The Sword, the Ring and the Scroll

[Honey_B]

Marian

Marian was quite taken aback by what Mara told her, but in hindsight perhaps she should not have been. Her son had grown into a handsome man and Mara was a beautiful young woman. If she had not been distracted by the struggles of daily life, perhaps Marian would have seen it sooner. But no matter. What they had become simply existed. Marian could see the love shining in Mara's eyes, even if the young woman had not yet called the feeling by name.

"You have a spirit that reminds me of myself when I was your age, Mara. And you impress me with your courage. It is not many who would follow the man they loved down an unknown and perilous path. I shall do what I can, for one day my son will be king."

Marian smiled as Mara's eyes widened.

"Listen to your heart and you will know it to be so. Have you not sensed in Avenir great things, a difference that set him apart from other youths."

Mara nodded.

"I was once the queen of this land, though to all but a few, that remains forgotten. I have lived these years in exile so that my son could grow in safety until the one day he was strong enough to claim his destiny. That day has finally arrived."

Marian paused to brush an errant curl away from Mara's face.

"And you come to me on this day like a gift from the goddess of fate herself. For no man may be a truly great king without a strong woman at his side. Someone who knows him body and soul and can advise him with the conviction of a pure heart. Yes, dear Mara, I will see that you go. Just as Avenir has been taught to be king by the Gray One, so will I advise you on what it means to be queen. Let us make ready for the battle ahead."

Her eyes sparkled as they both heard Avenir calling for her. Marian stepped from the cottage to meet her son.

"Avenir, the three become four."

She turned to see Mara walk through the door.

"Dispel of those thunderclouds darkening your brow. Your disobedience on this day is disheartening. Mara's presence will prove to be as crucial as the artifacts in which we seek."

 

[Sweetp4u]

Aryn

Upon waking as the sun rose over the mountains, I stood and quickly doned my dress gown for counsel. Turning I moved towards the door and asked a young woman to locate Dur for me.
Pacing back and forth just inside he arrived a little later than I would have liked, but said nothing about this.
"Call a cousel meeting.. I wish to discuss this 'battle' or whatever Death has planned in a year's time..I do not like this and I wonder if he expects us to ...... It doesn't matter just yet.. I need their advice and wisdom. Call the cousel, Dur." I stopped pacing as he nodded and quietly retreated from my hut.
I had hopes Inkra could infiltrate and tell me what she could about this warrior.. It was rumored this bulk of manhood was related to me.. I found this to be a fable.. A tall Tale.. A trick of some kind so I would not attack his lands... Death had told me all siblings and parents were dead.. I was the only one left and had no real desire to be Queen over all of it. My own lands sure.. But the entire continent? "Ludacris!" Nothing save complete conquer could unite the lands... I was not sure even that was possible. This northerner was a giant I was told.. I wondered things often but did not spend much time on it.
Preparations for impending wars always took my time.. We did not war but we had to be ready!
A light rap and Dur entered, "They have agreed to meet and will be waiting you at the counsel hall." He bowed and stood silently, watching me closely.
"That is most irritating Dur! Stop staring at me!" I turned my back to him as he turned his, "Forgive me Aryn." I let the first name usage slide.. Only those Mated for life were allowed first names and the leader usage of given names... These rules! Lord having a cousel and setting laws which were rather addle brained irritated me as well!
"How do I change laws again?"
"By majority votes." He answered.
"And what of this counsel.....?"
"You are free to act as you see fit but it is always best to consult the elders.."
"I see.." Sighing I turned back around. "Sorry I snapped at you Dur." He shrugged his huge shoulders and said nothing about it.
"Well I will go now, will you be joining us this morn?"
"Nay, I have routines this morn with the soldiers."
"Oh yes.. How are the catapaults coming along?"
"You only ordered this yesterday!"
"Oh yes.. Right. Well I will come for my training this afternoon.. After being in a hut with those .... elders.." I grinned, wanting to say something else.." I will need to work off steam."
"Aye." He was a man of few words obviously.. Or I had irritated him as well?
"Good day." I moved around him and walked into the morning air. Inhaling deeply I smiled as I walked towards the hall. Greeting those I passed along the way, few would say much.. I had a feeling they still did not like how things were going with this upcoming competition Death had called for.
Entering the hut I greeted each Elder by bowing and kissing the back of his or her hand before being seated at the top of the long table. Many things were needing discussed, from trifle to enormous.. I would start small and work my way through all of this.

 

[Miltone]

Prince Avenir

Avenir had never felt such a conflicted emotion as that which welled up in him when he saw Mara emerge from the darkened cottage doorway like a bolt of white light. The part of him that had been trained by the Old Gray One frowned on her presence, feeling that she would be at best a distraction and at worse a grave liability. But the other part of him, taught by his mother, nurtured by his own inner spirit was overjoyed, a feeling that left him somewhat embarrassed by its sudden arrival.

Perhaps it was destined for Mara to join them on this quest, and she would be more protected under his care than her father’s. Ever since the Old Gray One first issued the challenge, it seemed the tests had only mounted. But this was one he felt in his heart that he could accept willingly, even though he had little understanding of its meaning. Avenir smiled and took a step toward the cottage, holding out his open arms.

“Mara,” he spoke, calling out just her name and she came nearly running into his arms. She pressed her body against him and her face looked up at his. He brushed an errant lock of her curly dark hair away from her pale forehead. Just as he had drawn strength and purpose this dawn from the earth so did he draw a sense of feeling from the presence of the bedeviling young woman in his arms. Avenir suddenly became aware of the looks by the Gray One and his mother. He stood up tall and looked at the Gray One. “Are we ready now? It is getting late.” The warmth of Mara kept that second part of his nature from letting her slip away from his protective arm.

 

[Tammi]

Mara

Mara had listened to Marian bewildered by what she was telling her. Marian was at one time the Queen of this land, Avenir was being taught to be king, and what startled her the most was Marian telling her she would advise her, Mara, how to be queen. Her only goal in coming here had been to be allowed to be with Avenir, no matter what. This all seemed so overwhelming to her, but the welcoming warmth and sincerity she immediately felt from Marian, calmed her. Mara was overjoyed that Marian not only wanted her to be with her son, but would make sure she was allowed to be with him on his journey.

They both heard Avenir call, and at the sound of his voice, Mara’s heart leapt. No longer did she fear being apart from him. And now knowing that Marian would be there for both of them, she cared not what the journey held as long as she was free to love the man that held her heart.

As soon as Mara heard him call her name she ran to his waiting arms, now knowing she had made the right choice by coming to him. Her face lit up as he brushed the hair from her forehead, just as his mother had done to her. Mara understood more now where his gentle soul had been natured. She also saw a change in him since they had last been together, the night before. She felt a new strength in him, a protectiveness for her that she hadn’t felt before, not unlike her own for him. As he drew her close to him to make ready for their journey, Mara knew that whatever lay ahead for them, Avenir would be right beside her, just as she would be there for him.

 

[Garras Agudas]

The Gray One

"We are soon ready young Prince" I addressed Avenir and smiling in agreement and appreciation. He was already becoming the leader he needed to be and had showed it well in his decisions.

"From this time forward you are a leader of men, My Lord. It will be my honor to follow you and give counsel when you ask it of me." And it was as it should be, the Noble young man nodding his mute acceptance and then showing his keen mind.

"We now have womenfolk to tend for and require beasts to carry us all. What would you suggest, Gray One?"

And again I smiled, at the young man who showed such great promise, then his mother the Queen and finally the young woman whose eyes showed she too worshipped the young man, but in a much deeper sense.

"I would suggest we use the beasts I have bought for such a purpose, fine and study "grok"* that have been raised for endurance and agility and will make our journey much more pleasant and fleeter"

I had saved the surprise and was now pleased to see the look of approval on Avenirs face and the two strong willed and courageous women as well.

"They have been raised only on grass and forage they can find in the forest" I informed them all "And as gentled beasts will come to look upon their riders as master and will be loyal for life to them"

A shrill whistle and four mounts came toward us from behind the barn where I had placed them in anticipation, the largest a dark red coated animal that looked at us all with keen eyes.

"He is yours Prince Avenir, the strongest and fleetest and trained in the ways of war as well if need be, together you will lead us into the makings of history"

Pointing to a cream colored beast of slightly smaller proportions I offered it to Marian and explained.

"This one has the regal bearing and quiet acceptance of the future to it, as well as sturdy legs and heart that will not fail its master"

A hand on its great neck was all it took to guide it to Marian and I then turned to Mara with a twinkle in my eye.

"I was indeed curious of the time Avenir spent away from me and am glad he has spent it well, finding such a fine lady as yourself, for a time I was afraid his training was at risk but am again assured in his keen judgment"

I had guided a third mount to her, one as large as Marian's but a color only slighter pale then the one Avenir now petted and placed her hand upon it.

"Treat it as you would one you love and care for and it will return those sentiments to you tenfold, I predict you will soon have it eating out of your hand"

And with that short welcome I moved to my own mount, a beast that coat matched the shorter hair that remained on my head and swung aboard it, my belongings already stowed behind the padded rugs that served as a saddle on it's enormous flat back, watching the women do the same with the aid of Avenir and he following suit after they were comfortable on the mounts, his younger face shining with anticipation of the journey to come.

“Lead on my wise Prince”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

*Expanding on one of the creatures in our world, the “Grok” a six-legged mammal that resembles and odd cross between spider and camel. Hair covered it’s wide and flat back make a perfect platform to carry belongings and it’s rider, or to stand astride of when rushing into battle with long sword. Long sturdy legs and split hooves support its body and make its stride an easy one to withstand, it guides itself with two offset eyes on a furry face. Not capable of speaking its tones indicate the humor it is in and will often bend it’s long, sturdy neck to nuzzle its master. A large beast such as the one Avenir now rides stands eight foot at shoulder height, its neck half again that giving it a total height of nearly twelve. Normally of a vegetarian nature they can and will use sharp, double rows of teeth as a weapon if trained (as is Avenirs) and can cover 60 miles in a normal day.

 

[Honey_B]

Marian

Marian watched the exchange between the Gray One and her son with no small amount of satisfaction. He was wise to turn over the reins of command over to Avenir and her . Her son needed to experience the rigors of leadership to know what it is to make perilous decisions with only a moment’s grace to consider the alternative. Marian stifled the protective feelings of being a mother and deferred to Avenir for the first time in his young life.

“Avenir, we must travel to the mountains of Kalimdor. I will trust in you to bring us to their doorstep.”

Marian saw the flicker of recognition in her son’s eyes. The Gray One had taught him geography so well that the boy could probably envision the land with his eyes closed.

“I am sure you are aware that we have at least three days ride ahead. That is if the grok are as fleet of foot as they are purported to be.”

Her mount chose that moment to lower his great head and nudge her in the behind. Marian almost fell over. Her cheeks burned, especially as a chorus of merry laughter broke out amongst the small band. Marian whirled around and swatted her grok on the snout.

“You remind me of my former husband. I wouldn’t let him push me around either.”

The laughter increased and Marian joined in, always willing to laugh at herself. She hugged the arok and spoke softly to it in a voice that only the animal could hear. The great beast folded its legs and sank to the ground. Marian mounted her grok and it rose to its full height. A smattering of applause made her smile. She bowed at the waist, but then fell sober.

“Avenir, I am sure that you know that before we reach the mountains, we must cross the great river Desolace. I dare say we shall face that challenge before the day has passed. Something to think about as we travel. Please hand up my pack, son.”

 

[Sweetp4u]

Aryn

Sitting at the table I listened to each person(s) complaint or charge against so and so. Trying not to show my boredom and handle them accordingly, I was losing paitents when someone was ranting on and on about their sow and her piglets.
The arguement was over who owned the piglets!? One man had the male pig and one other family had the female. The female got out and got interested in his male, and they 'knowingly' let their sow mate with his pig..Yeah, sure they did.. Snorting at that one, I said nothing and continued to listen.
"So I believe the piglets belong to me.." he ended his long winded speach.
The other farmer's wife jumped in here and started with her speach about how they took care of the sow and helped deliver the piglets and fed them and so on.
"Enough!" I called out. "Easily settled, split the number of piglets in half.. If there is an odd number, deliver it to the butcher to raise for feeding and care of our soldiers. Good day." I dismissed them and listened to the next couple.
This matter was over a broken engagement, already the bride price had been paid to her father. I nodded my head, I knew of this girl and had granted my blessing in the marriage, considering the girl came to me herself to ask to marry him.
"And now what is the problem Gaelyn?" I asked the young man.
"She had changed her mind, and wishes to withdraw her promise and take back her bride price..."
"Does she have good reason to withdraw?" I asked quietly.
"Nay."
"Where is Cera?" I called through the room. "Step forward." The small blonde head appeared as she came forward.
"Why are you withdrawing your hand in this match?" I asked her sternly. Broken contracts was not something to take lightly, even in this village or any others under my rule. It caused upset within the ranks and was not something I let go of easily.
"My queen." She bowed her head and said nothing more.
"Why have you withdrawn?"
"I.." She couldn't think of anything. She turned her head slightly and met the stern gaze of her father. Why?
"Cera, I asked you for the truth and wish you to answer truthfully."
"My father withdrew from the contract."
"Frederick, come forward." I watched him move to stand beside his daughter. "Cera, is this what you wish? To withdraw?"
She shook her head negatively.
"Frederick, why have you broken contract?" I asked, getting a head ache from all these games!
"A suitable mate has come available and I wish my daughter to wed someone stable and secure.. Gaelyn is but a boy!"
"I recall a story from my mother.... Your wife's father said that exact same thing to you when you asked for her hand, is that not true?"
He nodded.
"The contract stands unless you can pay Gaelyn back thrice the bride price for a broken contract with no valid reason?" He visibly balked at that statement and shook his head, his steely glare centered on me. "Nay My Queen, the contract will stand."
"Wise decision, the same I had. Dismissed."
Rubbing my temples the herald called halt to the daily meeting and people finally began to shuffle out. Some complaining loudly for not having a chance to speak their troubles and conflicts. There was always tomorrow...
Woe is me!
Sitting upright, having noticed I was slouching in my seat, I turned to the Counsel to listen on their views over this competition upcoming.

 

[Miltone]

Prince Avenir

The laughter that rippled through Avenir’s body upon seeing his mother’s encounter with the grok was tempered by her words that followed. He had heard of the great river Desolace and knew that despite the power and speed of their mounts, that they would need some conveyance over the steady powerful and frigid currents of the great river. There were only a few advantageous crossings and the great bridge at Negameer that was reputed to be manned by trolls of the lowest order and haunted by ghostly creatures. With these things on his mind, Avenir took up upon his mount and glanced about their party.

“Are we all ready?” he asked. He smiled to see the face of Mara so close beside him, her large eyes trained on his and showing just the least bit of apprehension. He placed his hand on her cheek, feeling the silk of her long dark curls brush against his fingers. She held her beast closely reined as if she had been riding all her life. His mother, having made her acquaintance as well as her peace with her mount, and the Old Gray One were not far away. Avenir pointed in the direction that they were to head and with the least pressure from his heels, spurred his mount along the trail.

As they reached the crest of the nearest hill, Avenir paused to look back over his shoulder. The morning mist was still clinging to the floor of the lush valleys, thought the sun was rising quickly, the shadows were still long and Avenir felt a pang in his heart upon leaving this, the only home he had ever known. When he turned back toward the horizon ahead of them, the hills were flattening out and the vegetation was not as lush and verdant. Lesser men might have found this situation daunting and foreboding; Avenir found in it a challenge that stirred him to accept his destiny proudly as the son of the rightful king. He could hear his mother and the Old Gray One talking behind. He looked over to Mara and smiled.

“I wasn’t sure when I said goodnight last evening, if I would see you again,” he said, holding his mount to a pace that didn’t strain the smaller one Mara was riding. “And I wasn’t sure at first that it was wise that you come with us.”

“You could hardly expect me to stay behind, now could you?” Mara replied. “My father can fend for himself now. Serves him right the way he’s treated you all these years.”

“Your father is a decent man,” Avenir remarked gazing back to the horizon in front. “His heart was broken when your mother died something that would take most men down.”

“You are too kind, Avenir,” she said.

“I’m just glad you’re with me … er, with us,” Avenir said.

Avenir listened as Mara responded. He heard every word, yet his mind was also racing ahead along the path ahead. There were the Mullion Woods where vicious thieves were known to hide, the flat defenseless prairie and the marshy land the masked the approaches to the river. He looked back to Mara, delighting in the music of her cheerful voice. He wondered about the meaning of her kiss last night and the trembling he felt inside when he had touched her soft womanly body. He knew that there were more things that he had yet to learn about a woman and that perhaps somewhere along this journey Mara would show him.

 

[Honey_B]

Marian

Mist swirled around the feet of the groks as a chill miasma clouded the air. As the small band traveled deeper into the forest, the lush green hues turned dark, the trees choking out the sun. Marian pulled her cloak tighter around her body before whirling around suddenly. She swore she had heard whispers trailing behind them.

”Calm yourself, Marian. This ancient wood will play tricks on the traveler.”

The Gray One’s voice did not soothe and the idea made Marian frown. She had always enjoyed particularly acute hearing and did not like the thought of hearing that which was not there.

”And we must watch for dangers other than what our imaginations can produce. Be on your guard.”

Marian knew of the threshers, an offshoot of the wild boar. The huge beasts had developed a carnivorous streak and hunted in packs. It had been a little over a year since she had treated a victim of the terrible creatures. The man had unwisely ventured into these woods alone and had been attacked shortly after. By the time the search party had found him, the traveler had lost much blood. To her great sorrow, there was little Marian could do when he was brought to her. She had made the poor man comfortable and kept him company until he passed shortly thereafter. To this day, she wondered what had scared off those threshers. Why they hadn’t finished off the stricken villager. As she traveled through the Mullion, Marian prayed she would never find out.

A small sound from Avenir’s arok stopped the group in its tracks. The large beast stood completely motionless, save for its nostrils, which sniffed the air intently. Marian looked about her wildly, but could see only the trees pressing in on them. Then she saw it. The leaves quivered - shaking in unison as they picked up a subtle vibration that could not yet be felt by the humans. Something was coming. Something large enough to make the ground quake with its footsteps.

”Do you feel that?” Mara asked.

Indeed she did.

 

[Tammi]

Mara

Mara’s eyes widened at first glance of the grok, first afraid but as she watched the other’s and laughed at Marian’s encounter with the creature, she made friends with her mount quickly. It took no time at all to adjust to the riding as she had ridden animals all her life. As they began their journey, she smiled softly at Avenir, even though she was anxious about what lie ahead, there was no where else she wanted to be than near him.

This was the first time she was ever going to be away from her home, and she knew nothing of the land, people, even creatures that may lie ahead. All she knew were the stories she had heard from her father, and others, warning her of the dangers beyond, which had always kept her close to home. Now as they traveled, she looked at Avenir, watching him as they laughed, talked, the way he moved up to her and stayed close to her, even the kindness he showed towards her father, a man that had treated him so poorly, she knew in her heart this was where she was meant to be.

While the rode and talked, she could sense his was taking in his surroundings, thinking about what was ahead, she could almost see him thinking, planning, preparing. She fell silent for a little while, giving him the time he needed to think things out. It wasn’t long before Mara heard the leaves ahead moving, felt the ground shaking. Her eyes grew wide, wondering what was ahead.

“Do you feel that?” Mara asked looking at Marian, then looking at Avenir.

 

[Miltone]

Prince Avenir

“I can feel it too,” Avenir replied, his own senses attuned to the distant rustling of the trees and slow steady beat of huge footsteps. “I didn’t think that it ever hunted this close to the road.” He looked back toward The Old Gray One and remembered the lessons he had learned about the Mullion Woods. There was one creature that even the violent packs of threshers feared, a huge hairy biped with short arms, a huge gaping mouth and a voracious appetite for warm-blooded flesh. Ordinarily they kept deep in the woods where the wild game was most plentiful. But there was no mistaking the thundering feel of the Konghru’s footsteps, and it was moving towards them.

“This has been a dry season, Avenir,” said the Old Gray One, his face drawn with concern, but not yet worry. “All the creatures are ranging farther than normal.”

From the direction and sound of the creature, Avenir estimated that it was perhaps a thousand paces away and moving in such a way as to intersect their path. Since no one had ever successfully fought off an attack by a Konghru and lived to tell about it, there was no way of knowing how to battle one. The only thing that was known about them was that the slow moving turtle-like Pleakhu were plentiful in their habitat. Avenir had encountered a Pleakhu once and noted that it responded to an approaching creature by remaining absolutely still.

The maps showed that there was a fork in the road up ahead. The trail to the left lead into the sanctum of the renegades; the trail to the right would take them into the path of the Konghru. Avenir weighed his decision as they proceeded ahead slowly but deliberately. He looked over at Mara whose face was taken up with deep concern.

“Don’t worry, Mara,” he called out, placing his hand first on the hilt of his long sword then to his forehead. “Between this and this, we have enough to reach our destination.”

She smiled back at him only the least bit apprehensively and maneuvered her beast closer to his.

 

[Garras Agudas]

The Gray One

The sound of the brush crushing beneath the heavy footsteps grew by the second and I knew Avenir's identification of the Konghru was correct, and knew as well we were about to see a large specimen first hand.

"Remember the weak points of the beast, Avenir" I warned, drawing my long bow and barbed arrows from the case I had slung over the Groks saddle. "They will not give us a second chance to use the advantage"

It was to be Avenir's first real test as leader and warrior and though it concerned me due to his impending opponents ferocity and viciousness, I didn't let the worry show on my features.

"Use the agility of your Grok against it" I counselled and laid several arrows across the saddle in readiness.

Glancing at both ladies I saw concern and a tinge of fear, but also a determination that made me proud as we moved closer to the impending meeting.

"Tonight we feast on the beasts liver" I prophesied to all, talking low to my mount and feeling it respond with an increase in its pace and moving me aside Avenir's. "I pray to the God's my aim is true Avenir, I will attempt to blind it if it rushes us"

Knowing the huge beast depended on smell and sound as much as it did its sight it would be a minute advantage, but one great enough to make the difference to a trained warrior such as Avenir.

 

[Garras Agudas]

Death

Death walked among the bodies of the pained and living, keeping his promise to oversee the creation and addition of greater numbers to his Horde at the cost of human souls and minds.

"Direct fifty of the Princes own men to return and thank him, once they've been fitted with their masks and have feasted on the whores"

The taste of blood would only make them hungrier and they would listen only to that hunger and the magic that allowed Death to control them, each breath they took a further purpose to abating that hunger as they fought their way towards the one man that could solve that hunger...Prince Malakai.

"And bring me news of the Princess and her whereabouts as well. It is time she meets her Master"

Death chuckled, then laughed outloud again as the screams of another man blended in high, keening tones with his own lower malignant ones.

"It is time we have a family reunion, a very BLOODY one if I have my way"

 

[Miltone]

Prince Avenir

Avenir guided his grok well into the lead, his free hand resting on the hilt of his long sword. The slow steady thudding footfalls were growing greater, shaking the leaves on the tree limbs. The beast was perhaps 500 paces and moving closer. Even though his mount’s heightened sense of smell told of the great danger that lie ahead, the grok was fearless. It had been a long time since Avenir and the Old Gray One had staged an exercise featuring a probable attack by this legendary beast. Though his lessons had taught him about the thick leather-like hide that would shed all but the most finely sharpened swords thrusts, he did remember about the soft areas just under the short upper arms and the risks one must take to get that close.

He glanced back to see the Old Gray One at the ready while Mara and his Mother followed close together but not too far behind. Avenir could see where the trail reached a clearing, a meadow actually with tall grasses and thorny flowers. He brought their little party to a stop at the edge of the clearing. The footsteps of the beast were drawing near, becoming more thundering as it approached. Avenir felt his grok tense up in anticipation turning its head to the left and raising its nose to the wind. There was no doubt at to why when the trees in the direction parted and the great beast appeared, moving deliberately out into the meadow before pausing.

The Konghru was huge, with a massive body covered in long tan fur, perhaps 20 paces long (a pace equaling approx. a yard) from its large head to the end of its long tail. Its body was massive, all thick hind legs that it stood upon, an enormous mouth, and a heavy tail for balance. The only small thing about the beast were its forelegs, no bigger than those of a large human, they looked nearly useless compared to the rest of the creature. A huge mane of light brown hair, the symbol of the male of the species, surrounded its head leaving little room for its tiny eyes to see. Normally parallel to the ground, it stood up tall lifting up its nose. Perhaps the tales he had heard were true that the beast relied mostly on its sense of smell to hunt its warm-blooded prey. Fortunately, on this side of the clearing they were downwind of the smelly beast and would have that as perhaps their only advantage, at least until they reached the far side.

Avenir looked back to see the faces of the others, each filled with various measures of fear. He motioned for them to stay while he advanced his grok cautiously along the path that led diagonally across the meadow, away from the Konghru. There had always been the belief that a grok and its rider became one when riding, that somehow the grok could understand what its rider was thinking. Avenir began to think over his plan and as he did so, the grok lowered its head so that it was barely taller than the high grasses of the meadow. They had silently crossed perhaps a third of the meadow when Avenir dismounted. He stroked the neck of the grok and pointed toward the end of the trail. The grok nuzzled him and lifted its head upward to look toward the Konghru, which was still stopped, turning its head slowly from side to side. With a slap to its backside,

Avenir sent the grok on a gallop along the trail, the creature letting out its native wailing, bleating call to draw the attention of the Konghru. The great beast turned toward the grok, cocked its head at the sound and without hesitation began to plod in that direction, gaining speed as it went. Avenir began to run in a direction that would intercept the beast before it reached his grok. The tall grasses hid his approach, but were also sharp as razors and tried to slice through the thick leather of his boots and tunic. The thorny flowers clung to his legs as he ran. Just above the grass he could see the great beast now at a full trot, its body level to the ground, his huge heavy feet pounding the ground ferociously in pursuit of the grok. Avenir ran as fast as he could through the meadow, drawing his sword as he neared the creature.

Timing his approach as he neared the Konghru, Avenir leapt toward the unsuspecting creature, grabbing onto the thick matted hair of its chest with his free hand and his heel-spurs. At first it didn’t seem to notice him, but as he tried to maneuver closer to its arm, the Konghru began to flail its arms at him, slowing in its pace, and raking its sharp claws at Avenir. He managed to avoid the most vicious blows of the beast and got himself into a position near the left arm where he could drive his sword into the creature’s heart. His first thrust penetrated, but the thick skin diverted the blade away and angered the beast greatly. Avenir withdrew his sword and made ready to strike again quickly.

The Konghru stopped and stood tall, letting out a tremendous intense roar that threatened to shake Avenir loose from its chest. Instead, Avenir clung fast to the beast and with all his strength and plunged his bloody sword up through the beast’s hide. He knew he had stricken the heart when he felt the hot gush of thick blood pour forth from the wound. As he pulled his sword free, the left arm of the Konghru caught hold of him and plucked him like a burr from its fur. Avenir heard a whooshing sound and saw a long multi-barbed arrow strike the creature just below its gaping jaw. Then a second and a third struck home and the new pain caused the creature to let go of Avenir and he fell to the ground. The creature roared magnificently, its voice shaking the trees that surrounded the meadow.

Avenir scooted back from the beast as it began to stumble and teeter, seeming gallons of blood pouring forth from its chest wound. He saw the Old Gray One approaching fast, his long bow responsible for the volleys of arrows. When finally the beast was stricken fatally, it lumbered to its left, let out another huge groaning roar that sounded like death itself and then fell heavily to the ground, the earth quaking beneath Avenir.

“Are you all right?” The Old Gray One asked as he slipped from his grok and came to Avenir’s aid.

“Yes, I’m fine,” Avenir said, unaware of the bleeding gashes along his left arm.

“Well done, my Prince,” The Old Gray One said with a laugh, pulling Avenir up onto the grok beside him. “Your mother and Mara will look after you while I return to dress down this beast. We shall be feasting tonight! Yes, we shall!”

The Old Gray One dropped Avenir off at the far side of the meadow, where the trail continued into the woods. Mara and his mother were soon there at his side, embracing him, and looking after his flesh wounds. His grok came over and nuzzled him affectionately. As his mother peeled back his tunic and began to staunch the flow of blood, Mara sat beside him, her hands on his face, her lips dangerously close to his.

 

[Tammi]

Mara

There was a tightening in Mara’s chest, inside she was trembling with fear as she watched Avenir getting ready to approach the beast. When the Konghru came into her view, never having seen such a thing before only having heard stories of it, she had to stop herself from screaming out for Avenir to run from it.

As she stood in horror, worried and fearful of her love’s life, Mara watched with apprehension as Avenir maneuvered and fought the beast. At the same time she was fearful, she was also proud of how he reacted, his every move planned, his attack so thought out. She also noticed the proud looks and expressions on Marian’s face, watching her son using the knowledge and skills he had been taught to slay the beast.

Mara’s heart was beating rapidly as she watched with wide eyes, the blood that poured from the Konghru and Avenir falling from it. When it was finally slain, the women ran over to him, Mara sitting beside him, seeing the blood and gash on his arm as Marian ministered the wound.

“Avenir, Avenir, are you sure you’re alright?” Mara asked, as she placed her hands on his face, needing to see reassurance in his eyes.

“Yes, Mara, I’m fine.” Avenir said, feeling the warmth of her breath so close to his.

“You were so brave, I’m so proud of you. I was so….” Mara whispered, her eyes streaked with tears, overwhelmed with happiness, relieved that not only was the beast slain, but that he had saved them all and survived.

Not caring who was there, and unable to restrain herself, she brought her lips to his. Her lips were moist and warm against his, her kiss filled with a passion that Avenir had not felt from her before, demanding, yet loving. When their kiss broke, she could see the blush on his face, as he saw on hers, as their eyes looked deep into each others. The kiss promising of things yet discovered, and stirring strong desires within both their hearts.

 

[Garras Agudas]

The Gray One

Avenir had done well and thought I had expected no less knowing of the stock he came from I was proud. His mother and Mara both cooed over him and I grinned as I pulled a pair of sharp skinning knives from my bundle and slid off the Grok's back.

The appearance of the Konghru was not totally unexpected but it's actions were and as I used the trained Grok to partially roll and expose it's tender flanks I moved with two purposes. The first was accomplished as I took the choices cuts of flank meat, using handy and huge leaves to wrap each heavy cut and pack it on the flat saddle of my mount, then turning satisfied as I knew the rest of the Konghru would not go to waste in the forest.

I began the second task with grim determination, using my own sword to hack and slice open the tender belly skin and expose the massive entrails that coiled from it. Grimacing with distaste I waded into the foul smelling cavity and once again used the pair of knives with deadly effiency, my answer coming to me in a few minutes.

My suspicions confirmed I left the bloody mess behind and swung onto my mount, then urged it back towards the trio where they had settled temporarily.

"Avenir, I suggest we move farther from the dead Konghru before the feeding begins if you are able and see fit we should?" I spoke gently, my eyes not missing the flushed face of Mara and the gentle smile of Marian. "And once we have made our own camp and dined on your conquest I wish to discuss something with you"

It would not be a world stopping revelation I shared with them, nor did I wish to detract from Avenir's victory, for it had been indeed a fight to the death for both opponents, but rather what I had to share would be a grim reminder there were eyes upon us.

I wiped some of the gore off my face and smiled, it did indeed feel good to be moving again, all the years of training and patience were being well used and proving that there was a chance we might prevail.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Aryn

No one could come up with a clear reason not to go nor a good reason to go. It was a confusing mess as Death always liked it, and no one could make a decision worth a shit. I sat listening to them stutter and ramble over half-assed excuses until I was too tired or argue with them. Of Course the arguements had nothing in relation to the competition, these elderly people liked to argue over everything lately.

Sitting up in the chair, I raised my hand, "That is enough. Thank you everyone. I have heard your advice and weighted everything. This is my future we are bumbling up right now and I think I will decide tomorrow if we ride or not. Good night." I left, quickly and quietly. Not stopping for stunned faces nor angry glares. I couldn't stand to listen to this for another moment.

And of course the moment I walked outside I was bumping into Dur once again. He said nothing, noting the defiant look on my face, instead he walked behind me as I moved through the village.

"Are the Gork's readied?" I gruffly asked.
"Aye."
"Are the catapults readied?" Again.
"Aye."
"Numbers?"
"Plenty my Queen. Forty-five hundred men and women."
"That's It?" I knew I had more in my kingdom than that!
"The other villages will be sending their warriors tomorrow for all four corners of Anouque."
"Good. Settled then."
"But have you decided to go and face these challenges for your father's kingdom?"
"Yes. And We don't know for certain this dead King was my father.. Now do we?"
"N-No" I had turned and glared at him as I asked him this.
"I have no siblings, I have no parents... If it wasn't for the birthmark on my body, I probably wouldn't have a name right now!" I turned back around and headed towards my own home, wanting solitude and peace.
"Good eve Dur."
"Good eve Aryn." He used my first name yet again? I was too tired to argue, i had to be up at first light and marching towards this.. place.. Or whatever it was.

 

[Miltone]

Avenir

There was a tingling buzz on Avenir’s lips as he looked into the big blue eyes of Mara. Her kiss had been so urgent and yet loving and it had taken him completely by surprise. Had she seen a danger that he hadn’t? It was his task to collect the artifacts and take them to the competition; this had been simply the first unexpected encounter along the way. No, there was something else to be seen in her expression, something of far greater meaning as indicated by the vibration he felt inside his body when Mara was near. He was so taken by the feeling that he hadn’t realized that his mother had dressed and completely bound up the gash on his left arm. The approach of The Old Gray One signaled their pending departure.

“Avenir, I suggest we move farther from the dead Konghru before the feeding begins if you are able and see fit we should?” said the Gray One. Though his words were full of warning, there was a joy in his delivery. Perhaps the old soldier in him was getting yet another taste of adventure. Avenir smiled.

“You are right,” Avenir said to The Old Gray One, as he stood and slipped his arm back into his vest. “This is no place to be, for once the scent of the dead beast spreads on the wind, there will be a thousand creatures fighting for a taste. Do you need any help in dressing the creature?”

“No, I am finished,” said The Old Gray One, patting the parcels packed upon his Grok. “I have gleaned the best from that beast and shall leave the rest to …” The Old Gray One looked up to the sky as a huge winged Elgay swept past overhead before circling and landing near the slaughtered Konghru. “To him and his kind.”

“Let that one serve our notice,” said Avenir’s mother, placing her medical kit back upon her Grok. “Like an unwanted guest, they are always the first to arrive and the last to leave.”

“Then we must move on,” Avenir spoke as he helped Mara remount her Grok. “We still have a good ride yet till we reach the river Desolace. Perhaps we can find a place to camp there for the night ... on this side or the other.” He climbed up onto his Grok and looked over at Mara as she reined in her mount beside his. He was able to reach out his hand toward her and stroked her shoulder and arm. There was something in the great warm smile she returned, something that spoke to him in words that he had never learned, a meaning that he couldn’t wait until they were alone together to discover.

 

[Honey_B]

Marian

The wildness of the forest gave way to a flat grassy plain, dotted with shrubs and twisted little trees that looked to have been growing since the beginning of time. Marian for one was glad to feel the kiss of the sun once again upon her face. The tension with which she had held her body during the Konghru attack gradually left her muscles and she began to relax. The groks waded through the long grasses easily, the plants parting like water before their great bodies.

A meditative silence pervaded the travelers. Marian had seen the kiss Mara gave her son and it had gladdened her heart. Young love always did, but this is not what captured the woman's thoughts. No, it was the Gray One. She had watched as he had let loose a flurry of arrows, helping to bring down the beast and to protect her son. He had been magnificent, reminding her of the warriors of old. She cast a side-long glance at her old friend, her eyes speculative. The wise guide had returned, his demeanor calm once again. Even so, Marian could not forget how he had looked, the virility he had exuded in the face of danger. She had known the Gray One for so long, yet today she looked upon him with new eyes. Marian saw him as a man.

A slight rise brought them to the edge of a bluff. Looking down, the party could see the wide expanse of the river Desolace. Like a flat gray ribbon lain across the burnished countryside, the Desolace stretched as far as the eye could see in either direction. Large, old growth trees girded the river, almost growing to the water’s edge. Perhaps a raft could be constructed from the giants, but that would have to wait until the morrow. Marian lifted her eyes towards the horizon and saw the Goddess of Twilight’s crimson fingers waving at them from the West.

 

[Garras Agudas]

It had been a long time since I had been a young man and stood shoulder to shoulder with my brother, trading blows with our enemies on a battlefeild and feeling the thrill of the struggle as we fought for survival. Too long a time in which the blood flowed vigorously and made me feel as if I were fully alive. But with that feeling of youth and power also came the temperment I had gained through the ages and from the loss of that same brother.

The Grok's slowed and then stopped at the rivers edge and at Avenir's assenting nod I slid from my own mount and knelt at the water, bringing a handful to my lips.

"The water is pure and good" I spoke softly, letting the sweet fluid slide down my throat and enjoying it. "I beleive we are far enough off any path to not be disturbed and by the lack of tracks this is not a watering place for the wild beasts, perhaps we can light a small campfire and set to the task of eating the feast Avenir has given to us?"

A smile greeted me from the young Prince as he slid gracefully from his own Grok and moved to help Mana from hers and I turned toward Marian to offer the same.

"Perhaps the two have more than food for the belly on thier minds, my Queen?" I joked lightly as she placed her hands on my shoulders and allowed me to wrap my hands around her waist and life her down. "The heart also needs great sustenance as well, yes?"

Again a smile greeted me, this time from Marian's face as she thanked me for assisting her and I reluctantly released her still well shaped waist.

"It will give a chance to remove the beast's blood from me and change into fresh clothing, I will return with an arm of dry kindling afterwards and start our supper fire" I excused myself, pulling my own short sword and a small bundle I had readied for the task, then moving thru the brush. "I will be within the distance of your voice if you need me, my Queen"

 

[Miltone]

Avenir

The Old Gray One’s survey had proven true; Avenir could easily see that this place at the river’s edge would be ideal for their evening He quickly dismounted and held his arms up to help Mara down from her pale cream-colored grok. She slipped down easily into his arms, her delicate hands resting on his shoulders. Mara looked up at him with her large blue eyes and Avenir felt a strange stirring sensation deep inside, a feeling that warmed him and make his blood surge strongly through his veins. But with the sun setting soon, they needed to make camp. They both unpacked just what they would need for the night, then sent their groks off to water and feed.

Avenir glanced over at his mother and The Old Gray One, smiling at the way they moved about each other and regarded each other. His mother was still youthful and pretty, and the older man was actually handsome in a worldly wizened way. He smiled to see the way The Gray One acknowledged his mother, bowing to her, deferring to her as if she truly were a queen, even though it was just a simple campsite being prepared.

“Perhaps while you make ready this camp,” Avenir called over to them, “Mara and I can fetch some firewood, for we will need a way to keep warm and fend off any marauding creatures who may happen by.”

Avenir was surprised at the way Mara quickly slipped her hand inside his as they went off to fulfill their task. It wouldn’t take too long he could tell, for the old thick growth along the shoreline yielded copious amounts of aged wood. Avenir set to dragging a couple of the choicest logs out to a clearing where he could work on them with the axe he had brought along. For her part, Mara helped, stacking the wood as he chopped it. They had nearly finished when she was stacking a particularly dry piece and caught a splinter.

“Ouch!” she cried out loudly.

“What is it?” Avenir replied, setting the axe in the log he had been chopping, and rushing to her side.

“I seem to have gotten a splinter,” she said picking at it.

“Here. Let me,” Avenir offered, taking her delicate hand in his. There in the fat of her palm was a long thin sliver of wood. He easily pulled it out with his fingernails. When Mara winced, he brought her hand up to his lips and kissed it. Mara stepped closer as his kiss lingered on her hand, easing her other hand around his waist and pressing her body close to him.

“Thank you, kind sir,” she said with a giggling little laugh. She leaned up toward him, taking her hand away from his mouth and replacing it with her full moist lips. He hand slipped around his neck and held him to her, making their kiss last for several moments longer.

“Um, Mara,” Avenir finally said as the kiss broke. “We should get this firewood back before it gets too dark.”

“Yes we should,” she replied, then kissed him again.

It took a couple of trips to carry all of the wood back to their camp, where his mother had set to preparing their evening meal. The Old Gray One emerged from the copse near the river, looking refreshed from having washed and wearing fresh clothes.

“There is a lovely little stream through there, ideal for bathing,” he announced gallantly.

Mara tugged at Avenir’s sleeve and whispered something in his ear.

“I’d like to freshen up,” Mara said to Avenir, tugging at his sleeve. “Would you like to come with me?”

“Of course,” Avenir replied. “Do you need any help preparing the meal?” he asked his mother.

“No, I think I have all the help I need,” she said, smiling at the Gray One.

Avenir and Mara went back along the way the Gray One had come to discover a small shallow pond of water and a stream that lead to the river. Avenir knelt by the edge of the pond and washed his hands and face, feeling the water, still warm from the day’s sun, freshen him.

“Now that I have you as a lookout, I just might take a bath,” Mara said, sitting on a log to remove her boots.

He looked up to see that Mara was standing beside him. She had slipped out of her vest and was untying the laces of her gown. Avenir looked shyly away when he saw her gown pool at her feet. He moved away and stood up, his back to the water, hearing the shimmering sound of the rest of her clothing slipping away from her body, followed by a few splashes as she entered the water. When he heard the joyful sound of her laugh as she splashed about, he fought the urge to sneak a peek over his shoulder.

“Mmm … it’s wonderful!” Mara laughed. “You should join me.”

“No,” Avenir said, turning away from her. He began to sense that feeling inside again, the feeling that made his blood surge and spread an unfamiliar warmth to his loins, a feeling that made him want to look back and watch her. “I’ll just stand guard.”

 

[Tammi]

Mara

When Avenir removes the sliver from Mara’s hand she again is over come by his gentleness and protective caring for her. Her heart warms as he kisses the palm of her hand, seeing and feeling the love and compassion in him. She also is enjoying the time alone with him, being near him, helping him, just watching him delights her.

When Mara hears there is a place to freshen up, she smiles at Avenir. Not only is she happy to be able to clean off the days dust upon her body, but also because it is another chance to be alone with him. When she sees the inviting water, feels how warm it is on her face and hands, Mara can’t resist the urge to bath and wash her entire body. Standing next to Avenir, she can’t help but notice the shy blush that comes across his face before he turns his head when she begins to remove her clothing. She smiles softly to herself, wondering if he feels the same warm tingles that she has been feeling since they kissed after he removed the sliver in her hand.

The water is heavenly against her body, helping her finally relax after all the day’s events. She splashed and giggled playfully, enjoying the feel of the water as it streamed down her body. After what Avenir had been through, she new he too would enjoy this as well, and with those thoughts, she was slightly disappointed when he refused to join her. Mara, being somewhat less shy about her body when around him, wondered if that was his reason or if her nakedness was making him uncomfortable. With that thought, she felt a warm flush come over her, and even a giddy sensation wondering how seeing her like this made him feel.

It wasn’t long before she stepped out of the water, her hair soaked and the water dripping down her body. As she approached Avenir who had his back towards her, she reached for the cloth that they had brought, placing it in front of her, letting it cover what little parts of her body it could.

“Avenir, I’m through if you wanted to go in and me be the look out for you.” She whispered softly in his ear, her body so close against his back, he could feel her warmth.

“Maybe later I will do that Mara. Dinner will be….” Avenir said as he turned around, believing she had already dressed.

Thunderstruck by seeing her in this state, with her hair wet and molded against her body, the curves of her body so plain for him to view as well as how the cloth barely covered her firm breasts, he stood there gazing at her finding himself unable to turn away.

“Would you mind helping me dry my back for me then?” Mara asked him with a sparkle in her eyes upon seeing his reaction to her. She handed him the towel as she turned around and lifted her hair.

“Uhmmm sure, okay.” Avenir replied in a low husky voice. Regardless of what he was feeling as he looked at her, he was unable to refuse her.

First patting her hair so that it would no longer drip down her body, Avenir then ran the cloth slowly down her back, softly caressing at the same time patting it dry. Mara was starting to feel a very warm, delighted fluttering in her belly from the way he was touching her, feeling the tips of his fingers now and then graze the sides of her breasts, the cloth sweep lightly across her bottom. When he stopped, she turned around and they were both gazing into each other’s eyes, new stronger emotions stirring inside them. Avenir’s hand reached out to embrace her and then he heard them being called for dinner.

 

[Miltone]

Avenir

His heart was beating fast and his hands were trembling as he tried to dry off Mara’s naked body. Avenir had never seen a woman naked before, the soft and tender curves, the smooth skin so soft to the touch. There was that day last summer when Mara had been caught in a storm while out riding and her light summer clothing was clinging to her when she returned to the stables. But that was hardly the same as this, seeing her standing before him now, shamelessly allowing him to dry her back. His hands patted and brushed against her as that stirring feeling inside him returned. His britches felt as if they had shrunk two sizes and he realized that his member had grown stiff and hard between his legs. Why should he feel this way? What was there about her that should cause this to happen? The Old Gray One had taught him many things about life and war, but the ways and wiles of women were not on the list of lessons learned.

When Avenir had finished drying her body, she turned to face him, her body brushing up against his, the curves of her firm bare breasts pressed against his chest. His hands moved around to embrace her. Mara was looking up at him, her eyes examining his every feature and looking deep into his eyes. He was seized by the urge to kiss her again, but not as they had before; he wanted to taste her mouth and the smooth tender bare skin of her body. He leaned down toward her, feeling her breath wash over his chin and cheek.

“Avenir! Mara!” called out The Old Gray One. “Our feast is nearly ready! Come!”

When he tried to back away, Mara held fast to him and kissed him, her hand slipping around the back of his neck, pulling him to her. Their lips melted together, his arms around her waist and her arms wrapped around his shoulders.

“Mara! Avenir!” The Old Gray One shouted out again.

“Coming!” Avenir called back. “We must go,” he whispered to Mara.

When she began to dress, he turned back around. His blood was rushing madly and his breath was coming fast. The thickening of his manhood forced him to adjust his own clothing for comfort. Perhaps he should talk with The Old Gray One about this condition. He might know it’s meaning.

“Avenir,” Mara called over to him. “Can you help me with my boot?”

He turned around slowly and saw that she was fully dressed though struggling with her boot. He knelt at her feet and lifted the boot up. She raised her skirt and thrust her leg down forcefully. It was a beautiful leg with clear pale skin and as he raised his eyes up a bit, even in the dimming light of day, he could see up into the shadows between her legs. He realize that he was holding her boot and looking up at her far longer than was needed.

“Thank you,” she smiled. “We really should be getting back.”

They walked hand in hand back to the camp where his mother and The Old Gray One had laid out the supper.

 

[Honey_B]

Marian

Mara and Avenir said something about going off for firewood. Marian heard them, but her eyes were on the Gray One.

"I will be within the distance of your voice if you need me, my Queen"

Marian watched him retreat. She could still feel the touch of his hands upon her body, her senses clinging to the memory. Why had she never looked upon him with the eyes of a woman before now. The answer escaped her. Marian shook her head, realizing that a great deal of work needed doing if a meal were going to be prepared. Musing about personal matters could wait.

With a very sharp knife, she stripped the bark from several green twigs. From the Konghru meat, Marian selected the tender pieces from the loin and cut them into small chunks. Reaching for her packs, she withdrew an assortment of herbs, some of which she sprinkled on the skewers of meat. She suspending the meat between two rocks and stood up, looking around. It seemed that she too would have to forage. Luckily she need only go a few steps away. Marian’s trained eye had noted the assortment of wild greens that grew in the area. Collecting as she walked, she soon had an armful. They would be delightful wilted and splashed with vinegar. Wonder of wonders, Marian had thought to include a small flagon in her pack and she stooped to get it.

The Gray One returned, his arms full of firewood and she quietly asked for a fire to be started at once. He complied with a smile that started Marian’s heart to racing. The light had grown very dim, but she could still make out his form. He was tall, his body powerful. Marian felt a stirring deep within her, something she had not felt in a very long time. Before she could contemplate the rebellious nature of her body, a blaze of a fire roared to life. Shadows danced around the campsite, making their hidden copse come alive. In companionable silence, they prepared the meal. Marian only had to slap the Gray One’s hands away once or twice. Before long, he was calling to Avenir and Mara. Marian smiled, guessing why they had lingered in the forest.

 

[Garras Agudas]

The Gray One

Simple pleasures. Helping to prepare a meal and watching a beautiful woman as she moves about it, so unknowing of her gracefullness and the way it affects a man. And yet that time was running short, the appearance of the Konghru and it's attack proved that to me.

"My Queen, I'll call the Prince and his Lady?"



"Marian"



"Queen Marian, I will call the...."


"Marian, simply Marian"


"There is nothing simple about you my Queen"


"Why don't you call my son and his Lady then?"


And I followed her wishes, waiting until the pair came back to the camp and smiling at the brightness of their eyes and the red cheeks.

"We feast thanks to our Queen, simply Marian" I gently taunted and ducked as a green herb flew at me followed by a laugh.Plates formed by giant leaves were handed to each and we began to eat the succulent meat, the wild taste gone, replaced by the skillful use of the herbs. The meal was simple and delicous, further testament to the beautiful Ladies skill as we relaxed and I shared the knowledge of what I found.

"Avenir, Have you noticed how a well fed man tends to be sluggish after an excellent meal?" I began, lounging in the heat of the small fire myself.

"Tis the nature of a man or beast, is it not?" Avenir quietly replied, his eyes telling me he knew there was more to come than a comment on a mans laziness.

"True" I acknowledged and pleased at his including the word beast. "So what greatly worries me is the fact I found your Konghru's belly stuffed full of his last meal yet and being a male he has no instincts to protect the young"

And there it was, Avenir nodding as Mara looked to him for explanantion, Marian daintily wiping her hands as she looked towards me and spoke.


"Tell us the rest of it, Please. What you aren't saying"

Nodding I rose to my haunches and stared into the fire, then spoke plainly.

"I knew the Konghru would attack, not because of the way he approached but because of the presence I felt, someone was controlling the beast and sending him to his doom as a test of our Prince. And there is a second presence following us as well, a greater source of Magic then I have felt for many years, one that has yet to identify itself as freind or foe"

I watched the eyes of Mara as I spoke and saw only honest apprehension, then moved to Marians and opened my own in surprise.

"In either case all we can do is be more alert and ready to repel them if attacked, the Sword is your weapon Avenir, Magic and it's use will be mine. Unless there is another about this camp that also controls a source of magic or is able to weild it?"