Chapter 9

Finding Direction

Morning arrived earlier than expected. Evidently, elves started at the crack of dawn, for that is when their magical fortress faded away, leaving everyone laying on the forest floor in the faint light of the rising sun that managed to penetrate the thick canopy overhead. Vallen and Daffonil shared a smile while the rest of the group picked themselves from the ground in bewilderment.

“Rise and shine, people,” Vallen chuckled. The nobleman looked as if he had been awake some time. He was busy sharpening his sword and discussing the plans moving forward from this point with the elven guardian. The two appeared to get on quite well together.

“May the light of dawn bless your day,” Daffonil added with a cheery smile. She had a beautiful yellow flower tucked behind one pointed ear. During her battle with the beast her braid of flowers was torn away. Vallen found this flower to replace it. The druid even assembled a breakfast for them. It consisted of berries, leaves and mushrooms. The food looked very… healthy.

Slowly but surely each of them crawled to their feet and stretched the terrors of the previous night away like a bad dream. Rays of sunshine filtered in through the canopy, growing by the minute and chasing away the shadows. It was quite beautiful to behold. The songs of the birds made the world sound alive, cheerful even. Derris proved the least ready to begin his trek to the nearest settlement. He tried to roll over and cover his head, but Reena shoved him back awake with her boot.

“If I have to wake up then so do you, you annoying windbag.” The girl reasoned aloud. She figured her arrangement with the man was ended and she did not have to pretend to like him anymore. From inside her pack, she heard a muffled “Yep! Yep!” followed by a hissing giggle.

Bronwick stood scratching his head and studying everything. The giant of a man looked completely lost. The elves worked through the night to repair the damage to the forest and to return the spirits and energy of the dead back to the planet. They even arranged to have the wagons hauled off to the location where the teamster couple waited, a nearby village named Hinny Hill. One would have to search closely to find any sign of the altercation from the previous night.

The big man studied his surroundings in obvious confusion. He muttered his thoughts aloud. “So… did all that monster killing, and battle stuff really happen last night, or was that a bad dream? And… how did I get here if it was a dream? Can we all have the same dream?” He scanned their faces as if mesmerized by the idea. The others could not suppress a chuckle.

“I am sorry to say that it was all very real, Bronwick,” Tamaran stated sadly. The bushy-haired youth moved to try the elven food as he struggled to get his thick hair back under control. He popped a red berry into his mouth. It was surprisingly tasty. She found pooka berries. “Do we have a plan for the day? What happens now? The goal was Sabline but I am assuming that would be a long walk from here. How do we proceed without wagons or horses?”

Vallen chuckled. “That would be a very long walk indeed. I doubt anyone here would enjoy a week of hiking across the land and through the forest. I was just suggesting the idea of taking you all to my manor house. We could acquire horses or a coach to continue to Sabline at a proper pace, using the roads. That would shave several days off the trek and give you the chance to relax at my manor. Who would be interested in the journey? The beauty of my option is it’s also free of charge.” The handsome youth raised his hands at his sides and grinned. “I live about a day’s march from here though. We’d have to cut through the forest to get there. Don’t fret about the forest. Zane reported back earlier and let me know that beast is long gone in the opposite direction of my lands, and he spotted no signs of any danger otherwise. It should be a leisurely hike.”

“We also discussed you returning to Dunabar. You know the way there and would probably reach the town in about the same amount of time. The trail is easy to follow, and you can’t get lost that way. Or alternatively you could continue on to Hinny Hill. It is a small human village further down the path in the opposite direction and to the right fork of this trail. I believe that is where your friends, the teamster couple, are resting. The travel time would only be slightly longer than that to reach Vallen’s home.” Daffonil smiled brightly again as she passed out large leaves among the group. Each leaf was like a plate with a small portion of the food she collected for them. Evidently, elves did not eat much, either. “I would like to state again that I am sorry for your losses.” Even the girl’s condolences sounded like a cheerful greeting. She was definitely a morning person.

Everyone sat quietly as they contemplated their options. Vallen slipped off into the forest to find Zane again and see if he had any more news. The man promised to return shortly and guide any who were interested back to his manor. He thought his presence might cause them to feel some obligation and he did not want that. Daffonil moved away to take a seat on a small rock and give them their privacy. She petted and cuddled her tiny skunk, Peaches.

The remaining people exchanged glances and one by one began to share their thoughts with the others. They divided into groups according to their choices.

“I think I’ll take Vallen up on his generous offer. I would like to avoid Dunabar and I’d just be stuck in the village without any funds, being a lone orphan and all.” Reena stated plainly. She hugged her backpack and smiled at them all innocently. She decided not to mention the fact that there was likely a very angry man waiting to kill her back in Dunabar after she drugged then robbed him and sent him off for medical care with a knife wound in his gut.

Tamaran listened and nodded his agreement. “I am headed with Lord Vallen as well. The offer is quite generous. I have plans in Sabline so that is where I need to reach as quickly as possible. Horses sound preferable to walking.” He also declined to share his true reasoning that he feared he might have assassins on his trail and could not risk heading back to Dunabar. He wanted to reach the magic school as fast as he could. The sooner he could start his studies or find a different direction, the sooner he could get any threats off his trail and avenge his uncle and father. He moved to sit next to the young girl. She grinned shyly and stared at her feet. Reena found the desert lander very attractive. Tamaran was handsome, worldly and smart. Plus, those violet eyes were enchanting. He made her nervous. She could not meet his pretty gaze.

Derris was finally awake and so he took the center stage with a few words to a song of good mornings that flowed right into his own thoughts. He realized they were all having a discussion without him. That was simply unacceptable. “I have decided to head back to Dunabar. It seems the closest, safest destination and I can always spend a few days there perfecting my skills for my one man show until a larger caravan destined for a big city passes through. I still intend to reach Peccadillo eventually. Sabline was but one possible destination for my unbridled talent. I have absolutely no desire to traipse through any wilderness ever again, especially not on foot. A hike through the woods sounds absolutely repulsive.” He threw the back of one hand to his forehead dramatically and then mimed swooning. “Sun cats and giant unknown beasts with claws the size of knives has cured me of any interest in adventure moving forward with my life. Henceforth I will limit my adventures to the stage.”

As the resident healer Farrah had checked on him late last night before falling asleep and though the druidic magic did heal the flamboyant minstrel, it did not remove the scars of the attack. Most priestly magic removed scarring. It was one of the benefits of magic over natural cures. It was also why the price was usually much higher for such treatments at a temple. When she asked Daffonil about that detail, the elf replied that scars were part of nature and trophies of an exciting life. The elf seemed surprised that anyone would want to erase that.

“If you visit a temple in a city, you might be able to have those scars removed. It could be pricy for that kind of prayer but it’s something to keep in mind.” Farrah was well aware of the limitations of her skills and the miracles available through divine prayers if the priests were strong enough. She was also aware of the bard’s vanity.

Derris dismissed the woman’s comments. “Surely you jest, my good lady. I would never want to lose these magnificent scars. They are a tapestry of trials to my adventuring life. These will be my badge of honor, the proof of my song and stories of adventure, the mark of a true hero!” He lifted his jerkin to show off the huge scars that ran down his body. “And these scars are alluring in a rough and tumble sort of way. Don’t you think?” He winked at Tamaran. The desert lander forced a smile and shook his head noncommittally. “But, on that note, I am not interested in collecting anymore badges of honor, so Dunabar here I come. One flaw can make a masterpiece unique, alluring, but two can ruin it entirely.” He strummed his lute and hummed a tune as if he were done with speaking to her now. Farrah smiled and turned to the others awkwardly since the minstrel chose to look away.

“I can accompany you back to Dunabar,” Gregory piped up. “I think my days of adventure have come to an end as well.” His leg was healed for the most part, but he still had a hint of a limp. It was due to residual soreness more than injury. That would clear with time. The puncture wounds from the spikes were all gone, leaving an interesting trail of dotted scars.

Bronwick seemed a bit unnerved by the youth’s choice. The bull of a man scratched his head and addressed Gregory earnestly. “You are not going to join back up as a caravan guard for Martin and Luna? I thought we would go on to Hippy Hill together?”

Gregory all but laughed in his face. He tore his eyes away from the big man’s tusks to reply. “Nope. I most definitely am not. I spent one day as a caravan guard and nearly died. In addition to my near-death experience, I failed to save four lives in that caravan. The attack happened on my watch, and I never saw it coming. I think it’s safe to say my skills as a caravan guard are sorely lacking. It’s that simple.” The young man threw his hands up with a shrug. “I would be surprised if they would even want me back and that is if they have a caravan for anyone to guard after this.” He chuckled sarcastically. “You can bet I’m not walking a full day or more to be turned down and stranded in some backwater village.” He bit his lip and addressed Farrah apologetically after remembering that was her home. “No offense, my lady.”

“None taken,” she smiled back. “Hinny Hill is a small village after all. I would know. I’ve lived there for years.”

“Speaking of,” Tamaran interjected smoothly, “where are you planning to go next, Farrah?” He tried to seem casual about the question, but he bounced on the edge of his seat awaiting her reply. He detested the thought of losing a chance to further their relationship.

The girl dipped her head and a wave of long golden locks fell to cover one eye. She brushed it back and sighed. “I’m not sure. I have a home in Hinny Hill, well my grandmother’s home. And I have no goals for Dunabar or Sabline if I’m being honest… but I left on a mission to uncover my truth and purpose. It was intended as a journey of self-discovery.” She seemed to sink into a seated position. “I have to think about this some more.” Tamaran nodded but he felt bad about putting her on the spot. The last thing he wanted to do was to cause the woman discomfort.

To shift the focus, Tamaran returned to Bronwick. He was the only other one who had not chosen a direction. “So, Bronwick, where will you go next? Are you headed to Hinny Hill to find the Looms?”

The burly man sighed heavily. He had been lost in thought since Gregory’s response to his question about joining back with the caravan. The boy sounded smart, smarter than he looked. He made good points. He had no idea if there even would be a new caravan if everybody was dead or gone. Who would drive the wagons? Also, he now questioned whether he was any good at the job of caravan guard, either. The caravan guard’s job as described by Martin was to protect the caravan and her passengers at all costs. He had lost lives twice. That was twice as many times as Gregory failed. That could not be good. Maybe Martin and Luna hated him now. Maybe the Looms never wanted to see him again. They trusted him to keep everyone safe and he failed miserably. That made him sad. He hated the thought of such nice people being mad at him. The truth of the matter was Yulan, Stan, Karl and that other guy were all dead and it was his job to keep them safe. The half-orc grunted and replied in a subdued tone.

“Maybe I could join you and head to Sub-blind? I don’t know what it holds for me, but I think I want to see.” He looked hopeful. He originally thought he would head to Hippy Hill, but Gregory killed that idea. He also considered Dunabar, but he remembered his father’s advice when he left the tribe. Whatever you do keep marching forward. If he went to Dunabar that would be marching backwards and that was opposite of forward. He patted his own back sadly. “Good thinking,” he whispered.

“Of course, you can,” Reena chimed in enthusiastically. She ignored his weird habit of patting himself. After watching the barbarian in action, she wanted him at her side for the rest of her life if possible. “We’d love to have you! I can’t imagine feeling safer than to be surrounded by all these big strong men. I don’t know what Sabline holds for me, either. But I welcome the adventure. I’m looking forward to something new. If this shitstorm has taught me anything it’s that Daddy Po was right about one thing, Life is meant to be lived. It doesn’t just sit around waiting for you to make up your mind. It goes on without you either way.” The young girl grinned and shook her pack excitedly then hugged it.

Farrah listened to them speak and found her answer in their words. The young girl was surprisingly insightful. She replayed Ghren’s final prediction that her destiny waited in following those mercenaries from the village. She did just that and this is where she ended up. Ghren was right about their doom, although she felt partly responsible for that tragedy. With everything that happened over the last day she could not argue that fate had a hand in it. Turning back seemed like ignoring her destiny and ignoring Ghren’s last words. Perhaps these were the people she was meant to find and Sabline was her intended destination. It was time to let fate and destiny carry her along a new path. Farrah did not want to return to the small house to live out her days alone in Hinny Hill as the village healer. Everything there would remind her of Ghren. That sounded sad and lonely. Her mind was made up.

“Well said, Reena. I agree, I want to see what Sabline holds for me, too. I want to join you in the big city by way of Vallen’s Manor. It does sound like an exciting adventure.” She smiled that perfect smile and her liquid gold eyes flashed with joy. Reena, Bronwick and especially Tamaran was very glad to hear her choice.

Daffonil hopped from her seat on the rock and whistled to call Vallen back from his scouting. The man jogged into sight. When did they have time to form signals? “It seems they’ve chosen their paths, Lord Vallen.” She smiled. “The minstrel and the young guard are headed back to Dunabar, but the rest of them are joining us,” she beamed excitedly as she cuddled Peaches. “Isn’t that right, Peaches?” The skunk squeaked.

Vallen smiled broadly. “I’m happy to hear so many of you chose to accept my offer.” He paused and cocked his head to the side. He looked back to the small elven woman. “Did you say joining us?” The girl nodded enthusiastically. “You want to come with us to my manor?” Vallen sounded surprised but also excited about the prospect.

Daffonil giggled. “Oh no, I’m not going that far. I’ll just help guide you through the forest to its edge. From there, they are all yours. As a guardian of the wood, I would be remiss to send you off trail without an escort. That beast has yet to be found, after all.” Had anyone else said those words it would have sounded ominous but coming from the elf it sounded like a picnic.

Derris seemed slightly annoyed by this news. “Wait one minute! Let me get this clear. They are all going together to his manor and only the two of us are headed to Dunabar, but you feel it’s necessary for you to accompany them for protection?” Daffonil smiled and nodded politely. Derris looked at Gregory who only shrugged. The youth just seemed ready to get moving. “I’m afraid I don’t understand that logic.” He sighed in exasperation. The minstrel threw his hands out at his sides dramatically. “Why would you not come to guard us, my lady?” He then folded his arms across his chest in a dramatic huff.

The elf laughed a lilting laughter that sounded like music. Her voice was so chipper, the embodiment of sunshine. “You are funny! It’s simple. You are taking the man-made trail. They are treading the wilds. My skills are not useful on such a trail, silly.” She smiled and winked at him.

Derris still seemed confused, but Gregory nodded as if that made perfect sense to him. He was ready to be on his way home. The young warrior stood and moved along the trail facing back towards Dunabar. His trusty spear sat firmly in hand.

He looked at Derris. “Shall we? The sooner we start the sooner we are safely within the town border. I would like to reach the town before supper. Would you mind playing us one of those catchy tunes of yours, for the road? It can help keep the pep in our step.” The youth smiled.

With that question, the young guard sealed the deal and Derris sprang into action. He loved it when someone showed genuine appreciation for his talents. The guardsman was a bit young and rather plain, but he wasn’t unpleasant looking. The two marched off down the trail with a quick wave of good partings. They could hear Derris’ lute and his voice long after the pair vanished around the bend.

Daffonil giggled again and looked at the others. “I didn’t want to tell him, but his noise will keep all the natural threats far away. They are completely safe and have no need for my services. Plus, I did not want to hear that for hours on end. From my limited exposure, he is… how should I say this… annoying.” The small elf shrugged and then bounced around in anticipation of their march, giving her skunk another hug.

A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

She found it incredibly interesting to spend time among these varied people. They were so different from her people but in a pleasant way. They were not so serious as the elves, nor as flighty or capricious as the fey. They were more self-aware than the animals and yet held a genuine care for one another and their safety. These people also seemed more time sensitive, which made sense with their brief lifespans. They reminded her more of the woodlings back in her birth home of Larl only less pudgy or food-obsessed and much more diverse. She could not quite pinpoint what it was about them, probably because they were each so very different, but she liked them, all of them. Humans were nothing like she was taught to believe.

* * * * * * * * * *

Vallen led the way and Daffonil brought up the rear of the procession, making sure no one strayed too far or lost sight of one another. Tamaran remained at Farrah’s side, ever ready to help as they crawled through the forest. Bronwick made it a point to watch out for Reena. In the back of his mind, that was the last vow he took while working for the Looms on the caravan and he meant to follow it through. He had to protect the girl even if she did seem a bit gassy. He kept catching the squeaks of farts and the whiff of rotten cabbage. Reena enjoyed the hike and the comradery. Stench had been her one and only friend for two years and it felt good to have others she could give that name to, even if she didn’t expect it to last or even know for sure if they felt the same way. They were all far more important than she was. Like everyone else in her life, they’d eventually move on and leave her behind. But that wouldn’t stop her from enjoying their time together while she had it. Daddy Po taught her to live in the moment.

Vallen pulled ahead to scout out the path. He felt secure in leaving the group to Daffonil’s care. The small elf seemed more capable in the forest than anyone he had ever met, himself included. That was no small fact to admit. It was strange spending so many years of his life dedicated to tracking and training and studying the outdoors to have a young girl come along and show him up in every way. He had to remind himself that though she looked younger, the elf was much older than him. Daffonil was more than an expert on nature, she was at one with nature. He found that absolutely fascinating, alluring, and beyond beautiful. He hoped to form a bond that might last with the elven druid and her people. Their lands bordered one another. Perhaps she could come and visit or even better, he could visit her. The things she could teach him seemed limitless. He could not deny her genuinely pleasant presence. The elf was both lovely and friendly with a ready smile for all. Everything about her was refreshing. She was akin to a living ray of sunshine. Even her scent was fresh and airy with a hint of earth. He was less focused on his scouting and more focused on thoughts of the elf when he tripped. Vallen tumbled head over heels from a fallen log to land on his face in the brush. A gruff laugh followed. He immediately knew what had happened.

Vallen jumped back to his feet and spun to meet Zane. The languid man was there leaning against the log with a huge grin on his scruffy face. “That was too easy, Prince Vallen. Maybe you should spend less time lusting over the tight-bodied elf and more time watching where you step?”

“Zane! I’ll pay you back for that when you least expect it. Where have you been? I’ve been searching for you all morning.”

“I scouted the way to the edge of the fields. Everything is clear. No damned killer spiders or mysterious camel-bear beasts with spiked tails and snake eyes.” The man shrugged as if to say that were disappointing.

“I appreciate the update, and my interest in Daffonil is purely from a learning perspective.” He launched right back into his scouting duties after dusting off. He purposefully avoided making eye contact with his friend.

“It’s Daffonil now, is it? Yeah, purely learning my ass. Are you trying to learn what’s under those leaf wrappings? You mean to tell me you didn’t notice how cute that tight little cinnamon body of hers is, how that silky reddish hair blows in the breeze and reveals those exotic and delicate pointed ears of hers? Ears that make you want to nibble on them. She makes you want to peel her like a husk of corn, doesn’t she?” The mercenary licked his tongue out salaciously. “I’m not buying it for a second. Just think of what you could do to those ears. I bet she even tastes like cinnamon, exotic elf cinnamon.” He finished by smacking his lips.

Vallen spun on Zane red-faced and angry. “Stop, just stop! She and her people rescued us. If not for her, we would have all died out there last night. I didn’t see you jumping into the fight to save us.”

“Why? So, my arrows could bounce harmlessly away like yours did? I tried that when it fled – useless. No, I didn’t throw myself into a damn losing battle. So, I could become another target and end up dead on its fucking claws like those stupid peddlers? No thanks. I value my fucking life. I’ll leave the stupid ass heroics to the idiot half-breed and that sweet little treat of an elf.” Zane smirked and licked his lips again slowly. He chuckled when he saw Vallen glare. “What about the other one, that gorgeous piece of lady meat wrapped all in gold? Farrah, was it? Now that’s a woman I could chase. How come you aren’t more into that one? She noticed you and not just that lovesick desert lander. Are you aware of that? Evidently, that little trollop likes the rich boys.” Vallen ignored him and kept hiking. He hated it when Zane got into one of his crude moods. Vallen did not objectify women like that. “Oh, wait, don’t tell me… Is it because of your new best friend Tamaran? Even from the shadows I could see how you two buddied up together. I could also see how he fumbled around drooling over her. Hell, I would too. Don’t get me wrong, the elf has a tight little body that I’m sure looks amazing under those leaf wraps I’d like to peel like a banana, but the golden one is pure sexy. Who knows, maybe that scrawny little waif, Reena is it, will develop into something to look at if you give her a couple of years. Even if the girl is fucking weird always hugging that giant backpack like they’re intimate.”

Vallen stopped in his tracks and turned to glare daggers at his friend. “Don’t say anything else about my new friends. They are good people and I’m sick of your sarcastic negativity. At least they know how to work together, like a team.”

It was Zane’s turn to glare. “I’m the one that’s gotten you through a lot of fucked-up situations, PrinceVallen. I’m the one who gets his hands dirty and plays in the shit when you and your altruistic views just can’t handle the job. I’ve been at your side most of your life and I’m the one that keeps your feet on the ground instead of letting your head float away into the damn clouds with the rainbows and butterflies, so don’t lecture me about good people or working together…” The man stopped mouth open as if he meant to say more. He bit off the angry words and stormed off into the forest to disappear yet again. Vallen called after him, but the man did not pause.

“Is everything alright, Vallen?” Farrah crawled through the brush smiling. She obviously spent time in the forest before, probably collecting herbs for her healing talents. “I heard your voice rise, and it sounded like someone else was here? Was that Zane?”

Vallen eased his tension and let that sharp crease fade from his brow. “Please excuse me, my lady. Yes, everything is fine. That was in fact Zane. He can be… obstinate sometimes.” The nobleman shook away his annoyance and returned the smile. The nobleman changed the subject. “You move pretty well through the trees for a villager.”

Farrah dipped into a curtsey as a wave of her hair fell across one eye. She smiled up with that perfect smile and the other golden eye visible. She had not even broken a sweat on this hike. “Why thank you, my lord. I’ve spent many a day crawling through the edges of the forest helping my grandmother dig for roots, mushrooms or special herbs. This may be a little more intense, but it is not completely foreign to me. I have hidden talents, you know.” She grinned coyly.

“I see how you were able to outdistance those arachnidia now. You are fast and you’ve got great endurance. The others can barely keep pace with you. I doubt I could do it in an open stretch. I bet you do have hidden talents.” He smiled then realized he was being a bit forward. Always the gentleman, he shifted the conversation again. “The woods are like my second home, so I move here pretty well but otherwise…” He grinned and raised his hands in surrender. They shared a laugh. Her voice was smooth and sultry yet simultaneously sweet. Even her laugh seemed enticing. The golden healer was almost too perfect. Vallen caught himself studying the beautiful woman more closely. It was as if she were constructed to entice. She was as impeccable a woman as he could imagine. The perfect specimen. He could easily see what Zane was talking about. Farrah was gorgeous.

They shared a moment, a look but the nobleman broke eye contact and shuffled uncomfortably. Farrah took their moment of privacy to address something. “I noticed earlier when you hid that ring. You don’t have to do that, you know? I think no less of you for removing it after his death. What possible use could he have for it now, and it’s a fine piece of jewelry. Plus, to be completely honest, he was not the kind of man that likely acquired that ring in an honorable fashion, if you understand what I’m saying? It looks much more at home on your finger.” She grinned and shrugged. “Not to speak ill of the dead. May he rest in peace.”

Vallen grew quiet. He felt embarrassed knowing she had in fact taken notice of the red jasper ring. He stuttered to explain despite what she said. He silently berated himself for not returning it to Zane. “I- I didn’t realize Zane slipped it on my finger. I warned him it might not be acceptable to take it, but he’s got his own opinions on everything. We rarely see eye to eye. He probably slipped it on my hand for a laugh. That’s his type of humor. His reasoning was they didn’t need coins or jewelry anymore since they are dead and gone. I’m terribly embarrassed by this…” Vallen felt as if he spent a great deal of time apologizing for his best friend’s actions over the years.

Farrah moved closer and placed a hand on his arm to calm him. “Seriously, I understand. It makes sense to me. You have nothing to be embarrassed about, Lord Vallen. I do not doubt your honor in any way. I agree with Zane in this instance.” She smiled that perfect smile and it instantly put him at ease.

He released a deep sigh of relief and hugged the woman. The reaction surprised them both. “Thank you, my lady. I have spent many years cleaning up after Zane and struggling to keep my good name and the name of my house intact. Some friends can be… trying. But he is good at heart.”

“I understand that completely.” Farrah immediately thought of May back at the village. She was always making plans she couldn’t keep without help. “Family can be the same. You never met my grandmother Ghren.” The woman made a face, and they shared a good laugh over that.

Just then another figure appeared, panting and sweating. Tamaran stumbled through a tangle of vines, eagerly trying to maintain pace with Farrah and falling continually short. He gazed at the scene through his mesmerizing violet eyes. A hint of annoyance passed over his features when he found the pair sharing a private joke. He took note of how comfortably the lady’s hand rested on the handsome nobleman’s arm. He also noticed how Vallen had a hand to the small of her back. It pained him to admit that they looked good together, but they did. In truth, they looked fantastic together, a handsome young lord and his beautiful lady. It was storybook perfect. He paused to untangle a twig from his thick hair and attempted to smooth the waves back in place.

“You are two of the most fit people I have ever met,” he panted. “I spent most of my life trekking across the deserts but with this uneven ground, tangled vines and shrubbery, it is difficult to maintain a steady pace here.”

Tamaran held a second to catch his breath and wipe the sweat from his brow. A hand at his side suggested a growing stitch. Reena, Bronwick and then Daffonil soon came into view behind him. Daffonil was the only other one that appeared as if she were out for a morning stroll. Vallen could not help but smile at her when their gazes locked. The elf took her surroundings in with the innocent eyes of wonder. He loved her happy-go-lucky attitude and carefree nature.

“How much further to this manor of yours?” Reena asked bluntly. I’m not so good at this wilderness hiking shit.” The girl struggled to adjust her big pack. She was sweating more than any of them. The pack looked heavy, especially in relation to her skinny frame. She raised her arms to air out her pits. The sweat was pouring. The pack shifted and lurched her to the side throwing her off balance.

“Let me carry that,” Bronwick reached to take her pack for her.

The girl jerked violently turning her backpack away from the giant man. “I can carry my own things. I’m not a child, you ogre!” Reena glared at him, daring him to touch it.

The green-gray skinned man raised his hands and backed away. “Just offering to help.” He ran a hand through his tightly cropped hair. He hoped he did not look like an ogre. They were very ugly. He immediately pulled his bottom lip higher to cover his tusks. Maybe they were why she said that. Ogres often had big tusks.

“I don’t need your damn help,” Reena replied sharply. She realized everyone was staring at her for the outburst. “I’ve lived on the streets for a long, long time. You must learn to take care of yourself.” She forced a smile up at the big man and used those doe-like innocent eyes on him. “I’m sorry, Bronwick. I didn’t mean to snap. I’m just very protective of Stench here. This pack has been my best friend for a long time and contains everything I own in this world. I get so overprotective that it’s embarrassing. Plus, I’m exhausted and sweaty.” She lifted her arms for emphasis. Daffonil raised an eyebrow but said nothing.

The orc-blooded man grinned and nodded his understanding. “I know overprotective. I don’t let anyone touch my sword. Maggie here was a gift from my mother on my man-day.” He ran a hand lovingly along his massive blade. “She belongs in my hands only.” He kissed the giant blade.

Tamaran laughed which drew a confused look from Bronwick. Was the desert boy making fun of him or Maggie? “I am sorry, Bronwick. I meant no offense, my large friend. It was the image of anyone but you trying to lift that sword that tickled me. She is as tall as I am. I do believe Maggie is safe with you.” Bronwick accepted that response and grinned himself. It would look funny if the little brown boy with the pretty purple eyes tried to use Maggie. He would fall over backwards.

“We should probably keep moving while the day is young,” Daffonil stated cheerily. Her little skunk, Peaches, grunted. Evidently, the animal was happy to have a moment to relax. “You could carry Peaches if you want to carry something, Bronwick?” The elf offered with a smile and a wink in an effort to make the half-orc barbarian feel better. She picked up her skunk and raised it towards the giant man. The black and white tail twitched side to side. The skunk stared at him.

Bronwick may not have been the smartest man in the land but even he could see that arrangement going poorly. He shook his head and stepped away declining that offer. There was a silent internal collective sigh from the group over that decision. Peaches squeaked and Daffonil laughed her lilting musical laughter.

“I’m sorry but he doesn’t want to carry you and neither do I.” She addressed the skunk who then rolled over and threw her tiny legs into the air as if she had died. Daffonil giggled and picked up her little friend, slinging her over one shoulder like a sack. “Your dramatics are ridiculous. I will carry you for a short time but then you walk like the rest of us.”

It was not much longer before Vallen called them all to a halt and then parted the branches of a short tree to reveal rolling hills and fields of thick green grass lined by wildflowers. The land looked so well-manicured. “We have reached the edge of my estate. From here it will be much easier walking. The fields are clear. My father keeps them well maintained. We retain a crew of expert gardeners under employ.”

Tamaran, Reena and Bronwick were elated by this news. Each of them already had more scratches across their arms, legs and faces, than they cared to count. Plus, the mosquitos had awakened in full force. Any puddle was a haven for them in the dark canopy of the forest. It was after crossing a small stagnant puddle that the insects swarmed them before Daffonil was able to call on a prayer to the forces of nature that shielded them from the stinging bites. Luckily, Farrah had an ointment to soothe the itching.

The ranger nobleman stood ushering his new companions out into the field and directing them towards his manor which lay a little over a mile out of sight. They were happy to hear an end to the hike was nearing. It was well past midday, and everyone wanted a break. He assured them they would have comfort, food and drink aplenty once they reached his home.

Daffonil paused at the edge of the wood. Her normally cheery face seemed to sadden a bit and she sighed. “I’m afraid this is as far as I go, my friends. Duty calls and I must join my brethren in tracking down this beast and putting an end to its threat once and for all.” The small woman spoke as if that were a simple task. She lifted Peaches up to face them. “Peaches and I are glad to be able to see you safely off and we send the blessing of life for each of you wherever your journeys may carry you. Don’t we Peaches?” The skunk squeaked. “May the sun guide you by day and the stars guide your nights while The Green watches over you always.”

Farrah paused to give the small elf a hug of gratitude. Vallen also offered her a hug although his was more awkward. The others gave thanks to the woman and said their goodbyes. Daffonil gifted them another handful of pooka berries to share on their walk and then the elf vanished into the forest like a shadow greeting the sun. Vallen watched her disappear and hoped very much that he would see the woman again. He let his longing gaze linger a moment. He then returned to focus on the task at hand, getting everyone to his manor house where they could arrange transport on to Sabline. The journey through the fields was much easier than the forest hike and they made great time. Everyone seemed to be in better spirits.

* * * * * * * * * *

Daffonil bounced through the forest, skipping from step to step. She hopped from dappled sunspot to sunspot across the forest floor. She often played little games like this. It kept life entertaining. Peaches squeaked. She did not enjoy bouncing so much. Though it had been but a brief time, the druid would miss that group. She found the humans and that half-orc to be both interesting and pleasant, very unlike the stories her parents often told of their kind. Her parents always made them seem akin to the eye-tyrants or goblin-kin. They also enjoyed conversation much more than her people did. It was quite refreshing. Daffonil enjoyed chatting. She would have liked to get to know that gremlin, too, but Reena kept him tucked away and hidden from sight. But why? Surely the others noticed him. She shrugged away the thought. They all had such strange behaviors. It did not slip her attention that the handsome noble woodsman lived at the edge of the forest. He was so close. Perhaps their paths would cross again someday soon. She prayed they would. She should like that very much.

“They were a good lot, weren’t they, Peaches?” The tiny skunk squeaked her agreement and bobbed her little head. “I look forward to the chance to engage humans again someday. That was fun!”

Even as those words slipped past her thin lips, she knew that was unlikely. She had been in The Forest of Shade for a decade. This was the first time she engaged humans at all. Sure, she saw them passing while patrolling the forest sometimes, rarely, but she had no reason to interact with them. Maybe she would make a new effort to change that habit. She giggled to herself at the thought. Yes, she could make contact in the future. The druids would surely frown upon such behavior, just as they frowned upon her ideas to help these people after the beast attack. Why did life have to be so controversial? The Green represented all facets of life, all the beings involved in the great cycle of existence, birth and death. Humans were as much a part of that cycle as the grass or an elf.

“Or this draping moss.” She brushed her fingers along a patch of the shaggy green moss that covered much of the deeper forest and smiled. She sometimes spoke aloud for no reason at all, just sharing her thoughts with herself and hearing a voice. Peaches learned quickly when the woman expected a response. This was not one of those times.

Daffonil skipped across a series of rocks that strung over a large crystal-clear stream. Tiny fishes darted for cover from her passing shadow. She giggled when a group of dragonflies swirled around her head. As she landed on the opposite side, she felt a presence and stopped her in her tracks. Someone was there. She felt more than heard their presence. The small elven woman immediately cradled Peaches close and scaled the nearest tree, finding a sturdy perch to keep lookout. She perked up her pointed ears and remained perfectly still. Through the brush came a group of six humans. At least they looked and moved like humans. It was hard to be certain. They wore strange clothing, heavy dark robes the color of ash with hoods drawn and each bore a triangular symbol on a talisman she did not recognize. One of them led the way. He held a pendulum out before him that was constantly in motion, swinging back and forth. This one had a series of designs on his robes that the others did not share. She felt the tingle of magic around him. The man seemed to follow the direction this pendulum swung. It was odd to see humans tromping through the forest off their trails. Daffonil decided to let them pass but to follow them a bit, keep an eye on them and see what business they had out here. As much as she hated to admit it, the numerous stories of her people made her doubt these men and their motives. Plus, there was a dangerous beast still on the loose.