Tarin @ MindSay 
I've had Chapter 12 finished for a while, but was hesitating putting it up here until I got chapter 13 done, sorry it's taken so long...chapter 13 still won't be done for a while, I'm really stuck! Anyways, ENJOY!
§ Chapter 12 §
The dark passageway hidden behind the door seemed to go on for miles. Tarin followed quietly behind Galdor, the rest of the party followed silently behind her. As the light behind them began to disappear, Galdor produced one of the glowing orbs his people carried in the forest. The green light produced a soft glow that illuminated the area around them. Tarin could see tiny gold specks on the walls beside her.
After walking for an unknown amount of time, Galdor stopped and signaled to the group to follow his example. He was standing on the edge of a cliff, looking down into darkness. Tarin leaned forward and saw that he was watching something lying on the bottom of the cavern. He motioned to her not to speak a word, and then moved back away from the ledge. He walked back down the hallway several yards until the light he carried was almost out of sight from the ledge. He signaled for Eauthrin to join him and the two sat against the wall devising a plan.
As the two talked, Tarin continued to stare into the cavern trying to see the creature sleeping at the bottom. As she stood there watching the darkness, a quiet rumbling was heard emanating from the bottom of the cavern. She quickly looked back at the group to see Galdor and Eauthrin jump as the noise grew louder. The ground began shaking as Galdor joined her at the ledge of the cliff.
“He must have heard our voices,” he whispered.
“But I couldn’t even hear you,” Tarin said as the air grew warmer around her.
“We have to get out of this hallway,” Galdor called to the party. “We do not have time to waste.”
Galdor climbed to the cliff’s edge and swung himself over. Tarin watched as he stood without difficulty and looked to the cliff face. The light of the green orb illuminated what looked like a trail of ledges criss-crossing their way down the vertical incline. He helped her over the ledge of the cliff, and they began traversing the cliff face. The remainder of the party was rapidly behind them, and the group cautiously moved down the ledges.
Halfway down the rock face, a whoosh of air blew them back against the rocks, and Tarin watched as a huge creature flew up from the bottom of the cave. A pillar of fire escaped the beast’s mouth as it leveled off at the hallway, engulfing the entire entrance in flame. Galdor gripped her hand and pulled her behind him, encouraging her to continue down the path.
The beast continued to fly above them, shooting bursts of flame into the hallway as they stepped onto the floor of the creature’s lair. Galdor produced his bow and placed an arrow onto the string. As he aimed it skywards, Eauthrin drew his swords, and the other Men quickly produced their weapons.
“Get ready,” Galdor called, signaling for Tarin to draw her sword as well. As she did so, the arrow flew off his bow, and implanted itself into the underbelly of the hovering giant.
The creature let out a loud roar and quickly dove down into the cave, shaking the earth as it crashed into the ground before them. Galdor tossed the glowing orb onto the floor, and the dark room burst into the green glow, which showed the immense size of the beast in front of them.
The creature was red in colour, and its wings stretched high above them. Its menacing face was framed by two horns which curled around its jaws. Smoke escaped from its nostrils as it took a step toward the warriors.
As Tarin stood there staring at the beast, Eauthrin ran forward followed closely by Geheed, Filmarc and Manil. Eauthrin stabbed the beast in its soft, golden underbelly as he charged forward. The beast jumped back in surprise, but the Men continued to charge forward. Pansoic shot a bolt from his crossbow, and Galdor loosed an arrow from his bow, both hitting the creature in its long, snake like throat.
Tarin was frozen in fear as the enormous beast swung quickly around, striking the Men with its long tail, knocking Eauthrin, Geheed, Filmarc and Manil to the ground. As it circled fully around, its extended claws slashed out, catching one of the fallen Men on the chest. Pansoic released another bolt, startling the creature before it had the chance to attack the other Men. The body of Filmarc disappeared; his hammer lay on the floor a few feet from where he had fallen.
Manil let out a cry as he got to his feet, axe in hand. The creature roar as Manils axe found its mark, creating a huge gash in the beast’s underbelly. Dark red blood spilled onto the floor as the creature shrunk in pain.
Galdor pulled a scroll from his satchel and tossed the paper into the air while yelling out words Tarin had never heard before. She watched as the parchment began to turn to frost and ice over. Galdor reached up and grabbed the frozen piece of paper, which he then tied to his bow. He drew an arrow from his quiver and placed it on the string. He pulled with all his strength, and shot the arrow at the creature.
Tarin stared as the arrow flew off the bow, bursting into a swirling ice storm instantly. It struck its target directly in the face, and the Elf’s magic began to work. The ice storm engulfed the creatures head, creating a swirling blizzard around it. Seconds later, the magic ended, and Tarin saw that the head of the beast had been entirely frozen.
“Look out!” Galdor called to the Men still standing under the beast.
The creature took a step back before heaving its entire body into the air. The Men scrambled to get out of the way as the giant came crashing down once more, shaking the ground as it hit the earth. As the dust cleared, Tarin saw that the creature lay motionless a few feet in front of her. She stood there, still frozen in fear.
Eauthrin, Geheed and Manil were stopped running as they reached the others, and stood staring at the beast.
“What was that thing?” Manil asked.
“They are called dragons,” Galdor said as he stepped toward the creatures frozen head. “They are very abundant in this world. We were lucky this was only a young one, otherwise it would not have fallen so easily.”
“You mean there are bigger ones than this?” Pansoic inquired.
“No,” he replied. “Not much bigger, but a lot stronger, and smarter. An older one would have heard us climbing down the cliff face, and would have beaten us down here. Sometimes, Elves have found that their spells do not work on older dragons. We were very lucky today.”
Tarin was still shocked as she stared at the fallen dragon. Galdor approached her as she gaped at the beast.
“Are you alright?” he asked.
She looked at him, but said nothing. Her mind was fluttering and she did not know what to say.
“Tarin,” he continued. “Why did you not fight?”
Again, she stood there, staring into his dark eyes. No words would come to her, and she looked blankly at him.
“Tarin,” he said again, grabbing her shoulders and shaking her. “Wake up!”
His touch chased away her fear, and she snapped out of her stupor.
“What-what happened?” she asked as she continued to stare at him.
“You did not fight, why?” he quizzed her again.
“I-I don’t know,” she replied truthfully. “I was frightened and I couldn’t bring myself to draw my sword.”
“You were frightened?” Galdor gave her a puzzled look. “You know you can not be hurt in this realm. There is no need to be frightened,” he released his grip on her shoulders and turned away from her. “You can not do that Tarin. You must be strong.”
Tarin did not know what to say and watched as he stormed away. He picked up Filmarcs hammer, and then came rushing back to the group. He handed the weapon to Manil and signaled to the remainder of the group.
“It’s time to go, we’re finished for today,” his voice sounded angry, and he did not look at Tarin.
She closed her eyes, and the silence of the cavern was quickly replaced with the sound of rainfall.
§ Chapter 11 §
Tarin slammed the Tome of the Prophets abruptly on the floor in front of her. After her discussion with Taurnil earlier that day, Tarin had engulfed herself in the large book trying to find a fault in what the Elf had told her. It appeared as though what Taurnil had said was the truth. One of the prophets had even gone so far as to draw a sketch of the woman he saw in his vision. There was no doubt about it, Tarin was the person they prophesied about.
She sat on the pile of pillows staring blankly at the heavy leather bound book that lay in front of her. A tear welled up in her eye, and she brushed it away as it fell down her cheek. It’s not fair she thought. They should not expect so much out of me; I cannot do the things they imagine I can. Tarin felt as though the weight of the world was crushing her, and she lay back on the pillows.
“Perhaps next time you will do the homework assigned to you before walking into a trial,” she looked up to find Galdor standing on the edge of the platform. The Elves were always poking fun at the organized schoolhouses humans insisted on building. The only things not taught to the young Elf-lings by their families were the ability to wield a weapon and how to control their magical powers. These were taught by the masters, those who had been practicing and fighting for countless centuries.
“I did not ask for this,” Tarin moped.
“Anyone faced with such a responsibility would feel the same way,” Galdor comforted, taking a seat beside her on the cushions. “However, many of us are faced with obligations we are not prepared to accept. But if you do not accept your destiny, and take accountability for it, you will leave the world to fend themselves against an evil that only you can defeat. If you ignore this fact, you leave the world to certain devastation.”
“I know,” Tarin said, as another tear slowly rolled down her cheek.
Galdor reached for her face, and brushed away the tear. Tarin gazed at the Elf as he did so, catching a glimpse of his dark, glittering eyes for a brief moment, as his weather beaten hand graced her face. Tarin stiffened as he reached to sweep away a strand of hair that had come loose and fallen into her eyes.
“You do not need to be afraid,” Galdor whispered. “That is one thing I can assure you of. No matter what happens in this world, you do not need to fear me, for I will never harm you.”
Galdor stood and walked across the platform, turning to her before he stepped onto the adjacent dais.
“Have faith in yourself young Tarin, you are strong enough to accomplish whatever you put your mind to.”
Galdor stepped off of the dais, and disappeared behind the palm-sized leaves. Tarin watched as he left, then once again drew her gaze to the large tome located on the floor. She breathed in deeply as she forced herself to stand.
She wandered across the platforms until she located the dining tables. Final preparations were being made for the nights’ meal. Tarin did not realize that she was starving, and he stomach growled as she watched plates of fruits being placed on tables.
A crow-like call sounded from behind her, and Tarin turned to see an Elf holding a large black bird in his hands. The bird let out another caw, before the Elf released it once again. The blonde haired Elf smiled as he saw her watching him, and signalled for her to have a seat.
“Dinner will be served momentarily my lady,” the Elf said. “Please, make yourself comfortable until the rest of the guests arrive.”
Tarin sat at the table nearest to her, and waited patiently for others to join her. Moments later, Elves began to filter in from all directions and sat on the benches and chairs under the tables. The air was suddenly filled with Elvish laughter, and a minstrel took up song as more guests arrived. Eauthrin and Geheed joined Tarin, and told her many stories of the lands they explored that day. Moments later, Pansoic, Filmarc, and Manil joined the group and more stories were shared about the mysterious Elven city and the places they discovered.
Tarin sat quietly and listened to the stories, until Eauthrin asked of her day’s events. She shyly told the party about the mystical battle she had fought that morning, which was followed by a roar of laughter. Tarin’s face reddened as her colleagues continued laughing.
“Next time, you should join her,” Galdor said, taking a seat beside the blushing Tarin. “The training will do you well. And the encouragement would be greatly appreciated I’m sure.”
Tarin nodded, and the five Men quickly agreed to their new duties.
“Then it’s settled,” Galdor smiled, his dark eyes sparkling. “Tomorrow we will all go to the other realm and practice our skills.”
§
Tarin awoke early the next morning to the sound of heavy rainfall. She remembered instantly that she was sleeping outside and stood quickly to avoid getting wet. As she stood, Tarin realized that the leaves of the trees had merged together, creating a waterproof roof above her. Tarin stared at the magical leaves, astounded by the magic of the forest. She knew it would be many months until she fully understood the mystical forest, and smiled as she began preparing for the day’s training.
Galdor stepped quietly onto the platform, carrying a small tray covered with fresh bread and fruit. Tarin accepted the breakfast, and sat on the floor with him as they ate the meal together. He had also brought his long bow with him, and a few scrolls that he stored in a satchel.
As they finished their breakfast, Enelya led the group of Men to the dais, explaining the process to which they would enter the other realm, and encouraged them that the trip was safe and that they would not be hurt during the battle. Once the group was assembled, Enelya wished them good luck, and clapped her hands together while whispering an enchantment. Tarin closed her eyes, and seconds later felt the warmth of the morning sun beating down on her pale face.
When she opened her eyes again, she found herself standing on a large ridge located on a cliff face. They were quite far off the ground, and Tarin stared at the horizon. She looked upwards, and found that they were on a cliff, but could also see more rock beyond the top of the cliff face. She looked behind her to find Galdor and the rest of the company inspecting the ridge, trying to find a trail.
After much searching, Eauthrin found a trail wide enough for them to walk across leading to the edge of the cliff face, where they would be able to reach the top of the cliff. The party followed him and made their way to the top of the cliff. As Geheed pulled Tarin up from the trail, she gazed upon a large metal door leading further into the mountain.
“What now?” Manil asked, tapping the hilt of his sword against the ten-foot high door.
Tarin could see that there was no door handle or hinges anywhere on the entrance, and breathed heavily as she approached the metal door. A fine writing could be seen halfway up the door, and she squinted at the script.
?????????????
?!?!?!see below?!?!?!?!
“What does it say?” Tarin said as Galdor came and stood beside her.
“I am not sure yet,” he said, his dark eyes scanning over the runes. “I have seen this script before. Give me a few moments and I will try to decipher the code.”
The group stood around patiently as Galdor examined the runes. Tarin watched respectfully as he tried to determine what was written there. After pondering the runes for several minutes, Galdor let out a call.
“I’ve got it!”
The group gathered around to listen to the Elf’s dictation of the lettering.
“It says: ‘Pull with all your might, only a whistle you'll gain but almost out of sight, someone may shrink in pain.’”
“And what exactly is that suppose to mean?” Filmarc said as he stared at the strange lettering.
“It’s a riddle,” Manil said, teasing his older brother. After considering the answer for a few moments, he smiled and quickly shared his response. “I believe the answer is ‘a bow and arrow.’ But I have no idea how that is going to help us open this door.”
“Well, young Manil,” Galdor started. “You never quite know what will open these doors. Everyone look around for a hole large enough for an arrow to go through.”
The party began scouring the area, trying to find the answer to the riddle. Tarin looked behind a few large boulders to the left of the doorway, and called out to the party as she realized what she had found. Seconds later, the company had gathered behind the large boulders, and gazed upon the answer to their riddle.
It was not somewhere an arrow could be shot, but an engraving of a standard long bow and an arrow carved into the back of one of the boulders. Galdor removed his bow and an arrow from his quiver, and gently placed his weapon into the carving. The arrow fit perfectly, but the bow was too small for the impression. He was about to remove the bow, when a piece of the boulder moved. The etching had magically changed size to fit the bow, and gripped onto the weapon tightly.
The company ran out from behind the boulders to see the large metal door moving slowly upwards. When the door had reached the top of the doorway, a loud clank was heard, and the door clicked into place. From behind the boulder, they heard the rattle of the bow, as it was released from the impression and landed on the hard stone ground. Galdor returned carrying his bow and urged the group onwards.
“Shall we?”
!?!?!?!?!?This part is suppose to be written in Runes, however, I am not able to upload them here. So imagine you are reading beautiful Runes instead!?!?!?!?!
Tarin sat quietly at the busy table as she watched Elves carry out large trays covered with fresh fruit and fish. Dinner was quiet, and the weary travellers relaxed as they were served and comforted by the Elves. Tarin noticed that Galdor was no where to be seen, but the thought quickly left her mind as Taurnil encouraged her to eat some of the ripe fruit placed before her.
After the tables had been cleared, Tarin was led to a nearby dais where a mound of blankets and pillows sat on the floor waiting for her.
Tarin arranged the blankets and pillows to form a comfortable enough sleeping area, and calmly enveloped herself in the warm fur blankets. Before her blue eyes closed for the night, Tarin heard someone step quietly onto the platform. She jolted awake and found herself being watched by Galdor.
“What are you doing here?” Tarin asked coolly.
“I wanted to be sure that you were comfortable,” Galdor responded, stepping into the small patch of moonlight that filtered in through the leaves. “I am sorry I was not at dinner, but I needed to talk to the elders. I needed to warn them of the dangers that we may face in the upcoming months. Those wolf-bear creatures we encountered may prove to be very dangerous in the future. I had to warn them.”
“I was not worried about you,” Tarin said as she pulled the blankets closer to herself.
“I did not say you were,” Galdor smiled. “I wanted to apologize for disappearing so quickly.”
“Well, you are forgiven,” Tarin said. “Now, if you don’t mind, I was getting ready to sleep. We can discuss things further in the morning.”
“Of course,” Galdor bowed as he stepped out of the moonlight. “My apologies.”
§
As the sun began to filter in through the large green leaves, Enelya stood quietly over her and awakened Tarin.
“Good morning young Tarin,” Enelya said as Tarin stood from her makeshift bed. “Prepare your weapons, your training begins today.”
Tarin gathered the dagger and staff she received from her father as well as the short sword she had been trained in many years earlier. Enelya smiled as Tarin began strapping the weapons to her belt and across her shoulders.
“My dear,” Enelya said, reaching for the staff. “You will not need this.”
Enelya placed the ruby encrusted staff gently on the pile of pillows and blankets Tarin had slept on.
“You will not be training in the magical arts for a few weeks now,” Enelya explained.
“Magic?” Tarin exclaimed. “I get to learn magic?”
“Of course dear,” Enelya smiled, her black eyes shimmering a brilliant shade of green as the light from the sun wandered across her pale face. “The Elves are well known for their magical skills, and this staff of yours was given to your father by me. However, I don’t have time to fully explain right now. Are you ready?”
Tarin nodded in confusion and began walking toward the edge of the platform, where a ladder was rolled and waiting for use. Tarin knelt and pushed the ladder towards the edge as Enelya looked on patiently. Tarin stood, and stepped toward the ladder. As she did so, Enelya clapped her hands together twice, and Tarin turned to see what was happening.
When Tarin turned in the direction Enelya stood, she found a large boulder instead. Tarin looked around and found she was standing in a large field. Trees surrounded her in all directions, and a stream bubbled by a few steps ahead of her. The long grass blew silently in the breeze. Tarin stepped forward to look into the stream, where she found several brilliant orange coloured fish swimming by. Tarin looked around the field once more.
How did I get here? Tarin thought to herself. Tarin heard a quiet rustle from behind her, and quickly turned in the direction it came from. There was nothing to be seen, but Tarin reached for her sword and dagger anyway.
As Tarin began to draw her sword from the sheath a growl broke out from the long grass ahead of her. A large cat-like creature leaped out from its hiding place towards her. Tarin swung her sword, catching the gold coloured animal across the chest, leaving it broken on the ground beside her. It’s blood seeped into the stream as Tarin looked upon the creature.
Another rustle was heard a few feet to her left, and Tarin wielded her sword as yet another cat came bounding out from the grass towards her. The cat charged directly at her, and Tarin did not have much time to react. Her dagger left her hand almost immediately as the creature jumped at her. The dagger met it’s mark, and yet another corpse fell to the ground. Tarin rushed over quickly and removed the dagger from the throat of the dead cat. She paused as she looked at the creature, and realized it was almost twice her size, and if she was not on her guard, could probably devour her in a single gulp with it’s three inch long incisors.
As Tarin stood there investigating her attacker, an unseen enemy approached silently from behind. Before Tarin had a chance to turn and defend herself, yet another of the mysterious creatures leapt from it’s hiding place and pounced strongly at her. Tarin fell hard to the ground as the creature’s claws dug into her shoulders. She kicked with all her might and tried rolling, but it was no use. The creature was much stronger than she anticipated. The pain from her shoulders quickly became unbearable and Tarin fainted from the pain.
§
Tarin awoke suddenly, and found herself back on one of the Elves hidden platforms. Enelya, Galdor and Taurnil stood above her, watching her as she struggled to get up. The pain in her shoulders was gone, and Tarin sat up with ease. A confused look passed over her face and Enelya smiled as Tarin looked around at her onlookers.
“What happened?” Tarin asked hastily. “Where was I? What were those things? How did I get back here?”
“Calm down,” Enelya said as she stepped forward and ran her hands through Tarin’s long brown hair.
“It was all an illusion,” Galdor smiled. “Did you not read the book your father gave you?”
“I did not have time,” Tarin admitted.
“It’s alright, dear,” Enelya comforted. “Taurnil will explain all you need to know about the training you will receive here.”
“You defeated two of them though,” Taurnil encouraged her. “Not many can say that for their first time in the other realm.”
Galdor and Enelya left the platform and left Taurnil and Tarin to discuss the training.
“The magic in this forest allows Enelya to open a second world,” Taurnil explained. “When you step into this other realm, you are treated as an enemy to all that reside there. There are many creatures that live there that do not live here, some that are far stronger than those that live here. Through many centuries of study, Enelya has found that the creatures do not actually die, and that this realm is not real. It now serves as a training ground for many great Elvish warriors. You will continue your training there for a few weeks. Then we will begin teaching you some of the magical skills that you will need in the final battle.”
“Taurnil,” Tarin interrupted. “I do not know why I am here for training. What is going on?”
“You really didn’t read that book, did you?” Taurnil smiled. Before he continued, a grave look crossed his face. “Many years ago, a dark man was sentenced to live in the treacherous Realm of Diablion for treachery against the kingdoms of the old world, Recita. During his lifetime in Recita, the evil Treingtan tried to start a war in between all of the cities. Nim against Tarou. Caive against Jehi. Even we Elves in the Forest of Cartha were pitted against the men who lived in the cities. Everyone was on the verge of a massive world war, when Treingtan’s motives were discovered. With the war raging away from the cities, Treingtan would have every opportunity to move in with his many followers and conquer the cities. With no armies around to stop him, Treingtan would have succeeded, had it not been for the great Cadrahad. With only a few hundred men, Cadrahad encountered Treingtan on the road from Nim, and discovered his devilish plot. Cadrahad engaged in a short battle against Treingtan and his men, and proved the better. Treingtan surrendered, and Cadrahad sent messengers to the other armies, telling them of the treachery they had been blind to see. The war was called off, and the cities were saved. Treingtan was banished to the mountainous and dangerous Realm of Diablion, where he and his minions have survived for almost four hundred years. It is believed that Treingtan once drank the blood of a fallen Elf, which miraculously gave him eternal life. But some think it is the ever growing evil that keeps him alive. No one knows for sure, but Enelya can sense the ever growing danger, as his powers grow stronger. Treingtan is trying to escape his prison and conquer the world once again.”
“What does all this have to do with me?” Tarin asked patiently.
“You my dear are the direct descendant of Cadrahad, and the only one with the power to save this world.”
“That is impossible,” Tarin exasperated. “Why was Kaina not asked to come? Why am I left with the responsibility of defeating an evil being I have never heard of?”
“On the day of your birth, Enelya approached your father, and told him of the growing danger. As Enelya looked upon you, she saw a vision. She saw a young woman, with flowing brown hair standing atop a cliff, with an army of Men and Elves rallied behind her. Ahead of her lay the ruins of Diablion and all of Treingtan’s minions gathered for war. As Enelya watched, she saw that the young woman looked almost identical to Queen Moriria, who stood nearby resting. Before the end of the vision, the young woman looked directly at Enelya, revealing the most brilliant blue eyes to ever look upon her. As the vision ended, and Enelya looked upon you, just an infant, lying quietly in your crib, you looked upon her, your eyes, the same as those she had seen moments earlier. That is what is contained in the Tome of the Prophets that was given to you; prophecies from centuries ago, visions from the Elves, all depicting the identity of the warrior who would defeat Treingtan. All of which match you to a tee. You are the one they saw, the one who would defeat the evil that resides in Diablion.”
Tarin sat in disbelief. After sitting silent for several minutes, she stood, and walked out across the platforms to her sleeping area. She rustled through her belongings, until she found the Tome of the Prophets, and sat against the tree located in the center of the dais, and began reading.
§ Chapter 9 §
Early the next morning, Tarin found herself riding toward the Forest of Cartha once again. The night had passed with no sign of the mysterious wolf-bears, and Tarin felt safe as they rode away from the black tower of Jehi. Before the sun had reached its peak, the great Forest of Cartha had come into view. Its many trees enveloped the horizon in a green haze, and the birds could be seen flying towards its great protective canopy.
Without stopping, the party hurried forward, and quickly made it to the edge of the forest. The warm summer air radiated off of the ground, creating more heat, and Tarin was glad when she and Sairia stepped into the cool shade of the trees.
Galdor quickly dismounted, and lead the group into the thick of the forest. Tarin lead Sairia confidently behind their Elven guide, as the forest began to grow thicker and thicker. As they continued into the forest, Tarin began to feel as though many eyes were watching them. She looked around her, but saw nothing but trees and leaves.
The trees grew more closely together as they plunged further into its depths, lending a humid, earthy scent to hand in the air. Tarin saw the light begin to darken as day turned to night, and started to wonder if they would ever reach the home of the Elves that lay within the darkening forest.
As the light quickly disappeared, Galdor slowed to a stop, and turned to face his accompanying party. Tarin could barely see him, and almost ran directly into him as he stood there with a strange smile on his face. Tarin could just make out the shimmer in his eyes as the rest of the party came to a stop behind them.
“We are here,” Galdor said quietly.
“What do you mean?” Eauthrin asked impatiently. “There is nothing here but more trees.”
The rest of the party quickly agreed with Eauthrin, creating a small commotion as Tarin began to look around their surroundings. The light of the sun had completely disappeared, and she began to feel claustrophobic as the trees seemed to close in around her. The party continued to argue over their destination as Tarin began to hyperventilate.
“Quiet,” Galdor called out to the party. “If you listen carefully, you will hear them.”
Tarin’s breathing became heavier as the rest of the party silenced, leaving her gasps as the only sound in the forest. Eauthrin set a heavy hand on Tarin’s shoulder as her breathing slowly returned to normal.
Suddenly, quiet laughter was heard coming from the East of the party. Everyone turned in unison to try and see what it was that was making the noise, but the forest was too dark for anyone, except Galdor, to see. Another quiet laugh broke out from behind them, and the group turned once again as the sound disappeared almost immediately.
Tarin turned to look at Galdor, hoping for some answers to what it was they were hearing, but as she rotated in his direction, he was nowhere to be seen. Galdor had disappeared, along with his horse, leaving Tarin and her travelling party alone in the strange, claustrophobic forest.
“Galdor is gone,” Tarin whispered to Eauthrin, as the laughter in the distance grew closer.
Before Eauthrin had a chance to answer, a small light could be seen in the distance. Then, in a matter of seconds, lights appeared on all sides of the party. The lights were of a strange green hew, and were approaching quickly.
Tarin began to feel panicked as the lights grew closer and closer, and she heard swords being unsheathed. Suddenly, the lights disappeared, and a soft voice was heard coming from the canopy above them.
“Why do you draw your swords young warriors?” The voice calmly asked. “There is nothing to fear, for we will not hurt you. We have been expecting you young Tarin, please, tell your companions to return their weapons to their sheaths, and we will show ourselves to you.”
Tarin nodded to Eauthrin, who quickly re-sheathed his weapons, and the remainder of the party quickly followed his example.
“Thank you young warriors,” the voice continued. “Now, bring out the lights.”
The green lights appeared once again, only directly in front of them. As Tarin’s eyes adjusted to the dim green light, she saw many Elves standing around her, holding staffs, with the glowing green orbs attached to the top. Their ranks began to move aside, as a beautiful Elven woman began to make her way toward the travellers.
“I am sorry if we frightened you,” the Elf said as she stepped out from behind the light-bearers. “I am Enelya, Queen of the Carthan Forest. Welcome to our home.”
The entire group of Elves that surrounded Tarin and the party bowed to the travellers as Enelya finished speaking. Tarin bowed in response, followed by the men of the party.
“We are pleased that you have allowed us into your forest home,” Tarin replied.
“Before we speak any further,” Enelya cautioned. “Let us ascend into the trees, where a meal has been prepared for you.”
As Enelya finished talking, wooden ladders began to descend from the trees above. The Elves quickly ushered Tarin and the men onto the nearby ladders, and they climbed as quickly as their heavy equipment would allow them. Tarin looked down from the ladder to see Sairia’s saddle being removed, as Enelya whispered in the horse’s ear. As soon as the heavy saddle was removed, Sairia ran off into the forest, followed closely by the remainder of the party’s horses.
“Do not worry young Tarin,” the Elf climbing the ladder below her said as he followed her gaze. “Your horse will not go far. Enelya has simply reminded her of the freedom this forest gives. When you need her, your horse will return.”
Tarin climbed the ladder swiftly, and as she reached the top she stepped onto a large wooden platform, which sat in the middle of the crown of the trees and the top of the canopy, hidden from above and below by the mass of green leaves that covered the trees. As Tarin looked around, she saw many other platforms spreading out before her, being delicately lit by the orb lamps the Elves carried. Tarin looked up to the sky, barely able to see the stars or the moon through the thickness of the tree.
The Elf behind her smiled as he watched her strain her eyes in order to see the sky. Tarin was startled when she noticed him watching her.
“My name is Taurnil,” the Elf said as she looked at him. “You will see the sky again young Tarin, don’t worry. There are many places in this forest where the stars shine brighter than anywhere else in the whole of Recita.”
“I see,” Tarin replied, unknowing how to respond, she stood silent after that.
“Come, Enelya is waiting for us all to join her for dinner.”
Tarin watched as the glowing orbs moved in the same direction toward a central dais, where dinner would be served. Tarin followed Taurnil as he led her across the platforms hidden in the trees. Tarin gazed dreamily at the glowing orbs moving slowly through the trees, like tiny green stars floating through a green sky, flickering behind the leaves, and then reappearing for a brief moment, before vanishing in the thickness of the leaves.
§ Chapter 8 §
“Do you not sleep?” Tarin heard as she awoke the next morning. She sat up and saw Eauthrin talking with Galdor.
“Of course not,” Galdor joked. “I am an Elf.”
Eauthrin laughed, as he walked away from the stubborn Elf. Tarin knew that Elves did not ‘sleep’. They were able to stay awake, which made them good watches through the night. As they stared off into the darkness, the Elves fell into a trance-like state, and even though they were fully awake, were able to get the rest that they needed. Nothing ever slipped by an Elvish night-watch.
Tarin looked around for the other men of her travelling party, and found Manil and Filmarc on the far bank of the river, rummaging over the bodies of the wolves. Filmarc called back to them when he saw Tarin was awake.
“These are no ordinary wolves!” He cried. “The look to have the bodies of a wolf, only larger; and their heads look like that of a bear’s.”
“It’s just as I thought,” Galdor worried. “There are new, more dangerous creatures out here, and unfortunately, they are getting bigger.”
Galdor paused, and looked around the large plain. He turned back abruptly, and quickly began gathering their belongings.
“We must make it to Jehi immediately,” he called to the party. “We are leaving now.”
The party rushed back to the campsite and gathered the rest of their camping gear. The horses were quickly mounted, and the group took off at a run. Tarin did not have enough time to fully understand what was happening, but followed Galdor’s orders without question.
The travellers trekked across the plain throughout the day, without stopping for lunch or for a break. By the time the sun had reached its height, Jehi’s great black tower was coming swiftly into view. Galdor urged them to move faster, and the great wooden gates of Jehi grew ever nearer. Before long, the gates were swinging open, and the travelling party was galloping under the wooden entrance.
The city of Jehi spread out before them, the tall black tower reaching out to the sky above them. The city was small, and somewhat cramped, but it provided safety for Tarin and her group of travellers. The horses trotted through the tiny city, heading directly for the tower, where they would seek council from King Findecan.
Findecan was an elderly man, who cared deeply about his city. The only thing Findecan could not do for his city was provide an heir to his throne. His wife died many years before, and Findecan never cared to remarry, leaving the city of Jehi heirless and in somewhat of a commotion, as Findecan grew older.
As the travellers neared the tower, the saw the large steel door swing open, and a young man come walking out to greet them. Galdor dismounted from his horse, and handed it off to the stable boy standing nearby. The young man walked forward and greeted Galdor with a smile.
“Galdor,” he said. “We in Jehi are glad to see you again. I see you have brought many friends with you this time.”
“Yes Caranthir,” Galdor replied. “We journey from the city of Nim, and we have an urgent message to give to your king.”
As Caranthir moved aside to allow Galdor to pass Tarin ascended the three steps leading to the large doorway of the tower. Caranthir’s smile grew as she approached, and bowed so low his shoulder length hair nearly touched the ground.
“My lady,” Caranthir said as she grew near. “It is an honour to meet the young Tarin from Nim. We heard rumours that you were coming. It appears that the messengers from Tarou travel much faster than your travelling party does.”
“Well then” Tarin said, as she bowed slightly. “Perhaps I shall have to find someone to teach my men how to fight off strange creatures as they ride across the River of Fire, hoping for some sort of safety from the unknown beasts we encountered last night.”
Caranthir gave Tarin a strange look before continuing.
“What do you mean by ‘unknown beasts’ my lady?” Caranthir asked politely.
“Last night, shortly after sundown, we had not yet crossed the river, as we approached its banks; a herd of wolf-like creatures attacked us. My men fought strongly, and slew many of the large beings. This morning, as my men investigated the charred bodies, they noticed that they were not wolves, but a hybrid of wolf, and bear.”
“I see,” Caranthir replied. “Well, I will not stall you any further; King Findecan will need to hear of this immediately.”
Tarin bowed in thanks, and walked swiftly past the doorman, following Galdor quietly. Tarin turned to see the rest of her party following her into the cold dark interior of the great black tower. Before long, the party entered a large room, with a throne placed on a platform near the center of the far wall. A strong, yet still fragile looking man sat quietly in the large chair, with his servant standing calmly beside him.
King Findecan stood slowly as they walked across the large room, and greeted them in a booming voice.
“Galdor, it is good to see you once again,” Findecan hailed. “Who is it that you have brought with you?”
“This is Lady Tarin, from Nim,” Galdor introduced her, bowing as he spoke. “These are men of her brother’s army, Eauthrin Brordain, Geheed Celcor, Pansoic Pentz, Filmarc Manicar, and his brother Manil Manicar. We are travelling through this land to reach the forest beyond, and wish to stay here in the beautiful city of Jehi to rest our weary bodies.”
“Of course Galdor,” Findecan continued. “Anything for an old friend.”
“We also bring news of strange creatures roaming through the lands,” Galdor resumed. “It is a matter I must discuss with you.”
Findecan nodded as he sat back down on his throne, and Galdor recounted the previous night’s events. Findecan was riveted throughout the entire story; his wrinkled face showed many different emotions as Galdor told their story.
Tarin stood behind Galdor as he told the king what had happened, and watched Findecan carefully as Galdor described the strange wolf-bears to him. Findecan’s face showed a great deal of surprise at the thought of these large, dangerous creatures roaming through the lands. He quickly ordered guards on all of the city’s walls and a curfew of sundown for the townspeople.
“Do not fear young Tarin,” Findecan said to her as he realized how intently she was watching him. “You will be kept safe in the walls of Jehi tonight. Nessa will show you to your rooms. I will expect to see all of you for dinner when all is prepared.
The party bowed once again to the grey-haired king as a middle-aged woman walked towards them from a nearby hallway, and instructed them to follow her. The overweight woman showed the travellers down the hallway, and directed the men towards a group of rooms near the end of the hallway. She then led Tarin down a small hallway to a wooden door.
“This will be more comfortable for you than having to sleep in a room full of men,” Nessa said, as her chipmunk like face curled into a smile. “Rest well dear.”
Tarin watched as the plump maid disappeared around the corner, then pulled open the wooden door and stepped into the small, cozy bedroom.
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