::Forests of Damili::

Chapter 6


Rays of the morning sun filtered through the tree tops, splattering light onto the roofs of the huts that grew from the trunks. Within one of these huts slept Evan Surion who only  hours earlier had his calf torn open by the jaws of a werewolf. Wraps of wolfbane coated the elf’s injury and was mashed into any liquid or food he would ingest for the next couple days. Although the werewolves curse was not the toughest disease to reverse, it took plenty of patience and wolfbane. The slim figure of a woman snaked through the drawn curtain, eyeing the elf who laid on the floor. Ser’na kneeled next to Evan, brushing his crimson hair from his eyes.
“Vhat a fool of a man you are...” She glanced over as the curtain was pulled aside; Kiru ducked his large form through the hit opening, his wings folding closely towards him.
“I thought it would be appropriate to aid the healing of sir Evan. It’s the least I can do to replay the kindness you all have bestowed on us.” Ser’na quickly moved her hand from Evan’s brow and smiled stiffly.
“Our pleasssure, you all wish to help us in our struggle. It is our duty to protect our allies.” The dragon nodded his head as he kneeled, laying his clawed hand on Evan’s legs.



“What do you mean you refuse negotiations ?” Solvin scowled as he stared at Anastrianna who casually lounged in her throne.
“I will not be on peaceful terms with these humans. I promised them a war and that is exactly what I will bring them. Tur’nul, Torrick, Mara and those two quiet men of your group have left to go fetch me allies and announce my decision to them.” Her bear groaned as it shifted where it slept. “You can leave now.” The elf before her growled and got to his feet.
“Listen, I’m trying to help you  That city has an endless army  They’ll destroy you  ” The druid ignored him, adjusting her boot sandals.
“I’m sorry but I don’t hear you leaving.” Solvin sighed and stormed out of the hut.
“That woman  I swear she’s–“
”Stubborn?” A weak voice caught Solvin by surprise, twisting him to face Gylth. The lycan leaned against the railing of the patio; a miserable aura surrounded the heavy shouldered elf as he lifted his eyes towards Solvin. Silence engulfed them both as Solvin stared at the pitiful looking man before him. Through all the hate he felt for this man, seeing him in this state shifted Solvin’s thoughts towards pity.
“Gylth...” He swallowed heavily as the lycan smiled weakly.
“Don’t look so surprised Solvin, you knew what I was from the start..didn’t you?” His heavy eyes turned away from the red head, staring at his feet.
“Yeah, ever since Keziah told me she thought you were dead.” Solvin watched Gylth for a moment. “You alright?” A shiver ran up the lycan’s back, his eyes looking up again.
“I’m..sorry about Evan....” Anguish wrinkled into Gylth’s brow as he looked away from the man before him. “I didn’t mean to..I’d never....”
“I know. Evan’ll be fine.” Solvin smiled warmly and patted Gylth’s shoulder comfortingly.  “Don’t get so bogged down about it, you’re depressing enough as it is.” Gylth nodded slightly as Solvin walked off towards the courtyard.


“I saw that.” Keziah hooked her arm in Solvin’s as he was walking through the courtyard. “You were nice to Gylth.” Solvin stopped walking, taking Keziah’s hands. They kissed before Solvin spoke.
“I’ve killed a werewolf or two in my travels..but I’ve never once seen a werewolf the day after...and after hearing the fuss Evan made..I know it can’t be the pleasant thing and he’s had to do that about four times so far. The kid deserves a break, even if just for today.” A bright smile bolted across Keziah’s lips as she embraced her lover.
“I love you Solvin  I’m so glad you’re going to be nice ” Solvin rolled his eyes, chuckling.
“Can I go see my brother now?” The two parted with a kiss; Solvin left to his brother and Keziah found her way towards Gylth.

“Gyl..?” Keziah walked quietly across the walkway, eyeing Gylth who avoided her gaze. “About yesterday..I was a little harsh. I didn’t know what you’ve been through..it was mean of me to think things would be perfect..I’m sorry.” Once she finished talking, Gylth laid a hand on her shoulder.
“Don’t worry about it, alright..?” A sad smiled curled across the lycan’s exhausted face. “I was outta line yesterday...days of the full moon aren’t exactly kind to me..” Keziah wrapped her thin arms around the boy’s neck, embracing him tightly.
“I’m so sorry Gyl..” She laid her nose on his tunic as she felt his strong arms return the hug. Gylth let out a heavy sigh, glancing at the curtain of ebony hair as Keziah laid her head against his neck. He brushed his fingers through her hair than pulled her off his shoulder. Their eyes met for a moment before Gyl slid his hand up Keziah’s cheek. He pulled her into a kiss; Surprising herself, Keziah simply closed her eyes and leaned into it. Gylth ran his hand up Keziah’s back as he kissed her passionately. Keziah’s mind raced as she remained pressed against the open lips of her closest friend. After a moment, she snapped her eyes open and shoved away from him. A hand instantly covered her lips as everything flooded her mind at once. “..oh no...” She shook her head as Gylth let go of her, allowing her to take off running.
“Satisfied yet?” Gylth jolted and looked back at Anastrianna who stared at him from her doorway. He expected anger from her but was surprised to find she only eyed him sadly.





Solvin sighed as he exited the cleric’s hut into the mid day sunlight. His brother was still resting and hadn’t been awake since the attack. The colony was quiet as Solvin wondered into the courtyard; almost everyone was out preparing for the war that was soon to come. His eyes caught sight of Keziah who had climbed out onto a tree limb. A smooth smile ran across his face as he snuck up the branch, crouching behind her.
“Whatcha doing?” Solvin spoke as he plopped down, his legs hanging on each side of Keziah. The elf gasped and swayed forward, stopped by Solvin’s arms that wrapped around her.
“S-Solvin..” Keziah laughed nervously as she looked back at her love. “Solvin..” She sighed and leaning back into his arms. “Oh Solvin....I realized something today..” He raised his eyebrow as he rested his arms around her.
“Oh? What’s that?” A breeze blew past them as Keziah ran her fingers over Solvin’s hands.
“Well, one..I realized how much I love you...” To this, Solvin smiled and leaned his head against the elf’s before him. “And secondly...I haven’t been fully honest with you about my background..” She wrapped her thin fingers around Solvin’s hands as she stared down at them. “I wasn’t kidnaped from my home by those slave traders....I was out on my own. My tribe has a sort of thing similar to what you boys do..go on your own to prove yourselves...but...my tribe is a lot different. Umm...my..my mother has demon in her blood...and there for, so do I. As does my sister and my brother. We are supposed to do this awful ceremony to prove our power and if we fail, we die. I have yet to complete it..and the only reason I left after Gylth did, was because my mother came to the village. She was going to kill them all if I didn’t finish my task..so here I am....endangering everyone because I’ve been neglecting my duties and not telling you of my demon blood.” She sighed and closed her eyes tightly, expecting Solvin to leave her instantly. Instead, his arms pulled her closer and his lips kissed the back of her head.
“Keziah..” She looked over her shoulder, staring at the copper haired elf. “You honestly think some demon blood is going to scare me off? There’s worse things you could be.” He ran a thin finger under her chin and kissed her. “I love you Keziah, nothings going to change that.”
“How sure of that are you?” The two jolted and looking down at the courtyard where Anastrianna stood, her quarterstaff firmly in the ground. A broad smile stretched across her face as she stared up at the couple. Keziah paled a tad as her eyes darted from Solvin to the druid who smirked sharply. “Why the long face darling? If you’re so sure of your love for this boy, why so shy to tell him of your little..” She pursed her lips and mocked a kiss. Solvin wrinkled his brow and pulled his legs back from around Keziah, back flipping down before Anastrianna who gasped. “Well ”
“What are you talking about?” Solvin scowled, frowning at the woman who wrinkled her nose cutely.
“Asking the wrong gal.” She nodded towards Keziah who still sat on the tree branch. The colony was silent as Solvin stared back up at her.
“Kez..what’s she talking about?” The she-elf shivered from the stare, averting her eyes from her lover.
“It was nothing Solvin..it doesn’t need to be brought up really..” Anastrianna chuckled as she rolled her eyes, nudging her staff into Solvin.
“If it’s nothing, why hide it?” She slung her arm around Solvin’s neck and smiled smoothly. “Tell me, in your tribe..how would one respond to their lover kissing another? Would that be a big deal?” Solvin’s eyes widened slightly as he frowned. “I take that as a yes...and now use your imagination..who here would want your lover’s lips?” Touching her fingers to the boy’s chin, she turned his eyes towards Keziah. The woman bit her lip and leapt from the tree.
“Solvin, it really wasn’t anything  Please, don’t–“ She was silenced as Solvin waved a hand. He shook his head as he stepped back from her.
“Not now.” Turning, he stepped off the side of the courtyard. The spell carried him safely to the forest floor where he disappeared. Keziah let out a sob as she turned to Anastrianna with a snarl.
“Why would you do that ? What have I ever done to you  ” The druid grinned and let out  sigh.
“Nothing you’ve done..just the effect you’ve had on Gylth that kept his thoughts away from me...” She blinked and looked to the tree’s as they rumbled with a loud roar. “Oh  Well, there’s our new ally.” She glanced back as the doors opened to the huts around them. Aramil popped his head from his hut, Ren peeking out over his shoulder.
“Hey boss, what was that?” Trylli and Ser’na joined them in the confusion.
“Everything okay..?” The gnome questioned as her weasel hissed from behind them.
“Everything is just great everyone..” With that the tree tops above them parted and the head of a green dragon snaked into the clouds. It’s fins were worn from it’s old age as the colossal beast tore into the sky with a fierce cry. With the dragon’s roar, the city to the horizon began to steam. There was an explosion as a cannon shot into the treetops; the humans had excepted the terms of war. Anastrianna gave a laugh as she turned towards the others that swiftly ascended to the courtyard. Torrik removed his skull mask and bowed to his leader.
“Ma’am. The ancient dragon has accepted our alliance and he will gather the beasts of our forest to join at our side. The orc and human however have abandoned us..however, I doubt they will survive heading to the city. This is our war, they will not strike until we have.” Tur’nul and Mara also removed their masks as Torrik spoke. Keziah rubbed her arm nervously as she glanced towards the city.
“But..human’s are tricky..who says they won’t attack anyway?” The others turned towards Keziah than glanced to Anastrianna who sighed.
“Well, than we’ll be prepared. Tur’nul, Ser’na. Go down and use your magic to negate any sneak attacks these humans might attempt.” The fawn bowed his head than turned, waiting as the sorcerous dawned her mask and joined the man. They leapt down into the trees. “There. Ms Mara, we will save your magic for the battle field since you also wield a blade.” Mara nodded and glanced at a still nervous Keziah. “Everyone get ready. Before the sun shifts, I want all of us ready for battle.” She laid a hand on Torrik’s side as he flew into the air, towards her hut.
“Kez?” Mara patted the elf’s shoulder, jolting her back to life. “You okay?”
“I-I’m fine ” She waved her hands with a false smile. This however didn’t trick the gray elf. “..alright..I’m..not..kinda messed up things between me and Solvin..and now there’s a war ready to happen.” The two women sat on the floor together as the rest of them prepared.
“Hey now, I’m sure it’ll all be okay.”



Within the hour, a scream shook the forest sending birds flocking into the sky. The masked druids flew down from the colony like a herd of stallions galloping down a mountain. Weapons were drawn quickly as they slid down the trees and into shadows. The source of the scream was splayed on the forest floor. There laid Tur’nul and Ser’na; the ground was wet with their blood. “NO  ” Aramil shouted as he leapt out of his invisibility and to his fallen friend. “Tur ” He lifted his friend but instantly dropped him with disgust. A circular chunk was cleanly ripped from the top of his head and the interior was clean of all gray matter. The half-human covered his mouth as he turned away. “What did this..?” Ren kneeled next to her lover and glanced back at Evan who had joined them.
“I don’t know but we’ll find out. Ren, Aramil. Stay here with me. Anastrianna: you and Torrik go north, Gylth and Trylli head south, Keziah and Mara..you ladies go west.” With that the teams split and took off into their respective directions. Evan kneeled next to Ser’na, examining her also caved out skull. “What are we dealing with..”
“Ilithids.” The trio jumped and turned, weapon’s drawn. Solvin dropped down from a nearby tree with a smirk. “Calm down.” His brother sighed heavily and embraced Solvin.
“Solvin..Keziah said you ran off. I’m glad you’re okay..now what’s this ilithid?” the ranger walked over and squatted before the emptied skulls.
“A very dangerous creature...I don’t know what one is doing here..they normally live in the underdark..but see here.” He indicated the gaping hole. “They are tentacle faced creatures that devour the brains of intelligent creatures. Acid from their tentacles can melt through the strongest metals at a simple touch...this is not good.” He straightened up and glanced around the scenery. “...there’s only one of it..and it headed...west.” He pointed through the woods that headed towards the city. Solvin took in his breath. “Keziah went that way..” Before Evan could respond, his younger brother took off in a sprint.
“Solvin  Wait  ” Evan grimaced as pain shot up his leg. “Ah..dammit..Aramil, go get him.” The ninja nodded and instantly disappeared as he took off after the elf.




Another explosion shook the forest, knocking Solving to his feet. Fire shot up the trunks of the trees as soldiers began their raid. The ranger pulled his hood up, ducking into the shadows. The forest shook once more as the tree’s were doused in shadow. The green dragon spread its wings wide as it thrust itself into the troops that had yet entered the forest. Solvin glanced over as swarms of dire creatures flooded through the trees along with the druids masked in the death skulls. The two sets of troops crashed like rogue waves in an ocean. Sparks and fire flew into the air as blood splattered the ground. Solvin’s eyes caught Keziah who swung her swords into the men before her. Relief flew over him, knowing she was safe. With that, he drew his bow, climbing into the tree he stood before. He perched and began to fire trios of arrow into the soldier’s below him. Chaos swarmed through the forest as beasts tore at soldiers and fire flew up the trunks of trees. In the city, the green dragon destroyed the factories that endangered his home. Before long, another dragon rose to battle this aged monster. A younger silver dragon had lived in the city as a fair maiden and now she exposed her true self. The simmering claws of the smaller beast tore at the emerald dragon, sending it crashing into the trees. Solvin gasped as his tree snapped, sending him flying through the air. With a crunch, he landed atop an unsuspecting person. The two rose back to their feet and there was a moment of stillness as Solvin and Gylth stared at one another. Gylth went wide eyed and opened his mouth but before he could the ranger’s fist crushed his nose.
“I deserved that ” Gylth called as he rose to his feet, flicking the blood from his face. “Not now Solvin, if you want a moment to beat the shit out of me, let’s work to get this whole situation over with okay? ” He barked, eyeing Solvin who seemed more surprised that the assault didn’t send the barbarian into a frenzy.
“Fine..” He jumped back, shooting arrows into the crowd as Gylth leapt into the crowd of armored humans. Anger boiled in the back of Solvin’s skull as he tried his hardest to focus on the war festering before him. Images flickered before his eyes of Keziah in the arm of the brute. “I can’t wait for this to end..” He growled as his arrows whizzed through the helmet of a warrior. A shiver ran up Solvin’s spine as he sucked in a breath. Acid snaked through his muscles, freezing them. The back of his skull grew hot as a new pain soared through his body. A purple tentacle of an ilithid slithered up the back of his neck and dug through Solvin’s skin as if it were putty. The creature stood behind him, grasping his shoulder’s with its thin fingers. Its face was like that of a four legged octopus with liquid white eyes. Another wave of pain shoot through Solvin as he felt the creature scream in pain. The tentacle was ripped from the back of his skull as the elf buckled towards the ground.
“Whoa  Solvin  You alright ?” Aramil pulled his mask off and kneeled by the elf who writhed in pain. His hands clawed at his bleeding head, moaning. An explosion blasted from the city once more, knocking a large tree towards the crowd that battled. It stopped short of crushing the crowd; Gylth stood, his sword digging into the tree as he hefted it above him.
“Everyone move  ” The barbarian howled as he thrust the tree towards the city. A bolt flew through the tree, exploding it into the shards. At the opening of the forest stood Mantreh, her tail of hair flicking in the wind as she held her staff high. Only one cloaked ilithid stood behind her now, it’s visible tentacles waving. Gylth stared at her than gasped, the familiar scent rushing to his senses. “You were the one studying us  You learned our weaknesses so you can destroy us...” He turned towards the rest of the druids, shouting. “We have to turn back  Now ” His eyes turned back to Mantreh who smiled brightly, the orc that had joined them earlier joining her side. With that, Mantreh flew towards Gylth. A silver dagger extended from her flowing sleeves. The orc aimed a cross bow towards the clouds and raised his long sword towards the others. The ilithid ran after Mantreh, leaping towards Mara who moved to aid Gylth. Time seamed frozen as the druids found themselves at a disadvantage. Arrows tore at Torrik’s wings, sending him crashing towards the soldier’s who waited with drawn blades. Mantreh growled as she struggled to slice at Gylth who snarled, hurling her against a tree. Magic flames curled around the ilithid, pulling it away from Mara.
“Mara ” An unfamiliar elf pulled her to her feet, blasting a fireball from the blade of his sword into the ilithid. Anastrianna leapt onto Mantreh, landing blurs of punches into the woman’s chest and face. Blood splattered from the armored soldiers as the druids stood their ground as soon as they had fallen. Keziah gave a savage cry as she raged through the soldiers. Vines grew around the legs of the panicked men, giving Keziah and Gylth easier targets for their swords to find. The vicious battle carried on for a few more hours until the soldiers began to their retreat. Blood of their comrades had soiled the ground and barely any of their enemy. Mantreh was slain by the hand of Anastrianna who now wielded her staff. Gylth panted heavily as he sat on a decapitated corpse. Beside Mara stood an armored mage who was a striking resemblance of herself. The air was heavy with death as the human’s left the druids in a scene of carnage. Evan wiped his brow, glancing around. Torrik laid with the corpses of the soldier’s that had defeated him as did Trylli. The gnome was tossed aside, her faithful weasel laying at peace with her.
“Solvin ” Keziah gave a cry that pulled the others out of their trance. Aramil walked over, the limp elf in his arms. Evan shoved through the others and took his brother from the blonde’s arms.
“It’s okay, he’s alive..” Blood had clotted from the back of his skull but the wound had taken its toll on the thin man. Keziah brushed the elf’s hair from his brow, kissing him.
“What happened?” Aramil wrinkled his nose as he wiped Solvin’s blood from his arms.
“Those ilithid things almost got him.” The man indicated the back of Solvin’s head as Evan ran his hand through his brother’s hair. Blood coated his palm.
“We should get to the colony..is everyone else okay?” He looked around at the battered and bruised crew around him. “Alright..everyone, in the trees.”
The sky turned violet as solemn druids returned to their homes. Anastrianna meditated in the middle of the courtyard as the others began to tend to their own wounds. In place of Trylli, Evan was acting as the main healer. Solvin was laid aside with Keziah as he rested, his wounds bound. Mara winced as her time finally came and Evan’s hands roughly felt her wound.
“Ow  Man, be careful ” Evan chuckled and sighed, wiping his brow.
“Sorry hun. It’s been a long day.” A warm glow wrapped around her wound as Evan laid his hand above it. “So that guy is your brother huh?” He indicated towards the door where her brother sat outside. The gray elf smiled brightly as she watched Evan heal her wounded arm.
“Yup  His name is Mo’rn..he was working as a guard for that Mantreh girl but don’t hold that against him  He’s really a nice guy ” Evan laughed as he wrapped some herbs around her thin arm.
“I don’t doubt it  Alright, you’re good to go ” He handed her a vile of a greenish potion. “Give that to Mo’rn, he’ll feel better.” Mara took the vile and nodded, leaving the hut. “Woo...well I’m gettin’ tired..” Evan turned his heads towards his unconscious brother and Keziah. “He still okay?” The black haired elf didn’t glance up as she stroked her hand through Solvin’s copper bangs.
“He hasn’t woken up...he hasn’t even moved..” Concern wrapped around the girl’s words as Evan scooted over towards them.
“Be paitent Keziah...the poor kid has a whole through his skull and is gunna have some definite brain damage when he does wake up..” Evan lifted his brother’s head from Keziah’s lap, feeling the back of the bloody bandage with his fingers. Solvin’s head instantly rolled back, a scream forcing itself from his throat as his body shuddered in pain. In a panic, Evan pulled his hands away; Keziah wrapped her arms around the elf, stroking his cheek.
“Solvin ” The elf pushed away from her, rolling onto his stomach. Blood stained the back of his head as the man curled around himself, groaning in agony. “Stop moving  Solvin  Stop, you’re hurt ” Keziah gently grasped his biceps, laying a hand on his back. Evan folded up a clean towel, resting it on the back of Solvin’s bandaged head. The two helped bring Solvin into a seated position, leaning against Keziah. “Solvin?” She smoothed back the elf’s hair as he stared blankly around the room.
“W-where..where am..I?” His hand weakly felt as the towel behind him. “What..happened..?” Evan crossed his legs as he sat next to him, helping keep his brother sitting.
“You got hurt Solvin...pretty bad. You’re safe now and that’s all that matters. How are you feeling?” The elf grimaced as his eyes rolled closed.
“...I can’t..really say how badly this hurts...in a way for you..to understand...” His hand reached out, feeling for his brother. “Evan....I want to sleep...” Evan slid his arm away from his brother and took the thin hand with his own.
“You can’t go to sleep yet bud, we wanna make sure you’re okay. You kinda got a hole in your brain.” To that, Solvin’s eyes opened wide and his attention turned to Evan.
“W-what? ” Keziah wrapped her arms around him, stilling the elf who was now struggling to move away. “What do you mean?  How?”
“You were attacked by an illithid...I take it you don’t remember the war?” Solvin shock his pale face, his green eyes fixed on his brother before him. “How about the druids? Aramil, Tur’nul...any bells?” Another head shake. Relief covered Keziah for a moment as she realized Solvin at the moment knew nothing of her and Gylth’s kiss. Then again, he didn’t remember his and Keziah’s talk about her bloodline either.
“Will his memory return?” Evan glanced to Keziah with a soft smile.
“I..am not sure. Within a few days of rest, all his brain damage will heal but I don’t know about his memory. It probably will. Only seems to have lost his memory of the last couple days.” The flap of the hut opened as Gylth stepped in.
“Hey..I just wanted to see if you guys were doin’ okay?” Solvin frowned than looked back at Keziah who rubbed his shoulder.
“Everything’s fine Gylth..thank you.” The barbarian smiled at her than glanced to Solvin who seemed a little perplexed.
“Is..he okay?” Evan stood and smiled, wiping the blood from his hands.
“He will be. Right now he has some brain damage..so he doesn’t quite remember the last couple days.” Gylth smiled brightly and sighed with relief.
“Really?  Oh..I mean..that sucks..” He forced the smile from his face as Keziah shot him a look. Solvin laid a hand on Keziah’s arm, glancing up at her.
“You’re..still dating me right?” Keziah laughed and kissed him.
“Of course I am, trust me..you’re not missing much from that memory of yours. Just some battles and a lot of death.” Solvin let out a sigh and rubbed his forehead.
“Good...”




The sun began to set over the trees as Evan stood in the courtyard. The wind tousled his copper hair as his emerald eyes focused on the orange sky that shone through the trees.
“Evan..” The elf glanced back as Keziah walked towards him. “So, Solvin is really gunna be okay?” A smile folded across his face as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders.
“He will be but I think we should bring him somewhere safer..like home.” Keziah went pale for a moment as she remembered that her mother was there waiting for her.
“Wh-what? Why home?  Why can’t we stay here ” Evan wrinkled his brow in confusion as he slipped his arm from around Keziah.
“Because..there’s a war..notice how half of the people that were here yesterday, aren’t here today?” He sighed and glanced towards the city where smoke rose from factories and most likely burning trees. “What if they attack again? I can’t afford to let anything happen to Solvin. Hell, it’d just give father one more excuse to hate me.” A small smile curled across Evan’s face as Keziah blinked in confusion.
“Evan-“
”If your worried that you can’t protect him by yourself, I’ll send Gylth with you. I’m sure he needs to let everyone know he’s alive.” Keziah sighed and nodded slightly.
“Alright...” She laid a hand on Evan’s shoulder with a smile. “And for what it’s worth, I don’t think Ivallios hates you..” To that, Evan turned to face her. A mask of seriousness coated his smooth face, differing vastly but his usual fun loving demeanor.
“Next time you see my father, look at his right arm. The tattoo he once wore to represent me has been defaced. I know because I saw him do it. Things aren’t as perfect in the Surion family as you might think, honey.” A smiled returned to his cheek as he patted Keziah’s chin. “Don’t let it worry you honey. In due time, the wool will be taken off Solvin’s eyes. Until then I’ll be staying here with my new family, or what’s left of it I’m afraid.” Keziah nodded slightly as she started at Evan who for once was acting like the older brother she always knew him as.
“Thanks Evan.” Evan watched her walk off for a moment before speaking once again.
“One more thing Keziah.” She stopped and turned back to him. “Just because he doesn’t remember something doesn’t mean you can pretend it didn’t happen. Solvin really loves you and it’s only fair for him that you’re honest with him no matter what.” Her eyes trailed towards the ground as she nodded like a child being scolded.
“Yeah, I know..I will..” With that, she made sure to leave faster before Evan could throw more wisdom at her.
“Good.” Evan leaned back against the railing, folding his arms.



---------------------------



The next morning came raising over the tree tops, illuminating the almost empty colony below. Anastrianna perched on the roof of her hut, eyeing the enemy to their side. Thick smoke still curled from the chimneys of their city.  The few survivors stayed in their homes, weary about joining another battle. Mara and her twin, Mor’n, had said their goodbyes and left before the morning sun. Keziah sat quietly in the cleric hut, watching Solvin sleep peacefully. Multiple wraps were pulled around his head, protecting his wound.
“Kez?” Gylth peaked into the hut, glancing at both her and Solvin. “Evan said you were looking for me.” He sat down next to Keziah who didn’t move her eyes off Solvin.
“I know I’m gunna have to argue with you to get you to agree to this...but come back to the village with me..please.” Her eyes shifted to Gylth who seemed a little shocked.
“Oh...ugh..I..don’t know..Kez, they don’t know I’m alive–“
”Exactly ” She turned, snatching both of the boy’s gloved hands. “You can come home and just let everyone know you’re alive  I just need you to help me form here to Damili. Please Gylth, you’re the best choice for this. If I get attacked out there, something could happened to Solvin..but if you’re there...please, Gylth  I really need you to do this for me.” Gylth stared at Keziah’s hands before facing her.
“Kez, Solvin hates me as it is. I doubt he’ll be all to excited to have me acting bodyguard for him. And perhaps it’s best the village thinks I’m dead? Hell, all I am is the son of the lowest family. Who’s gunna miss me? My dad? He just wants me to be alive so he can kill me himself ” Gylth shook Keziah’s hands off and stood up. “You can handle the trip yourself.” Keziah’s jaw slacked as she watched Gylth walk towards the door.
“Are you serious?  Gylth, what’s happened to you?” She rose to her feet and stormed in front on Gylth, blocking the door with her arm. “You’re not turning your back on me  It’s time you stop running from your problems  And you’re wrong  People miss you ” She smiled smally as she leaned against the door frame. “Who else is going to give all the ladies a hand with their goods? They all think you’re dead  I thought you were dead....what if I never came here Gylth? I would be at the village still..thinking that my best friend is dead...and you’d be okay with that.” Silence spread between them as Keziah broke eye contact with Gylth, staring to her feet. Gylth sighed heavily, watching her for a moment.
“There’s something else isn’t there..?” Crimson eyes peaked up through Keziah’s ebony bangs at Gylth.
“..What do you..mean?” Gylth chuckled as he folded his arms, tilting his head towards Keziah.
“Something is waiting for your return at the village isn’t it? Something you want me to protect you from..?” Keziah rose her head, facing Gylth with a weak nod.
“Yeah, my own personal Tyhr...There was something I had to do...and I didn’t do it...I’m no match for her..but I know you would be.” Gylth cupped his hands around Keziah’s face sending a chill down her spine in fear of a repeat of earlier. “I might be a coward to face my problems but I would always protect you, you should have said that first.” Keziah laughed and pulled back from his hands, stepping back from him.
“Well, I thought you’d always do me a favor too..”




The sun was high in the clouds as Keziah and Gylth trudged through the forest on horseback. Behind the horses dragged a ratty cart where Solvin slept. Keziah’s eyes nervously darted between the road and Solvin behind her.
“He’s fine, Kez.” Gylth chuckled as he watched the elf next to him. “I think we’ll feel it if he falls out.” Keziah sighed as she sat straight in her saddle.
“Doesn’t mean I can’t worry..”Silence fell between them as they focused on the road before them. “How long does this trip take?”
“No idea..I was a werewolf when I first made it.” Gylth eyed Keziah who flushed at the cheeks, looking to her horse’s mane.
“Oh...right.” A laugh rippled in the back of Gylth’s throat as he watched Keziah.
“Don’t worry so much...as a wolf, I made the trip in at most ten hours so it shouldn’t take so long by horseback. We’ll probably arrive after night fall.”
“Joy..”


Hours dragged heavily as the forest grew dense around them. The sun had already set and the sky had been violet for hours as the caravan quietly came to a stop outside their home. Gylth dismounted his horse, gripping it’s bridle as he watched Kezi nervously dismount as well. Her eyes darted around their darkened environment before she moved to check on Solvin. The injured elf was carefully helped to his feet as Gylth led the horses and carriage towards the village stables. Panic pulled at Keziah’s heart for a moment as she gripped Solvin’s arm.
“You alright Solvin?” The elf nodded carefully as he held his head; this however didn’t ease the fear for Keziah. All she could imagine was her mother swooping down to destroy them.
“Let’s just get home..I really wanna lay back down..” Solvin whispered as he stepped into the village, staggering a tad.
“Careful ” Keziah squeezed Solvin’s hand as she helped him to his house and through the door. “I hope your father won’t mind us stopping by so late..” Keziah looked around the dark house as they both walked as silently as they could.
“It..feels so weird to be home..after so long..” His hands ran across the familiar walls, aiding with his balance and relaxing him with the thought of finally being home again.
“Who goes there?” The two jolted and turned to face the tip of a blade. Ivallios stood, a sword in one hand and a lit torch in another. The orange glow intensified the elf’s already angular face as he scowled at the intruders. After a moment, his brow lifted and his sword shifted away from them. “Solvin?” He hurried towards them, lighting the lanterns that lit the room. Solvin winced at the light, shading his eyes.
“Hi dad.” His father pulled his son’s arms from his face, instantly turning his attention to the head wound.
“What happened ” Solvin grimaced and pulled away as his father.
“Ow..don’t. My head has a hole in it so I’ve been told..and I really wanna sleep right now.” Ivallios nodded and gestured towards his son’s room.
“It is as you left it.” Keziah watched them, her eyes following Ivallios’s bare chested form. A bandage was wrapped around the elder elf’s right heavily tattooed right bicep. Her thought’s drifted back to Evan and before she knew it, Solvin had already left the room. “Perhap’s you need some rest as well.” Keziah jumped as she looked up at Ivallios who eyed her curiously. “It was wise for you to bring him home, that wound will be the death of him unless he gets the rests he needs.” Keziah nodded quickly as she strained to not look at the bandaged arm.
“Yes sir.” She slipped past him, trotting after Solvin.

Elsewhere, Gylth left the stables after tying up the horses and putting up the carriage. His young bones were weary as he instinctively began to walk towards the Oronar home. Before his brain could wake up a little bit more to allow him to process his actions, Gylth was standing in his kitchen pouring himself a glass of chilled milk. He finally snapped to once he clinked the bottle against the counter. He glanced around for a moment before spinning around to face his rather shocked father. Tyhr stood in the doorway, a short sword in one hand and a rather surprised and confused look on his face. Silence filled the house as the two just stared in shock for a moment. Gylth, however, was only really surprised that his father hesitated.
“Umm...hi?” Gylth gave a nervous smile as his father lowered the sword, cocking a thin eyebrow.
“Gylth..?” The elf straightened back up, his loose hair ran down his shoulders and over his tattooed chest. He sheathed the sword, dropping it on the table as he walked into the kitchen with his son. “I was honestly starting to think you were dead.” He pulled the milk bottle from his son’s hand and sticking it back into the ice chest. Gylth watched his father wearily, still shocked at his father’s lack of a violent greeting.
“Well, guess I have a lucky knack for surviving..”  The two made eye contact for a moment as Tyhr walked past his son once more, this time pulling open another wooden chest.
“Have you eaten?” He kneeled down, pulling out strips of dried meat. Gylth eyed his father for a moment than shook his head.
“Not since we left.” He took a chunk as his father handed some strips to him.
“We?” Tyhr tore a chunk off the muscle as he eyed his son, moving to sit at the table. Silence grew between them again as Gylth ripped the salted meat into pieces with his clawed fingers.
“Yeah...I’ve been with a troop of druids since I left and Solvin and Keziah appeared about a week ago..there was a battle with some humans and Surion was hurt pretty bad so we came back here.”
“But why did you come back?” Gylth snapped his head up, surprised slightly by the question. Tyhr’s cold eyes were focused on Gylth as he chewed heavily on the meat. He chuckled softly, closing his eyes as he pulled the meat into strips again. “You finally escaped and here you are walking right back into my grasp.” Gylth stared at his glass, sighing softly.
“Keziah needed me, that’s all I cared about...” He chugged the milk down and laid the cup on the table as Tyhr eyed him through the thin sheet of ebony hair that now hung over his eyes.
“I see.” Tyhr rose to his feet, making Gylth jump back for a moment. “Feel free to make yourself at home.”