::Forests of Damili::

Chapter 3


Leather ached and pulled as strings laced swiftly through grommets. The corset tightened around the waist of the young Keziah who stood awkwardly amongst the elderly women of the village. A long silk gown has been pulled over her as the women laced the tanned corset. Breath was squeezed from her lungs as the woman finished. Another woman brushed at Kezi’s ebony hair and brushed powder over her tan cheeks.
“A beautiful young elf like you doesn’t belong on the battlefield  I can’t believe Ivallios wished for you to wield a sword instead of standing beside his son.” The women all agreed noisily while the girl beneath tried to best to breath. This new force against her breast was crushing her and felt more like a torture device than a fashion statement. She jolted as a pair of hands gripped her hips.
“Such strong hips  She’ll bear fine sons ” Heat rose to Keziah’s face as she pushed the hands away from her.
“Wha-“ She gasped, only to have the corset crush steal the words from her breath. The women chuckled softly as they all stood before her, eyeing her from the wrinkled faces.
“Living with the Surion’s..she’ll eventually be engaged to young Solvin. He will be a strong father like Ivallios, no doubt ” The young elf stared wide eyed, wishing her lungs would allow her words.
“Don’t be so modest girl  Many young ladies wish to carry his son, you should be so proud to be considered ” From the back, a door creaked open.
“I pray you ladies are decent..” Ivallios stepped in, glancing over to the flustered Keziah. “I was curious if you could return this poor girl you kidnaped from me..” The smallest of the women walked over and tried to shoo away Ivallios.
“Kidnaped? We rescued this poor girl before you turned her into some rogue  Such a beauty should not be amongst men in the battle field ” The male laughed as he wrapped an arm around the old elf.
“Really? Well..as beautiful as she does look..” He looked to Keziah who gave him a pleading look for rescue. “She doesn’t seem to be able to breath fully...I do hear young men prefer their ladies with a lung full of air. I’m very sorry ladies but I’m afraid this young girl is not build for corsets.” Pulling a dagger from his belt, he swiftly sliced the laces of the corset. Kezi gasped as her rips expanded, grasping at her chest.
“Thank you ” With that, she pulled the silk dress off herself and handed it to the women. “Sorry..but I’m not gunna be a house wife..” Ivallios laughed as the woman gasped and began to bicker.
“Young lady  How dare you ”
“Put that dress back on right now ”
“Have some modesty ”
“Never bare yourself before a man who is not your family.” With that, Ivallios unlaced his tunic and pulled it off. The elder women were silenced as he pulled the tunic over the young girl. Keziah pulled the tunic around her as she smiled to Ivallios. He winked before looking over to the women who stared in awe; since they lived by such old traditional rules, the only bare skin they saw was their own or their husbands. Ivallios raised an eyebrow and snickered.
“Hmmm..if my loss of clothes silences women, perhaps I should walk the village nude.” Keziah laughed as she took Ivallios’s arm.
“It’s okay  He’s my family ” With that, the two left the home and into the bright courtyard of the village.  



“Giving you my clothes was not my best idea ” Ivallios laughed as they burst into the foyer of their home. Outside a white blanket of snow coated the ground and the air chilled the two elves. Keziah grinned as she darted into the sitting room, pulling a fur blanket around her.
“Let’s start a fire so the house will be warm when Solvin and Evan get back ” She could hear Ivallios walking across the stone floor in the kitchen room.
“You mean me make a fire don’t you?” His emerald eyes glanced over to the lump that was the blanket wrapped Keziah. He grabbed an iron pot and emptied a bottle of fresh milk into it. As he walked over, he picked up an arm full of logs and tossed them into the stone fire pit. He hung the pot of milk from the iron roaster over the logs before finding his flint. With a snap, the flames flickered from the logs and spread warmth through the house. The suspended milk slowly began to heat up.
“Thank you.” Keziah smiled as Ivallios sat next to her. The fur wrapped girl curled against the elf as she watched the flickers of the fire. “You’re so kind so me even thought I’m a stranger...why?” Her eyes turned to Ivallios who watched the flames before giving a small smile.
“My wife wanted a daughter..we were going to try to conceive but she was murdered...not long after, we rescued you...it just felt like you were the daughter I would never have.” He glanced down at her as he wrapped an arm around her. “My wife would have liked you...I wish you could have met her.” Keziah smiled warmly as she watched Ivallios return his gaze to the dancing flames.
“Me too...” Her eyes glanced to the tattoo on the arm she rested against. “What’s this for?” She sat up and ran her hand over the bird like shape. The elf snapped out of his blank stare before glancing to the tribal tattoos on his biceps.
“Oh that..that is for Solvin.” He turned and pointed to his other arm where a tattoo of a stylized paw print. “And this is for Evan.” The fire flickered and snapped as the two elves relaxed where they sat.  Ivallios let out a weighted sigh as his hand rested over the paw tattoo. Keziah eyed him for a moment as she leaned against him, wrapping the blanket around her. Silence filled the home with the heat of the fire, leaving only the soft voices of the villagers outside.

The silence was suddenly destroyed as a primal scream echoed from outside. Echos of the agony jolted Ivallios to his feet and shook Keziah from her nap. Ivallios’ growled and pulled his leather coat off a wall hook.
“Sareen..” He pushed the door open and stormed out into the snow, the crowd instantly parted to allow him through. Before him, Sareen was tossed to the snow which was stained with her own blood. The leather of her bodice was split open down her back and her blood flowed from the long wound. Standing above her stood her husband, sword gripped in one hand and his eyes glazed with rage. “What is this? ” Ivallios thinned his eyes as the barbarian turned to face him, a bloodthirsty grin curling across his lips. Sareen groaned as she pushed herself back to her feet, shoving Ivallios away than turning to Tyhr.
“Stay out of this Ivallios ” She snarled and turned to Tyhr who stood, his sword limp in his hands. “Don’t worry..you won’t have to deal with this ever again..” She grimaced and gripped her side as pain rushed through her body. Doubling over, she staggered away from the man before her. Ivallios laid a hand on Sareen’s shoulder, pulling her back towards himself.
“Go home Tyhr...get out of my sight..” Tyhr laughed loudly, sending his howls echoing in the snow covered environment.
“I’d like to see you make me, Ivallios..” He let go of his large sword, allowing it to crash into the pillowed snow. The crowd watching this began to murmur as Ivallios stared at the man who was trying to defy him. Tyhr held up his fists as he took a fighting stance, eyeing the man who stood calmly before him. The murmurs of the crowd were silence as Ivallios let his hand slide from Sareen’s shoulder.
“If this is what it takes Tyhr...” Snow crunched beneath Ivallios’ leather boots as he walked towards Tyhr. A wild sneer twisted across Tyhr’s lips as the thinner man cracked his knuckles. Kezi bit her lip and glanced to Sareen beside her; the woman’s cruel face now reflected concern for once.  “If I am the victor, I am banishing your wife from this tribe for her own health-“
”And if I win..I am orphaning your children.” Tyhr laughed heavily as Ivallios nodded, taking his own defensive stance. Kezi wrapped her hands around her mouth and shook her head.
“Ivallios, you-“ A familiar hand on her shoulder took the words from her mouth. Solvin smiled warmly at her with a nod.
“Don’t worry Kez..he knows what he is doing. My father would not except terms if they truly meant his death.” With a quick glance behind him, Solvin rubbed Keziah’s shoulders. “Plus, the chief is watching...he will not allow any more blood to be spilt.” A snarl echoed the snow covered forest and Tyhr leapt at Ivallios. There was a painful crunch into the ground as Tyhr crumbled into the snow. Ivallios eyed Tyhr who lifted himself from where the rogue had once stood. The brute let out an angered cry and swung a heavy fist towards the man’s thigh. His fist swiped through air as the man elegantly dodged the fist, forcing his foot into Tyhr’s face. A savage roar rumbled from the raging barbarian as he jumped to his feet, growling between his teeth. In a blind fury, he swung his fists towards Ivallios who expertly snaked out of the way of each blow. Ducking under a punch, Ivallios jutted his fist forward and struck Tyhr in the gut with an accurate blow. The wind was driven from the brute’s lungs and sent him staggering backwards.
“Stop this Tyhr, you’re blinded by rage..you can’t see me..you won’t be able to hit me..” Tyhr panted heavily, glaring at Ivallios before glancing to Sareen whose face was blank. A shiver traveled up Tyhr’s spine as he snarled. A frenzy tightened his muscles and burned inside his veins; his lucid eyes turned towards Ivallios who stood, waiting. Solvin gritted his teeth and pushed Keziah behind him instantly.
“Father  He’s in a frenzy ” The crowd surrounding them quickly backed up in a panic. Tyhr let out a snarl and lunged towards Ivallios.  Snow flew into the air as Ivallios dodged out of the way, rolling to his feet from the ground. Tyhr’s eyes shifted directly to the man and he clawed out, ripping leather from Ivallios’ chest as he jumped away. Ivallios grimaced and laid a hand on his chest; his moves were starting to slow and he knew Tyhr would sense this. Before Tyhr could attack again a fiery arrow flew through the air and into his abdomen. The fire was smothered into a black mist that sent Tyhr crashing into the snow.
“ENOUGH ” The crowd parted as Dy’ln walked towards the two elven men. The crimson scaled pseudo-dragon perched on the chief’s shoulders. “I will not allow my tribe behave as if they were animals..”  Ivallios bowed his head before raising to talk to the chief.
“My apologies sir, but-“ Dy’ln waved his hand before walking towards Sareen.
“We all saw what happened Ivallios..not need to restate it.” The pseudo-dragon clicked it’s teeth as it shifted on it’s masters shoulders. The chief was silent as his eyes gazed at the injured Sareen. Her blood still coated the snow at their feet. “Sareen.” The woman jolted at the sound of her own name, wincing momentarily after pulling her wound.
“Y-yes..”
“Do you wish to leave?” He swept his arm aside, indicating for her to leave the village. Sareen glanced back to her husband for a moment. Anger spread across her face quickly as Tyhr gave her an emotionless stare.
“I do.” She laid her hand on the sword sheathed at her hip, eyeing her husband still. As no response came from him, Sareen turned away from him. Ivallios stepped forward, looking to the chief.
“I’ll escort her to the edge of the forest..” The chief nodded and held out a leather pouch for Sareen to take.
“Take care Sareen. I wish you health in your new life.” Ivallios laid a hand of her shoulder as the two began their trek out of the village.



After this incident, the chief sent the villagers into their homes. Solvin took Keziah home and they sat by the fire silently. Keziah gasped and covered her mouth.
“What about Gyl?  What if Mr. Tyhr attacks him too  ” Solvin sighed and rolled his eyes, folding his arms.
“I think that guy can handle himself Kez..he’s tough.”  The fire cracked before them, breaking the silence that grew between them.
“So was his mother..” Keziah stood to her feet and walked from the room. “I’m going to go change..” The young elf raised an eyebrow and sighed.
“Why’s she so huffy?” Silence filled the house as Solvin stared into the orange flames before him. After a few moments, Keziah rushed into the room with a scrap of leather in her hand.
“Solvin  Evan left for his home. He says I can have his room ” She sat next to Solvin and grinned broadly. The smile faded to see Solvin didn’t share her joy.
“Oh, cool.” Keziah blinked and flicked Solvin in the nose.
“Hey  Why the face?” The elf laughed and rubbed his nose quickly. He sighed and pouted slightly.
“Nothing..you just sound happy to get away from me.” With a small laugh, Keziah laid her head against Solvin’s shoulder.
“I didn’t mean it to sound like that..I’m sorry.” Solvin glanced over at her, laying a hand on her cheek. Keziah lifted her head and eyed Solvin as he stroked her cheek. The boy leaned towards her and in surprise, Keziah pulled her head back. Crimson instantly covered Solvin’s face and he quickly leapt up and abandoned the situation. Keziah glanced back after him, confused of what just happened.
“Solvin?” She laid her hand on her cheek where his had once been.  



The woods were as still as they were white in this dead of winter. Gylth shivered as he sat in the snow, with the corpse of an elk next to him. He had heard the ruckus from the village but had not understood what went on. Part of him was curious and the other part horrified to go home. The warmth was beginning to fade from the elk and Gylth knew he couldn’t reply on his thin armor for warmth. He would have to return. A heavy sigh clouded from his lips as he got to his feet. He strapped his sword to his back and gripped the antlers of his dinner. He trudged through the heavy snow towards the village. There was no more noise coming from the courtyards; no gossiping women, playing children or bickering elders. Only the silence that echoed from the pillows of snow. A twig snapped beneath his foot as he stopped at the edge of the forest. Before him stood the village chief. White hair cascaded over his fur and leather wrapped shoulders and his eyes reflected sympathy towards the young boy.
“Gylth.” The silence shattered with Dy’ln’s powerful voice. “Come with me boy.” He out stretched a gloved hand with a gentle smile. Gylth glanced around the village; if there were no flickers of candles in windows, one would think this village had been abandoned.
“Yes sir.” He released the elk’s antlers and stepped over a broken log into the path towards Dy’ln. The chief wrapped a warm arm around the boy and led him into the chief’s home. This was the first time Gylth had ever been invited into the chief’s den. There was a vast difference between the Oronar homes and this mansion the chief dwelled in. The ceilings were high enough for orcs and the home was decorated with many different totems of the Phaelik family. Furs of exotic animals draped his furniture and unfamiliar antlers and bones decorated walls and shelves. The air was warm and sweet; his wives were apparently baking.
“You must be cold, go ahead and warm yourself by the fire. I’ll fetch you some food.” Gylth opened his mouth to politely decline but the chief stepped out of the room before he could. His eyes turned to the stone fireplace that crackled with the flame inside it. He kneeled and smiled as the heat flowed to his sore muscles. A smile floated across his face as he wished dearly to live in such a caring environment. For a moment, envy tugged at his heart and only the Surion family could fill his thoughts. His mind snapped back to reality as his senses were flooded by the scent of food. He turned and looked upon the clay plate that held the source; slices of freshly baked butter cake and thick strips of spiced jerky. A large jug steamed next to the plate. By the smell, Gylth could tell it was warm pumpkin milk. A large smile instantly plastered the boys face as he forgot his manners instantly. Dy’ln chuckled as he watched the boy devour the cake as if it were the last sweets he’d ever see. As soon as he had finished the slices of the moist cake, Gylth gulped down the warm milk. His face reddened as he heard the chief laugh softly. He placed down the cup, leaving cake smudges from his fingers around it’s girth.
“..I’m sorry..I forgot my place...it’s been a few hours since I last ate...” The chief waved a hand with a warm smile.
“No need for apologies. Enjoy your food. I’m glad someone can. I have no sweet tooth and O’lei loves to bake. She’d love to cook another one if you’d care to bring one home.” Gylth smiled brightly again causing Dy’ln to give another laugh. He called out in a language Gylth couldn’t understand before the room went silent again. Gylth folded his legs and took the mug once more. The fireplace next to him warmed his whole body; he almost felt ready to sleep. After he finished the milk, he turned to finish the cooked meats from the plate. Dy’ln sat only watching Gylth now. “I’m sorry child. I brought you here to tell you bad news.” The spiced beef hit the bottom of Gylth’s stomach like a stone. He knew this was coming but did not want to hear it. “I don’t want you to worry..but your mother has chosen to leave this village. She is well, do not fear. She is just no longer coming home.” The young elf stared at his boots, still chewing on a strip of dried meat.
“Okay..I understand...I can’t be upset..I understand..” With that, he stood and bowed his head. “Thank you for everything...” Dy’ln stood and glanced back as he youngest wife walked out, holding what was left of the butter cake.
“Since you’re leaving, I’ll save the one I’m baking for another day.” She bowed and extended the wrapped cake to him. He smiled softly and took it before swiftly exiting the room.


The village was still silent as Gylth dragged the elk home, the butter cake hugged close to him in his free hand. Anxiety fluttered his young heart as he approached the door to his own home. The blood that was once outside the house had been cleaned up. The young boy let out a heavy sigh as he pushed the door open slowly. He wasn’t sure what to expect but he knew what he saw was not what he expected. All the candles were extinguished; cold darkness filled the house except for the faint glow of the fireplace from another room. Gylth left the elf outside and closed the door.
“Father?” He almost regretting calling to Tyhr until no response came. Cautiously, he walked towards the sitting area; where the warm glow of the fire was coming from. Orange light flooded from the lit fireplace, casting an eerie glow across the room. Tyhr sat in his normal armchair, his eyes fixated on the flames before him. His face was sinister as the orange light danced over his sharp features. He didn’t even flinch at the presence of his son. Gylth watched him for a moment, almost sadly. “..Dad?” No response. Gylth stepped forward and laid the wrapped cake on a small table next to his father. “Umm...here. The chiefs wife made this for me..it’s really good. I already ate a lot of it..you can have some.” His father still didn’t even shift his eyes. “Well...alright..” He walked out of the room quickly.  



The sun rose over the trees, flooding light over the houses of the Damili tribe. On top of the Oronar home sat young Gylth. He hadn’t slept much that night and spent the rest of the twilight on the roof wondering about his mother’s welfare. The sunlight stung his tired eyes, snapping the boy from his trance.
“Morning already..” He yawned softly and slid off the roof as the village began to bustle. “Oh..I guess I’ll have to take over my mother’s chores..” He sighed as he watched the women of the village emerge from their homes. They were out to trade goods with one another; certain families had more access to resources than others. For instance, the Oronar were a very barbaric family so they were one of the many hunter families who would store and dry meats for the winter. Hunters from more powerful families, like the Surion and Amakiir, took what was left over from the hunts. Out of this they made fur blankets and leather. Horns and bones were forged into tools and left overs were given to casters for material components. Clerics and mages crafted potions and medicines for the village while those who only had the powers of a basic druid would take care of the field that was buried within the forest. At the beginning of every other month, the females of the dozen families left their homes and exchanged their goods. The Chief and his kin had first pick of course, followed after Ivallios and all the Surion clan and so they went down the totem. Gylth walked towards the back of his house where the ice shield held his families worth of game. Using his signet ring to unlock the wooden shed, Gylth entered the room that made outside feel like a tropical paradise. Scrolls were nailed to the walls, causing the walls to have a thick coat of ice. Hunks of meat hung from hooks, coated in oils and spice. The elk from last night hung from a hook as well, the fresh blood coating the ice beneath it. A bag of it’s fur and bones awaited to be crafted by the Amakiir women. Gylth hefted the sac of elk extra over his shoulder and strapped it around his chest. A heavy looking wooden box with the date burnt into the wood sat in the corner of the foul smelling room. Gylth lifted it easily and left the shed, kicking the door shut behind him.
“Gylth ” The boy blinked as he looked across the courtyard at Keziah who waved her arms at him, smiling. A smile curled across Gylth’s face as he jogged over to Keziah, laying his box down. “Isn’t your manhood ceremony in a month? Whatcha doin’ women’s chores for?” As soon as these words left her mouth, the women behind her went silent. Shocked stares fixated on Keziah; the whole village knew what occurred last night and none would have dared joked about it to Gylth. The young elf glanced at the women as Keziah reddened. They all jolted as Gylth laughed loudly.
“Does this look like women’s chores?” Easily, he lifted the heavy box over his head. Once he had it raised, he took away one hand to rest on his hip. “How many of you ladies can do this?” Keziah laughed and shoved Gylth.
“I could ” She caught the box and began to lift it up. “Uff, this is..pretty heavy ” She held it above her head, duel handed. “Check that out ” Gylth raised an eyebrow and smirked.
“One handed?” Kezi glanced at the box than to Gylth. She took a deep breath and closed her eyes. As soon as she removed her arm, the weight shifted. Gylth snatched the box and swiped Keziah out of harms way. The ladies gasped than clapped as Gylth put the box to the floor.
“Such a show off, aren’t we Gylth?” The woman with dark rust hair chuckled and shook her head softly. Gylth blushed softly and handed the bag of furs to her.
“Sorry..” The gray haired elder woman smiled softly as she sorted through her bag of scrolls and potions.
“Always apologizing, aren’t you?” Her soft blue eyes looked to Gylth who bit his tongue from saying sorry once again.
“I’ve got a lot to be sorry about.” He smiled sadly as he turned and began to pry open the box. Keziah watched Gylth than turned to the women who had already returned to what they were doing; they already knew the baggage carried by Gylth. The rest of the morning was carried out with silence from Gylth. Soon the courtyard was cleared of this bi-monthly ceremony and wives returned to their homes with supplies. Keziah laid her stack outside the Surion home and darted after Gylth.
“Gylth  Let me help you ” She grinned and took one of the sacs from him. “Help me train today  I needa get stronger than you ” Gylth laughed and smiled brightly.
“Sure.”  


The sun reached high noon as Solvin returned from his voyage into the deep forest. His eyes glanced to the stack outside the door. “Huh?” He looked around, frowning slightly. “Wonder where she went..” He scooped up the bundle and pushed the door, slipping into the house. He dropped them on the table and looked around the empty house. “Anyone where? Keziah? Father?” No response. Solvin scowled and turned, storming from his home. “Oronar.” The snow crunched beneath his boots as he rushed into the forest. He knew where they’d be. Silently, he darted through the snow and pulled himself into a tree as he heard their voices. The two were banged up as they sat in the snow together. A pair of swords were stabbed into the snow, obviously theirs. Gylth peeled apart some strips of jerky, handing half to Keziah.
“You’re very powerful. With some practice you might over power me one day.” He laughed as Keziah wrinkled her nose.
“Yeah, until you rage  You’re a natural barbarian...it’s not fair ” Gylth smiled slightly and shrugged.
“If you say so, I’d rather be something more useful in a battle.” Keziah started at him wide-eyed.
“But you are useful  You’re the best way for there not have to be a battle for anyone else  Send you out there and none of us have to do any work...well except you..that’s not very fair..” She took a bite of the jerky. “Are you ready for your tattoo ceremony? It’s coming soon ” Gylth shrugged.
“I guess, not really worried about it. Doesn’t look painful.” They were both silent for a moment as Keziah realized he’d probably felt worse pain just from his own father.
“I guess your right.” Gylth smiled softly and nudger to, trying to distract her from thoughts.
“Well, after I get that out of the way, it’s only a few decades until I can leave this place to adventure on my own.” Keziah blinked and looked to him, confused.
“What?” She watched the elf tear at the meat with a nod.
“You don’t know about that? When men turn 100, it’s ceremonial for them to leave the village to survive on their own and go strengthen themselves with tasks of the world.” He turned to Keziah who looked shocked. “It’s only for about 30 or 40 years..what’s wrong?” Keziah wrapped her arms around her knees and rested her chin.
“So..Solvin will have to leave...he’s already 85...it’s so soon...” Gylth felt his heart sink as he watched the girl next to him.
“Oh..yeah..but..I’ll be here..” Keziah smiled at Gylth and sighed.
“Yeah, that’s true...but still..it’s..different. I don’t know why...It’s hard to explain.” As Gylth’s heart broke, Solvin smiled to himself in his tree. Here he was worried about losing Keziah to this brute but her thoughts were still on him. The barbarian sat quietly as the girl next to him tried to make sense of her feelings. Solvin slipped from his tree and walked backwards through the forest. He stopped for a moment than stepped forward, making a nose to alert the elves before him. Kezi jolted and looked over to Solvin who was walking towards them, acting like he hadn’t be there only moments earlier. “Solvin ” She pushed herself up, brushing snow from herself. The elf smiled warmly as he walked into the clearing.
“There you are..” She embraced him, wrapping her thin arms around his neck. Solvin eyed Gylth as he laid his arms around Keziah’s waist. Gylth turned his eyes away with a distinct grunt. “You worried me, just leaving everything in a lump outside the house.” Sliding her arms down, Keziah backed away from Solvin with a frown.
“Are you really going away when you turn 100?” The boy smiled smoothly and ran his hand across Keziah’s cheek.
“Don’t worry about that. It’s nothing.” His fingers slid through her hair as his emerald eyes gazed into hers. “I will have to leave..but don’t worry about it..I’ll come back to you.” He cupped his hand around Keziah’s cheek and pulled her towards him. A blush spread across Keziah’s face instinctively as Solvin’s lips pressed against her own. Solvin pulled away and gave a suave smile before casually walking away. Keziah covered her mouth, trying to comprehend what happened.  A part of her new it was good but didn’t know what it meant. Behind her, Gylth stared into the snow. His heart sunk into his rips as he tried to force a smile to Keziah who stared at him in awe.





Days passed and grew into weeks as the snow remained around the elven village. Erected in the middle of the courtyard stood the platform of the tattoo ceremony. The villagers gathered together as they prepared for the ceremony of young Gylth Oronar. Dy’ln sat cross legged on the flat of the stage, sterilizing all the needles. Beside him sat a tub of black ink and a series of towels. Since Gylth no longer had a mother, Dy’ln would act in her place to care for his bleeding as he was tattooed. Solvin and Keziah sat on the roof of the Surion home, staring down at the stage. Wrapping an arm around Solvin’s, Kezi smiled as she glanced around the courtyard.
“This is exciting! I finally get to see one of these ceremonies!” Solvin laughed and kissed the top of Keziah’s ebony hair.
“Oh big deal, you get to see Gylth naked and watch his skin get cut open.” He glanced down as the girl raised and eyebrow with a playful smirk.
“I get to see Gylth naked..?” As soon as she finished her statement, Solvin’s face reddened as he frowned deeply.
“You’re going in the house now!” He went to stand by Keziah pulled him back down.
“I’m kidding! I’m kidding! I’ll cover it up!” She held her hand out and closed an eye. “See!” Solvin rolled his eyes and leaned back on his palms.
“Mmhmm..whatever.” Keziah wrinkled her nose and chuckled as she leaned against Solvin’s chest. Below them Gylth walked out from the chief’s home, wrapped in a long leather coat. His father walked behind him with a firm hand on his shoulder. Gylth’s eyes gazed to the floor as he walked up the steps to the stage. He knew the next couple hours would not be comfortable about it and he knew his father was going to make sure of that. He stood towards the center of the stage and stared off into a void, avoiding any and all eye contact. Dy’ln handed a bowl of paint to Tyhr who eyed his son stilly. With this paint he would mark the tattoos the chief would scar into the boy’s skin. The tattoos on the boy’s face would be done with his own hand. Gylth let the leather slide from his shoulders and the cold bit at his bare skin fiercely. A shiver rolled up his spine as his father painted across his arms and chest. Gylth let out a sigh and closed his eyes, feeling the paint over his shoulder blades, neck, legs than his eyes jolted open. The brush dragged from around his navel and a thick line dragged dangerously close to his manhood. His eyes darted to his father who glanced at him coldly. Dy’ln raised an eyebrow and looked towards his wife who instantly went to get more towels. Gylth let out a heavy sigh and returned his gaze to the sky. His day was about to get worse and a needle had yet to touch his skin.



Keziah wrung her hands as she sat on the edge of the stage. Being that Gylth was only a member of a small family in this tribe, there was no feast to celebrate him as they had Solvin. The villagers had cleared from the courtyard except Keziah and Ivallios who waited with her in place of Solvin. Blood stained the boards of the stage from Gylth; the loss of blood was so great the boy had lost consciousness. The chief and some boys who had passed the ceremony in the last decade, including Solvin, had taken Gylth elsewhere to tend to him. Tyhr had followed, obviously furious.
“He got all the tattoos..that still counts right?!” Keziah looked up to Ivallios who seemed almost surprised at the sudden noise. He laughed softly and patted the girl’s shoulder.
“Yes, he is a man in our eyes...but unfortunately his father isn’t quite sane and put too much pressure.” Keziah bit her lip and twirled her fingers.
“Solvin doesn’t have that many tattoos does he?” Ivallios shook his head.
“Not at all, you don’t even have to fully undress him to see all his marks. But our family doesn’t have to prove our strength. We’re warriors of the shadows. We rely on much more than brute strength. In fact, if we can kill with out once being seen than we have done our job.” He crossed his arms and sat by Keziah. “The Oronar are barbarians. Strength to them is how many heads you can lop off.” He dragged a wrinkle across his neck than laughed. “I’m sure Tyhr would be very happy to remove my head from my shoulders.” Keziah frowned sightly and rested her hands in her lap.
“I don’t think Gylth and Solvin like each other very much either...” A laugh echoed as Ivallios looked to Kezi, raising an eyebrow.
“Well of course not!” His laughter shocked the confused girl.
“Why do you say that..?” Ivallios gaped at her for a moment than smiled, taking her chin in his hand.
“Your innocence is so sweet.” She glanced around and wrinkled her nose in confusion. As a door opened, Keziah turned to face Solvin as he exited the chief’s home.
“Don’t worry, he’ll be fine. Tyhr did a good job of hitting some soft spots though..so..he’ll just be weak for a bit but in a day or two he’ll be fine! A cleric is in there with him now.” The boy let out a sigh and sat down next to Kezi. She pinched the fabric of Solvin’s sleeve as she leaned her forehead against his shoulder.
“I’m glad..” Relief loosened the shoulders of the elf as she ran her fingers against Solvin’s leather tunic. In a moment the silence was shattered as a scream echoed the courtyard. Ivallios leapt to his feet and turned to the source of the noise: the chief’s home. Once the scream died, only noise came from the home. Ivallios drew his axe from his hip as he burst open the door. A crying moan could be heard from the belly of the house as a Ivallios darted through. Once he found the room, Tyhr had been sedated with arrows that smoked with arcane power. The man’s eyes rolled back into his head as he fell heavily to the floor, a short sword wrapped in his fingers. Ivallios stared at him than glanced up at Gylth who writhed where he laid. Fresh blood stained the blankets and towels around him. A clean slice ran down diagonally across his black, bleeding over the still fresh tattoo that were already paining him. Dy’ln panted as he held his bow, looking up to the ranger before him.
“There’s no pleasing people...” The two young men kneeling by Gylth tried their best to restrain Gylth who, even in such a hellish state, overpowered them. The cleric chanted quickly, trying to slow the bleeding of his open wound. Ivallios sighed and belted his axe once more.
“Wasn’t pleased with Gylth fainting?” Dy’ln nodded and looked down to Tyhr, gripping the feathers of the three arrows. With a swift yank, he pulled the arrows from the unconscious man.
“Typical...poor child. Seems at every turn of the moon, he faces a new hardship.” The two men stood in silence as Gylth’s screams of agony filled the room.




Months melted away as winter gave birth to spring. The snow melted and gave way to fields of wild flowers. Dead trees soon bustled with green leaves and returning wild life. The sky stripped itself of it’s gray shadow and was now a sheet of sapphire as the sun hung at high noon. The youngest boys of the village invaded a wide field, wielding wooden swords. Their laughter echoed as they began to play fight, clashing the sticks together as they had watched their fathers or elder brothers do. Keziah glanced over as she watched the boys chase after one another. She chuckled as she found a spot to sit and watch the children. It was her turn to take a break from training and decided to help the village mothers by playing babysitter. The cool wind blew through the clearing, wiping her hair about her face.
“Bah!” She spit out some of her hair and brushed dandelion seeds from her clothes. She wrinkled her nose and sneezed softly. A jolt ran through her body as some flowers fell onto her head. A string of leather wrapped the multi-coloured flowers together as they rolled off onto her lap.
“You missed some.” Keziah glanced up at Solvin who smiled at her. He kissed her forehead as she leaned back to see him. A soft blush ran across her cheeks as she grinned.
“Shouldn’t you be training?” She picked up the flowers and hid her nose in them, batting her eyes up at Solvin as he sat next to her.
“I should..but ya know..I’d rather come see my gorgeous girlfriend than hang around with my lame cousins who want to fire arrows at me.” He leaned forwards and kissed her as she emerged from the flowers. “Call me crazy.” She giggled cutely and smacked him in the chest with the flowers.
“Did one of them hit you in the head or something?” She ran her hand across his forehead, jokingly looking for an arrow hole. Solvin pouted and leaned back.
“What? I’m not allowed to relax for a bit and hang out with you?” Keziah gasped and clapped her hand to her chest.
“The great Solvin Surion is allowed to sit with those below him? I’m surprised!” He rolled his eyes and shook his head.
“I’m not like that..” His emerald eyes met her’s as he grinned. “And I thought I told you to call me ‘sire’.” She shook her head and smacked him with the flowers. They both laughed as the petals flew across them.
“I thought you hated flowers.” Keziah looked over to Solvin who eyed the children in the field. “Hmm?” He raised his eyebrows, still watching them.
“Oh I do, but I remember a LONG time ago Evan was all ‘girls love this stupid stuff’ so I got you some.” She chuckled as she ran her fingers across their petals.
“Doesn’t sound like Evan, he’d say it more beautifully and with charm.” Solvin rolled his head towards Keziah with a pout.
“I’m charming.”
“No, your awkward but it’s cute in it’s own charming sort of way.” She kissed him than patted his cheek. She blinked and looked as the group of boys were now looking at them. They all laughed and ran towards them. Solvin wrinkled his nose as they all crowed around them both.
“Ms Kezi! Can he play with us?” Keziah laughed as she took the young boy’s hand than looked to Solvin who shook his head discreetly. She frowned at him than looked to the young child.
“You want Solvin to play with you boys?” They all nodded together and vocalized their agreement as well.
“He can show us how fight!” Keziah laughed and nodded.
“Well of course he can! Solvin would love to!” She looked to Solvin and kissed his cheek. “Wouldn’t you?” Solvin looked to the woman next to him than to the flock of child who stared at him as if he were some celebrity.
“Alright.” He sighed as the boys grasped him, pulling him to his feet. One of the children put a wooden sword in his hand and talked to him quickly in some poor excuse of what Solvin assumed was Elven. “Umm..sure.” He smiled at the small boy who smiled a partly toothless smile. The boys let out a battle cry as they all charged at Solvin. He rolled backwards and playfully thrust his sword out at the crowd of boys. They all laughed and swarmed over him as he was kneeled down to their level. He grunted as the boys pulled him to the ground and smacked at him with the toy swords. “Ah! Hey! Those hurt!” He laughed as he grabbed his sword. “Their troops are too..strong! I need..reinforcements..” He disguised his voice as if he were a wounded soldier. “Their blades are too sharp and my armor too thin! I don’t know how long I’ll last! Keziah! Heeeeeeeelp me~” He groaned as the laughing boys continued to slap the wood swords against him. “I must..carry on!” Solvin began to rise, knocking some of the boys off. “Ah HA!” He snatched the eldest of the boys and lifted him. “Now I’ve got a hostage!” he held the toy sword to the boy who laughed as Solvin walked away from the other. “Now surrender or I’ll slay your leader!” The boy laughed loudly.
“Never!” He stabbed his sword backwards, poking Solvin’s gut with it’s rounded tip. Solvin let out a face gasp and let go of the child. He grasped the sword and thrust it up between his arm and torso.
“Oh...” He staggered backwards. “He..he got me!” He let out another groan and dropped to his knees. “They were...too..strong..I..” He sucked in air as he rolled his eyes back. “...uggh..’ He fell on his side and rolled onto his back, the sword sticking up from between his armpit. “...Keziah..I never..told you..I...ughh.h...” He let out his dying groan as he closed his eyes and let his head roll to the side. The boys laughed loudly and danced around Solvin.
“We beat you! We won!” They laughed loudly than stopped after a moment. “...Mr Solvin..?” They all leaned in and glanced down at Solvin who still faked his death. One of the children gasped.
“You really killed him!”
“Did not!”
“Did too! He ain’t movin’!” Keziah laughed as she watched the children who began to shake Solvin.
“Wake up Mr Solvin! We’re sorry! Get up! Don’t be dead! I didn’t mean to stab you!” Solvin opened his eyes suddenly causing all the boys to let out a scream. He rose and snatched the closest boy.
“You boys tried to murder em! Just wait til I tell the chief!” The boys let out a shrill of screaming laugher as they ran from Solvin. Almost instantly, the boys laughter stop and they froze into their footsteps. Keziah blinked and glanced back, wondering what caused them to freeze. Walking through the forest was Gylth and red haired elf; Gylth stepped into the clearing, lowering his gaze from the children. The other elf frowned at Solvin and folded his arms.
“Come on, Uncle wants you back at training.” The elf patted Gylth’s shoulder with a smile. “Thanks for the help Gylth.” Solvin rolled his eyes and walked after his cousin who began through the forest again.
“I’ll see you at home Keziah.” All the children let out a disappointed moan. Keziah smiled and looked up at Gylth.
“Hey Gyl!” She got to her feet and hugged the boy. “You okay?” Gylth smiled softly and shrugged, shifted his hair back over his heavily tattooed side of his face.
“As good as I can get, I guess.” The woman sighed as she took Gylth’s hands.
“You’ve been so strange lately Gylth, are you sure your alright?” Gylth closed his eyes than looked at her again, smiling more brightly this time.
“I’m fine, really. Don’t worry about me. Just the same old.” She frowned slightly as her eyes turned to a bandage wrapped tightly around his left arm. “It’s just a training wound.” Her eyes flicked up to Gylth who still smiled.
“You get a lot of training wounds..” One of the young boys walked up to Keziah bravely and tugged on her skirt.
“Ms Keziah....my mama says not to talk to him...he’ll hurt you.” Keziah gasped and kneeled down to the child.
“Don’t say that. That’s mean and not true! Gylth is really nice!” She smiled up at Gylth who smiled nervously.
“You know what, I-I’ll just go.” Gylth nodded as he stuttered out the sentence. Keziah wrinkled her brow as she frowned sadly.
“Gyl..” He waved a hand as he stepped back into the woods.
“No..it’s okay...I’m sorry.” He let out a heavy sigh as he disappeared into the forest.