she intentionally flips her motorized chair on its side so the base of the vehicle can absorb the brunt of the attack.

The impact destroys her ride while sending her crashing toward an icy snowbank.

Her leg braces snap on impact. She cannot move. The injured elf struggles to crawl for cover, but there is none to be had.

Tanas howls in glee as he quickly takes aim and fires a killing blow. The bolt of magical energy streaks through the air and strikes...

Time moves in slow motion. From her defenseless position, everything goes dark. Little Bits feels a heavy weight press down on her, but there is no pain. It takes her dazed mind a second to comprehend what has just happened. As she pieces it together, tears begin to streak down her face. She slides out from beneath a lifeless body. The smell of charred flesh sears her nose. Smoke is drifting up from the burnt spot on Tristan’s back where he was struck. The brave elf once again used his own body as a shield to protect her.

A soul-crushing cry splits the night sky. “NOOO!” Jax roars after witnessing his ‘brother’ being struck down.

The winds around Jax howl with raw winter fury and lift him higher into the air. He reaches out to his sides and draws even more of the elemental power into his core. Tanas lashes out with another powerful energy blast, but the hurricane-force winds spinning around Jax easily deflect it.

Jax turns his gaze toward Yeti. His friend is once again going toe-to-toe with the powerful stone golem. The two magical beasts are engaged in a brutish slugfest with each of them reigning down and receiving massive blows. Yeti howls with visceral rage as he swings with terrible precision, striking the stone golem with enough force to bring down an entire army of goblins. The Golem grunts and falls to one knee. A hairline fracture tracks down its jaw, but still the creature rises, ready to fight. It barrels 211

Dawn of Legends

toward Yeti and steamrolls into him, tackling him to the ground with all the weight of a runaway boulder.

Yeti howls in pain as his ribs take a beating. He stumbles to his feet and then rushes the golem once again, hoping to finally bring an end to this conflict with the unnatural creature. But fighting living stone is an exercise in futility.

Once again, the Golem absorbs Yeti’s powerful blow and prepares to respond in force.

“Yeti!” Jax shouts as he fires a series of blasts at the golem to distract it. “Get him in the air. I’ve got an idea.”

Yeti nods in understanding. He steals a few quick breaths to prepare for the effort. This time, when the Golem charges, Yeti uses his speed to sidestep the attack. He grabs the golem from behind and uses all his strength to lift the insanely heavy creature overhead. Yeti grunts beneath the weight. He braces his powerful leg muscles and then hurls the stone creature toward one of the massive lava rifts that Mason has opened in the mountain.

Jax whips up a powerful air current to strengthen the throw.

The combined might of both Yeti and elf propel the Golem over the side and down into the lava flow. He quickly sinks beneath the magma current.

“No!” Tanas cries in disbelief. “My Golem!”

Tanas panics. He scans the mountainside. Flarg is unconscious and his Golem is gone. He realizes he has lost his two primary defenders. The dark wizard scrambles to locate Mason. He finds the Gatekeeper busy tearing open the frozen earth. Lava and steam pour forth from the dozens of rifts he has created. Mason appears lost in the ecstasy of his own power.

“Mason!” Tanas cries. “To me!”

212

Matt Dragovits

Tanas conjures up a thick magical dome to defend himself from Jax’s incoming attack. A stream of ice and winter fury do their best to break through, but Tanas’ shield holds firm. “Forget the storm, you fool!” The dark mage cries as he struggles to defend himself.

Mason looks up, pats the dirt and debris from his hands, and prepares to engage in battle. He slams an open palm against the stony earth and a pillar of rock lifts him toward Tanas. The Gatekeeper approaches calmly while eying both Jax and Tanas in turn. He scowls at both and then traces a complex rune on the ground at his feet. The gatekeeper slams his fist down with inhuman force. But rather than cause an avalanche or send rocky shards flying toward Jax, the powerful blow causes the frozen ground to split. The fissure opens into a gaping, lava-filled maw and quickly spreads till it reaches the ground at Tanas’ feet.

The dark elf is caught completely by surprise. He struggles to maintain his footing as the earth crumbles away. He lunges for a jagged ledge and just barely manages to keep from falling into the rift. His aged, bony fingers claw desperately to hold on. His feet

213

Dawn of Legends

kick and scramble, trying to find hold. Tanas gasps and curses as he reaches for his precious gemstone staff. Mason steps forward, grunts, and kicks the staff over the ledge. The ancient magical talisman plummets into the lava and is instantly incinerated.

Tanas looks at Mason with a mix of horrified confusion and then unbridled rage. His magical shield begins to crumble as the gemstone magic that supported it fades away. “Traitor,” he curses.

Mason meets his gaze without flinching and utters one venomous word in response. “Elf.” Tanas’ eyes go wide at the realization that he has been overheard. He has only a split second to regret his carelessness, though, for without his dark magic to both protect and sustain his life force, the ancient being withers into ash.

Mason howls in triumph as he watches the last remnants of the dark wizard drift into the lava stream below, leaving only gentle puffs of steam to mark his passing.

“No!” Grife cries as he watches the last fleeting moments of Tanas’ ancient life fade into oblivion. He flaps his bruised wings and works his tired muscles to gain altitude. He holds his head in his hands while wrestling with the reality before him. And as a harsh truth settles in, a newfound rage fills his being. He dives sharply and reaches out with his taloned feet to grip his enemy.

“What are you doing?” Mason shouts as he is suddenly whisked into the air.

With every beat of his wings, Grife drives them higher and higher into the sky. “Coward.” The Gatekeeper curses. “We need to press the attack. I will not flee. Together, we can still…”

“You killed Tanas!” Grife cries in frustration. “He was the only one who might have saved my father. He alone might have reversed the spell.”

“Your father was lost to us,” Mason shouts over the wind racing past his ears. “I will not allow filthy elven magic to further corrupt our people.”

214

Matt Dragovits

“I looked up to you.” Grife cries while choking back tears of anguish and regret. “I respected you.”

“And you will continue to do so,” Mason roars. “As the new goblin ruler, a true GOBLIN ruler, I will see that our enemies are vanquished. This fight is far from over.”

Grife looks down at Mason in disbelief. “General Lodus was my father,” he stammers. “The rule of power should pass to me.”

Mason nods his head in disagreement while gripping Grife’s taloned feet firmly. He makes sure that the young goblin cannot release him. “Strong as you are, boy, you are but a whelp. Power shall determine goblin rule. And none are more powerful than I.” In a startlingly fast action, Mason reaches up with his left hand and snags one of Grife’s wings. He twists it sharply, causing intense pain and forcing them to dip in their flight.

“Now, bring me back to earth.”

Grife scowls and then nods in acceptance. “So be it.”

The winged goblin draws his other wing in close and lets gravity take hold. He freefalls to the earth with Mason in tow. At first, Mason thinks this is a trick, but as the ground comes quickly into view, and Grife shows no sign of stopping, the Gatekeeper roars with anger… and then even fear enters his voice.

“Stop, you fool!” he commands.

But Grife ignores his cries. If anything, he angles even sharper and aims toward the core of Mount Frostbite.

Mason is helpless as the two goblins plummet toward the earth. The gatekeeper realizes that despite his vaunted strength and his magical ability, he has absolutely no power in the sky.

But rather than appeal to Grife and try to ease the young goblin’s pain, he chooses pride instead.

“Stop this foolishness right now,” he commands. “You will do as I say, or I will…”

Grife looks to his former mentor and gives a final nod of farewell. He fans out his wings while also releasing his taloned grip on Mason.

215

Dawn of Legends

Despite his inhuman strength, the Gatekeeper cannot hold on. His thick, callused fingers scramble to find purchase but find only empty air. He plummets toward the lava stream, cursing as he falls. Grife simply flaps his wings and turns his head, ashamed of the action he has taken.

Jax is stunned and even a little mesmerized as the scene unfolds. But once he realizes Grife’s intent, he uses his newfound powers to form a massive ice bridge over the lava rift.

But the weight and velocity of the gatekeeper goblin is too much. Mason’s impact instantly shatters the bridge. He continues to fall until he disappears into the smoke and steam rising from one of the very lava rifts he created.

Grife struggles to stay aloft, but his injured wing forces him to crash just a few feet away from Flarg. The two goblins lean on each other and quickly stumble toward the nearest cavern opening. Yeti roars at the sight and starts to give chase, but a quick whistle from Jax signals him to stop.

“Yeti,” Jax smiles while drifting over to land next to his longtime friend. “Let them be. There has been more than enough destruction this day. We need to…”

Pain-filled sobs snap Jax and Yeti to remembrance. They scramble their way across the battlefield and quickly reach Tristan. Little Bits is holding his lifeless body in her arms. Tears flow freely down her dirty face. Her eyes are red and swollen and her voice trembles. She is doing her best to take care of the elf prince while trying to avoid touching the terrible burn that is spread across his entire back.

Jax steps forward and places his hand directly on the blistering skin. He uses his cooling magic to draw the heat out.

The burn heals right before their eyes. Tristan slowly begins to stir. “What?” he stammers. “What happened?”

Little Bits holds him close while stroking his hair gently with her hand. “You saved me, is what happened.” Little Bits hugs Tristan closely and he lets out a slight groan of pain.

216

Matt Dragovits

“I’m sorry,” Elizabeth whispers as she loosens her grip.

“It’s okay,” Tristan smiles while looking up into her deep brown eyes. “It’s worth it.” Tristan hugs Elizabeth back and then he looks around at the battlefield. His eyes come to rest on Jax. “So, we won?” he asks hopefully.

Jax smiles widely as his icicle-white eyes glint with true happiness. He doesn’t say a word. He simply nods and then begins whipping up a winter wind to take them all home.

217

Chapter 39 Tonight was going to be a night to remember. The cookies tasted sweeter. The milk was creamier. And the children nestled snugly in their beds were cuter than ever.

Kris can’t help but shed tears of joy as he wearily makes his way from one home to the next. Although he is exhausted beyond measure, he constantly reminds himself how close he came to not making it this night… and just how close he came to never having another Christmas ride in the future. It took the combined strength, bravery, creativity, willpower, and faith of his newfound friends to keep his dream alive. Children the world over would never know how close they came to losing Santa. But Kris would never forget. *** Little Bits smiles warmly as she and Tristan ride her brokendown motorized chair back to the village. It was sputtering, clunking, and smoking, but she was able to cobble it together enough to get it to run.

Yeti bounds through the snow like a giant puppy at play. The winter creature roars in delight while plowing forward. In the past few days, he was rescued, got to beat up an army of goblins and golems, and now he is back in his true element among his human and elf friends. All-in-all, it was a great day for the legendary beast.

218

Matt Dragovits

Jax hovers above them all, casually riding an air current as he experiments with his newfound powers. Life has changed drastically in the past few hours. They had all been tested to the limit and had passed. But Jax just can’t help but think that something much greater than all of them had been at work behind the scenes.

219

Chapter 40 As the golden rays of the dawning sun glisten off a fresh blanket of winter snow, once again, the sound of busy hammers fills the air. Toymaker elves and nature elves work side by side to rebuild their homes. Most of the defensive weapons have already been dismantled and the rest will be gone within the next few hours. Every single elf is doing everything they can to rebuild the village despite the weakness in their bones.

Tonight will be a night of celebration!

Melissë smiles warmly as she sees Jax, Elizabeth, Tristan, and Yeti appear on the horizon. Strig the owl, who has been perched quite comfortably on her shoulder, takes off in an excited, if not haphazard, flight. The screwy owl flaps his wings at a frantic pace, zigzagging across the sky till he crashes right into Jax. The funny little bird looks Jax up and down with a questioning expression.

He uses his wings to prop up Jax’ arm, almost as if he’s looking for feathers. He just can’t figure out how Jax is managing to fly!

As Tristan and Elizabeth laugh at the sight, they view Santa coming in for a landing just a few short feet away. His sack of toys is completely empty. Maethor approaches the sleigh and the two of them have a quick conversation. The elf chief leads Santa toward the Divine Reactor and motions for Melissë and the others to follow.

Jessica runs up and gives her husband a massive hug and in doing so, she nearly bowls him over. No, Mrs. Klaus hasn’t slept a wink. She was just too worried after seeing Kris fly off into the 220

Matt Dragovits

storm. Having him home safe and sound is the only Christmas gift she wished for this year!

Kris hugs her back and they walk hand-in-hand toward the Divine Reactor. Once they reach it, Melissë turns to address both Kris and Jessica. “Truly, this has been a night of magic… and answered prayers,” she begins.

Jessica nods in silent agreement.

“Didn’t you guys get any rest either?” Kris asks while taking off his hat. “It looks like you were up all night.”

Maethor smiles while clasping Kris on the shoulder in a fond embrace. “We wanted to make sure the place looked like home when you got back.”

Kris takes a good, solid look at the winter wonderland around him. A gentle snow begins to fall. He nods in appreciation as Jessica cuddles under his arm. “Nothing ever looked better.” He smiles.

“I hope you both like it.” Melissë grins. “You’ll be living here a very, very, very, long time.”

Kris gives Melissë a curious look. The magic-user elf simply motions toward Jessica for her to answer.

“Well,” Jessica says smiling widely. “It looks like Jax wasn’t the only one who absorbed magic from the Divine Reactor. From what Melissë has told me, you and I can expect to live at least as long as the elves.”

Santa’s jaw nearly hits the floor. “But elves live centuries.

Some of them for many, many centuries.”

Maethor laughs heartily at Kris’ shock. The master toymaker just slumps to the ground and lands on his butt. This was an awful lot to take in. He needed a few minutes to process it.

Jax flies over and uses his magic to create an air stream that lifts Kris back to his feet.

“You didn’t think you were going to start this tradition and then just bail out on us after a few decades, did you?” Jax turns to 221

Dawn of Legends

Little Bits and winks. “I think ‘God’ has other plans for you and Jessica, my friend.”

“So, you’re a believer now?” Little Bits asks excitedly.

Jax motions toward himself as he flies in the air and shoots a flurry of snow up over the crowd. “Hard to argue with this.”

He laughs, then proceeds to weave his hands in a very complex motion. The moisture in the air begins to freeze and take form.

When Jax is done, a beautifully detailed ice sculpture of the Nativity graces the entrance to the Divine Reactor.

Every single elf, human, and wildlife creature drops to their knees and nods their heads as a sign of quiet respect. After a few moments, the silence is broken as Yeti howls in delight. The winter beast sees Luc scampering toward them. Yeti charges forward and begins wrestling with his furry friend. All decorum goes out the window and the elves start to cheer. Some start to sing. Some start to play musical instruments. Others begin to dance.

Jax whips the light flurry into a fanciful snowfall that twists and swirls to the music. He uses the winds at his command to lift Holly up so she can dance with him in the sky.

She steals a moment to place an affectionate hand on his cheek, and his winter-white skin actually blushes! “I think I have a new name for you, Jax.” She grins with a pixie-smile. “What do you think of Jack Frost? I mean, Jack is your real name anyway.

And I think Jack and Frost sound really good together!”

“You know what…” Jax grins as he flies them up even higher.

“I like it!” He snaps his fingers and a mistletoe of ice forms in the air over their heads. “You know the rules.” He smiles.

“Well, if I must.” Holly smiles in return. She plants a loving kiss on her longtime crush.

From his view down below, Tristan nods happily. He is overjoyed that his ‘brother’ has finally become a true member of the village. And in that same spirit of love and acceptance, he makes his way over to Elizabeth. He lifts her out of her chair, 222

Matt Dragovits

holds her in his arms, and begins to sway to the music. “Just so you know, Elizabeth.” He laughs. “I’m not the best dancer.”

“You’re not the best dancer.” Elizabeth shakes her head while glancing at her injured legs. She can’t help but break out laughing.

Melissë smiles warmly as she watches her son and Elizabeth whirling to the music. She couldn’t be prouder. Maethor takes his wife’s hand while nodding in silent agreement. He takes a step back and bows respectfully to his lady so that she might lead them in a dance of her choosing.

Kris and Jessica step back and just take a moment to enjoy the merriment around them. Jessica takes Kris’ arm in hers and nestles comfortably in the nook near his chest. “Welcome home, Kris.”

“Welcome home, Jessica,” he responds.

“I think this may be the dawn of something pretty big.” She chuckles excitedly.

“You know what?” Santa replies while laughing so warmly that a ho-ho-ho escapes his lips. “I kinda think you may be right!”

The End

223

Books by Matt Dragovitts Zach’s Quest: A Tale for Christmas A Tale for Christmas: Zach’s Quest (chapter book) A Tale for Christmas: Dawn of Legends (chapter book)

224

A

Legends aren’t just born. They are made. Join young Kris Kringle, his wife Jessica, and a weary band of toymaker elves as they set out on an epic journey across the harsh arctic wilderness of the North Pole.

Along the way they will battle ancient evils, unlock new magical talents, and with a little luck...find a new home.

How do Mr and Mrs Clause live so long?

Where does their workshop get its energy?

F O R

C H R I S T M A S

-

V O L .

Dawn of Legends

Amid the pages of this classic family-friendly adventure, children will get answers to age-old questions like…

TA L E

How can the elves survive in the freezing cold of the North Pole?

Legends” the prequel to his multi-award-winning picture book and chapter book adventure “Zach’s Quest.” Matt is a nationally recognized video producer and editor. He lives in the Chicagoland area with his beautiful wife and three amazing children.

Matt Dragovits

Matt Dragovits is proud to bring you “Dawn of

Matt Dragovits

illustrated by

J.J. Varabkanich

2