Upon hearing Shalee say, "...This kingdom will celebrate tonight," the Book mumbled to himself in the language of his former being-the native tongue he used before he a.s.sumed the role of Protector of the G.o.ds' Laws. "Pey diaoness afor ey gads modain u creton," which meant, "Yet another law the G.o.ds have failed to create."

After exhaling his disgust, Gabriel teleported back to the demon queen's palace. The Book did not waste any of his moments and addressed Sharvesa. "As I was saying, Your Highness ... upon your ascension, it would be my desire for your kind to worship you and not Lasidious."

Sharvesa stood from her throne and walked down the steps. She scanned the faces of the council who remained on one knee. "Does this gathering believe that all demons, red, white, green and those of other forms, would worship me if I was to accept Gabriel's proposal?"

Shadrowayne stood from his seat that had been provided for the demon council members. The horns that protruded from his forehead were long, indicative of his many seasons, and the muscles throughout his torso were lean and well-defined. The white demon took a step forward, placed his claws together and then bowed to his old flame. "My Queen ... all demons respect your position. I believe that all demons would worship you. As the leader of this council, I would recommend that we all abandon our service to Lasidious and begin speaking your name in our prayers. I can think of no other G.o.d that I would rather worship ... though I shall continue to revere Lord Lasidious since he has been a generous G.o.d to our kind."

Upon hearing Shadrowayne's pledge, and seeing that the other members on the demon council were nodding in agreement, Sharvesa turned to Gabriel. "Then it is settled. I accept your proposal, and I'll allow the demons of the worlds to worship me."

Gabriel floated to a position in front of Sharvesa. "Kneel, and accept your gift of enlightenment. You are now the Collective's new G.o.d of War."

Southern Grayham The City of West Utopia The Peak of Bailem George returned to Luvelles just long enough to leave Joshua with Mary. Kepler retired to his lair, Brayson left to retrieve Maldwin from the Merchant Island, and then George teleported back to Southern Grayham. He was standing in front of an inn that was located above the cliffs, just east of the city gates of West Utopia when he appeared.

What a dive, George thought as he looked up at the sign that hung crooked on a set of chains. Who would be desperate enough to sleep here?

The inn was called The Utopian Queen, but nothing about its appearance resembled any sort of utopia. Even the wood the porch was made of looked distressed and abused. Some of the nails securing the planks were sticking out, and as he walked across the porch, the wood rocked beneath his feet.

Once inside, George scanned the room full of rickety, defaced, wooden tables that were surrounded by mismatched chairs. Throughout the seasons, patrons had carved everything from slanderous comments to pictures of animals into the tabletops and the back of the chairs. He looked beyond the hodgepodge that was filled with undesirables for Marcus, but the Dark Chancellor was nowhere to be found.

George took a seat and waited for the bartender to approach. "Excuse me, have you seen a man-"

"A man like me?" a voice responded from behind.

George turned to look. Sure enough, Marcus had made it this far.

The warlock took hold of Marcus' forearm. "The rat told me you decided to stay on Grayham when I spoke with him this morning. Do you realize how hard it is to find someone who doesn't want to be found?"

Marcus took a seat beside George. "Two ales," he commanded, raising his hand to summon the barkeep. "See to it that they're cold."

The bartender scoffed, then pulled his rag off his shoulder. The hair beneath his shirt stuck out from under the edge of his collar as he tossed the rag onto a hook that was beside the tap before he responded. "You'll get the ale as it's always served. Hmpf! Cold ale. Whoever heard of cold ale?"

George reached out and grabbed Marcus' arms to keep the Dark Chancellor from using his magic. "Hey, hey, hey! You can't go around ending people for not having cold ale. This isn't Luvelles. It's a more primitive world. Just chill the drink yourself."

Marcus sneered, "What a waste of a race."

George tapped the edge of the bar with his knuckles. "What made you decide to stay on Grayham anyway? Don't you want to be the Head Master anymore?"

The Dark Chancellor stood from his stool and pushed his long, black hair clear of his face. "I don't know why I decided to stay. For some reason, I feel the need to go to Brandor."

"That's odd," George replied as if he had no clue why the chancellor felt the way he did. The warlock stood from his stool, chugged his ale and then patted Marcus on the back. "Let's get out of here. We need to shoot the garesh for a bit." George tossed a Yaloom on the counter and headed for the door with Marcus in tow.

As the bartender swiped the coin off the counter, his eyes widened. He bit the coin to be sure it was real. As the doors swung shut, he called after them, "Come back as often as you'd like!"

George led Marcus north along a dirt road that followed the cliffs above the coastline. Once the warlock was sure they were by themselves, George continued the conversation. "Perhaps you decided to stay on Grayham because your subconscious is guiding you."

"My sub-what?" the Dark Chancellor responded.

George put his right arm around Marcus' shoulders. "The back of your mind is what I'm talking about. You know, the voice inside your head that talks garesh to you. You already know what you want to do. I think it's brilliant."

Marcus' brows furrowed. "What are you talking about?"

"Come on, man. You know. If you go to Brandor to end their king, you'd be both the ruler of Southern Grayham and the Head Master on Luvelles by the moment you're done. You could rule two worlds and teleport between them ... once you've looked into the Eye, of course. But I bet you knew that. h.e.l.l, all you'd have to do is put someone in a key advisory position in Brandor who answers directly to you. I bet you already know who that person will be."

Marcus shook his head. "I never even considered such a course. My mind ... or this subconscious you speak of, has not led me in that direction."

George removed his arm. "Hmmm. Perhaps I've given you too much credit. It sounds like you're not as cunning as I'd hoped. Too bad. You could've accomplished so much more than just being the ruler of one world. You could've controlled the lower three. Perhaps I need to find someone with loftier goals."

Marcus stopped walking and turned to find George's eyes. "I didn't say my goals couldn't be adjusted, but wouldn't this be a conflict of paths? Why would you hand this much power to me when you could have it all for yourself?"

Without responding, George changed direction. He descended a long staircase that had been attached to the side of the cliff to get to the sh.o.r.eline. The warlock removed his boots, rolled up his pant legs and then waded into the water. He watched as the waves crashed against the beach, and for that moment, everything felt peaceful.

George closed his eyes to smell the ocean breeze. A long series of moments pa.s.sed before he turned to face Marcus. "What are you waiting for? Come into the water!"

Marcus grunted and then took off his boots. Once he was standing next to George, the warlock answered his previous question. "I have bigger plans than ruling the lower three worlds. I intend to become a G.o.d. When that Peak comes, I'll expect your loyalty."

Marcus laughed. "You're mad! I would not worship you. Not even for a single Peak."

Without hesitating, George used the back of his hand to slap Marcus across the face. "You'll do as I tell you!"

The Dark Chancellor reacted with lightning reflexes. He reached into his cloak, drew his blessed blade, and with a fluid motion, he stabbed George in the stomach.

George smiled as the tip of the blade failed to penetrate his skin. Even his tunic remained unscathed. The warlock grabbed the weapon, pulled it out of Marcus' hand and then tossed it onto the beach.

Marcus tried to react. He extended his arm to command the weapon to return to him, but quickly realized he was unable to finish the command or move further.

George grinned. As he circled the Dark Chancellor, his blue eyes turned cold. The warlock reached out and stroked Marcus' face only to follow it with a stinging slap. "Did you truly think you could end me so easily?"

Again, George backhanded Marcus. He allowed the chancellor to topple into the waves. George turned his hand over and then extended his palm. He used his power to hold Marcus beneath the water. Many moments pa.s.sed before he allowed the chancellor his first gasp of air.

George dunked Marcus again and again until the chancellor slipped into unconsciousness. The warlock whipped his hand in the direction of the beach. Marcus flew through the air and landed on the sand with a thud.

George was quick to follow. As he stood over the chancellor, he used his foot to roll Marcus to his side. The warlock cupped his right hand under Marcus' chin, used his power to shock the wizard into consciousness and then waited for the chancellor to spit up the water he had swallowed.

After rolling Marcus onto his back, George straddled the chancellor and then leaned over to place his face only a hand from Marcus'. The warlock relished the fear in the chancellor's brown eyes as he grabbed his chin.

George hissed, "Do I appear insane, Marcus? Don't ever doubt me. I'm capable of accomplishing anything I set my mind to. This includes ending you. I'm only 23 seasons, and yet I've found the power that you have failed to find in over 700."

Marcus managed a weak response. "Please ... forgive me."

George stood and pulled Marcus to his feet. He had to use his power to keep the chancellor from toppling over. Once he was sure that Marcus was strong enough to remain erect, the warlock put his arm around the chancellor's shoulders. "It sounds like you and I will be able to work together after all."

Still shaken, Marcus nodded. "I'll do as you command."

"Perfect. That's all I wanted to hear." George took a seat next to his boots. As he brushed the sand off his feet with his socks, he continued, "There are some things that I want you to accomplish. First, I want you to end..." The conversation continued.

Western Luvelles Later That Peak Just Before Late Bailem George appeared outside his home. To his delight, the family had gathered. Brayson had returned with Maldwin from the Merchant Island, and a large bonfire was ablaze near the mound of rocks that sat above Kepler's lair. The evening air was crisp, and the clouds were threatening to storm. Despite this threat, everyone was bundled up and had gathered to enjoy each others' company.

As expected, Gregory Id was present. His curiosity about Susanne had been piqued by Brayson. But the White Chancellor was not the only guest who had chosen to attend. George had also asked Brayson to invite Boyafed and Lord Dowd, and both army leaders were standing near the fire, each holding a mug of ale.

George addressed the warriors as he approached, "Lord Boyafed, Lord Dowd." The warlock reached for their forearms. "Thank you for coming."

Each army leader responded, "Prophet," as they lowered their head in respect for George's position.

Lord Dowd continued, "Thank you for the invitation."

Boyafed added, "It's a fine evening for an outing."

The warlock smiled. "I'm glad you both could set your differences aside for the moments necessary to enjoy a meal. Tonight will be an evening of games, fun and pleasant conversation. I plan to take our little gathering someplace special. But until then, is there anything I can get you?"

Lord Dowd responded. "No, nothing for me. Thank you."

Boyafed waved off the offer and then redirected the conversation. "The Head Master told us that you wanted to speak with us. I must admit, I'm curious to hear what you have to say after I was visited by your feline companion over there." The dark paladin pointed across the flames at Kepler.

George grinned and then motioned for both leaders to take a seat on one of the benches the family had placed around the fire. "We'll speak about Kepler later, my lord. For now, let's enjoy each others' company, shall we?"

Athena's voice filled the air as exited their home and approached. "h.e.l.lo, honey!" Joshua was wrapped in a bundle of blankets, and he was sleeping in his mother's arms.

George kissed Athena on the forehead after she stopped next to him and took the baby from her. "Can you give me a few with these gentlemen, babe? I only need a moment or two."

Athena pecked George on the cheek and then went to the other side of the fire to sit next to her mother.

After watching his wife's backside sway back and forth, the warlock smiled, and then he turned to hand Joshua to Lord Dowd. "Go ahead. Hold him for a bit."

Sensing the white army leader's hesitation, the proud father insisted, "Go ahead, Lord Dowd. You won't hurt him."

Boyafed looked at Dowd. "I remember that feeling. The first moment I held Kiayasis, I thought I would break him in half. He felt so small and fragile in my hands." Boyafed patted Dowd on the back. "Take the child, Henry. I a.s.sure you, the infant will survive."

George released Joshua. "Your name is Henry? I would've never guessed that."

Dowd cradled Joshua in his arms. "There aren't many elves who know my name. I'd prefer it to stay that way, if it's all the same to you, Prophet. My given name is Henry Froland Dowd."

Boyafed laughed. "Froland?" He reached over and gently prodded Dowd on the shoulder. "It's good you're holding the child so you can't strike me for jesting. I, too, would've kept a name like that a secret. It's a travesty."

For the moment, the mood between the three men was light. George reached out and pulled the blanket off Joshua's face. "Gentlemen, this little guy is the reason I search for peace. Many of your men have families, sons and daughters of their own. We owe it to them to find a peaceful resolution to your differences."

A frown appeared on Boyafed's face. "I regret to say that our problems cannot be solved through diplomacy, Prophet. At least not on this occasion anyway. Someone must be ended for the sins that have been committed against both my friend and the dark army."

Dowd nodded. "The moments for negotiating have long since pa.s.sed. Tonight, we shall dine and respect one another as honorable men should, but tomorrow, I plan to wipe his life's source off my blade."

Boyafed lifted his mug. "I'll drink to that. But it'll be your life's source that stains my weapon, my friend."

George could only marvel at their candor. "Gentlemen, neither of you did anything to provoke this war. You've been deceived by the G.o.ds, and because of this deception, I asked you to come to my home. But as I've already said, let's enjoy each others' company. We can talk of more serious matters later."

George no sooner finished his statement when the Head Master walked up and called for everyone's attention. "I have something that I wish to say before we depart for Grayham." Once everyone was paying attention, and George had explained how he planned to take the group to Grayham, Brayson Id lowered to one knee near the fire and took Mary's hands in his own.

Mary's eyes widened as she held Brayson's gaze. She was wearing a new, black dress that was long enough to cover her feet, and though they could not be seen, she was wearing shoes that matched. The dress exposed her shoulders, but she was wearing a thick, knitted, yellow sweater to cover them. This was yet another outfit that Brayson had given Mary, and it had been done over breakfast that morning.

After watching Brayson kneel, Athena grabbed hold of Susanne's arm and squeezed. Susanne was standing next to Gregory who wore a white and green tunic with white pants, which Mykklyn had convinced the White Chancellor to wear for his first date with Susanne.

Gregory smiled as Brayson gathered his nerve to continue and then leaned over to whisper to Susanne, "This is exciting. I never thought my brother would take a mate. I, too, long for the Peak when I meet the right woman."

A large smile appeared on Susanne's face as Brayson cleared his throat. "Mary ... I have watched your elegance ever since the moment you set foot on Merchant Island. Luvelles has never been the same for me since your arrival. I have never wanted to spend my seasons with any other before you. I would be honored if you would accept me as your mate."

Everyone remained silent as they waited for Mary's response. High above, the clouds had opened, and the first snowflake of winter fell from the sky and landed on the end of Mary's nose. As her warm breath billowed past her eyes, she contemplated the Head Master's proposal and searched for the proper way to accept. She looked up and followed another flake as it fell, and as if it was meant to be, it landed on the end of Brayson's nose.

Mary gasped. "It seems the mood of winter's white rain would be ruined if I declined. I would love to be your mate."

The crowd erupted as the family gathered to congratulate the couple.

George turned to lords Boyafed and Dowd. "It's moments like these that prove peace is a far better solution than war. Shall we go to Southern Grayham and dine with the King of Brandor and his family tonight? Things have happened on that world that I'm sure will make you question your beliefs."

Boyafed's brow furrowed. "Has Brandor's Senate already chosen a new king? If so, I'm impressed. Their government must operate with remarkable efficiency."

George reached out and patted Boyafed's shoulder. "Nope. They have not chosen another king. I look forward to the surprise on your face when you learn the truth."

Before Boyafed could question further, George felt something scratch at the pant leg covering his left calf. When the warlock looked down, he could only smile as he bent over to pick Maldwin up off the ground.

Maldwin was excited to see his old friend. All he could think of to say was, "Everything is A-Okay, George!"

The warlock gave the rat a thumbs-up. "How ya doin', buddy?"

George turned to excuse himself from the army leaders. "I better get this little guy some cheese. His name is Maldwin, by the way."

Boyafed questioned, "You have a pet rat?"

The warlock smiled. "Doesn't everybody?" George turned his attention to Lord Dowd. "Will you please give my son to my wife when you're done holding him? I think you're getting the hang of it. You'll be a good father some Peak. I'll be back in a bit, and then we'll get out of here."

George lifted his voice and called to the far side of the fire. "Kep, come with me. And Susanne, keep an eye on Payne until I get back from the house."

Dowd looked at Payne as the fairy-demon hovered close to the fire, then at Kepler and finally the rat. "George, you keep diverse company. I don't think I've ever seen a man with companions such as yours."

Boyafed chimed in. "I watched that cat kill four tricksters just the other Peak. His magic is strong."

Dowd looked across the fire at Kepler. "I suppose it needs to match his size."

"You'll get no argument from me," the dark warrior responded.

Kepler heard their comments. The jaguar looked at Dowd, winked and then he teleported onto the porch of George's home.

When George and Maldwin caught up with the jaguar, the warlock shut the front door behind them. "Kep, I need you to do me a favor. Tell Maldwin I'm happy to see him. Tell him there are things we need to accomplish while he's here on Luvelles. Tell him if he wants me to-"

Kepler interrupted. "Great. Are you really going to start the tell him thing again? Have you gone dense?"

George shook his head. "Would you just shut up and listen so we can get going?"

Maldwin squeaked, "I like cheese, George!"

Kepler just rolled his eyes. "I'm reliving a nightmare." A long conversation ensued that explained everything the warlock wanted to accomplish with the rat's help.