::Forests of Damili::

Chapter 10



The air was crisp as dawn began to break over the forest that shrouded the ancient village. Solvin tied his quiver to his hip as he walked through the empty village. His hair was damp with dew as he stepped into the woods that were now bright with morning sunlight. He let out a light sigh as he kneeled down, laying down his bow before him. His chest swelled as he steadied his breathing; he sat back, folding his legs as he meditated in the empty forest. The forest was silent as he sat in the leaves for almost an hour before his senses awoke to something strange. Smoke strung his nostrils, causing Solvin to rise to his feet. He gathered his bow as he took off in a sprint, deep into the forest. As he ran, he began to hear to crackle of the flames. He slowed to a jog as he came upon a pile of burnt wood with a small fire still burning in it’s belly. He coughed as he waved the thick smoke from his eyes.
“What on earth..” He pulled his shirt collar over his nose as a familiar stench rose from the smoke. He patted his foot on the small fire, extinguishing it. He grimaced as he stepped back; he knew this was a burial.
“Leave it alone, Solvin” The elf jolted and turned to face the noise, a arrow knocked and ready to fire. Past the thick smoke sat Gylth, his back turned towards Solvin as he gazed into the thicket of the forest. The redhead chuckled as he lowered his arrow,
“A bit of a warning next time...I coulda shot ya.” The elf before him didn’t stir as he sat on the stump of a great oak.
“Like that’s never happened before.” Solvin stuck the arrow back into it’s quiver as he walked towards Gylth. “Don’t.” Solvin stopped as he glance back over to the smoldering stack of wood and ash. He took in the situation before he laid his bow now and sat back on the ground.
“When did this happen?” Gylth peered over his shoulder before looking back to the woods.
“Last night...before sunset.” Solvin nodded softly, folding his hands together. The two sat  in silence in the bright forest.
“I’m sorry...do you need anything.” Gylth let out a heavy sigh as he looked back to face his friend.
“You got any ale? I could use a good drink.” Solvin let out a chuckle as he got to his feet. He gestured for Gylth to come with him.
“Come on then. You’ve been out here long enough.” The younger elf eyed him for a moment before standing to his feet.
“Perhaps I have..” The white tunic he had found on the floor of his home was now drenched with the blood of his own father. Another blood soaked cloth hung from his belt and from the size of it, it was obvious what was inside.
“Perhaps a change of clothes first..”




The village was busy as the women were out in the square, mingling and working. Children ran through the crowd, shouting and chasing one another. Young girls clung to their mother’s skirts, avoiding he rough play of the boys. Solvin folded his arms as he leaned against the walls of the Oronar house. He smiled as a few of Aiden’s friends ran by, shouting a united greeting.
“Solvin ” The elf’s ears twitched at the voice of lover. Keziah walked over, her sleeves rolled up and a smile across her face. “I was wondering where you went off to.” She kissed him before glancing at the door of the Oronar home. “What are you doing over here?” Solvin ran his fingers under his wife’s chin as he smiled.
“Promised Gylth a drink.” Keziah frowned as she took Solvin’s hand.
“A drink? This early?” Solvin laughed as he kissed her again.
“Just trust me, he needs it.” She pouted slightly as she moved away from Solvin, opening the door to the house. “Kez, just leave him be.” He sighed as she walked into the house, ignoring Solvin. Keziah blinked as she walked into the destroyed household. She bit her lip as she stepped through the melted ice, broken bottles and other contents of the broken ice chests.
“Gyl?” She eyed the destroyed furniture as she glanced around. “Gylth? Are you okay?” She jumped as she heard a sound from another room. She pushed aside a door, peering into a room she had never seen. It was a small room filled with what to an outsider seemed like nothing but to a Oronar was all things that were family. There was a well worn leather chair with a small table next to it. On the walls were great swords and other barbaric weaponry. Skulls of great beasts hung with the swords as well as other bones: dragons, minotaurs, unicorns, griffons and other wondrous beasts. Before the chair was a fireplace and here lay the most shocking feature of this room. Across the top of the fireplace was a line of elven skulls. Shelves hung above the fireplace with even more skull. Almost seven generations of fathers, brothers and uncles hung in this room. The skulls were polished and well taken care off; each one had the tattoos they once had in their life time burnt into the bone. She gasped as she covered her mouth, stepping back to leave the room. She swallowed a scream as a hand grabbed the door, not allowing it to close. Gylth stepped into the doorway, eyeing the shocked Keziah.
“Keziah..” He gave her a weak smile as he leaned against the door. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you but you kinda gave me a scare too.” She caught her breath as she wrapped her arms around him.
“Are you okay?” She pulled back, cupping his face. “What happened?” Gylth pulled away from her, forcing a smile.
“A lot...” He stepped back from the door and over to the lit fireplace. Keziah stepped in, closing the door behind her.
“Gyl..where’s Tyhr?” She looked over to Gylth who sat down, his back towards her and facing the corner. “Gylth...where’s Tyhr?” Her voice quivered as she feared the answer. Gylth let out a sigh as he busied himself out of sight.
“Dead.” He reached over, sticking the dagger he held into the flames. He glanced back at Keziah who was now sitting. Her face was pale as she stared in shock at her old friend.
“Gylth...you..you didn’t?” Gylth eyed her before he turned back to his business.
“Don’t be so surprised Keziah..he’s pretty much bred me to kill him. It’s beyond your understanding.” He hung his shoulders as he pushed his hair back. “Trust me..I didn’t want this...but it had to happen.” He took the dagger from the fire as they sat in silence. Keziah let out a sigh, rubbing her neck.
“Are you okay?” She looked over at Gylth who didn’t respond. After a few moments he stood, sheathing the dagger into his boot.
“I’ll fine.” He turned with a smile, the skull of his father in his hands. The tattoos his father had once had were now burnt into the bone. Calmly, he walked over and laid the skull on the shelf, next to the skull of his grandfather. He brushed dust from his hands as he turned back to a rather disgusted Keziah. Gylth eyed her for a moment before his typical warm smile curled up his lips. “Come on. This place rots one’s mind.” He took Keziah’s hand as he pulled her to her feet. She glanced back at the skulls before looking to Gylth who walked before her.
“Oh Gyl..” She touched his shoulder, causing him to stop and look back to her with a smile again. He patted her cheek as he kissed her forehead.
“Let me worry about my family, you keep your mind on your family.” He stopped for a moment as he looked at Keziah. “You smell different.” Keziah rolled her eyes as she pushed him away.
“Well than maybe you should stop smelling people, it’s weird.” She walked past him and out the front door. Gylth pouted as he trotted after her.
“I’m a werewolf, I’m sorry ”



“You’re not going to go crazy, are you?” Keziah glanced over at Gylth as the trio walked towards the totem in the center of the village. Gylth kneeled down, chiseling off his father’s name on his family totem.
“I’m still Gylth, Kezi. I’m not gunna go changing.” He glanced back at her as she folded her arms. Solvin chuckled as he wrapped his arm around Keziah’s shoulders.
“Trust me Keziah, I’ve spent most of my live trying to force this brat to change. He’s not going anywhere.” Gylth rolled his eyes as he rose to his feet.
“Thank you Solvin. You’re a dear, friend..really. You are.” He sighed as he rested his hands on his hips. “I have to go talk to Ivallios than if you guys don’t mind..I think I might disappear into the forest again.” He stepped back than turned before heading towards the chief’s home.  Solvin kissed Keziah’s cheek as he rubbed her back.
“He’ll be fine..just give him time..he killed his father with his own hands, it might take him a little more than a day to get over it.” He kissed her before wrapping his arms around her. “Where’s Aiden?” Keziah curled her fingers through his long ponytail as she eyed him.
“He’s out at play with the boys I believe.” Her dark eyes glanced up at him as she kissed his arm twisted around his fingers. “Why?” Solvin grinned as he reached down into his quiver and pulled out a finely carved short bow.
“I think it’s about time my first son starts to follow in his old dad’s footsteps.” Keziah grinned as she took the bow, feeling it.
“When did you find time to do this? He’ll be so excited.” Solvin brushed Keziah’s hair from her face.
“I made it while I was out on jobs. I’m not that horrid of a father that I don’t think of him while I’m gone.” Keziah stuck the bow back into her husbands quiver. She ran her hands down the front of Solvin’s tunic, fixing the latching.
“When do you find time to think about your wife then? Hmm?” She raised an eyebrow, kissing him once more. “Don’t forget you’re a husband as well as a father.” Solvin grinned as he tapped Keziah’s nose,
“Oh trust me, I don’t forget.” He returned the kiss before smiling sheepishly. “I already gave you my gift last night if you don’t remember.” Keziah rolled her eyes before walking away, her head shaking. Solvin laughed as she walked away. “I’ll repackage it and give it to you again if you didn’t like it ” He grinned to himself but before he could do anything, a voice came from behind him.
“Repackage what? Did you buy Mom something?” Solvin glanced down at his son who smiled up at him.
“..ugh..” Solvin stared at his son before smiling brightly. “Hey, come with me. I got something for you.” Aiden beamed as he bounced next to his father.
“Really?  What’d you get me? Can I see it?” Solvin laughed as he picked up his son, tucking him under his arm.
“Keep asking questions and you aren’t getting anything ” Aiden kicked his legs as he squealed with laughter.
“Daaaad  Come on  ” He pulled at his father’s tunic as he walked into the forest, his son still kicking and shouting.
“Quit your shouting ” Solvin laughed as he dropped his son to his feet. “Come on then. Walk with me.” He folded his arms behind him as he walked lightly through the forest. Aiden walked swiftly to catch up to his father, staring up at him in awe. “I think it’s time you learn the ways of the Surion men.” He stopped and smiled down at his son who was now wide-eyed. “I’ve been trained in the way of the ranger as well as my father, his father before him and his father before him. Pretty much any head of the Surion has trained himself in the ways of the ranger.” He kneeled down so he could be face to face with his son. “Now here I am, preparing to train you.” A bright smile spread across Aiden’s face as he bounced with anticipation. Solvin down into the quiver. “Now, it’s not much but once you learn and grow..I’ll show you how to make your own.” He pulled out the short bow and handed it to the young boy. Aiden gasped as he snapped the bow from his father’s hand.
“Wow ” He held the bow, plucking at the string. “You’re really gunna teach me?” He embraced his father before leaping away with the bow in hand.
“Now, now.” He pulled his own bow off his back, walking towards a large oak tree. “You need to calm down Aiden. Go stand about 10 meters from this tree.” He reached into his quiver and pulled out a small bottle of red paint. He unplugged it and at the bottom of the plug was a rough brush coated in the bright pigment. He painted a target on the tree than replaced the bottle into his quiver. Aiden stood back where his father told him to, plucking the string of the bow. Solvin walked over to his son and stood before him, pulling out an arrow. In one fluid movement, he knocked it and sent it hissing into the center red circle. He grinned as he looked down at his awestruck son. “You ready to learn?”





After a few hours, the tree still had that one arrow in it but the ground before it was littered with arrows. Solvin sat down in the grass as his son plopped down next to him.
“Man..I do suck.” He pouted as his father patted his back.
“Oh yes, cause you’re going to hit the target the first day you touch a bow.” Aiden grumbled as he leaned against his father.
“Don’t make fun on me..” He kicked at the dirt as he laid his head on his father’s arm. Solvin pulled a water flask off his belt, handing it to Aiden. The child drank from it as he stared up at the trees. “How come Uncle Evan doesn’t fight like you and Grandfather do?” He looked up to his father who ruffled the boy’s hair.
“Because when Evan was growing up..before I was born..our father wasn’t around and Evan grew very close to our mother..so he learned her trade instead of our fathers.” Aiden wiped his mouth as he capped the water sack.
“But you’re not around a lot either..” Solvin felt his heart sank as his son made a good point.
“Ah...well...when you put it that way.” He looked down at his son with a smile. “I won’t be like him Aiden...he was home for only days at a time..and lots more than just twenty years in between. Of course once I was born, he was around more often cause..two boys is a lot more to handle than one.” Aiden looked at his father for a moment before grinning, jumping to his feet.
“Well, than get me a brother ” Aiden shoved his father with a big grin. “Get me a brother so you have to stay home ” Solvin laughed as he pulled his son down into the dirt with him.
“Oh trust, I’ve been trying.” He ruffled his sons hair than stopped suddenly as a strange sound echoed from deep in the forest. He rose to his knees, gesturing for Aiden to be quiet. He stared through the trees, trying to see what he had heard. Birds flew off int flocks from the tree tops. Solvin glanced back at Aiden who seemed rather excited.
“Let’s go see what it was ” Solvin frowned slightly before turning his eyes to the forest. Aiden pouted as he was ignored. He jumped to his feet and darted past his father into the woods.
“Aiden ” Solvin yelled as he chased after the boy. “Aiden  This isn’t a game ” He reached out, grabbing the boy and tumbling into the leaves. “We’re no longer in our villages territory..you can’t just–“ He grimaced as the noise echoed the forest again. It was a foreign noise that sounded like a thousand glasses breaking in one instant. Aiden curled against his father as faint voices were heard in the distant. Solvin got up, opening a bag on his belt. “Aiden..I need you to stay here okay?” He pulled an old cloak from the back and pulled it around his son’s shoulders. “This is a very old cloak but it does wonderful things...pull the hood up and no one will ever find you...” He glanced back towards the noises again. “Now, this is very important..I need you to stay here and stay hidden. Stay hidden until I come back, and only when I come back.” He rose to his feet and ran into the woods as Aiden curled in the bushes, pulling the hood over his crimson hair.

Solvin moved swiftly through the forest, staying close to the trees. He crouched down, examining the carriage tracks on the ground.
“Interesting...why would a carriage of a human noble be out here in the forest?” He glanced over as he noticed the carriage in the distance. A rather disgruntled human was out, a strange looking weapon in his hands as he shouted out at nothing.
“Bastard  Get out here and face me ” Solvin grimaced as the strange noise emanated again, it was coming from the human’s odd weapon. Smoke wisped from it as the man shouted, walking around the carriage. “I chased you this far  I will not let you slip away now ” The weapon fired again as the man laughed loudly. “Get out here you greasy little half-breed ” Solvin shook his head as he pulled out his bow, knocking an arrow.
“Humans..” He shook his head as he fired an arrow. Before the arrow reached it target, it stopped dead in mid air. A cry echoed as a black mass appeared around the arrow, falling into the grass. The human turned over, looking over at Solvin with a laugh.
“Gotcha ” He aimed the weapon at Solvin and the noise sounded. Pain shot up Solvin’s arm as he bleed from an arrowless wound. He curled over into the leaves as pain burned in his shoulder. The human trotted over but as he did, he fell with a shout. The figure that had taken the arrow rose, raising a bloodied blade as it groaned. It pulled off a black hood exposing a head full of shaggy blonde hair.
“Aaah ” He ripped the arrow from his hip with a shout. Solvin laid back in the grass, gripping his shoulder. “Alright man..that whole shootin’ a guy in the back ain’t cool ” The elf groaned as he opened his eyes to see the black clad man above him. “Hold on a second...don’t I know you?” The man squatted down as he laughed. “Yeah  I do  Solvin  Hey man ” Solvin opened his eyes to see the smiling face of the blonde haired half-elf.
“Yes..hello Aramil...do you have an healing oils on you? This really hurts.” Aramil looked down at Solvin shoulder and winced.
“You can heal that all you want but that’ll just make it worse. We needa get that bullet out.” He helped Solvin get to a sitting position. “Guess a country boy like you hasn’t seen a rifle before, huh? It’s the new technology that rich humans are starting to love. It’s some crazy alchemy weapon.” Solvin got to his feet, clutching his shoulder.
“Hmm...can’t say I’ve seen one but now I’ll be sure that I don’t..” His hand glowed for a moment as he slowed his bleeding. “What are you doing out here?” He glanced over at Aramil as the two walked.
“On a job. Got a bit side tracked and that guy wasn’t happy with me...so here I am.” He looked over at Solvin with a grin. “What about you?”
“I live here...well deeper in the forest there is my village and I was out in the woods with my son.” He stuck his bow in his quiver before returning his hand to his wounded shoulder. “I heard the rifle shots and had to come see what was up.” He sighed as they walked towards the area where Aiden was hidden. “Aiden?” He glanced around. “Aiden. It’s safe.” His eyes fell upon his son as he pulled the cloak from over his head.
“Dad ” Aiden stopped short as he started up at Aramil; he went pale and stepped back. Solvin kneeled down with a wince.
“It’s okay Aiden..this is an old friend. His name is Aramil..” Aiden glanced from Aramil to his father.
“You’re bleeding...” He pointed to Solvin’s wounded shoulder. His father nodded, waving Aiden over.
“I got hurt Aiden..we gotta head back home so I can get healed.” Aiden nodded as he walked over to his father, still eyeing Aramil.





Solvin writhed in pain as a cleric worked on removing the bullet. His family stood around him with Aramil, watching quietly. The cleric pulled the bullet out after a few moments than healed the internal wounds. Keziah picked up the bullet with a frown, glancing over at Aramil.
“What is this? This isn’t a arrow head...” Aramil glanced over with a grin.
“It’s a bullet. Stupid human alchemy magic..we’ll explain later.” Solvin let out sigh as the cleric left, leaving his shoulder sewn shut.
“They hurt..that’s all you need to know.” He fingered his bandage as Keziah kissed him.
“I’m just glad your okay..” She ran her fingers through his bangs, kissing him once more. Aiden watched them for a moment before looking back at Aramil.
“Why are you here?” Solvin groaned and nudged his son with his knee.
“Don’t be rude ” Aramil laughed as he waved a hand.
“Nah, it’s cool.” The half-human kneeled down, smiling at the young boy. “Well see, I am actually here to deliver a message to your uncle.” He reached behind him and pulled a scroll from his belt. “Got some important news he needs to know.” He smiled as he stood back up, tossing the scroll on the table. “Where is he anyway?” Solvin shrugged as Keziah glanced over at the blonde.
“He went to find Gylth when I told him the news...I know that much.” A smile spread across the man’s face as he barked a laugh.
“Gyl’s here too?  Man  What is this awesome party without me? I feel so left out.” He frowned as he plopped down on the couch. Solvin chuckled as he looked up at his wife. She kissed his nose before leaning against the wall. Before any of them could speak, the front door creaked open. Aramil jumped to his feet and ran over to Eva before he could fully make it into the house. “FULLSIES ” The half-human jumped onto the bewildered elf, knocking him backwards. Evan blinked a few times before he realized his assailant’s identity.
“Halfsies?” Evan laughed as he hugged his old friend. “I was starting to think you were gone for ” Aramil pulled back shaking his head.
“Nope, just got shipped off elsewhere.” He folded his arms as he nodded. “Well not for long. I ended up where you were because I overheard some servants talking about your leaving.” A grin curled across his face. “So here I am  Bearer of good and bad news unfortunately.” The man glanced back, snatching the rolled up paper from the table. “One, you have a daughter.” Before he could continue, Evan let out a shout. The elf jumped, ripping his brother from his chair and twirling him. Solvin groaned in pain as his brother finally released him.
“A daughter?” He grinned, smacking Solvin’s back. “You hear that?  I got a baby girl ” Solvin sat up straight, smiling at his older brother.
“Congratulations.” He stood, embracing the excited elf. “May she not be a slut like you.” Evan smacked Solvin upside the head before shoving him away.
“You might have been given my heritage rights but you’re still my baby brother you know.” Evan kissed him before facing the blonde again. “What’s her name? What’s she look like?” Aramil laughed, wrapping his arm around his old friend.
“She’s gotta look like you cause Fillip hasn’t let a soul see her  I think they announced she was named Aletta.” Evan beamed with pride as he repeated the name to himself. Behind them, Solvin smiled to himself before glancing back at Keziah. Aramil went quiet for a moment, twisting the paper between his fingers. “Yeah, there’s still more news...this time it ain’t so happy.” Evan’s smile fell slightly as he blinked at the half-human.
“What do you mean?” The man patted Evan’s chest as he smiled weakly.
“Well ugh..about Charlotte...” Evan stepped away from the ninja, letting his arm slip off.
“What about Charlotte?” Keziah stood up, stepping over to her brother-in-law. She laid a hand on his arm as he stared at the man before him. “What about her ” He shouted as Aramil folded his gloved hands together.
“She died during childbirth...” He tore his eyes away from his friend, staring down at his toes. Evan’s face went pale as Keziah wrapped her arm around the man’s shoulders.
“She what?” A awkward smile was on his face as he shook his head in denial. “No, that can’t be. She wasn’t even weak  I made sure she stayed strong  That’s bullshit ” He gritted his teeth as he continued to shake his head. Keziah curled her forehead on Evan’s shoulder, rubbing his back.
“Eve..” She laid her hand on his cheek, turning him to face him. “Honey, don’t do this...” She pulled him into an embrace as the man let out a heavy sigh.
“He has to be wrong..she can’t be...” He squeezed the thin woman, burying his face into her shoulder. Aramil sighed as he watched them.
“I’m actually not even supposed to be here...Fillip wanted to make sure you were cut off from the family but I had to come get you.” Evan pulled away from Keziah, running his hands through his hair. His eyes went wide as an idea light up in the back of his skull.
“That’s it.” He turned on his heel, pointing a finger to his brother. “You, you’re coming back with me to Kiltrin ” Solvin frowned as he walked over to his brother.
“Evan...I don’t really see what good that will do..maybe you should just relax and just deal with this instead of going into denial and doing something stupid.” He looked at his brother who blew over everything that was just said.
“Yeah, so we’re gunna go to Kiltrin and I’m gunna take my daughter. She’s mine, not his and it’s only fair.” Solvin rolled his eyes as Keziah spoke up.
“We should go. Her mother is no more and now she’s in the hands of some man who isn’t her father..she deserves her real father  Solvin, if I was dead wouldn’t you–“ Solvin waved a hand as he gave his wife a stern look. He sighed before looking over to Evan.
“Is this really what you think you should do? You’re not stable enough to handle a child ” Evan growled as he thrust his knuckles into Solvin’s nose. Keziah yelped as her husband crumbled to the floor, grasping his broken nose. “Well that’s mature..”
“Evan ” Keziah jumped in front of him, blocking the two from each other. Solvin got back to his feet, spitting blood onto his floor.
“I have a plan Evan..how about you sit tight for a week, you’ll get over her. You always do and in no time, you’ll be father of another illegitimate child ” He laughed as Evan growled, trying to force his way past Keziah.
“Solvin  Stop it  Both of you ” Keziah shoved Evan away, glaring back at her husband. “Was that necessary?” Solvin pointed to his blood smeared face.
“Was this necessary?” Evan hissed at his brother as he cursed him in a druid tongue. Keziah huffed as she watched the two.
“Honestly  You’re both like children ” The whole group stilled as a laugh entered their voices from a forgotten member of this party. Aiden sat where his father had been, watching his family before him.
“That’s not fair mom...we’re not like this.” Solvin’s face fell as he felt shame for acting such a way in front of his own son. Keziah smiled at her son.
“Thank you Aiden.” She looked between the two elves before looked over at Aramil. “And thanks for the help Halves.” The blonde laughed weakly as he sat down. Keziah touched her forehead as she sighed. “Well we’ve gotten no where..”
“I agree with Uncle Eve..” They all turned to Aiden who swung his legs innocently. “I mean..I mean...” He looked over to his own father. “Like...if you could never come home and see me...you’d want to come see me no matter what, right?” Eyes traveled from son to father as Solvin chuckled.
“Well of course, but that isn’t the same Aiden. You’re too young to understand..what Evan has is complicated.”
“It’s only complicated because you’re making it complicated.” Solvin blinked in surprise as he looked to his son who bit his lip. Keziah kissed her husbands cheek as she patted his good shoulder.
“You just got told by someone at most an eighth of your age.” Aiden grinned as he leaned back into the chair.
“Just go. I’ll stay with Grandpa.” Evan laughed loudly as he stepped forward.
“Good to see he got his brains from Keziah. How about it then? It’s been years since we three have done anything together.” Keziah smiled brightly as she realized she would be included in this adventure for once. “So there we go  The brains, the brawn and the beauty  I counted myself twice...and I don’t really know where Solvin fits in...but we can make it work.” Solvin rolled his eyes as he glanced over to where Aramil was, only to find him gone.





The three galloped through the open field towards the kingdom. Evan caught up to his brother, whispering roughly.
“I don’t have a plan to get into the city..” Solvin glanced over to his brother for a moment before leaning over, ripping a scimitar from his belt.
“Don’t worry, I do. Keep running.” He pushed his horse forward towards the guards who gathered to stop Solvin.
“Halt  You can not enter the city without–“ Before the man finished his sentence, Solvin’s horse reared into the group of men. Solvin sliced the throat of the man who was shouting while his horse butted the others out of the way. With that, they charged into the city with his wife and brother shortly behind him.
“To the castle ” Evan sped ahead of his brother, galloping through the panicked crowds. Men pulled their women aside, shouting at the riders. Evan leapt off his horse as they reached the stairs, sprinting to the entrance of the Duke’s palace. He kicked the door open with surprising ease before storming into the silent foyer. He panted heavy as he gripped his scimitar. “This isn’t right...this time of day and no one is here?” Solvin followed after his brother who was now tearing through branched off rooms. “This isn’t right ” Keziah glanced to her husband who eyed the palace cautiously.
“We’ve been played a fool that’s why.” He turned to the front door that was now latched closed. Evan frowned as he shook the door but it was reinforced from the outside.
“What? ”
“You honestly think someone would run and tell you the news after all that’s happened, Evan?” The elves glanced up to a long stairway where Fillip stood with a row of guards behind him. A smile creep up his bearded chin as he laid his hand on his rapier hilt. He walked down the stairs as guards circled around the trio. “Oh and you brought friends to keep you company in jail  You’re so thoughtful..” His gloved hand grabbed Evan’s chin as he eyed him. “I knew if you heard news of Charlotte you’d come here to get your little girl...and I’d have my chance to get you out of my hair...permanently..” He glanced over as Solvin and Keziah lowered their weapons; guards curled around them, spears pointed towards the elves. “Say...don’t I know you...?” He gripped Evan’s through as he walked to face Solvin, his forehead wrinkled in thought. Solvin glanced back to his wife before looking to Fillip.
“When I left with my brother last time..perhaps?” The man shook his head as he ran his finger over the ornate buckle that clasped his cloak to his armor.
“I think not...an assassin?” He raised his eyebrows as he looked over to his guards. “Who’d think we’d have one of our cities ghosts walk right into our hands?” He laughed loudly as Solvin grinned.
“Well...the only way you’d know my identity is if you’ve joined me in a contract...and if you’ve done that..you’re just as guilty as I am.” Fillip glanced over his shoulder as the guards shackled Evan.
“Well, lucky for me...I didn’t put my name on paper...and also lucky for me..that my citizens will take my word over yours..” Guards shackled Solvin as Keziah gasped, struggling against the guards, reaching out for her husband. Fillip walked over to Keziah as the two males were dragged from the room. “Oh don’t worry darling..” He ran his hand up her jaw line as she curled away in disgust. “I won’t force you to watch them hang.” With that, the man turned and walked out the door after the guards. Keziah’s face feel in disbelief as she cried out in anger.


Fillip raised an eyebrow as he turned to face the door behind him as Keziah shouted. He turned to face the two men who were dragged onto the stage where nooses hung above their heads. Evan kicked at the guards as he shouted.
“Face me like a man you coward ” The guard tightened the noose around the druid causing him to hack a rough cough. Solvin twisted in the locks, growling.
“Eve ” His chest heaved as the heavy rope was slung over his neck. Evan glanced over to his brother, his face blank as they caught eyes for a moment. The druid winked with a grin before the floor below them dropped. Pressure wrapped around Solvin’s throat for a moment before he found himself dropped to the floor. The ropes unwrapped, crumbling into the hay they were formed out of. Evan leapt to his feet, ripping a sword from one of the guards. Solvin rose to his feet as the doors behind them burst open, sending a raged Keziah into the guards. Fillip gasped as he climbed onto the stage, pulling out his sword.
“Savages ” Solvin laughed as he glanced up to the human.
“We’re the savages? I believe you just tried to HANG us ” Evan jumped onto the stage with a cackling grin.
“Maybe we are savages, Solv.” He twirled the sword in his hand as Fillip shakily held up his sword.
“I’m a duke and you’re nothing  You can’t harm me ”
“Actually.” Solvin glanced back as Keziah destroyed the last of the guards. “He’s the second to the throne of the chief at our home. Pretty much...higher in society than you are. You’re no where near a throne. You are given power so the ones above you don’t have their hands full. You’re a pawn ” Evan laughed loudly as he stepped forward.
“So that means, my little daughter would be better off in my hands, than yours. I mean, it’s only fair  How would you ever explain her cute little ears and red hair?” He winked as he walked Fillip to the edge of the open trap door. “Maybe I should let you think this over?” He tapped his chin as he pulled the threads of the noose back together, winding the locks of nature back into their old form. Fillip pressed the tip of his sword against Evan’s chest.
“I think not.” Evan smiled as the rope wrapped around the man’s neck, pulling him backwards as he cried out. Evan turned and hopped off the stage as Fillip failed, kicking his legs as he dangled far above the ground. Solvin kissed Keziah as the three left the man to his final moment.
“Let’s go get my daughter.” Evan opened the doors, walking into the foyer as he heard soft feet running down the stairs.
“Fillip  What on earth is going on down here? Honestly, I just got–“ The room went silent as Charlotte stood on the stairs, an elegant gown hanging over her thinned body. Evan went white as he stared up at the women.
“Charlotte?” He ran up the stairs, embracing the woman tightly as his eyes misted. “Oh gods..I was told you were dead ” He kissed the woman powerfully as she patted Evan’s chest, trying to push away.
“Evan?” She gasped as she caught her breath. “What...I. Dead? Who told you I was dead..?” She glanced down at Solvin and Keziah. “What happened?” She wiped a falling tear from his cheek before kissing him. Evan ran his hands through her long curls.
“An old friend of mine...he told me he was sent to tell me you died during childbirth...and it was a trap..Fillip wanted me dead.” He wrapped his arms around the woman, sighing happily. “You’re alive...that’s all that matters. Listen..I’m getting you out of here.” He took her hands with a wide smile. “You and Aletta are coming with me.” Charlotte blinked wildly as she laid a hand over her chest. She gasped for words but instead turned and darted up the stairs. Evan breathed a heavy sigh before turning to his brother. “Go get the horses ready  We need to get leaving as fast as we can ” Solvin nodded in agreement as he took Keziah’s hand and left the palace. They both trotted down the stairs and quickly gathered the three horses, pulling them aside the massive stairway that led into the home.
“He’d better hurry up..” Keziah glanced up to her husband, running her fingers across the red mark under his jaw. “Are you okay?” Solvin winked as he patted his neck.
“Not the first time I’ve escaped a noose...but must say, it’s the first time I’ve seen a druid use already destroyed nature.” His wife frowned slightly, taking his hand in her own.
“This better be the last time you have to escape a noose...” She glanced out past the stairs as guards marched through the marketplace. “Come on Eve..hurry.” She ducked back, as she caught a glance from a guard.
“Over there ” A pair of soldier’s marched over, their armor clinking loudly. Before the approached, a red cloak fluttered across Keziah’s line of sight. The back of a thin man stood between them and the guards.
“Oh, may I help you sirs? I’m afraid these are our horses. I did not see anywhere else to put them..is this not a good place? I do apologize.” The guards sighed and shoved the man aside. Solvin pulled his wife close as the two guards stared dead at them.
“Well..that’s odd. I could have sworn I saw someone over here...” The guards frowned as the cloaked man let out a laugh.
“Well, it is awfully hot and in all that armor..you poor thing. You must be boiling. Perhaps you should go take a rest?” One of the guards glanced back to the horses than to the man.
“You said our horses..who are your travel companions?” Before the man could respond, a powerful voice came from behind the two guards.
“I am, is there a problem?” The two parted, allowing a tall dark-haired man to step forward. A goatee hung off his pale chin and a crimson cloth was tied around his head, shadowing his fierce eyes. His clothes were foreign and dark, a skull headed mace hanging from his belt. Beside him stood a young Asian woman in the garb of a ninja; her long black hair was tied up and black tattoos waved down her face. The guards bowed to the man, stepping aside.
“No problem, we apologize.” The man stepped over, glancing to Solvin and Keziah.
“Why are we helping them now?” He raised a thin eyebrow, his lone earring waving as he turned his head away. The cloaked man turned, finally exposing his familiar face to the pair.
“While I think I’d be a horrid brother if I didn’t..” A smile folded up the tan face of the bare chested man before them. His hair was black and hung messily in his face, the rest tied in a loose pony tail. A circular pair of spectacles sat on the bridge of his thin nose as his soft eyes watched them. A pair of small horns rose from his bangs and on his shoulder laid the sleeping head of a baby fox, obviously the rest of it was curled in his hood. Keziah cupped a hand over her mouth as she stared in awe at her older brother.
“Kraz?” She jumped to her feet, taking her brother’s face in her hands. “Is that really you?” She looked to the tattoo under his eye that was identical to her own. A smile spread across her face as she wrapped her arms around his neck. “Krazier  It is you ” She kissed him before pulling away, her smile still bright. “I haven’t see you since I was almost a baby...you’ve been out this long and mother hasn’t come after you?” Krazier laughed as he ruffled his sister’s hair.
“Why would a matriarch worry about her only son?” His eyebrow raised as he looked towards Solvin. “Who’s your friend?” Keziah turned around, grabbing Solvin’s hand.
“This is my husband, Solvin.” She pulled him close as the men exchanged a greeting. “Oh, I never thanked you for helping us..thank you.” Before Kraz could respond, the dark haired man cleared his throat.
“Perhaps we should move our conversation elsewhere...seeing that we hid you from guards, I don’t think standing out here in the open is in your best interest.” Kraz laughed as he patted the man’s shoulder.
“You have a point there. Oh, forgive me. This is Valdamir and his servant Rae. They’ve been traveling with me for the last couple months.” Valdamir huffed as he rolled his eyes.
“Only at the point of blackmail unfortunately..” He glanced back at the guards who were across the market. “Or maybe we are safe here. I forget that human’s are fools.” Solvin frowned as he eyed Valdamir suspiciously.
“But..you. You are human.” He gestured towards the man’s round ears. Rae giggled at Valdamir’s side as a sideways smile snaked across his face.
“Oh, right. Of course.” His eyes shone dangerously as Solvin stepped back slightly, grabbing Keziah’s arm.
“Perhaps we should keep moving. Evan’s not out yet..something might be wrong.” Keziah waved her hand, smiling at him.
“Don’t worry so much  You know Eve, maybe he’s just making Aletta a sister.” Krazier grinned as he took his sister’s hand.
“Oh  Am I uncle by chance?” He grinned as Keziah laughed cutely.
“Yup  You have a nephew named Aiden.” She clapped her hands around her brother’s hand before grinning. “You should come back with us and meet him ” Valdamir let out a groan as he tapped his boot.
“We don’t have time for pointless trips..” Krazier smiled as he glanced sideways to the man.
“Oh come now, Val. Don’t be such a gloom.” At that, the front doors of the palace opened up and Evan casually walked down towards them. Solvin wrinkled his brow as his brother approached him.
“Go home.” Evan smiled as he reached into his brother’s quiver and pulled out a handful of arrows. “I’m staying here with Charlotte. I can’t bring her to the village...she belongs here. She’s not an elf.” He smiled as he waved the arrows. “Oh yes, and you’ve assassinated poor Fillip by the way..and his guards. Just throwing that out there.” Solvin sighed as he laid a hand on his brother’s shoulder.
“Is this what you want?” Evan took his brother’s face in his hands than kissed his forehead.
“Yes now go home. Don’t worry, I’ll visit.” The brother’s embraced before the eldest stepped back, winking to Keziah. “You take care of him baby, I don’t wanna come home to find my baby brother laying on the floor dead, okay?” Keziah nodded as Evan hugged her as well. He turned and walked up the steps back into the palace. Krazier chuckled as he kissed his sister’s cheek.
“Well it only seems appropriate for me to leave as well.” Keziah turned quickly to retort but found her staring into nothing. All three of them were gone. Solvin kissed his wife’s head as he climbed onto his horse.
“Come on Kez..” She didn’t move for a second as she stared where her brother had been. Solvin trotted his horse behind her and wrapped his arm across her ribs. He lifted her up onto her lap, startling her.
“Solvin ” She laughed as she wrapped her arms around his neck, curling her legs together. “Since when were you the Prince Charming type?” Solvin raised an eyebrow as he caused his horse to rear up before galloping out of the city.





Many moon’s rolled across the sky as the season changed into a full bloomed spring. The tree’s were green and the grounds thick with grass and the new harvest. Women were out in the fields plucking the corn, melons, foliage and other foods. Keziah laid her basket at her feet as she pulled the corn from their stocks.
“Psst.” Her ear’s twitched as she looked down the field where no one was visible. “Kez.”
“Hello...?” She frowned slightly as she glanced around. Cahda popped out of the rows, waving the elf over.
“Kez, over here. I needa talk to you.” Keziah picked up her basket as she strolled over. Cahda glanced around nervously as she dragged Keziah out of the field. “Come on ” Keziah sighed as she followed Cahda over to an isolated area away from the fields and the village. She placed he basket down as Cahda kneeled under a large oak tree.
“I thought you said you wanted to talk..why are you dragging me all the way over here?” The woman let out a heavy sigh as she pulled her long curls back into a ponytail.
“I’m going to tell you something Kez..and you have to swear never to speak of it to anyone ” Keziah sat down as she realized this was serious. Cahda let out another sigh as she curled her hands into her skirt. “I’m...I, ugh...” She hung her head as she struggled over the words.
“Cahdie?” She laid a hand on her friend’s shoulder as she began to sob. “Whoa, hey  What’s wrong?” She scooted next to the woman, wrapping her arm around her friend.
“I’m pregnant..” She covered her eyes as she curled her head against Keziah. “I don’t know what to do  I’m not even married ” Keziah stared at Cahda in awe before patting her back again.
“It’s gunna be okay...um, have you talked to..the father?” Cahda shook her head as she buried her face in her palms again.
“I can’t tell Gylth...he’d panic for sure...my father doesn’t even think I should be with him  Now I’m carrying his child..” She pulled her knees to her chest as she sobbed. Keziah bit her lip as she watched Cahda.
“You have to talk to Gyl...he won’t panic. The full moon was a week ago. He’s not sick or stressed, he’s just Gylth.” She got to her feet slowly as Cahda didn’t respond. “I’m gunna get him..okay?” Cahda snapped her head up, grabbing Keziah’s belt.
“No  I can’t...I don’t...” Her brow twitched as she released Keziah’s belt. The woman continued walking away into the village, looking around for the man.
“Gylth ” She shouted as she banged on the Oronar door. “Gylth  This is important  Get out here ”
“I am.” She jumped as she turned to face Gylth who was behind her. His hair was pulled back into a ponytail with some pieces hanging into his eyes. “What’s wrong?” He unstrapped his father’s great sword from his back, leaning it against his house. He wiped his brow as his heavy breathing began to steady; he had obviously been out all day hunting and help expand the village’s territory with the other men.
“Come on, Cahda needs to talk to you.” Gylth frowned slightly as he eyed Keziah.
“What about?” Keziah let out a frustrated grow, gesturing for him to follow. “Tell me what she wants..how do I know this isn’t some crazy female trap you guys are setting up?” He laughed as he pulled the waterskin from his belt. “Why didn’t she just come to me?” Keziah pulled the flask from Gylth and tossed it in the general direction of Cahda.
“Oh opps, I dropped it.” Gylth pouted a bit than folded his arms.
“Now that’s just immature..is this so important that I can’t relax for a second before going to talk to her?” Keziah reached behind Gylth and grabbed a handful of his thick hair. He yelped as Keziah dragged him towards where Cahda sat.
“I swear, you are so difficult over the simplest things ” She released him as they reached the oak tree.
“Well, I’m sorry I’ve been–“ He stopped as he looked down at the sobbing elf. “You didn’t tell me she was crying ” He kneeled next to his partner, smoothing her hair from her face. “Cahd, what’s wrong?” Cahda uncurled from herself as Gylth wiped the tears from her cheeks. “Why are you crying?” She grasped his hand as she looked away from him.
“Promise me you won’t get upset..” Gylth’s eyes went wide for a moment.
“Are you cheating on me?” Cahda laughed dryly as she kissed Gylth.
“No..why would you think that?” She laid a hand on his cheek as he shrugged.
“That’s all I can really see myself getting upset at.” She patted his cheek before leaning back against the tree.
“No...I’m..um..” She glanced up at Keziah who nodded with a smile. “I’m pregnant...and you’re the father..” She curled her legs back up as she turned away from the dumbstruck Gylth.
“What..? You’re...you’re, seriously?” A smile grew across Gylth’s face as he let out a triumphant laugh. Cahda turned quickly, striking Gylth across the face as tears fell again.
“Why are you laughing ? This isn’t funny  Why do you think this is funny? ” Gylth wrapped his arms around her, kissing her strongly.
“I’m happy. This isn’t bad, why are you crying?” Cahda curled her head against him, sobbing.
“It is too bad  We’re not married Gylth  My father will kill me  You know how he feels about us...he made it very clear, remember?” Gylth shook his head as he shrugged.
“Not really...your family doesn’t make things clear like my family does. Now if your father embedded ‘don’t touch my daughter, you filthy barbarian’ into my skull with his fist, I’d remember.” Cahda frowned at Gylth as she touched his face, leaning her forehead against his.
“Stop that...Gylth, this is serious..” She wiped her eyes as Gylth kissed her forehead than cheek. “I’m happy you’re excited...but I need more than that...” The lycan eyed her for a moment before taking her left hand and kissing her fingers.
“Well than I’ll do whatever needs to be done..” He pulled his pinky ring off with his teeth, wiping it off on his shirt. “I’ll go talk to your father about your hand in marriage..we’ll do this all the right way, alright?” He slid his ring onto her finger as she eyed him warmly.
“Oh yes, cause he’ll be so inclined to agree to that.” Gylth laughed as he kissed her.
“He will when I tell him your pregnant.” Cahda gasped and pushed him away.
“You won’t ” Gylth grinned as he pulled Cahda back to him.
“Well, it’s either he lets us marry and his daughter gives birth to what could be a maritally conceived child...or he says no and you are the unwed pregnant stain on his ego.” Cahda raised an eyebrow as she tapped Gylth’s nose.
“And they say barbarian’s are dull witted.” She kissed the man powerfully until he pushed away.
“Wait. Who’s they?”





Keziah smiled to herself as she left the two alone under the oak tree shortly after Cahda spoke of her pregnancy. She chuckled as she walked through the left open front door of her home. She kicked it closed quietly as she noticed her husband lounging in his armchair, his tunic sweat stained and his hair damp. He breathed slowly as his tunic was spread open, exposing his tattooed chest. He stirred as Keziah’s fingertips tapped across his chest. A smile curled up his lips but his eyes remained closed.
“That better be you Kez..cause if it’s not, I can’t be held responsible for anything..” Keziah laughed as she sat on her husband’s lap, straddling his hips.
“Well the door was wide open, I could be anyone...maybe I’m the ravenous Merinia here to destroy her daughter’s precious husband.” Solvin pursed his lips as Keziah wrapped her arms around Solvin’s neck, laying a kiss on his chin.
“Well..your mom was kinda hot.” Keziah gasped as she pushed Solvin back against the cushion, sitting back up. Solvin opened his eyes with a soft chuckled. “Come on, like I’d want that old hag over you.” He rested his hands on Keziah’s hips as he eyed her. “Why you being so lively today?” He grinned as Keziah leaned forward, kissing him.
“I just watched a young couple learn news of their first child and it inspired me.” Solvin raised his eyebrows as his grin went wider. “What is that smile for ” Keziah sat back up, pouting as if she were offended. “Only caring about making the baby, not having one.” Solvin chuckled as he ran his hands up her sides.
“I”ll love anything as long as it involves you.” Keziah’s mock pout melted into a loving smile. With that, she leaned back down to kiss her husband powerfully. Solvin wrapped an arm around her as they kissed passionately.
“What are you guys doing?” Keziah turned to head to face Aiden who stood at the entrance of the room, giving his parents a very confused look. Solvin groaned with frustration as he pointed towards the hallway.
“Room  Now ” Aiden jumped and scurried out of the room. Keziah laughed as she looked down at her red faced love. He laughed with her before running his hand through her hair. “As we were?” Keziah grinned as she kissed her husband.