::Forests of Damili::

Chapter 8



“Alright gentlemen, I thank you again for coming to out to my quant home to hear my offer.” A lushly dressed man bowed towards the table full of older men who stretched before. The room around them was as flamboyant and lavish as the man who addressed them. A portrait of himself hung over the large fireplace that warmed the room. A gilded chandelier hung above the dark walnut table that had intricate details carved into the legs and edges as did the cushioned chairs that seated the gentlemen. “I shall be in contact with all of you once all the strings are pulled and all things are taken care of.” A smooth smile curled on his lips as the men all rose, leaving the room as they muttered between each other. “Health to all your families.” As soon as the massive doors behind him were shut, the man let out a sigh. He ran his hand through his polished blonde hair that curled perfectly around his ears and neck. “Fools. I’ll take everything from under their noses and they will never have a clue. They think they can mess with the Menici family and live to tell the tale.” He let out a laugh as he walked to covered window. The heavy drapes were lifted from the frosted glass at the pull of a string. Outside the ground was white with snow and the sky was heavy. A smile crept across his thin lips again as he pulled a glass of wine off the table where the men had once sat. He sipped it as he walked towards the large doors. “Perhaps it’s time to start my dirty work.” The glass left his lips as he pushed open the door but he did not make it any farther.
A gloved hand caught him by the jaw and pulled him aside, a thin dagger traveling up into his jugular. Wine splattered across the floor as the glass lay shattered at the man’s leg. Tremors rolled through the man’s limbs as the assassin’s venom quickly stilled his heart. A gloved hand covered the man’s injury as his eyes rolled back into his skull. The black clad assassin chanted a divine spell as he wiped the blood up with his cloak. The wound healed up on the man’s throat as the assassin carefully wiped up the blood that escaped from under his hand. His clean hand reached to his belt and pulled out a half-empty flask with an engraving of a house symbol. The assassin twisted open the flask and dripped the liquid into the spilt wine. There was a thud as the man slid from the gloved hands of the assassin. The cloaked man slipped into the dining room, glancing around quickly before sliding the flask under the table. It slid to a stop against a foot of the table and with that, the assassin was gone.



Out in the snow, a velvet draped man stood in the darkness of the alley. This was one of the dozen gentleman that had left the meeting with the young aristocrat. His leather gloved hands cupped the top of his ivory cane as his aged eyes strained in the shadows. Snow crunched softly and the man instantly turned around. There was nothing behind him so his eyes turned to the ground. There laid the stiletto dagger that had earlier been deep in the veins of the aristocrat.
“All is done as you wished.” The whispering voice jolted the older man, turning his eyes upward this time. Crouching on the wall was the black clad assassin, his cloak flicking around him with the wind. “The man is dead and your neighbors hand shall be the guilty one. Now..” He reached out a gloved hand. The elder chuckled as he pulled a small sack from his tunic and handed to the assassin.
“As promised, the rest of your pay.” The assassin’s eyes thinned as he fingered the bag.
“Well, it seems a tad empty if you don’t mind me saying so.” He stored it back on his belt as his sharp eyes turned to the man below him. “Perhaps you can solve this.”
“Consider it a payment..you know, considering your breed.” The man cleared his throat as he turned, walking towards the exit of the alley. “There is a reason you work the way you do sir, not because of what you but because of what you are. You wood elves are frowned upon here, such savage creatures really..I am sorry but you know, I must keep my hands clean. I can’t have-“ The man turned to look behind him, trailing off to see the wall bare.
“Can’t have someone finding a trail of dirt to find you hired a wood elf to assassinate a powerful crime lord for you?” The old man gasped, stumbling into the snow as he faced the elf behind him. The cloaked elf kicked away the man’s cane as he stared down at the fallen old man. “How old are you, sir?” The man grasped his chest as he carefully got to his feet.
“Seventy nine, I’ll be eighty in the spring.” The elf nodded as he pulled the black mask from his angled face.
“How funny, I’m a spring birth too.” The man hobbled against the wall, eyeing the elf before him. “But you see, I’m 235 years old...and if I remember this human saying correctly, ‘with age, comes wisdom.’ I believe that’s it, you human’s are so ill at being creative.” He pulled back his hood, revealing crimson hair that spiked back from his skull, a long braided ponytail ran down his back. “You human’s claim so much but know so little...it blows my mind actually.” Shaggy bangs hung down the sides of Solvin’s cheeks as he eyed the nervous human before him. “It’s sickening actually. I really wonder why I return to these cities were only my high elf brethren are welcomed..well barely.” He reached over, pushing aside the man’s jack flap. “I believe this is mine.” He whipped back the man’s change purse with a smile. The old man laughed as he leaned against the cold brick wall.
“You’re a fool elf ” Solvin widened his eyes as he smiled.
“Oh well thank you for reminding me..” Before the man could blink, a dagger made it’s way into his rips with the accuracy of, well, an assassin. “You saw my face..can’t let you walk away now can I..” He glanced over at the tossed aside cane as the man’s body slumped into the snow. “Oh wait..you couldn’t have walked away from me anyway.” He scooped up the cane as he walked back into the shadow of the alley. “I’ve always wanted a fancy cane.”






“Leavin’ already, long ears?” A drunk yelled across the bar at an elf’s receding form. “The night is young, ya don’t got’ta run out jus’ yet.” The men who joined him at the table noisily agreed as the leather clad elf turned to face them. Long shaggy black hair hung over his tan shoulders, his long pierced ears sticking out from the ebony curtain. One emerald eye was viable from his messy hair, black tattoos wrapped up his chin and under his eyes. Gylth chuckled as he shifted back to face the cheering drunks.
“Sorry gents, not tonight. I’m a vampire, I must prowl the streets for virgins for my meal.” He grinned as the men howled with laughter. A waitress bumped her hip against Gylth as she walked back.
“I’ll be yer virgin, baby.” One of the men howled as he banged the table.
“Ya got’ta be a virgin for that, Marlene ” Gylth laughed as he shook his head, leaving the bar. Outside, the city was empty as only lit lanterns brought light to the dirty roads and buildings. He hefted his great sword onto his back, strapping it to him tightly. His boots crunched in the snow as he walked through the dull city towards the mountains that ran to the north. Gylth flicked his long hair from his face and pulled an aged paper from his belt. Unrolling it, he eyed the map before him. At the top of this mountain lived a powerful tribe of elven barbarians. Rumors were told that here was where his mother now resided. A chill ran down his back as Gylth glanced to his arms which were bare minus thin gloves he wore.
“Perhaps I should reconsider my outfit before climbing up a frozen mountain...”


The sun rose high in the sky as Gylth trudged through the thigh deep snow. Powerful winds stung his face and pulled at him as he continued climbing. He had been going since early last night and fatigue now ached his bones. Snow blinded the elf as tried his hardest to curl away from the cold. His long ears twitched as he heard faint crunches in snow. He reached back to touch his sword but before he could, a crossbow bolt shot into his collarbone, knocking the elf back into the snow. Before he could pull himself up, a black tarp was pulled over his head and powerful arms dragged him through the snow. He closed his eyes and relaxing, knowing this was probably the fastest way into the tribe’s territory. A grunt escaped his lips as the snow disappeared from his back and he was now dragged across stones. Hands pulled at him, taking his sword and binding his arms. Light stung his eyes as the tarp was ripping from his head. He stared at the fur clad elves who stood before him; all of them were much stockier than the forest elves minus one male who stood taller than all of them. He was the most decorated of them and was definitely someone important but something seemed familiar as Gylth stared at him.
“Who are you and why are you here?” The man spoke in an Elven Gylth was oddly surprised to understand.
“My name is Gylth Oronar and I-“ Before he could finish the red haired male raised a hand, silencing him.
“Oronar?” The shorter elves around them muttered before leaving the hut they were in immediately. The man frowned, folded his arms as he glared at Gylth silently. His red hair was roughly pulled back into a bun with dark dredlocks running throughout and hanging down by his long ears. His face was angular but strong jawed with a pair of dark fierce eyes staring down at the elf. “How is it that you share my mother’s name?” The man questioned as Gylth’s eyes went wide; he now realized why the man before him was so similar. Before him stood a man with his own blood but the face of Ivallios. Puzzles came together in his head as a door behind him opened.
“Why was I called here ?” Gylth glanced over his shoulder to his mother who instantly stopped in her tracks. “Gylth..?” Her eyes traveled between her two confused sons before she let out a sigh. “I have some stories to tell, don’t I?” Gylth glanced to his half-brother who kneeled, pulling off the binds.
“Not at all actually.” Gylth got to his feet, facing his mother who nodded. “I’ve already put everything together. You don’t have to explain yourself. I didn’t come here for you to do that.” Sareen smiled as she stepped forward, cupping her son’s face.
“You’ve grown so much Gylth..are you well?” She brushed her fingers through his long hair before embracing him.
“As well as I can get. I just wanted to see you again. Plus I’ve pretty much heard all about him–“ He gestured back at the man behind him as he stepped back from his mother’s hug. “–I just wanted to see if it was true or if dad was just starting a fight with Ivallios for no reason.” Sareen laughed as she rested her hand on Gylth’s shoulder.
“Tyhr’s more observant than we give him credit for..” Gylth glanced back at his half-brother before turning back to his mother.
“Yeah..so is Evan..” He thought back at the rift between Ivallios and his eldest son. Sareen waved a hand and shrugged.
“He’ll get over it.” She kissed her son. “If you excuse me, I have things to attend to. Make yourself at home Gylth, as of now..you are an honorary prince of this tribe.” She smiled as she turned and left. Gylth watched her leave before looking back at the copper haired elf. Silence grew between then before finally, he spoke.
“My name is Ol’kir.” Gylth turned to face him and nodded. Ol’kir scratched at the back of his head nervously. “Are you my only brother?” The barbarian let out a sigh as he sat back down.
“Nope, your father has two sons: Solvin and Evan. They are older than you and I.” The other elf sat down as well, folding his legs together.
“Does my father know about me?”
“He does but he doesn’t speak of you. He is the chief and well, we Oronar are not as well thought of as we are here. It’s a very complicated matter, you can’t take it personally.” Ol’kir nodded before standing with a smile.
“Well no matter. A brother is still a brother. Come, let us eat.”




Elsewhere, away from all the cities laid the Damili village still deep in it’s forest. Here winter was at it’s end and children were out in the melting snow. Underneath the soggy white snow sprouted the green plants of spring. The village was loud with shouts of the children who were now hours into some intricate game of theirs but as far as the adults were concerned, it was all running and screaming.
“Aiden ” Keziah pushed open a window, a crushed snowball sliding off the window seal. “What’d I tell you about throwing snow at houses ?” She pulled herself back inside, closing the window. Her long black hair was pulled back into a messy bun as she cleaned up the kitchen of her large home. “I swear, once Solvin get’s home..I am not lifting another finger for ten years.” A kiss planted itself behind Keziah’s ear as a pair of hands caressed her shoulders.
“Well, that’s not very fair is it.” Keziah closed her eyes before turning to face her husband. Solvin smiled cutely before kissing her lips. “You know I’m rubbish with chores.” She frowned and smacked Solvin as he walked away.
“Well I don’t care  Go away for work for ten years, maybe it’s my turn, hmm?” She followed Solvin as he walked into their bedroom, dropping his large satchel. He pulled off his long cloak and tossed it to the ground.
“You really want to leave me in charge of Aiden?” A smile curled up Solvin’s lips as he wrapped his arms around Keziah. The she-elf rolled her eyes and ran her hand down the chest of Solvin’s armor.
“Gods no...he’s enough trouble without your influence.” She laughed, wrapping her arms around his neck. “You’re not going to just leave again are you?” Solvin thought for a moment before smiling, kissing Keziah.
“As far as I know, I haven’t been given any jobs so I’m all yours.” A smile shot across the woman’s face as she pulled away from her husband.
“Oh good, I get a break.” She plopped back on the bed, throwing her arms over her eyes. “You’re son is a maniac..you can take care of him for a while.” Solvin wrinkled his brow with a pout.
“And here I thought you were happy to see me.”


Solvin pulled at his gloves as he stepped outside into the snow. Those who passed him welcomed him home politely. He walked into the courtyard of the village, glancing around. Two dark haired boys were crouched by barrels that sat outside the porch of a Nailo family home, toy in hand.
“Hey boys, have you-“ They both instantly shushed him and pulled him behind the barrels.
“Quiet Mr. Surion  You’re gunna give away our position ” Solvin smiled and nodded, crouching low.
“Sorry, have you seen where Aiden is?” They glanced to each other before looking back to Solvin.
“Sorry sir, but we can’t give away the positions of our team mates. You could be a spy and than we’d lose.” The elf laughed as he glanced around.
“This is true, you boys are smart.” He snatched one of their toy swords and took one of the boys under his arm. “Lucky for me, I know this game better than you ” He laughed as he ran out into the middle of the courtyard, the boy kicking and screaming with laughter under his arm. “Aiden  Come out now or –“ He blinked and whispered to the boy. “What’s your name?”
“Fal’ric, sir ” He laughed loudly as Solvin cleared his throat and continued.
“–or Fal’ric gets it  I’ll do it ” A group of boys emerged from around buildings, laughing. In the middle of them stood what a first glance was just a shorter Solvin with dark red hair and Keziah’s big dark eyes. A big grin spread across his face as he handed his toy sword to one of the others.
“I gotta go guys, I’ll play later okay.” He ran over to his father who embraced him, lifting him off the ground.
“Oof, you got big kid ” He ruffled his hair, letting him down. “Come on.” Aiden took his father’s hand as they walked away from the group of the children.
“How long are you going to be home this time? You’re not gunna leave right away like you did last time?” Solvin laughed and looked down at the boy who only came a little past his hip.
“Don’t worry, I’m gunna be here to stay for a while.” His son beamed and jumped, grabbing his father’s arm.
“Good  I want you to teach me how to use a bow..let’s face it, I’m gettin’ old dad  I can use a sword but that’s boring. Everyone uses a sword and everyone is always all ‘you’re dad’s like the best with a bow’ and I’m all ‘I know  He’s awesome ’ and they’re all ‘sooo why do you suck?’ and that’s when I gotta punch him...then mom gets mad at me.” He grinned up at his father as he tugged on his armor. “So, you’ll teach me right ? Pleeease  ” Solvin laughed and picked up the child, flipping him upside down.
“I dunno, punching kids who make fun of you for sucking.” Aiden laughed loudly as he tried to pull himself up right.
“Pleeeeeeeeeeeeeease  Come oooooon  ” He laughed as he kicked his legs before his father flipped him back upright.
“Alright  I’ll teach you.” A big toothy smile covered Aiden’s face as he jumped from his father’s arm, shouting happily.
“Ah  You’re the best ” Solvin chuckled as they walked towards the chief’s house.
“Yeah, yeah. Save it for when your mother’s around. Let’s go say hi to Grandpa.” Aiden nodded, walking up beside his father.
“Alright, then I wanna tell you about everything that happened while you were gone ”
“Everything?”
“Yup ” Solvin let out a heavy sigh as he opened the door to his father’s home, knocking as he walked in.
“Father?” He stepped into the lavish home with Aiden following closely, his lips sealed unlike before. The walls were covered with skins of animals Ivallios had hunted as well as trophies he had taken from those assassinated scattered amongst shelves. Above the lit fireplace laid a beautiful jewel necklace that Solvin remembered as something his mother often wore.
“Solvin.” The two jolted and turned to face Ivallios who smiled softly to them. “Welcome back. How was your trip?” Solvin laid his hand on Aiden’s shoulders as he smiled.
“Good but I’m glad to be back. It’s been almost 20 years since I’ve been home for more than a day.” His laugh faded as he glanced to his father who stared at him blankly.
“Well, don’t get to comfortable..I have something I need you to do.” Solvin’s face fell instantly as he frowned at his father.
“What...? I just got back. I’ve said maybe a sentence to my wife and only seen your grandson for a few minutes...and you’re going to make me leave again ?” Ivallios rubbed his hands together as he stepped forward.
“Calm down, I need you to find Evan. A few years ago, the talk of heirs came to and well..technically, Evan is my heir since he is the oldest son but we can get that moved to you since..well, let’s face it..I’d do this myself but you now how things are.” He cleared his throat as he eyed his lack jawed son. “I’m not exactly asking you Solvin, I’m telling you.” He folded his hands together as he raised a thin eyebrow. Solvin sighed heavily, resting his hands on his hips.
“Can’t this wait? Can I at least get some time with them before I have to go running off again?”
“Oh it won’t take long, just find Evan and bring him here.” Ivallios waved a hand as he took a seat on a leather chair. “You’ll be gone a few days at most. Honestly, you’re just wasting time arguing with me.” His son folded his arms, shifting his weight.
“Well do you even know where Evan is?” He groaned as his father shook his head. “Great, so now a few days is how ever long it takes to find him...why can’t you get over whatever you hold against him and go find him yourself? He’s your son.” Ivallios closed his eyes, sighing.
“I’m doing this for you Solvin, perhaps it’s time you just do as your told.” Aiden tugged at his father’s belt.
“Dad, it’s okay. Mum will understand..” He smiled up at his father, glancing over at his grandfather who nodded.
“Good to see he got Keziah’s sensibility.” Solvin huffed as he took his son’s hand.
“Alright, I can’t believe this ” He pulled Aiden behind him as he stormed from his father’s home. “I can’t believe him  UGH ” Solvin gripped his head, groaning. “Your mother’s gunna hate me..you’re going to learn something about women today, Aiden.” He looked down at his confused son. “I’m going to tell your mother about this..she’ll be fine but the second I leave the house, she will be furious. Women like to do this...act like everything is okay when they really just want to tear your hair out. It’s kinda scary.”



“Oh..only a few days?” Keziah looked to her husband as he finished explaining. “To get Evan?” She nodded as she shrugged, kissing Solvin. “Well, I can’t really argue with Ivallios..so just hurry home alright?” Aiden gasped and giggled as he watched them.
“You were right dad ” Keziah wrinkled her brow as Solvin gestured him to stop.
“Right about what now..?” Aiden climbed up on a stool and rubbed his nose.
“Dad said girls lie to boys faces than are all mad in secret...and he was right  You’re totally mad  I know it.” Keziah glanced to Solvin before smiling to her son.
“I’m not mad.”
“Yah huh.”
“No, I am not. I’m fine.”
“You’re mad.” Keziah rolled her eyes with a grumble.
“Alright fine  Want me to be made to your face then ” She turned on her heel and shoved Solvin into the counter. “I am mad ” Solvin winced as he curled back. “Why can’t you stand up to your father and refuse this? Lie or something, say you injured yourself and you need to rest  Anything  Or maybe you just can’t wait to get back to your other women ” Solvin laughed and shook his head.
“Oh yeah, cause I’m gunna cheat on a barbarian. That’s a smart idea there. Darling, I don’t have other women. How could I?” He grinned but she pushed him away almost instantly.
“Mmmhm. I don’t believe you. Why does it take twenty years to kill some old humans?” Aiden watched them both, chewing on his lip nervously.
“Oh  Hey dad ” He grinned as they both turned to him. “Who’s Gylth?” Solvin raised an eyebrow and turned to Keziah who smiled broadly, pulling her hands away from Solvin. “Mom talks about him a lot when you’re gone.”
“Not a lot  I mentioned him once when I was talking to Cahda ” Solvin folded his arms, leaning against the counter.
“Oh? But why were you talking about him in the first place? Hmm? And why only when I’m gone? And you accuse me of having other women, I believe you are the only women I’ve ever kissed thank you.” He grinned as Keziah opened her mouth but found no rebuttal. Her cheeks when pink as she leaned her head against Solvin.
“Okay, you win. That wasn’t fair.” Solvin wrapped her arms around Keziah, kissing her forehead.
“It’s okay babe. I’ll stay tonight to make it up to you.”





As the sun rose, Solvin had left the village once again; his wife and son still fast asleep. The forest echoed with the galloping hooves of his horse as Solvin drove the animal through the bare forest. As the sun set over the horizon, Solvin groaned as he slumped back in the saddle. His horse trotted towards a water bison and began to take in as much water as it could. Solvin grimaced as he legs ached.
“You look like dun ridden yerself to hard there friend.” An aged wrangler eyed Solvin as he placed a well worn cowboy hat onto his greased back hair. Solvin laughed as he slid off his horse, tying it loosely to a post.
“Only a little. The faster I get done here, the faster I can go home to my wife..” The cowboy laughed as he put out his cigar, gesturing towards the bar.
“I hear that. Come home a drink friend. The sun ain’t working, no point you drivin’ yourself to death off the clock.” Solvin chuckled as he walked towards the bar, bowing his head.
“Thank you.” Inside the walls were lit with crude candles and the air was heavy with cigar smoke and the smell of alcohol. The wrangler laid a hand on his back, laughing dryly.
“Bit different for yer elf kind there but it’s home to all our boys.” He gestured out to the crowds of all different kinds of folk. “From good ol’ cowboys to outlaws and bounty hunters. We are the good, the bad and the ugly.” Solvin laughed as he walked towards the bar.
“I’ve dealt with all that and everyone in between. I think I’ll be okay.” He squeezed through until he reached the bar, wrinkling his brow as he looked back at wall full of bottles.
“Gael, two more ales ” A familiar voice rung in Solvin’s ears as a arm reached around him, grabbing the two jugs. Solvin turned to find himself face to face with Gylth. Their eyes went wide as they found themselves only able to stare at one another. “Solvin?”
“Gylth?” Gylth grabbed Solvin’s collar and easily pulled the elf out of the bar. Once they were out in the night air, Gylth handed Solvin one of the ales than sat on the railing of the porch.
“Well...hi.” Gylth raised his eyebrows as he sipped the ale. His long hair slid off his shoulders as he shook his head. “Wow, this is funny.” Solvin still just gave Gylth a shocked and puzzled stare. He finally took a swig of beer and shook his head.
“This is weird...it’s been so long since anyone’s heard from you..or seen you.” He held the glass in his two hands as he looked up to Gylth. “For a while we were thinking you might be dead again...after a while Keziah just stopped bringing you up.” Gylth sighed heavily as he nodded, rubbing his neck.
“Yeah...with the whole...you know.” He held out his right arm, indicating the glove the covered his werewolf bite. “I thought it’d be the best for everyone if I just kept moving. I’ve been all over the globe, just going from town to city. I became a bounty hunter to bring in money so..that’s pretty much my story. How’s Kezi?” He glanced through his bangs at Solvin looked down at the marriage tattoos that curled around his fingers.
“She’s good....I’m always working and she’s turning into the village muscle..pretty the new you.” He laughed as he brushed his bangs out of his eyes. “We got married and had a son..so she’s had to stay and watch after him. I know it’s bores her sometimes but..I dunno..” Silence grew between them as they sipped their ale. “Oh, do you have any idea where Evan is?” Gylth blinked in surprise at the question.
“Ugh, why would I know? He’s your brother.” Solvin rolled his eyes as he sat down on a near by bench.
“Don’t be like that Gylth. You know he has more reason to talk to you than me.” Gylth glanced down at his feet as he stared at the bottom of his empty glass.
“Yeah...I know where he is.” Solvin glanced back at the elf.
“And let me guess, you’re not going to tell me because as much as it you hate being that kind of a person, you’re loving the fact that someone would rather talk to you than me.” Tension grew dense between them causing Gylth’s skin to crawl as he shifted awkwardly.
“It’s not like–“
”Don’t lie.” Solvin cut him off as he finished his ale. “You have no reason to explain yourself.” He stared at the empty glass in his hands. “I’ve been thinking a lot since your disappearance..about how we acted when we were younger. About how I acted..and I owe you many apologies..” Gylth barked a laugh as he pushed himself onto his feet.
“Owe me an apology..? Solvin..I’ve spent half my life trying to rob your of your girlfriend and you’re going to..apologize..to me?” He wrinkled his brow as he realized Solvin wasn’t mocking him. “Why..?” Solvin laughed as he hung the mug on his index finger.
“Well...we acted foolishly..but you know...I look back on everything now and I was so petty. I mean hell, I had reasons to be jealous..but I wanted so bad to be that good little Surion son to impress my daddy so of course I take the chance to knock you down for your blood and for your family. Then of course, I’m such a weak skinned insecure brat that I wanted Keziah all to myself without any other men around...I should of trusted her...but instead I focused all that insecurity about my father and about my girlfriend at you and turned it into hate.” He rubbed his hands together as he looked over to a shocked Gylth. “I realized this all yesterday when I looked at my father and saw someone who did want that perfect son no matter what. Right now, I should be with Keziah and Aiden...but..no, here I am because he doesn’t care about me..he cares about our families image and how I affect it.” He leaned back into the bench, crossing his legs. “So, I’m sorry about everything...except being pissed about you kissing my wife..that’s still not cool.” Gylth walked over, leaning against the wall next to the bench.
“I hated you so much...I was just so jealous. All I wanted was a normal family..without a father that abused me and someone to escape from that hell hole to...Keziah was that person. She was damaged too...she felt my pain..the rest of the village knew this happened..hell, it’s pretty much a fucking tradition in the Oronar family. No one acknowledged it. Everyone just excepted I always got hurt by falling or something stupid I’d make up. Keziah understood me and all I wanted was someone like her..but you already had her. You had her, you had the perfect family...you had everything I ever wanted.” He closed his eyes as his head leaned back.
“You two would have never worked out.” Solvin looked back at Gylth who frowned. “I’m not just saying that. Listen..I’m not saying I know what you went through. I can’t ever imagine what you’ve been through...but tell me, how would a damaged beam support another damaged beam? They don’t....look at your mother and your father. I’m sure at one point, they loved each other or at least liked each other...but look at them now? No matter how nice and how sincere you are Gylth, inside you are a dangerous person. Once a month you become a monster, and when you’re normal..you’re a pin drop away from a frenzy. Does Keziah deserve that? Who will protect her when you’re in a frenzy or when you’ve transformed into a werewolf?” Gylth slid down the wall, hanging his head.
“Yeah..I get it...Oronar curse. I’ll never keep a woman...” His hair hung in his face as Solvin laughed. He slapped the top of Gylth’s head.
“I’m not saying that. I’m saying you need to get yourself some stable girl who knows what she’s getting into and loves you no matter what.” He shrugged as he looked to Gylth. “I don’t think you gotta worry about it..” Gylth lifted his head, cocking an eyebrow.
“What the hell does that mean?” The elf grabbed Gylth’s arm, pulling it up for him to see his muscles.
“Well, you’ve grown up..and you’ve doubled your weight in muscle mass. You might have no heard them but a lot of the girls from the village always thought you were cute..apparently that shaggy, beaten puppy look–forgive the pun–works..and now you’re shaggier. They’re gunna go wild for it.” Gylth laughed and shook his head, standing up.
“Alright, apologizing to me than saying all the girls in the village adore me...you’ve just gone crazy haven’t you?”  Solvin looked up towards Gylth, tilting his head to the side.
“How about you help me find Evan than come back to the village?” He grinned and extended a hand as he rose to his feet. Gylth let out a laugh as he stepped back.
“I’m not going back, you’ve seriously lost it..” Solvin reached out and grabbed Gylth’s forearm.
“You’re coming back. You might be stronger than me, but I’m a trained assassin. I have enough tricks and poisoning up my sleeve to kill you before you even think to frenzy.” Gylth sighed as he glanced back at the bar. “Haven’t you had enough drunk red necks..come home. You don’t have to stay..just come.” Gylth eyed Solvin as he finally shook his hand.
“Yeah, alright..fine. For Kezi.”






“You could have gotten a horse, ya know.” Solvin glanced down at Gylth who walked beside the horse, his great sword strapped to his back.
“I’ve gone 115 years without a horse, a few more days isn’t gunna kill me.” He laughed as he eyed Solvin. “Unlike you princess, I don’t mind getting my shoes dirty.” Solvin rolled his eyes as he chuckled.
“Well I need clean shoes for my job. What kind of assassin leaves his print at the scene?”
“Touche.” They traveled down at long, wide cobble road that stretched between the two sister cities. Thin clouds dotted the sky above the huge field and sunlight warmed the area. “So your son..you said his name is Aiden right?” Gylth questioned as he looked out at the cattle grazing in the long field.
“Yeah, he just turned 60.” Solvin smiled to himself as he relaxed in the saddle. “He’s a lot like Keziah...friends with everyone, doesn’t really care about the totem.”  
“That’s good.” Gylth slowed his walk, raising an eyebrow as they came closer to the outskirts of the city. “How are we going to get into there now?” A tall, thick wall circled the city, rows of soldiers stood at the top of the gate armed with longbows. Beyond the high walls rose beautiful castles and lavish buildings. Striped banners flew from the tops of towers, each with a different design. The large gates were open but a crowd stood at the mouth, being sorted by the guards for who would enter or not. “How are we gunna get in a place like that? If you haven’t noticed...we’re wood elves. We’re not exactly the favorites of humans...especially not these snobby types.” Solvin sighed as he stopped his horse.
“Well we needa clean ourselves up before we get ourselves full of arrows..” He glanced up at the tops of the wall. Gylth shrugged and slicked his hair back into a ponytail, some of his bangs falling back over his brow. Solvin cocked an eyebrow as he watched the barbarian. “Well let’s not over do ourselves there Gylth.” Sarcasm coated his words causing the smaller elf to frown.
“What? I never get dressed up. This is fancy to me, okay? Sorry princess, you’ll have to deal with it. I’m a barbarian, remember? I don’t do frilly shirts and satin jackets.” Solvin shrugged as he fixed his hair, dusting off his coat.
“Ah, well maybe I can say you’re my servant or something.” He trotted forward on his horse as Gylth frowned from where he stood.
“If you do, I am breaking both your legs with my bare hands.” Solvin clapped his hands as he straightened his back.
“Less talk more walk please.”  Gylth mocked a bow before walking after the horse.
“Of course, Your Highness  I can’t wait until you get off that horse so I can beat you senseless.” The two walked through the crowd towards the gate where lines of armed soldiers stood in their crimson tunics. A gloved hand grabbed the reins of Solvin’s reins as a feather capped soldier stared up at him.
“What’s your business here boy?” He eyed the copper haired elf who reached into his cloak and pulled out a rolled up piece of leather. The soldier took it and unrolled it, looking from the two elves than back to the leather. “The Menici family sent you here?” Solvin took the leather back and nodded, slicking his hair back.
“Yes, considering the recent assassination of Raoul Menici, the family felt it was necessary to send hired help to take care of their work.” The soldier unrolled a scroll, filling it out as he listened to Solvin.
“Of course. I wish you well and welcome to the proud city of Kiltirn.” He handed the scroll up to Solvin. “I warn you, your kind isn’t normally welcomed here.” Solvin tucked the scroll away and bowed his head to the man as the two walked into the city.
“Well that was easy. Where’d you get that paper?” Gylth questioned once they were farther away.
“I was the one who assassinated Raoul Menici. These things are sort of easy to come upon.” The elf laughed as they both walked into the city; around them walked bizarrely dressed humans, at least in their opinion. Men wore black satin jackets with a high wide collar made of white frills. Their sleeves were billowed up to the elbow than tight down to their wrist where lace trimmed the hem. Colourful sashes ran across their chests and tied at their hips were most men carried an elaborately handled rapier. On their chins grew pointed beards accompanied by well groomed mustaches that curled at the ends. Their hair was kept short and topped with hats with long feathers. The women wore elegant gowns that covered them from their necks down to their toes. Corsets pulled at their waists and delicate lace detailed their long shirts and tall collars. Their sleeves belled open at their elbows with more lace curling around their thin wrists. Their long hair was pulled up into buns that were held up with ribbons and a small cap sat atop their heads, sometimes covering their buns. The two elves glanced around at the odd humans who mirrored the disturbed looks. “Alright...well this looks like somewhere Evan would fit in..” He dismounted his horse and walked it towards a public resting spot for carriage horses. He tied the reins to a post and turned back towards Gylth. “Alright, did he tell you where in the city he is?”  The ebony haired elf folded his arms as he glanced around.
“I remember him saying something about getting arrested outside the city and was pretty much turned into a servant for some aristocrats..but you know Evan, he got close to one of the daughters and she turned him into her own servant so he comes and goes throughout the city as he pleases because she lets him.” He glanced around as he tapped his chin. “What was that name he said...the girl...her name was Charlotte Rolain.” He clapped than turned at his heel, walking towards a pair of ladies who sat at a small table outside a tea shop. “Excuse me ladies.” He bowed his head as they both smiled politely, laying their hands on their collarbones. “I was wondering if the name Charlotte Rolain sounds familiar?” The eldest of the women nodded with a smile.
“Of course, who here doesn’t know that name? She is the daughter of the East Side Duke. Their castle is a stones throw from here ” She rose and leaned over, point down the street. “Go that way and once you turn the corner, it will be right on your nose.” The lady returned to her seat as Gylth bowed his head once again.
“Thank you ladies. You’ve been a great help.” He smiled before walking back to Solvin. “You heard them.” Solvin gestured a bow to them as well than they turned and headed down the street.
“Finally, I can talk to him about what’s up with him and our father.” Gylth remained silent as he eyed Solvin next to him. He knew the reason but wondered if it was cruel of him to keep his lips sealed. Together they walked down the street towards the Rolain palace.


Beautifully dressed people walked across the streets from store to store. A market stretched down the side of the road where servants for the rich families shopped for groceries while their masters walked through stores for their own vanity. Solvin slowed his walk, grabbing Gylth who glanced back.
“Walk slower..you said he was a servant to a daughter, right?” He gestured towards the farmers market were servants grabbed fresh meat, vegetables and anything else they needed. “I can’t believe this, eldest son to the chief and he’s the servant of some spoiled human.” Gylth chuckled as the two walked slowly by the markets. Their ears pricked at a familiar laugh that howled from above the noise of the shoppers. Solvin turned and his eyes went straight to a booth full of fresh flowers. Instantly, he knew he had found his brother there. He walked hastily towards the source of the laugh and there amongst the freshly cut flowers with a small aged woman stood Evan. Solvin’s jaw dropped at his brother’s attire; there stood the proud druid in the black puff sleeved clothing of the human citizens. A gold sash wrapped around his chest and tied in a large bow at his hip. A large brimmed hat sat atop his crimson hair and a long white plume hung off the back. “Evan..?” The elf blinked and glanced over towards his younger brother. His hair was cut shorter but the back of it still flipped up like always. A broad smile plastered across his face at the sight of Solvin.
“Oh my gods.” Evan ran over to his brother, wrapping his arms around his brother. “Solvin  What the hell are you doing here?” He pulled back, kissing his brothers cheeks and squeezing his face. “Oh look how grown up you are  You look just like dad.” He hugged Solvin tightly again before looking over to Gylth. “Gyl  You’re here too  What is this, visit Evan day?” He let go of his brother and hugged the barbarian. “Oh boy, you are all muscle. I can barely hug you.” He beamed as he stepped back, looking at the two elves. “So what’s up? Something tells me you boys are just here to say hi.” Quickly, he turned around and took the bouquet of pink roses from the old woman. “Come on, let’s walk and talk.” Solvin glanced at his brothers outfit once more before shaking his head and following him.
“I’m actually sent here by dad.” Evan hesitated as he started walking up the stairs towards a lavish palace.” He wants you to come home.” Evan pulled his hat off as he turned to his brother with a weak smile.
“Save it til we have somewhere private, okay?” Solvin nodded as they continued up the stairs and into the interior of the palace. Gylth and Solvin both stopped dead and stared around at the high, decorated ceilings and the lavish decor that covered every inch of the palace. The elves stood in awe of all the gold and the unnecessary wealth that was spread throughout the palace. Crystal chandeliers hung above them as they walk over velvet carpets before following Evan down a flight of stairs. “We’ll go down to the servants quarters. Everyone should be out with Lord Fillip.” Downstairs was a stark difference for the upstairs; where the palace was all white and gold, the quarters for the students was dull browns and tan. There was a small common area that was covered with doors that led into individual quarters. Laying in front of the couches was Rah’kr, Evan’s white tiger companion. The tigers ears twitched as it’s master walked towards his own room. “It’s not much but it was better than their prisons...” Evan walked them into his small room that held only a single bed and a dresser. He sat on his bed, laying his hand next to him. “You must be thinking down on me so much right now..” He stared at the pink roses in his hands. Solvin looked at his brother before looking around the windowless room.
“What happened? How did my druid brother wind up here? More importantly, why are you still here?” Gylth folded his arms as he leaned against the wall, allowing the brothers their conversation.
“The druid’s failed, we fell and half that forest was over-taken. Aramil and myself fled. We knew it was hopeless..we traveled together for some time. He actually went the opposite direction of our village and these cities..but while we were in the deserts, we got caught by some slave traders. Turns out that city started nasty rumors about us wood elves as well as wild elves..that’s why we’re so hated now.” He rolled up his sleeve and held out his wrist where a crude tattoo was carved into his flesh. “We got spilt up...I was brought to Kiltirn’s sister city just east of here. I got free, ran straight here and the guards caught me. I did all I could to try and get free: I used all my magic, swung each weapon and even summoned Rah’kr. They threw me in jail and I was there for about a year..that’s when Charlotte came for me.” He grinned and shook his head. “Well not for me, but she’s such a sweet girl. She wanted to reform criminals by hiring them for servants so she picked me and a teenager.” Gylth rolled his eyes and shook his head.
“There’s always a girl with you, Evan.” The druid grinned as he laughed.
“Don’t get so excited, she was 8 when I first met her. I’ve been here for 20 years. I ran into you that one time when I was out with her as a teenager which is why I could only say a few words.” Solvin rubbed his hands together.
“So you’re only staying here because she lets you have freedoms.” Evan raised an eyebrow, glancing to the roses.
“Yeaaah, sure. We’ll go with that but yes, you said dad wanted something to do with me?” He leaned back on his bed, crossing his legs. Solvin pushed himself away from the wall and rubbed his hands together.
“Yeah, he didn’t tell me much but he wants you to come home so he can discuss the whole heir deal. He because the chief over a century ago and now he is worrying about having his first son replace him, you know?” Evan sighed as he looked over at Solvin.
“So, he actually wants me home? He’s gunna talk to me. How, someone matured.” Solvin let out a sigh, shaking his head.
“Opposite actually. He’s grown rather distant and cold...like he’s just trying to distance us. What did you say to him that changed him so much, Eve?” Evan didn’t make a response as he looked at his roses. Gylth and Evan made eye contact for a moment before Evan sat up.
“There’s something you need to know Solvin..something I found out on my own. Remember when Sareen left the village and dad escorted her? Remember the one thing she always wanted?” Solvin shook his head before looking towards Gylth who answered.
“Ivallios. Well not as much him, but his blood. She wanted his son. She wished I was his son. She always made sure to let me know.” Solvin glanced between the elves before him. Evan reached over and grabbed Solvin’s wrist.
“Well, to say it nicely...she got her wish.” The elf shook his head with a laugh.
“Dad wouldn’t do that  At that time mom had only been dead a few decades...why would he?” His brother squeezed his wrist as he nodded.
“It did. They got it on in that forest..and Dad just planned to pretend it never happened until when I was off training, I happened upon a frozen village and there stood our brother we three share. I was furious..I mean, you remember how close I was with mom? When I was growing up, Dad was never there so I always her..and to think he’d just spit on her memory like that. It disgusted me, it still does. I made sure to let him know last time I spoke with him. I blamed him for her death and told him all this stuff of how he is pretty much a horrible husband, father and just well man. I ripped him a new one and he refused to speak with me ever again.” Solvin squatted down, running his fingers through his hair.
“He had a son with Sareen...I can’t believe this...and Tyhr knows.” He looked up to Evan who turned to Gylth wide eyed. The barbarian nodded in agreement.
“He does...he’s more or less taking joy in Ivallios being imperfect than offended his wife bore another’s son.” Solvin still hung his head, his heart heavy with this news.
“I can’t believe he would do that..to his own wife’s memory.” He ran his hand through his hair before looking up to Evan. “We can take care of this when we get home..come back, Evan. You need to be back amongst your nature..not here.” Evan nodded as he twirled the flowers in his hands.
“It’s not that easy baby brother.” He pointed upstairs. “You see, I’ve been serving Charlotte for 20 years...and trust me, I can’t just leave now.” Gylth and Solvin exchanged looks before walking towards the door.
“Well let’s go talk to the lady of the house and see if we can’t convince her other wise.” Evan jumped up, running after the two elves who already hurried upstairs.
“Evan, is that you?” A woman’s soft voice came from a nearby room as Evan wrapped his arm around his brother’s neck.
“Don’t you even-“ Evan hissed as Solvin grinned. Gylth walked towards the large doorway of the room. Evan let go of his brother and ran towards Gylth; before he reached him, Solvin darted around him and into the room.
“Miss Charlotte?” In the middle of the elegant library, sat a golden haired young woman at a small tea table. She lowered her book and Solvin’s eyes went straight to her pregnant belly.
“Oh, I wasn’t aware we had company. Pardon my rudeness. I thought you were...” She blinked as Evan stepped into the room as well as Gylth.
“Sorry Char, umm..this is my brother Solvin and my friend Gylth. They came for a visit but once I spoke of you they insisted on meeting you.” He bowed his head as the woman beamed, touching her pale cheek.
“Oh, how wonderful  How do you do gentlemen? Have a seat, I’d get up but as you can see..it’s not an easy task anymore.” Solvin walked towards the woman and kneeled beside her.
“Actually, I’m here to ask you about my brother.” The elf took the woman’s small hand, smiling kindly at her. “You see, I’m actually here to take him from you.” Charlotte blinked, glancing over to Evan who shrugged his shoulders.
“Oh, I see.” She cupped her hand over Solvin, turning back to face him. “Well, as sad as I will be to let him go, family is most important.” Solvin rose and bowed his head to her.
“Thank you.” Evan pulled the sash from around him as he walked over to Charlotte who eyed him sadly.
“Will you come back?” Evan squatted down, laying the flowers on her lap before he started unbuttoning the black jacket.
“Well, I kinda have to..don’t I?” He pulled the jacket off to reveal a white tunic styled with the same puffed sleeves. He tossed the coat on the chair next to Charlotte. “I’ll come back. My father just needs to see me.” The woman nodded and reached up behind her head, her blonde curls falling down her shoulders. She pulled back a long velvet ribbon and looped it around the collar of Evan’s shirt. As she tied it, the elf leaned forward and took her lips with his own. Solvin rolled his eyed and looked over to Gylth who shared the same look of non-surprise. Charlotte cupped Evan’s cheeks as she returned the kiss. After a moment she pulled back and pushed him back.
“You should leave before Fillip returns.” She gasped and grabbed Evan’s sleeve before he walked away. “I always forgot..your weapons..those two swords. Don’t forget them.” Evan kissed her forehead before turning and leaving with the two elves walking behind him. The returned to speaking Elven between each other as they were before.
“Evan..” Solvin cleared his throat as he watched Evan dig through trunks of weaponry in a room that was obviously used for storing weapons of militias. “She’s pregnant with your child..isn’t she?” Evan didn’t acknowledge his brother as he pulled up his two scimitars.
“Oh babies, I missed you so.” He glanced back over to Solvin who was obviously irriated from being ignored. “What was that? Oh, yeah..about her little ‘situation’..it’s highly probable that there is a infantile version of myself inside her womb.” He slid his scimitar into his belt which already had a short sword hanging from it. Gylth laughed softly as he watched Evan.
“And you’re upset about your father sleeping with woman who aren’t his own? She’s married as well, isn’t she? I doubt a daughter of a powerful man is unmarried at the age of 28.” Evan grinned sheepishly as he shrugged his shoulders.
“Well, yeah..but Ivallios’s situation was different! See..he loved his dead wife and shamed her memory...Charlotte is unhappy with her marriage..and I was totally tapping that before she got married anyway.” Solvin slapped his forehead and turned to leave the room.
“That..makes it better?” Evan walked out with them, a smile on his face.
“It does..or at least, I tell myself that.”


As they walked towards the main entrance of the palace, the mighty doors split open and A tall, olive skinned man walked in with a pair of servants behind him. His ebony hair was slicked back into a high pointy tail and his jaw was fashioned with a pointed beard and curled mustache. He wore an outfit similar to Evan’s but his collar was bigger and his fabrics more lavish. His dark eyes zeroed in on Evan as he forced a smile.
“Oh, where are you going?” He glanced sharply at Solvin and Gylth as Evan bowed at the waist to him.
“Lady Charlotte is allowing me to leave to take care of some personal business. I won’t be gone long.” The man raised an eyebrow as his gloved hand tugged at the ribbon tied around Evan’s collar.
“I see...well, how lucky for you.” He smiled to himself as he patted Evan’s cheek roughly. Evan forced a smile as he bowed his head.
“Lord Fillip, if you forgive me..I’m actually in a rush.” Fillip nodded and stepped aside, gesturing towards the door with his arm.
“Oh, of course.” He watched as the trio walked through the high arch of the doorway. “Actually, Evan!” He walked beneath the archway as Evan was descending the stairs. The copper haired elf stopped and looked back up to the human. “Do me a favor and just don’t return. You’ve made me the fool long enough and I think it is high time for me to stop it.” A cruel smile curled his thin lips. “If I see your face here again, I’ll be sure the second time I see it will be in the middle of a hangman’s noose.” With that, he slammed the door. Gylth and Solvin turned to Evan who glanced around before smiling.
“Well, that saves me child support. Alright, let’s get goin’!” He hopped down a step before walking down the rest. The barbarian laughed loudly for a moment, surprising Solvin.
“Sorry..he just never fails to surprise me.” Gylth shook his head before walking down the stairs after Evan. Solvin wrinkled his brow as he felt a headache brewing beneath his skull.
“I hate my family.”