::Forests of Damili::

Chapter 5



“..Solvin?” Keziah finally spoke after staring in awe at the man before her. He smiled sweetly then finally Keziah let out a scream of joy. Wrapping her arms around his neck, she leapt onto the boy and drove him back into the rubble. Arisa raised her eyebrow than glanced down at the gnome, Elly, beside her. From behind walked a robed man, the last of their group.
“Everything alright..?” The two girls looked to him than pointed to Keziah.
“We..don’t know.” Solvin kissed Keziah as she pulled him to his feet.
“What are you doing here? ” She smiled brightly as she ran her hands up Solvin’s cheeks.
“Why were you trying to kill us, more importantly..” Arisa added. The elf took Keziah’s hands, kissing them.
“I’m working.” He looked towards Arisa and the others. “Nothing personal, but I’m an assassin. A rival of the man who hired you wished for me to assassinate all of you and take whatever treasure you find.” His eyes shifted back towards Keziah who he frowned slightly at. “More importantly, what are you doing here?” Their eyes were parted as Keziah turned her head to the side.
“Well...a lot happened while you were gone, Solvin...Gylth..he..” She wrapped her arms around Solvin, burying her face into his chest. Elly looked at them than looked to Arisa, tugging at her tunic. She nodded her head to the side, indicating they should go to the next room. The others quietly stepped back to where they had set up their camp, leaving the two elves together.
“What happened? Did he do something to you? ” Solvin pulled Keziah away from him, panicking slightly. Ebony hair hung in her face as she shook her head.
“He’s dead...” Relief took over Solvin’s heart but he did his best to hide that on his face.
“Oh...Kez..I’m sorry.” He pulled her into an embrace, letting her curl back against hist chest. “I know me and him never got along but you too were close and it wasn’t far of me to be jealous.” A chuckle shook Keziah as she looked up to Solvin.
“You were jealous...? Why?” Solvin laughed and kissed Keziah’s head.
“You’re so oblivious sometimes, Kez.” He tilted his head, smiling down at the girl in his arms. “How you feel if I started hanging out with a very friendly, gorgeous woman?” Keziah frowned and thinned her eyes at Solvin.
“Are you trying to confess something to me?” She gripped Solvin’s mask and then blinked. “Oh, I think I get it now..” Her nose reddened as she laid her head back against Solvin’s chest.
“Yeah, see  And it was obvious Gylth was in love with you..and I was afraid he’d try and get between you and me..” Keziah was silent as she thought over previous events. Her fingers twirled the cloak that hung around Solvin.
“Yeah..I see that now..” The cave grew silent as Keziah’s mind raced. She tightened her arms around Solvin.
“How’d he die...I can’t see that kid goin’ down without a fight.” His eyes looked down to Keziah who stared off.
“A wolf..” A laugh escaped Solvin’s lips and with that Keziah shoved Solvin away. “What was that for? ” The elf reached out to grab Keziah but she pulled away.
“Keziah, hold on  Listen, I was just surprised  I’m sorry..but you can’t honestly believe a wolf took down Gylth Oronar.” She frowned as Solvin took her arm, pulling her back towards him. “How long ago did he ‘die’, Kez?” She turned away from Solvin with a scowl.
“About two months ago..” Solvin kissed Kezi’s hands and watched her.
“And I take it his body was never found, right?” No response from the woman gave Solvin a smile. “See, look I’m just trying to tell you he might be alive.” Keziah looked over at Solvin as she rubbed her nose.
“You think so...” Solvin pulled her back into an embrace and kissed her.
“Yes, I do believe he could be alive. If there’s one thing I know about Oronar, they don’t go down easily.”




A savage cry echoed the forest as the human soldiers did all they could to get away. Arrows rained on them from the cloaked figures that sat high in the trees but this was not the cause of their panic. Before them laid the bloodied corpses of their comrades and over them was the cause of their violent demise. The glowing eyes of the skull mask stared at them as the cloaked figured gripped a blood soaked great sword. Soldier held shaking swords as they faced the barbarian before them. Only his frenzy moved him as Gylth charged towards the soldiers. With a strong swing of the long sword, the helmeted head of a soldier lopped into the air and with a second swing, another soldier fell. The lasting soldier gave a shout and took a full fledged run from the scene.
“Monster  These woods are cursed–“ Before he could finish his cries, two blades sliced through him from thin air. Gylth panted heavily, letting his sword drop into the ground. His head cleared and the frenzy melted away from his muscles. He pulled the skull mask from his face.
“Aramil, you’re so lucky my frenzy was done.” He looked over where the fallen soldier laid. Visibility returned to the ebony clad blonde and he removed his skull and ninja mask.
“Awe man, what’s the fun of invisibility if your freaky wolf nose knows it’s me ” The barbarian sheathed his sword and kneeled down to the bodies before him.
“Well maybe you should consider bathing..” Aramil laughed as he sheathed his kukri at his hip.
“Whatever, I am very clean thank you ” He darted over and kneeled by the bodies. “Anything good?” Gylth pulled a stained satchel from a belt.
“I haven’t even opened anything yet ”
“Well don’t your wolf senses smell anything?”
“Yeah, your breath.” Aramil shoved Gylth and reached over, snagging a signet ring off a corpse.
“Ah, shut up  I smell wonderful–what’s this?” He wiped the blood off it and examined the strange symbol. “That’s weird..this isn’t the army signet..they all have it.” Gylth sat back up and wrinkled his brow.
“Huh...Torrik ” He looked up to the trees. “Get down here ” With that, a griffin centaur flew down from the trees. The elf half was a tanned, well build red haired elf but below the waist he had a griffin’s body and wings.
“What is it?” He stuck his bow into his quiver and snatched an arm with one of his clawed legs. He leaned over and pulled a ring off, examining it. “This is odd...I’ll bring this to Anastrianna and let her examine it.” He opened his wings and took off into the air, towards their home. The two exchanged glances than shrugged.
“So these guys aren’t from the army...” Gylth said as he dug through satchels. “This is weird...there is nothing on these guys....the army always has potions and such..it’s like these guys knew they weren’t going to need healing..” Aramil wrinkled his brow and looked to Gylth who was now looking around the land.
“That means..?” The lycan frowned as his keen nose picked up a scent.
“They knew they were going to die..this was a trap.” His eyes glinted as he stood, focusing in on a area of this bushes. “Aramil, go cut the rope..” Gylth drew his sword and ran towards the area who was looking at. The half-human jumped up and threw his kukri at the rope that hung from their colony. It fell limply to the ground as behind him Gylth gave an anguished scream.
“Gyl ” Aramil turned on his head and stared at a cloaked figure that gripped Gylth by the hair and obviously had a dagger thrust into the boy’s chest. His sword dropped as he grimaced in pain. Aramil pulled his black mask over his nose and mouth, drawing his other sword. “Who are you?  What do you want ” The figure shoved Gylth away, pulling out a short sword that glittered from the silver that coated its blade. Another thin hand emerged from the robes, opening it’s palm. A blast of fire flew towards Aramil who rolled skillfully out of the way. He looked up and the cloaked figured was gone. “..what was that about?” His eyes widened as he ran towards Gylth who twisted in pain on the ground. “Gyl  Hey bud, you alright?” He gripped the wound on his chest that flowed with fresh blood. Aramil wrapped his arms around Gylth’s waist and hefted the boy over his shoulder. “Hold on man, I’ll get you to Trylli.” The ninja took a running start than leapt onto the tree, running vertically up it. “TRYLLI  TRYLL ” Aramil leapt onto the courtyard, harshly dropping Gylth onto his back. “Open your eyes buddy, come on  Don’t be dead ” He smacked Gylth’s cheek as the man’s eyes had closed and he was still. Trylli opened her door, walking out with Ch’k.
“Such a loud boy...” She blinked at Gylth who laid before Aramil. “Why such a fuss..” The ninja panted heavily as he shook at Gylth.
“Gylth, come on  Wake up  Come on ” Trylli shook her head and pushed away the frantic man.
“So much noise..” She laid her hand on the wound. “An allergic reactions it seems...” She rolled up her sleeve and thrust her fingers into the wound. Gylth’s eyes snapped open and he thrashed an arm out, gripping Aramil’s tunic. Trylli nodded calmly as she fingered out a slip of silver from the wound. “See? Nothing big.”
“To you ” Gylth groaned as he released Aramil. “I hate you so much Halfsies...” Trylli laid a hand on Gylth as she healed the wound.
“Why do you hate me?  I tried to help you ” Gylth looked to the man weakly and raised an eyebrow.
“Next time you have a dangerous substance in your chest I’ll be sure to hang upside down, throw you down than shake ya around.” A nervous smile crept over Aramil’s face as he laughed dryly.
“Sorry, I panicked.” After Trylli finished healing him, Gylth sat up with a groan.
“I’ll blame the human half of your brain for that.” He pulled himself to his feet as Torrik came trotting over.
“Gylth  Anastrianna wishes to talk to you..what happened..” His eyebrow rose into his shaggy brown hair as he glanced at the blood that covered Gylth. The lycan sighed and waved a hand.
“I’ll tell you later.” He walked away from the two and headed towards Anastrianna’s mansion of a hut.


“Ma’am.” Gylth bowed once he entered the lavish hut. Anastrianna was sitting on a pillow, meditating as her bear companion slept next to her.
“Come in Gylth.” He walked over and kneeled before the meditating woman. She opened her eyes after a moment and gave a heavy sigh. “You and Aramil have made an unfortunate discovery for us today..” The signet ring sat on the floor right before Anastrianna. “It is more than the army that is after us..” Gylth looked to the ring that rested on the floor.
“I know that for a fact now.” He laid his hand over his freshly healed wound. “There was a woman in the bushes who watched us destroy those soldiers...she had a silver dagger. She knows who we are..she’s studying us...something is going on...” Silence took over the small room as Anastrianna stood from her pillow.
“This isn’t good..” The bear grunted and opened it’s small black eyes. “Seems we might have to move past just defending ourselves.” The beast yawned before laying it’s head back down to sleep.
“Ma’am? Is there anything you want us to do?” She folded her arms behind her back as she stared out the window.
“We need to prepare for the worse but above all, protect our home. This colony had been here since this forest has been growing. It is our duty to protect this land no matter what it takes. Anyone found within our forest is to be destroyed.” Gylth bowed his head, leaving his hands on his thighs.
“Yes ma’am.” He rose, bowing once more. Before he could turn and leave, a soft hand touched his shoulder and pulled him to turn around. As he opened his mouth to question the woman, Anastrianna pulled him into a kiss. Her fingers clawed into his hair, not letting him pull away. Gylth’s eyes widened as he was force back against a wall. The elf released the man from the kiss but remained nose to nose. “Um...” Gylth smiled nervously as his heart panicked within his chest. “I..should go.” Anastrianna laid her hand against the wall, sending vines across the walls and weaveing around the door. As it disappeared from view, the druid before him smiled silkily.
“I’ve had my eye on you since you’ve arrived Gylth...” Her fingers ran up Gylth’s armor clad stomach, peeling at the laces that kept it tight. “I must say you intrigue me..” Blood rushed through Gylth’s face and ears as he stared at the elf who was undressing him.
“Um..ugh...I...I can see that....” He smiled nervously and took her hands, trying to get away. “But..umm...it’s very nice of you..but I..don’t think..”
“I don’t want you to think.” She smacked Gylth’s hands off her own and pushed him back against the wall. “I’m not locking you in here with me to think..” With a quick unbuckling, she pushed Gylth’s shoulder armor off than snapped his torso wrap of leather off.
“Ha..heh...um..” Gylth waved a hand, trying to push her away. “Okay, seriously now...I’m very flattered...but...why..don’t you just get Evan? I hear he likes doing this k-kinda stuff ” Anastrianna raised an eyebrow as she ran her nails over his tattoos.
“You’ve never known the warmth of a woman...have you?” Gylth shivered and grinned, nervously.
“Can’t say I have..and I’m not all that cold at the moment so I don’t think I need it–“ His words disappeared as Anastrianna pulled off the cloth that covered herself. He stared at her for a moment before his forced his eyes to the ceiling. “Well...this is..interesting. I’ll be honest...I’ve been in a situation like this so I don’t really..know..what...” His mouth dried as hands trailing through his hair caressing his long ears. “..I’ve..seemed to have lost my words...so..I-I should go.” He laid his hands on the elf’s slim shoulders, moving her aside easily. His eyes remained tilted upwards which led to his tripping. As soon as he hit the ground, Anastrianna straddled him and shoved him back down.
“Do you run from every woman that desires you?” Gylth closed his eyes and laid his hands on his forehead.
“...well you’re the first so, considering the odds...yes..” She pulled Gylth’s hands off his forehead and kissed him, gently this time.
“You’re such a frustrated boy..perhaps it’s time you stop running...not just from me, but everything...” Gylth blinked as she laid against him, folding her arms over his collarbone. “Evan told me your story. You’re an abused child who watched a spoiled child take everything from you. You ran to escape your family, you ran from the woman you loved, you ran from your home, and now you’re running from a woman who is throwing herself at you...” He turned his head, looking away from her with a frown. “But..we are all runaways as well..” She ran her hand down Gylth’s cheek, brushing his shaggy hair back. “Where will you run to Gylth? You’re leaving everyone and everything behind and then you’ll be alone. Why not stop running and stay here...with us..with me.” Her head laid on her hands, her haid cascading over Gylth’s shoulder. The man’s green eyes flicked for a moment before he rose, catching Anastrianna who now sat in his lap. She smiled as she saw his answer in his eyes; this kiss he didn’t resist.




The morning sun spread over the tops of the city as Solvin and Keziah who stirred in their bed. Their bones ached from the last month spent out in dungeons and citadels, fighting enemies and sometimes their own team mates. They had been attack by dragons, strange monsters, and most memorable was a succubus who fooled them all. Her demon image had been hidden behind the sweet demeanor of a sweet woman. Her magic had taken over the brain of Solvin and almost cost another team mate of theirs his life. All was better now but Keziah was still bitter at her lover being controlled and forced to attack her. The cleric, Arisa, remained a thorn in their sides until she had finally parted ways almost a week ago. Although she was a powerful cleric and loyal companion, she was not the wisest. She had almost lost her life to an animated table which the elf couple and a mage who traveled with them mocked her for.
“Solv..” Keziah stretched, wrapping her arms around Solvin’s neck. “What are we doing next?” The elf beneath her kept his eyes closed but tiredly spoke.
“Whatever I can find, alright..?” Keziah kissed Solvin’s chin, watching him sleep.
“Okay.” She curled his red hair around her finger than brushed his shaggy bangs from his face. His eyes slitted open, the emerald orbs shifting under his heavy lids.
“You’re up early..” A giggle escaped her smile as she kissed his nose.
“Yeah, I know..I’m just in a good mood.” Solvin raised his eyebrows and smirked.
“A good mood hmmm?” Her eyes rolled as her smile turned downwards.
“Good mood gone.” She smacked his hand away and hopped out of bed. Solvin pouted as he propped himself up.
“I was kidding ” Keziah stuck her tongue out at him as she opened the shades open wide. The sun poured in from the window, causing Solvin to hide and groan in annoyance. “Hey ”
“Get up you lazy butt ” Keziah leapt onto the bed and pulled the covers off Solvin. “Get up ” He laughed and pulled Keziah down into a kiss.
“Okay, now I’ll get up.” He sat up and kissed the elf once more. “Let’s go see if we can’t find something to do.”


Once they dressed themselves, the two made their way out into the massive city. Stone buildings ran as high as the trees and almost as dense. Crowds of people filled the streets as the went from place to place. Keziah held onto Solvin’s arm as she stared up at the stone buildsings, iron fencing and marble statues.
“Wow  This is a lot different than the other towns we’ve bene to ” Solvin laughed as he took her hand and pointed towards the fortress that surrounded the side of the city that pressed against the mountain..
“Yup, this is Alderhad. The capital city of this country. Those are the Gladhol Mountains that divide it from the neighboring countries.” Keziah smiled than looked over towards the other side of the city. There was a massive forest but the trees closest to the city were falling. Smoke rose from the building along the line of the forest.
“Oh no..” Solvin sighed and rubbed Keziah’s back as they watched this sight.
“This is why we despise humans so..”
“Solvin  Keziah ” A familar voice cried out as the two elves turned back. A tall slender she-elf ran towards them, waving a arm. Her silver hair was tied back into a long braid that ran down her back where a halberd was strapped to her shoulder. Her gray tinted skin was clothed in leather armor but also wore a robe-like shirt.
“Mara?” Keziah smiled as the gray elf walked over towards them. This elf had joined them on their previous adventure. She was a powerful mage who also trained in fighting. “What are you doing here?” She smiled as she rubbed the back of her head.
“Well my brother lives here and I told him I’d come visit when I’d get the chance ” Her bright eyes blinked as she looked over the two before him. A fire had caught her eye as it climbed up the trees. “Uh oh..that doesn’t look good..” The couple turned and gasped as they saw the flames.
“We’ve got to stop them ” Keziah grabbed Solvin, dragging him towards the edge of the city. Mara followed after them until they came upon what seemed to be a construction zone. Many trees had been chopped down and were now burning, turning the lush grass into a black soot that stretched for almost a mile. A barren no mans land had been push between the forest and the city. Armored soldiers stood on the charred lands, watching as orges and goblins thrust blades into the thick bark of the living trees. Solvin frowned and pulled his bow out.
“Hey ” He shot an arrow across the land and into one of the trees. The workers and soldier’s turned towards the trio of elves. “Who commands this operation?”
“I do.” A voice hissed behind them, causing them all to jump. “Can I help you?” A tall, thin woman stood before them. Her tattooed head was shaven except for a ponytail that rose from the top of her head. A black gown draped over her shapely form as she gripped a twisted staff. Two cloaked figures stood behind her, their faces shadowed. “My name is Mantreh..how may I be of assistance?” She bowed her head than rose, looking to all three of them.
“What’s going on here.” Solvin indicated the trees and the soldiers. “Why are you deforesting here? Isn’t this city large enough?” Mantreh raised her eyebrows as she smiled cooly.
“Ah, this little project. You see...we have some pests deep in this forest. For a long time we got along..than they started attacking us...this is a capital city, good elf. We need our industry to survive and these savages demand us to stop poisoning the airs and the soils. We do no such thing. Than they got extreme. Of course..we had to fight back. They were no match for our army and we hurt their colony gravely. We backed off and went back to our business. This is when they got their monster. A raging beast who smears the lives of our soldier’s as if they were dirt being wiped off a table. Anyone who stepped into that forest, even peacefully, was slaughtered by this monster. So now, we are accepting their invitation to war...they destroy hundreds of my men I have supplied under the name of the king..so I will tear down hundreds of their trees.” Keziah gasped and covered her mouth, staring at Solvin who frowned.
“I can’t believe you..that’s cruel  They’re just protecting their home ” The mage turned her bald head away from the forest and towards Solvin.
“Sir elf..I can understand you’re upset..but there are eight of these, endangering thousands of us...should I sacrifice thousands for the lives of few? I didn’t wish for this war..but they challenged us first. Innocents who walked to get to a near by spring where slaughtered where they stood. Women, children, soldiers. They see only something that should die.” Mara glanced back at a crowd that was beginning to grow at this spectacle. The two cloaked men behind Mantreh began to shift nervously as the mage stared down Solvin.
“Even if they are causing problems, why don’t you just speak with them? I’m sure this can be dealt with diplomatically.” The woman rolled her bright eyes.
“Yes..and by your assassin’s garb, you seem to know lots about that.” She glanced back at one of the two behind her. “That’s a wonderful idea, why didn’t think of that ” Mantreh turned and sneered at Solvin, tapped his shoulder with her staff. “Why don’t YOU go speak with them. Perhaps they we see your pointy ears in time and not shed your of your skin.” Solvin propped his hands on his waist and smirked back to the woman.
“You know what..that’s a wonderful idea  I think I’ll do that ”
“Now, now  Sir, ma’am ” A powerful voice echoed as two hands descended on their shoulders. Beside them stood a large dragon humanoid clad in paladin’s armor. Blades of spine-like hair laid down the sides of his blue scaled face as he smiled at the two. “Pardon me, but I couldn’t help but notice you two arguing...” A large pair of wings folded against his armored back as he looked down at the two below him. “I’m sorry ma’am, but I agree with the elf here. It would be much better if this situation was handed diplomatically. Casualties should be avoided at all costs I believe.”
“I’ll have to agree ” A thin blonde haired woman raised a hand with a sweet smile. “It’s not fair...we should hear their side of the story  Right?” She nudged a man next to her who shrugged.
“I..guess..” Mantreh glared at the paladin than smiled.
“Well then..how about this...all you can go..and if you can stop this war. I will reward you...how ever if they refuse, I want their heads..and you will get double the reward.”With that, a leather clad orc grew attentive. Solvin smirked and extended his hand.
“Deal. And if they kill us?” Mantreh pulled her hand away and smiled.
“Well, you’ll be dead.” With a flash, the woman and her men disappeared.

“Well looks like I got a paying job without even trying.” Solvin smiled at Keziah who rolled her eyes.
“A job with a high chance of death.” Mara rubbed her nose and smiled nervously.
“We’d better survive..I still gotta find my brother..but guess I’ll help with this first..”
“Pardon me, but I’ve been rude. I am Kiru Sarken, paladin of Bahamet. I hope it’s not my fault this mess has happened..” Solvin waved a hand and shrugged.
“Probably would have done it myself eventually. I’m Solvin, this is my girlfriend Keziah and a friend of ours, Mara.” The blonde woman who had spoken up earlier rushed forward and flashed a charming smile as her blonde hair fell about her shoulders.
“I’m Ren. Sorry to shout earlier but I know one of the druids..so got kinda worried.” She giggled and wrinkled her nose. The orc that stood amongst the crowd raised an eyebrow than grabbed the collar of the monk who stood before him, walking into the group.
“We’ll help the cause as well. Our names are not necessary but we wish to help these druids.” The monk glanced back at the orc than looked forward, bowing. Solvin glanced around and chuckled nervously.
“Well not gunna like, I’m more of a sneak in by myself person..so this might be difficult...” He rubbed his hands together. “Well, there are..” Counting for a moment, Solvin returned to his sentence. “One less of us then there are of them..perhaps in equal number, we can get them to listen..” He glanced around to wait for rejections of the idea. “Alright..so into the forest?”


With that, the group began to walk into the dark forest. Keziah slipped her hand into Solvin’s as they walked. “This forest is a little creepier than home..” She jolted and clutched onto Solvin as the trees above them rustled. Solvin quickly drew his weapon as did the others around him. Above them glowing orbs emerged from the tree tops, dropping around them. Skulls from carved masks stared at them as the cloaked people circled around them. A griffin bodied man stayed with his four legs clawed into the tree trunks. As Solvin raised an arrow, so did he.
“Weapon’s down.” A powerful voice bellowed from the griffin man. The cloaked figures began to pull out their own weapons; one with a scimitar, one with a great sword, one duel wielding Asian kukri and another with a hand cross bow. Solvin glanced around the five figures than back at those he was back to back with; all wielding their weapons and ready to attack. The druids seemed to hesitate but swiftly the scimitar wielder sliced the bow from Solvin’s hand before clutching the elf’s throat.
“Solvin ” Keziah stepped forward but the druid wrapped an arm around Solvin and pulled him against him. The curve of the blade pressed against Solvin’s throat as the druid barked another order.
“Weapon’s down and we will not harm you.” Keziah bit her lip as she glanced back at the other’s who hesitated. “I’m serious..I don’t wish to harm you..but I will.” A grimace flashed across Solvin’s face as a stream of blood flowed from under his hand. “Put them down ” Metal clicked against the ground as they all raised their hands. The druid pulled his sciater away from Solvin who coughed, clutching his neck. “Take them up ” The druid ordered as he took a hold of the elf before him than ran up the side of the tree as if it were normal ground. The griffin bodied man released from the tree, aiming his bow at Kiru.
“You, pick up the monk and fly. Flee and I strike you down.” His talon’s opened and he snatched the orc who struggled. He took off from the air, Kiru carrying the thin man beside him. Ren back up against Mara and Keziah who faced the remaining three druids. The thinner of the three snatched Mara by the waste and quickly cast a fly spell. The glowing eyes pierced at the two remaining girls as their hands grapped at them. Ren was swiftly picked up but as for Keziah, she pushed the weaker man’s arms off earlier. The masks glanced between each other. The heavier set masked druid handed the thin Ren to the other man. Keziah backed up, raising her fists to fight.
“Don’t you dare–“ She yelped as the powerful man grabbed her. Although he was gentle, she could not break free of the powerful arms. With that the two darted up the trees and into the bright tree tops. “Solvin ” Keziah tried to pull away from the man who grappled her. They had been pulled onto a large circular courtyard like fixture. In the mixture, there was a short column whose base was wrapped with rope. Solvin sat on this, his arms tied behind him. The druids did not remove their cloaks although they now lacked the cover of the dark forest.
“Why are you here? ” The orc had also had his arms tied behind his back and sat on the floor, his head still even with the raised elf. The leader of the group pointed his scimitar towards the two before him. “An assassin and a blood hound waltz into here on a day they burn our trees...” Solvin scowled as he glanced back at his captor, blood dripping from his neck and forehead.
“I was telling the truth..we’re here to talk.” The druid growled in annoyance and slashed his scimitar into the orc who roared.   
“You aren’t even talkin’ to me  ” He barked as the druid gripped Solvin’s hair, pulling him back.
“Why are you helping the humans?  Why  ” Solvin stared at the mask that faced him as he breathed heavily.
“He’s not  Honestly ” Keziah called out as the man pulled her back. Ren sighed as she ran her hand over her captors.
“....Evan, we’re telling the truth.” Solvin’s eyes widened as the druid released his hair.
“Ren..?” The man holding the thin woman released her, before pulling her to face him.
“Ren? ” Aramil pulled his mask off and stared in awe as he quickly embraced her.
“Evan..” Solvin glared over his shoulder at the druid. “EVAN ” He growled and pulled his hands free from the bounds. “You attacked up ” He grabbed the mask and ripped it from his brother’s face.
“Hey  Hey  Come on Solvin...I had to make sure you were on the right side  You are an assassin remember? You kill whoever pays the least  I wouldn’t have really killed you ” Evan laughed as he grinned at his younger brother. Solvin released Evan’s cloak and sighed, rubbing his neck. “I mean, we had orders to terminate visitors...lucky, we saw friendly faces  Hi Kezi ” Evan waved at Keziah who smiled with relief.
“If you ask me...” The man spoke behind her as he removed his mask. “I’d rather keep with the orders...” Gylth’s eyes met with Solvin who smirked.
“I knew it..” A gasp was forced through Keziah’s teeth as she turned and stared at her friend behind her.
“Gyl..” Tears flooded her eyes as she wrapped her arms around his neck. “I thought you were dead, oh Gylth  I’m so happy your okay.” His strong arms wrapped around the elf’s thin frame as Solvin folded his arms.
“So this is the famous Keziah, eh?” Aramil leaned over, nudging Gylth who shoved him away. Ren smiled and pulled Aramil into a kiss.
“So glad this all turned out for the best..?” Mara raised an eyebrow than looked back at the figure behind her. “Are you by chance my brother, Mo’rn?” The mask was removed as Ser’na hissed.
“No...”
“Shucks.” Evan laughed as he escorted his brother and the orc into Trylli’s hut.
“Go get healed up boys.” Keziah pulled away from Gylth before walking over to van, hugging him as well. Torrik removed his mask as he glanced his eyes to Gylth, before looking to Keziah.
“I haven’t seen you in forever either ” A kiss graced her forehead as Evan cupped her cheeks.
“Pop and I got in a fight...don’t expect me back there anytime soon.” Keziah’s brow wrinkled as she frowned at the man before her.
“Fight..?”
“Ah, what are you bother me for anyway..it’s Gyl you thought was dead  Go slather him with attention ” Evan turned Keziah around and pushed her into Gylth’s arms. “Now you two behave  I’ll go get everyone’s weapons ” He snatched a rope and descended the side of the tree trunk.



“Gyl..if you didn’t die..what happened?” Keziah folded her legs as she sat on the rug beside a short table. Gylth poured them tea as he sat down across from her.
“I just got attacked..killed the wolf and decided for a change of environment..don’t worry about it.” His eyes glanced from Keziah and the table. “Never imagined finding you here..” Tears brimmed Keziah’s eyes once more as Gylth trailed off his sentence.
“I thought you were dead..so once you were gone, I left..I missed Solvin and didn’t want to be without him if you were there...so I went out on my own and we happened upon each other again...I was very lucky..and now I’ve found you Gyl  You both can come home ” Gylth sighed and put his cup down.
“I’m not coming home..” Wide eyes stared at him as Keziah fumbled the question.
“What? Why not?  You’ve gotten so much stronger Gylth  You would be fine ” His arms rested against the table top as he stared into his swirling tea.
“But I’m happy here..I have actual friends..” Gylth bit his tongue as soon as he turned to face a sorrowful look in Keziah’s eyes.
“Oh..”
“Kez  I didn’t–I..I’m sorry..that came out wrong...I haven’t felt well today..you’ll have to forgive my dulled wits...” He covered his face with his palm. Keziah laid a hand on Gylth’s shoulder and gave them a soft pat.
“I understand..you’re my best friend Gyl, nothing can replace you.” As soon as the smile returned to Gylth’s cheek, his door swung open. Solvin stepped in, glancing around the larger hut.
“Nice place..” Solvin eyed Gylth who scowled a bit. “Gylth...” Solvin gave a side swept smile as he extended his right hand. “Welcome back to amongst the living..” Gylth raised an eyebrow as he laid his hand on Solvin’s forearm to shake it. Quickly, Solvin dug his fingers into the bandage that wrapped the boy’s wound. Pain shot up Gylth’s spine as his eyes widened. The two kept eye contact, affirming the fact they both learned something from that handshake. Keziah glanced between them both before pulling Solvin to sit by her.
“Well I’m glad you like it here Gyl..but you should at least stop by and let people know you’re alive...” She wrung her hands as the man before her looked away from her.
“Why bother. My father’s been wanting me dead...perhaps its for the best.” Solvin glanced around the room as he sighed.
“I doubt he thinks your dead. He might be chemically unbalanced, but he’s not a moron.” He looked over to Gylth who frowned slightly. “I’m just saying..it’s not all that believable that you were eaten by a wolf.”
“Well perhaps I want to leave it at that. He might think I’m alive, but what’s he going to do about it?” The lycan gestured towards Solvin who raised an eyebrow.
“Come find you and finish the job?” Silence filled the room as Solvin smiled cooly at Gylth who sighed in anger.
“That’s just what you want isn’t it?” A growl rumbled as Gylth snapped at Solvin who raised his hands.
“I was never saying that but if you want to make it personal, sure. Why not? One less problem for all of us.” Keziah frowned and glared at hm.
“Solvin  ” Gylth slammed his hands down on the table, snarling towards Solvin.
“If I’m such a problem, Solvin  Be a man and face me head on then ” A smirk flew across Solvin’s lips as Keziah paled.
“Gladly. Although I don’t know where you learned about facing problems head on..you’ve always just ran away.” Gylth rose, almost knocking over the table.
“I’m not running now, am I?” He clawed the front of Solvin’s armor and jolted him up. “Plus you’re an assassin, it’s your job to be a coward ” He dragged Solvin out of the hut and with a powerful swing, tossed him out onto the narrow walk way. The elf gracefully caught himself in a hand stand before pushing himself onto his feet.
“Coward? Ha  If I’m such a coward..than why did I spent the last 20 years putting myself in danger while you played around with girls.” Gylth walked across the walkway, shoving Solvin into the courtyard. A fierce grin spread across his face, baring his fangs.
“Yes, playing around with your girl.” Solvin’s face twisted to anger quickly as Gylth let out a howling laugh. “Ah, I seem to have hit a nerve ” Keziah shouted to the two as she crossed the walkway but to no avail.
“Stop it  Both of you ” She looked around the empty courtyard than to the other huts where doors began to open. They both rose their fists as they circled around one another. Gylth swung two heavy fists as Solvin snaked out of the way. The rogue ducked and dodged skillfully from Gylth’s powerful attacks. The berserker huffed in frustration.
“Well, you are your father’s son.” Solvin sneered as he eyed Gylth.
“Aye, as are you.” With that, Gylth wrinkled his nose in anger. He threw a quick punch as Solvin ducked and threw an uppercut into Gylth’s chin, knocking him back. Keziah covered her mouth as Aramil and Ren came out of their hut, staring in awe that Solvin had struck Gylth. Trylli’s doorway was filled with the curious faces of the others who had joined Keziah and Solvin to the forest. Gylth cracked his neck than turned to face Solvin again.
“You’ll regret that.” He charged Solvin who, as before, dodged out of the way. As Solvin jumped to the side, Gylth reached over, digging his claws into Solvin’s legs and tossing him across the courtyard. Aramil and Tur’nul cheered, applauding Gylth as he walked back over to Solvin, lifting him up by his collar. Keziah covered her mouth once more, wincing as Solvin was tossed again. This time, Solvin caught himself on the table. He leapt off the table and slicked his hair from his face.
“No matter what you do, Gyl. I’m gunna bounce back. Brute force isn’t everything.” Gylth raised and eyebrow as he clapped his hands together.
“It’s not?  Oh why thank you for enlightening me, Solvin  See, I thought it was..cause unlike you..I’m not handed everything in my live...I had to work for it.” Solvin laughed and shook his head as he sighed.
“Obviously not hard enough...cause at the end of the day..you still have nothing.” His eyes turned to Gylth who stared at Solvin. Fury flashed across the elf’s face as he dashed towards Solvin. His swings were now fueled by a rage, powerful but clumsy and not thought out. Solvin easily kept up with the berserker, dodging each swing. Finally a blow struck beneath Solvin’s rips and the elf doubled over. As Solvin bent over, Gylth linked his fists together than brought them down on the back of his neck. Gylth stood proudly as his comrades cheered for him. Solvin painfully rose and sat on his heels. Blood flowed from his nose as he looked up to Gylth before him.
“See, at the end of the day...I do have something.” Solvin smiled weakly ad blood dripped over his lips.
“But do you really..?” He held his aching chest as he looked towards Keziah who stared in horror at what just happened. Gylth looked back quickly, his eyes catching with Keziah. “...this is why you’ll never have her Gylth..” Solvin breathed as a daze spread over his eyes. The lycan looked over as Solvin fell back against the ground. A fury burned inside him again and before he could stop himself, Gylth thrust the toe of his boot into his ribs swiftly.
“Gylth ” Keziah ran over, pushing him away from Solvin. She stared him, shocked and almost scared. “...what’s happened to you? ” She rose her hand, wanting to slap him but afraid to provoke him. “Get away..” She backed up than kneeled next to Solvin.
“What happened here?” Anastrianna strolled over from her hut, staring at the scene. Torrik and Evan walked behind her; at the sight of what happened, Evan ran over to his brother aside Keziah.
“Solvin ” The female druid stepped forward, looking from Gylth to the battered Solvin.
“.......” She frowned at Gylth than looked to the others. “How dare you encourage him to fight like this  Especially the day of the moon.” She turned to Gylth who was already thinking badly about the situation thanks to Solvin’s words. “Gylth...” She pulled him into a kiss than laid a hand on his chest. “Go back to your hut.” Anastrianna watched as Gylth walked, Aramil, Ren and Tur’nul joining him for a cheer up. “I’m very sorry.” She bowed to Evan and Keziah who had now been joined by Trylli. Keziah wiped her eyes and waved a hand to the woman.
“It’s fine..Solvin should know better than to fight with Gylth anyway...I’d just never seen them like this before...” Evan glanced to Anastrianna who stared at Keziah cooly, instantly knowing she was the famed woman Gylth loved.
“Ah..of course..” She straightened up than looked to Evan who looked at them, almost expecting another brawl. “Take care of your brother, Evan. I will expect you back in my hut later for us to continue our conversation.” She turned and left quickly leaving Evan confused.
“Mmm, she’s not happy.” Keziah glanced to him than back to Solvin whose hand she held. Trylli laid her hand on Solvin’s ribs.
“He’s lucky..only some broken bones...he also got a bit jogged by that hit on the head but he’ll be fine..” The gnome snapped and her dire weasel came darting out. Ch’k wiggled it’s head under Solvin and hefted the elf onto his back. Keziah watched Solvin be escorted into the hut as Evan kneeled next to her.
“You alright hun?” Her shoulders shagged as she leaned against the druid.
“...just..shocked...Gylth. I can’t believe he acted like that...he was so good about controlling himself in the village..” The wind rustled the foliage around them while Evan hugged the girl.
“Oh honey, things change...you should talk to Gylth...he’ll have something to tell you.”




The sky began to dim as the setting sun sent shades of red and orange through the clouds. Keziah walked shyly towards Gylth’s hut, almost afraid talk to him about what had happened. Her ears pricked as she heard voices inside the hut as she approached it. An open window peaked her intrigue as she searched for the owners of the voices.
“I can’t believe you!” A female voice shouted. Keziah bit her lip as her eyes fell upon the druid woman she had met not but a few moments ago. Before her sat Gylth, his head hanging heavily leaving his hair as a ebony curtain to his face.  “You still love that woman don’t you?! So after everything, you still feel nothing for me?” Her voice quivered as she stared at the motionless Gylth. “So it’s true then...” Anger quickly replaced the sadness that covered the woman’s face. “You’re filth! How dare you! Here I thought you’d be different!” She slapped Gylth, snapping him back to reality; his eyes rose to look at her. “Don’t you at least have anything to say..after all this time, you’ve just been playing me...someone to play with til your real love reappeared!!” Gylth ran his hands through his hair and sighed heavily.
“Ana..please..just–“
”Just what?! Wait? I told you before..I don’t look back, I don’t wait and I don’t escape my problems. Perhaps its time you become a real man and face these facts yourself!” A pained shiver ran up Gylth’s back as he doubled over.
“A-ana..just..leave me..alone..please..” The woman scowled and smacked Gylth once more. With that, the boy rose in a blur. The back of his hand whipped across Anastrianna’s face with enough power to knock her to the floor. Instantly Gylth gasped and scrambled to grab her. “Ana! Oh god, I..I didn’t mean to! I’m so sorry..Ana, please..” Anastrianna stood up quickly, stepping far away from Gylth. Blood ran from her nose as her cheek was bright red.
“I don’t want to hear it..none of it. Ever again.” Her eyes turned to the floor as she touched her face. “The moon is almost risen..hurry and get down to the forest..” She turned and pushed through the cloth door, her eyes instantly turning to the eavesdropper by the window. Keziah jumped up and opened her mouth to explain but the woman stormed off before her words came. She jolted as Gylth emerged from the door after the woman.
“..Kezi..?” Gylth’s tired eyes turned to the elf with shock. “Why..why are you here...?” She choked on her words for a moment.
“..um..I was..worried about you...you’ve changed..and...” She gasped for a moment as she looked to Gylth. “Are you okay?” A sickly aura hung over the man before her; his face was drained of color while his hair hung heavily over his darkened eyes. A glint of red flickered from his eyes as a weak smile curled up his gray lips.
“...no..Keziah, I’m not okay...this is actually the reason I left the tribe...” He grimaced and stumbled forward, Keziah catching him. His bones began to ache inside his body as his blood yearned for the moon. He took Keziah’s hands as he stood, his arms shaking. “..I was attacked...by a werewolf that night...so..I ran..and I ended up here...I’ve been so on edge today because of the full moon..I’m so sorry Kez...I gotta go..” He pulled away from her and turned, leaping from the side of his porch. The feather fall spell carried to lycan as his transformation began.. Four padded paws touched the floor as soon as the spell lifted and left him on the forest grounds. A howl escaped the werewolf’s thick jaws, echoed the trees above.




Keziah ran towards Trylli’s hut, bursting in to wear Solvin was resting. Evan jolted from his nap and looked to Keziah who bee lined to her swords.
“Kez?” Evan questioned her as he scratched the back of his head. “Where are you going..?” She strapped her swords on as she headed towards the door.
“Gylth went down into the forest..something about a werewolf..he didn’t look good! I have to help him!” Quickly, she darted from the hut leaving Evan in a speechless stare.
“Oh no..she has no idea what a werewolf is..” The druid leapt up, snatching his scimitar as he eyed his unconscious brother.
“Sometime for you to be asleep, bro.” Evan ran out into the courtyard, giving a loud yell. “Aramil!!! Bring your silver daggers, we got a lose kitten.” Evan jumped off the edge, after Keziah. After a long fall, he landed softly on his feet. Keziah was not to far in front of him and luckily there was no sign of Gylth. “Keziah! Get over here now!!” The elf gasped as Evan grabbed her arms roughly.
“What? Gylth might be hurt!!” Evan sighed heavily as he glanced around, paranoid.
“Hun, Gylth is the one doing the hurting. I am starting to see you don’t understand the werewolf..” His eyes darted the environment once more. “Now, see...a werewolf is an evil creature. It has a cursed bite...now..whenever it bites someone, they become a werewolf. So every full moon, these normal people turn into a blood thirsty wolf who wants nothing less than carnage and the spread it’s disease.” Keziah’s face paled as she chewed her lips.
“Oh..poor Gyl..” Both the elves shivered as a snarl came from the tree’s around them.
“Oh fun..” Evan turned to face the dots of red that shone from the darkness. “Evening Gylth..” He slid his weapon from his sheath, pushing Keziah behind him. The black wolf snarled as he stepped from the shadows. Its fur was darker in places where Gylth’s tattoos were once on his skin. A whimper came from Keziah and she drew her swords.
“We can’t hurt him, Evan...” The wolf barked and stalked towards the two elves, the furt bristling on it’s neck.
“We might not have a chance..” Evan stared at the beast as it eyed them hungrily. “Keziah, go!” Evan shoved Keziah towards the trees while the wolf snarled, leaping towards Evan. The large wolf forced Evan into the ground, trying desperately to snap at him. Evan clenched the fur that clumped under the wolves jaw. “GO!” Evan yelled at the panicked woman as he gripped the failing wolf. Scratched tore at Evan’s flesh, dripping blood which drove the wolf into a frenzy. Keziah stared, desperately wanting to save Evan but she couldn’t bring herself to attack this beast that she knew would turn back into her best friend in the morning.
“Evan..” The druid gave out a cry as he threw the werewolf off of him.
“Go!” Evan took her arm and ran towards the tall tree trunks. “We need to get–AH!” Evan gave out a cry of pain as he was pulled from Keziah. The jaws of the werewolf were clamped around the thin calf of Evan. He drove his free leg between the red eyes that stared down at him. Before he could realize what happened, an arrow shot into the wolf’s neck. With a yelp, the wolf fell to the floor.
“Quick! Get him up to Trylli!” Solvin called as he emerged from under his cloak. Pain overtook Evan who collapsed to the floor as Aramil appeared to take him.
“Solvin..” Keziah ran into the arms of her lover, sobbing. Solvin winced slightly, his wounds not fully healed.
“Don’t worry...he’ll be okay..just paralyzing him till we can leave..” He wrapped his cloak around Keziah and helped her up to the colony aided by a spider climb spell.



Screams of agony rung from Trylli’s hut as Solvin sat with Keziah in the courtyard. They both cringed at Evan’s cries; luckily for him, Trylli has supplied herself with the cure for the werewolves bite since Gylth’s arrival.
“He’ll be fine.” Keziah looked over to Solvin, rubbing his knee. “But as for you..” She lifted his cloak, raising an eyebrow at his lack of any armor. Only bandages were wrapped around his torso. “Jumping down into a battle with no armor..and only one arrow...what if you had missed..?” The elf smiled as he kissed her softly.
“I don’t miss..” The moment shattered with another groaning yell from Evan. Keziah covered her ears and curled under Solvin’s arm.
“Did it hurt like that for Gylth...?” Solvin looked down at the shivering woman before he wrapped his arms around her.