Ray

“Gentleman, You have done some very good work here.” Grand Supreme Edward said to the two in his office. He was reviewing the reports on each of the new pledges. The Grand Supreme was a slender man in his fifties. He had black short hair with a beard and thin rimmed round spectacles. He wore robes of purple and white and had a black cane pole sitting next to his chair with a golden handle in the shape of an eagle.

“As you can see, we have followed all of the rules set forth. They have passed all requirements. Here is a report for the other ten who will be arriving next year.. We also have two eight-year old's who will be more than ready to join once they take the beginners exam.

“Very good work.” The Grand Supreme stated. “I think this arrangement is going to work well. The other grand Supremes and I have been trying to figure out what to do with those magically adept under the age of eleven. Those numbers are never good and the King has been pushing for something to be done about it.”

“Sir, I think by installing similar sub-like compounds such as what we are doing at the Goldenleaf, we should be able to increase those statistics. The kids are able to stay close to home and family. They are introduced to magic in a more gentler fashion and when you see how these next two groups are moving forward, I feel you will agree that the effort on the front is more than worth any cost or delay.” Collin said.

“I agree wholeheartedly and so do the rest of the Supremes. I am going to present these findings at our next assembly in three months. This should give us plenty of time to see how the five do. Now is there anything we need to change regarding the current arrangement?”

“No sir. Those who show signs of being magically adept will be sent to the Goldenleaf. The pledges above the age of eleven will be personally trained by myself for a period of six months before being sent here. Those under the age of eleven will take a combination of their youngling classes and introductory lessons before being sent here after completion of their beginning exam.

“Very good. I do have a revision if you are willing. I would like for two grand masters to come and live in the Goldenleaf as a sort of liaison between us. You are doing a wonderful job with the reports, however I have an ulterior motive with this revision that I think will benefit us both. These will be newer masters who have just finished their initial internship. My plan is that these masters will assimilate with each group. When the group comes here, so will the masters. We will then assign a new master for the next group. By doing this, I believe the transition from your village to our compound will go much smoother.

“I think that is a good idea as long as these grand masters are aware that they have no power while in my village. They are there to learn, teach, and help the younglings. I do not want some hothead telling me how things are to be done.” Ray said.

“I will draw up a job description as to their exact duties while in this temporary role and will send them to you for review. I think if we have everything laid out clearly, we should have no problems. I have already received approval from the King and the Grand Supreme Council but I did want to discuss it with you first.” The Grand Supreme stated.

“I appreciate the transparency, sir.’ Ray stated “By the way, do we know what level the five received yet?”

“Yes! I actually have that here. I really can’t be showing you though. That would not be a good precedent to make. “The Grand Supreme said

“Sir, If we were to know how this group scored, it would help us tremendously in knowing how to adjust for the next group. Can you tell us just this once?” Collin said

“Fine, but do not tell a soul. Here I will let you read it yourself.” He handed them the report.

Demitri Boyer

Age: 17

Year: Pledge

Matrix Level: 300/500,

Reduced Matrix Level: 100

Mana Score: 650/1000

Element: Fire, Earth

Sub Element: Lava

Yugi Creedmond

Age: 15

Year: Pledge

Matrix Level: 295/500

Reduced Matrix Level: 100

Mana Score: 575/1000

Element: Shadow

Additional Abilities: Telepathy

Sasha Morrison

Age: 13

Year: Pledge

Matrix Level 250/500

Reduced Level: 100

Mana Score: 630/1000

Element: Wind

Additional Abilities:: Tamer - Bird

Jacie Godwin

Age: 14

Year: Pledge

Matrix Level 252/500

Reduced Level: 100

475/1000

Element: Earth

Additional Abilities: None

Akota Godwin

Age: 14

Matrix Score: 265/500

Reduced Level: 100

Mana Score: 425/1000

Element: Fire

Additional Abilities: Body Enhancement

“By the way, Can you explain how these pledges are two years older than what was originally reported?” The Grand Supreme asked. .

“There was nothing in the rules prohibiting us from training them within a dungeon.. I believe that Regions II, IV, VII, and IX all utilize them for their pledges also.” Collin stated. The Grand Supreme nodded.

“You have over prepared them which is good but makes my job a bit difficult as they are closer to their third year before stepping foot in my facility. Are you planning to continue using this sort of training method on all of your incoming pledges?” he asked.

“To be honest sir, we were not sure how prepared they needed to be. We did not have a baseline to reach. We may have overdid it in our attempt to ensure their safety. We can adjust our program and can utilize the dungeon in a more efficient manner moving forward.” Collin said.

“Having the grand masters present may help with this. I will speak with the council and we shall determine a baseline for you to strive for. Please move forward as you are with the current group. Although, please do not go overboard in the aging process. I will allow them to be a year older but no more. We shall strive to have this all perfected by the time the third group begins in a year's time.” The Grand Supreme said

“Thank you sir.” Collin and Ray both said.

“Gentleman, you have done very good work. I will be sending a grand master to join Group B in the next few weeks.” The Grand Supreme said, standing to see them out.

“We have one more item we would like to discuss if you have the time sir.” Collin said, not moving from his position. He took out a letter and presented it to the Grand Supreme. He took the letter and began reading the contents. He then looked up from the letter at the two.

“The King has requested that we receive our original matrix. A formal investigation was made and it was determined that our actions were just. The king needs both of us fully equipped for an unknown future task that he needs completed. Do you know where Max and Trixie are?.” Ray asked. He had immediately noticed that the wall behind The Grand Supreme, that usually housed a group of matrices were all gone.

“Unfortunately, the matrices in question are elsewhere. I am unable to obtain them for you at this time.” The Grand Supreme stated rather quickly.

“What do you mean? Our matrices used to sit behind you on that wall. If not there, they would be locked up in storage below the compound. Where did they go?.” Collin said. The Grand Supreme stood up and walked over to the window.

“Have you had a chance to see our wonderful Battle Tower? There are fifty-two floors in total. Construction was complete at the end of the last term. The Pledges have been very eager to try it.” The Grand Supreme said

“Has anyone reached the top?” Ray asked. He got up to go look with him. Collin was still wide eyed and not wanting to change the subject.

“Unfortunately, no. no one here has been able to reach the end. We have had all of our graduating class attempt it but they only were able to reach level fifteen. One of the King’s generals managed to reach level forty, but even he was defeated.”

“Is it a dungeon? How does it work?” Ray asked. He was intrigued by the challenge.

“No, not dungeons. Do you know what happens when a magic user dies? Well specifically, do you know what happens to their matrix?” The Grand Supreme asked

“It is removed and stored away.” Collin said.

“We had thousands of Matrices. They were collecting dust and we had no idea what to do with them.. With all the power and knowledge from all those many lost souls. Not to mention the traitors and War criminals whose Matrix were removed. So much wasted potential.” he said. He turned and looked at Collin and Ray before returning his gaze to the tower.

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“Are you telling us that Max and Trixie are in there?.” Collin said. He had finally gotten up to join them at the window

“They are not just in there. They are a part of the tower now. We had the best engineers, architects and mathematicians come here. They worked day and night for over a year.” he replied. ”The Combination of over one hundred thousand Matrices. The titles, abilities, skills, even the items that were once used are now used again. We are in the final testing period, but soon all compounds will be utilizing these special battle towers.”

“What floor are they on?” Collin asked. He was ready to go.

“Honestly I do not know. The Matrices determine the order themselves.” He said.

“Lets go Ray. We have to get up there.” Collin said.

“Unfortunately, Lord Ray is unable to step foot in the tower. Grand Masters are not permitted.”

“Wait, Ray isn’t a Grand Master. Are you?” Collin said, looking at Ray.

“Technically I am. I taught here for a bit while I was recovering and using the library.”: Ray said.

“In order for Ray to continue studying here after having his Matrix removed, he agreed to the position of grand master. That is the only way you both were allowed to use our extensive library.”

“I left though, does that not mean I lose the title?” Ray asked.

“Grand Master is not just a title. It is the very pinnacle of the compound’s ranking system. As long as you are within the compound’s gates. You are a Grand Master. If you were to go to any of the others, you would be treated as one of us.”

“Am I allowed a team? Collin asked. His irritation was starting to show.

“Of Course! You can have up to a five man team with you. But the tower will adjust its difficulty accordingly.” The grand supreme said.

“Alright, let’s go.” Collin said walking out the door. Ray said his goodbyes to the Grand Supreme and followed him out.

…

“Are you sure about this?” Ray asked.

“Yes, you and the six need to go back. Take care of the village and figure out where the last beacon is. I am going to beat this stupid tower and get our matrices back.” Collin said.

Collin had spent a full day packing and preparing. He was evidently the only one able to go. The six had also taught at their respective compounds for a number of years except for Douglas who had been a Grand Supreme for over five years. Douglas and Grand Supreme Edward spent a great deal of time reminiscing and discussing the differences between Compounds Beta and Gamma.

“Tonya, I need my trunk.” Collin said.

“Which trunk do you need honey?” Tonya said.

“The black one please.” Collin said.

Ray’s eyes went wide. He had only seen the black trunk come out a handful of times. He watched as Collin tied the small little trunk to the end of his over packed bag and with a wave he walked towards the door

SEE BOOK 1.5 TALES OF GRIDARNIA - COLLIN AND THE BATTLE TOWER OF COMPOUND GAMMA to continue Collin's Story

Ray

The trip back to the Goldenleaf village was much quicker. Once the wagons reached the border of Region X and XI, Ray teleported them back within minutes.. He and Mace spent the next few days training, doing the normal day to day duties that Collin normally handled, and preparing his lesson plan for the next group of younglings. It was the dead heat of the summer and many of the villagers were off traveling and enjoying time with their families in other parts of the Kingdom.

“When do you leave for the desert? Adam asked one night at dinner.

Dean was back in town for the weekend and they were having a nice family dinner together at the Maximum Farm. Ray’s parents had spent years saving and slowly building their dream home on a hill a few miles on the outskirts of the village. The hill overlooked the cows, goats, and donkeys that grazed the area around the hill. There was a barn built at the base where Ray and Dean spent many years of their life working. If it wasn't the birthing season then it was hay season.. Ray spent that morning finishing the first cut of the summer and was now sitting at a table on the front porch drinking tea and playing cards with Jane, Dean, and Adam. Mace and the other dogs were out front chasing each other.

“In about a week I will head out.” Ray answered.

“Do you know where to go or are you just going to aimlessly wonder?” Dean asked.

“I have sort of an idea. I picked up this book in Manchester. There is a large structure about twenty miles into the desert that could give me some answers.” Ray said. “There is actually a group from the library there now excavating and studying it. One of them might be able to point me in the right direction.”

“Are you going alone? Jane asked.

“I think so. There is not much reason for there to be a large group. I can travel quicker and will have less of a target on my back if it is just me and Mace. The six are going to leave a few days before and will meet me there.”

“Are you going to take the glider or one of your ability mounts?” Adam asked.

“I think I will start off with the glider. Once I reach the desert I may have to change tactics. There are evidently really bad sandstorms that make it hard to fly low altitude. I won’t be able to see the structure if I am too high.”

“Dean, how is the capitol?” Jane asked, changing the subject to the youngest son.

“It is good. There have been a few rumors going around about Collin. That whole Battle island and defeat of the Vice Duke was huge. A lot of the other princes and princesses are worried about him becoming King.”

“Liam would have to die for that to happen. Does anyone know what the grand competition to be the new monarch is?” Ray asked.

“Nope. It is a very heavily guarded secret. Only the King knows. Not even his Aid Draconis knows of it” Dean answered.

“Where is the Vice Lord anyway? Why didn’t he come back with you?” Adam asked.

“He has a task he needs to complete. I can’t go into much detail about that. It’s important though. He should be back in a couple of weeks.” Ray said.

The evening ended with Ray and Mace saying goodbye and heading back to the village. They made it up to the roof of the main building and to his home. Fil, Dil, and Lil were already fast asleep in the small hammocks they hung up on the branches of the dogwood tree. Ray let Mace down and the pup slowly walked to his bed and fell asleep. Ray went inside his house and picked up his copy of “Surviving the Dunes, an incomplete guide to the Arcadia Desert Part Two” before sitting down and reading through it again.

“You really need the other two parts if you are going to make sense of the desert you know.” a voice said from the doorway.

“I wish I had them. I have inquired everywhere but no one seems to have a copy. Ray answered. He finished his page and then looked up with a smile to see Annie. She wore a red summer dress and sandals. Her hair was done down long and wavy. She wore the bracelet Ray gave her on her left wrist.

“What brings you here?” Ray asked.

“I came to return your books.” She said bringing the stack in and putting them back on the shelf where they were.

Ray noticed that she moved around as if she had been here before. He instantly realized that she must have explored a bit when she was last up here. He smiled at the idea of her snooping around his house.

She put two down on the desk that Ray had not seen before. He picked them up and read “Surviving the Dunes, a incomplete guide to the Arcadia Desert Part One. He looked at the other and read “Surviving the Dunes, a incomplete guide to the Arcadia Desert Part Three.”

“Where did you find these?” Ray asked. His shock was very evident in his eyes.

“We have a copy in the library. After I finished copying the books you lent me, I went and found them. These are your copies.” Annie said. “One of the roles as an assistant to the head Librarian is copying and reprinting entire books. We have a guy who can do it using magic. Copying your books was an easy task as any new book found is automatically copied and stored in our vaults before giving the original back to its owner.. It did not take much for me to get him to copy these either. I may have used your title as the Future Baron to get it done but it worked so.. Yeah”

“Annie, Thank you so much for this. I have been searching for months trying to figure out where the next beacon might be. This could be what I have been needing.” Ray got up and gave her a big hug swinging her around the room a few times before realizing what he was doing. He awkwardly let her down and stepped back.

Annie blushed a bit after being put down before saying “ You are welcome!” She started fiddling with her bracelet and looked around the home.

“Did you enjoy your other gift?’ Ray asked, looking at the bracelet and then her.

“Yes! It’s beautiful. I haven't quite figured out the enchantment yet. I also do not know what this golden gem is made of.“ She said,

“What about the other two gems?” Ray asked.

“The ruby typically symbolizes the fire element. It is also a symbol for heart, passion, love, strength, and vitality to name a few. The sapphire is a symbol for the water element. It can also mean wisdom, clarity, mind, and deep thought,”

“So why are they on the bracelet?” Ray asked.

“Are you giving me your heart and mind? Was my first thought, but that is just ridiculous. Water and Fire are opposing elements so maybe emotion vs intellect? I honestly do not know and I do not have any mana so I was not able to activate any sort of rune. Annie said. “Also, the golden gem looks very similar to the Matrix looking Gem you have on your shoulder. Does that have anything to do with anything?”

Ray smiled. “Did you ever figure out what I meant about intent?”

“I did. I asked a mage that I know in Manchester. He said that when you are drawing the rune or embedding an item. The magic takes in what you intended it to be for. The symbol for fire will produce the fire but the intent behind the incantation could be anything from "warm up my body” to ”light the way” or even "blow up.”

“Very good!” Ray said. “The golden gem is in fact of the same material as one of the Matrix that I have. Tonya, Please introduce yourself.”

“Hey there beautiful, My name is Tonya. You have the cutest set of eyes.” a voice sounded from the bracelet.

Annie jumped back in surprise and quickly took the bracelet off and threw it on the bed. “Who was that?”

“That is Tonya. She is a dungeon Core. She is also the one who controls the Lord System that we use. I am surprised Caleb hasn't told you about her yet. He has been working with her for a couple weeks now getting Manchester back on track.”

“He mentioned working with someone named Tonya but I did not know she was a dungeon core. Wait, you gave me a piece of a dungeon core! Why?”

“He gave all of the most important people in his life one sweetie. His Mom, Dad, Brother, the five pledges, everyone who he cares about got one.”

Ray felt a bit embarrassed and tried to turn his head to hide himself turning pink.

“So you gave me an item that has a dungeon core, a gem that references emotion or fire and another gem that references water or intellect. “ the wheels in her head were actively turning and Ray could see it.

Annie remembered the last time they were together. The mana string connected their minds so they could talk. She wondered if this had any correlation to that. “Can you hear me?” she thought.

“Yes I can,” Ray thought back to her. He was smiling even more at her figuring it out.

“How far?” Annie asked through her thoughts.

“Anywhere within my scope of control. Once we find the last beacon, I can only assume that it would work anywhere within Region XI.” Ray said out loud.

“Mental Communication is not the only thing this bracelet does is it?” Annie said. It was more of a statement than a question.

“It has a couple of different uses. For one, if you are ever in any danger, it will protect you and notify someone to come to your aid. It could be Collin, Caleb, any of the other people who have one or me. There is a single-use fireball and Water shield that will have to be reset after each use. Any mana user can reset it by applying water and fire mana into it. It also allows you to talk to Tonya. She is really smart. If you have any questions, she prolly has the answer.” Ray said.

“Can I talk to the others with my mind?” Annie thought.

“You can talk to them, they do not have the ability to talk back. That is one part of yours that is different from the rest.” Ray thought back

“I don’t understand. Why would you make this for me?” Annie asked

“If I could make one of those for every citizen of the village I would. It is not possible however. Other than the entire village and eventually the whole region, I have very few really important people in my life. You are and always have been one of them. You also very well may be the new Duchess of Manchester if Caleb has his way or the head of a library. This just seemed like the perfect thing to do.”

“You are sweet.” She said, “Would you like for me to help you with the books? In locating them and getting copies, I may have read all three cover to cover. I also may have my own copies. I really enjoy learning new things so this fascinated me.” She said changing the subject while she could.

They spent the rest of the night going over each volume in detail. They took a break to sleep and then were back at it all the next day and the day after that. On the third day, Ray was pretty confident he knew where he needed to go. Annie left to go back to Manchester and he spent the next few days preparing his glider for the trip. He packed food, clothes, a camping and cooking set and plenty of water. Mace got a custom set of Goggles to keep sand out of his eyes and on the seventh day, they were ready to go.

“Kono! Adam! You are in charge. Keep the village safe. I will be back as soon as I can!” Ray yelled at them over the high winds.

“You got it boss!” Kono yelled back.

“WAIT! WAIT FOR ME!” a voice rang in the distance. Ray looked up from his glider and saw Annie running toward them with a bag of her own. She was wearing a white blouse with the sleeves rolled up and Khaki Pants with knee high laced boots. Her hair was in a ponytail and she had at least four heavy satchel bags with her.

“What are you doing here?” Ray yelled.

“We spent three days figuring this out. You are not about to leave without me. Also, I have a message I need to deliver to the head librarian once we find them.” Annie yelled. “Technically, this is a work trip.”

Ray did not argue. He loaded her bags in the luggage compartment under the seats and helped her in the passenger compartment at the front of the glider. Thankfully he chose to use the larger glider that could hold more people and luggage versus his combat glider. Once she was strapped in. He positioned himself in the rear seat and gave a thumbs up to Kono. Kono hit the lever and the large boulders fell, pulling Ray and Annie down the runway up the ramp and off the side of the mountain.