DROW MASTERS

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Prologue
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Methandru, Lyssa, Balthazar, Grenth, Tyr, Venus, and Raknor met to review the latest updates on their progress in the Age of Cooperation.

Many changes had occurred in just twenty short years since the Dragon Quest, as it had come to be called. One of the biggest was the changing of the guard in the Fairy Court. Methandru had chosen Pandora as her new Oracle. No one but her family and Brock's family called her Pandora anymore. Everyone called her, simply, the Oracle. Her mother had retired was living out her old age in the enclave. She visited Garos regularly, but he and Morganna were enjoying their retirement as well.

Brock Wolfsbane had become the new Warlord of the Barbarians. Kethtia, his Half-Elven wife had become the Head Shaman, and was training her daughter to be her successor. Her twins were adults now. Tristan and Amarisa were 22 years old. While Amarisa chose to be a shaman, she had also trained under Remos and Valasca and become a Master Ranger. She was now training to be Beastmaster. Tristan had followed in his father's footsteps and become a warrior of prowess. Brock and Sogarth had taken turns training him. When it got to the point where Brock was afraid to hurt him, Sogarth stepped in for the heavier training to put the boy through his paces. Relatives weren't always the best trainers.

Sogarth and Alice Valin had two children, both boys. Alec was now 15, and Garth was 13. Remos and Valasca Satana also had two children, both girls. Rachelle was 14, and their youngest, Valanna was 12.

Amarizi and Nothar Depota's daughter, Bamba, had grown into a beautiful woman. When she was 16, her parents agreed to let her study under Duvan Evver, and she had become a Master Ranger by 18, and a Beast Master by 20. Her familiar was a black panther, whom she'd named Ebony. A rival had mortally wounded the mother in a fight for territory and Bamba and Duvan had come upon them. The male having downed the mother, was about to attack the kitten. Shouting and arrows that purposely missed the roving male chased it away. Bamba had scrambled to the confused and mewling kitten that had fit in the palm of her hands. She'd nursed the kitten with goat's milk and taught it to obey under Duvan's tutelage and it was now her faithful companion.

Her brother Derek, having overcome his illness of convulsing by the age of 15, was sent to the Crystal Mages to learn to control his magic which had emerged at puberty. He was now 25 and an adept Crystal Mage, well on his way to becoming a Master under the keen eye of Marianna Foster, human Master on the council who had taken him as an acolyte when he arrived.

Kethtia was given visions from Grenth that sent her former Master, Zestoria Isic, who had married Etienne Thaer, an Elven ranger, back to Morin to set up a school for Ritualists. She spent several years scouting the populace for mediums among the humans and elves, finally finding students and bringing them to Isic Vorelor Aeraes Myr. Isic Ritualist Ether School. It was a school erected on flatlands between Dawnrest and the border of the rainforest. Humans and Elves alike had helped in the construction. It boasted classrooms, meditation rooms, an auditorium and residential quarters for students. Most simply called it Isicville.

Zestoria had put out a call, asking Grenth to guide his Masters to her if any still existed. Within weeks of the schools completion, two Masters had arrived. One was an elderly Elven man with snow white hair. He'd lived as a hermit on the far side of the rainforest for many years, thinking he was the last of his kind. The second was a human woman from the marshlands northwest of the Sacred Forest and the Amazon Rainforest. She came from a small village of humans cut off from the known world for generations. Zestoria was thrilled, and both agreed to help school the new students. Master Suli Carlin and Master Delia Marsh joined the staff. Only one Wood Elf joined the student body. Two humans, two elves, and one Amazon joined as well. Each Master took two students and their rigorous training began.

The Oracle passed on an invitation to all non-wed, non-bonded Barbarian males to volunteer to go to Wyantinock and see if they could integrate with the Amazon tribe. To everyone's surprise, quite a few, twenty in all, agreed to go at first. Each year a few more men left for Morin after receiving instruction of Amazon traditions and life in the rainforest from Valasca Satana. She was an Amazon and former resident of the rainforest, who had returned with Remos from the Dragon Quest and became Remos' life-mate.

Over the twenty year period, the Amazon tribe had expanded from its relatively small population and more males were being born every year. This thrilled Venus and the tribe. The Amazons were fierce warriors. The Barbarians exchanged fighting and battle techniques with them and they integrated well. Amazons were now being born that could induce the berserker rage in battle. Not many battles took place, but the Drow were a constant threat, always trying to steal from the tribe and hunt on their lands.

Meanwhile, the four dwarven clans, the Redaxes's, The Cavers, The Blacksmith's, and the Stonedigger's had joined forces under the command of Roknar and began the epic project of creating a mountain pass that could accommodate wagons. While the tunnel still existed and could be used, no wagons or horses could traverse it. The dwarves threw themselves into the project happy to have communion with their God after several generations of limited contact. He spoke to their monks regularly now to guide the work troops. A pass required a much longer route of winding paths up and over the mountain. Ellory and Duvan had called on Zaheng and Olima, the dragons they had raised to scout the easiest path over the mountain and passed the information on to the dwarves. While the tunnel took five to six days to traverse, the mountain pass would easily take three weeks to a month, but you could take horses and wagons and supplies.

Paragons, under the command of Balthazar set up way stations and lodges every few miles on the pass. This allowed travelers to stop and rest their horses and themselves. Hunters were hired to provide game and food for the way stations and many struggling rangers now had regular work providing for the 'Pass', as it was called.

Colby was put in charge of the first lodge erected on the way out from Kongel Kingdom. He and Narissa moved there and set up house in a small log cabin behind the lodge. Narissa had finally given birth to two children, after waiting several more years after they returned from Morin. She had a girl that they named Tamatha, now 15, and a boy named Morgan who was now 12. Narissa was a was an old hand at logistics from having run Tahl Manor for so many years, and she easily handled commissioning game from the rangers and even hired Elves from the new Elven village called Thysaer Calael, or Forest Haven, in the common tongue.

Giselle had been instrumental in its development and was the undisputed Mistress of the Elven Council that ruled Forest Haven. While her parents remained in the City of Maruk, Bamba had moved to Forest Haven. She was one of the few that was privileged enough to know the location of Cyrida and Duvan's secret home on the mountain.

Forest Haven had been set up and established by Elves sent by Sehanine from Morin to create a haven for Elves in Kongel Kingdom. Narissa hired them to plant and maintain gardens from which they brought fresh produce to the way station on a regular basis. Narissa had the lodge equipped with a large kitchen from which she provided hearty meals to all travelers. It was named 'First Station', by the palace, but everyone called it Narissa's Lodge. It became known as the one with the best food. Almost everyone stopped there a week into their travel to fill up and rest before continuing on. On horseback, you could get there in three days. With a wagon or a large party, it would take a week or so. There were three other stations along the way. At each end of the mountain pass was a guard station where you had to leave the names of your party. This way they could keep track of who left and arrived in each kingdom.

Ellory and Flynx continued to travel between homes, sometimes staying a full year in one place. Even with Giselle in Kongel, they returned to Morin to visit his father, Wyeth, Emma, and Yvette. Osal, Ellory's familiar, grew to be enormous. He was bigger than Bruno, Flynx's black bear familiar, but they got along fine, sharing a den in their cave home in the north of the Midnight Forest. They were only about a day from the mountain tunnel, and a day and half from the mountain pass. They usually went by the tunnel. Both bears could navigate the tunnel, and it was faster than taking a horse and wagon. Since both homes were set up with all things they needed, traveling supplies were all they needed to carry when moving from home to home.

Barbarians and Elves had joined forces to construct roads through the forest leading from Brevan to the Pass and on to Forest Haven. The road from Brevan to Maruk, known as the 'Main Road', and the road to the Womb of Methandru were widened and repaired, making for easier travel through the forest. The trees that were felled went into the construction of Forest Haven and later, into more homes in Brevan which had expanded their village and pushed out on both sides to make room for their growing population.

The Age of Cooperation was speeding along at a dizzying pace and the Gods were pleased.

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Chapter 1
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Brevan Village
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"It can seem at times that being a warrior is nothing but long hours of boredom, punctuated by moments of heart-pounding frenzy and action. Despite this, one must never let their guard down outside the safety of home." – From 'The Barbarian Warrior Handbook' --
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Tristan was shadowing his sister, Amarisa as she flitted in and out trees. She nimbly climbed a tree and he hung back, keeping his eye on the branches. He didn't need to go with her on her hunting trips, but he had been bored and asked if he could go with her. He watched her creep out on a sturdy branch and lay down on her tummy, her legs wrapping around the branch to hold her in place. He followed her eye line and saw a 10-point buck emerge from the foliage ahead and smiled. He held himself still. He knew if he frightened off the buck, Amarisa would never forgive him.

She sighted and the twang of her bowstring as she released the arrow turned the buck's head. It was too late. The arrow landed true, right in the jugular and the deer dropped the forest floor and died. Amarisa lithely scurried down the tree. "Good shot, sis," Tristan complimented her.

She smiled. "We're low on venison."

"Why?"

"Lot of hunters are hunting for the way stations now."

"I knew a few Barbarians were doing that to help out or make some silver to spend in the city, but I didn't realize it was leaving us short." Fairies provided them with gold and silver for necessary things like healing supplies and such, but if they wished luxuries, they had to buy them on their own.

"Not usually, but Val mentioned it yesterday, saying she was a little worried at how low our store had gotten. I've been busy with herb lessons with Mom, and I haven't hunted in over a week."

"Slackin' off, eh?" he teased.

She snorted as they walked to the buck and knelt down. She folded her hands and lowered her head. Tristan did the same. "Methandru, thank you for this bounty for our table. We shall use it all to live and thrive. Go with Methandru, child of the forest," she intoned.

Then she stood and whipped a long buck knife off her belt. Tristan did the same and they gutted deer. He hoisted it on his shoulders. "Let's head back."

"Yeah, I'll go out again tomorrow. It's almost dusk."

They were a good three miles from the village and walked briskly through the trees, but they weren't in a hurry. Stars were twinkling in the sky and the sky darkened to night, but the moon was bright and nearly full, easily lighting their way.

A tingle of apprehension wafted across his mind and he raised his fist. The snapping of several twigs and crunching of leaves had Tristan freezing in his tracks. Amarisa halted as well and they both tuned their ears to the surroundings.

A grunt and hiss was heard off to the left. A male voice shouted, "GET DOWN!"

Tristan dumped the carcass and pulled his sword off his back. They both took off toward the sound, hurtling fallen logs and ducking branches. They skidded to a halt, seeing an Elf ahead. She was in a push up position on the ground as an arrow whizzed over her head. She scrambled to her feet as they heard a thunk and turned.

A large male Drow grunted out in pain and spun, ripping an arrow out of his collar. Blood welled in a fountain above his tunic and he fell. Two more appeared running toward him. One held a bow, the other a spear.

Tristan bellowed, "Aaahhhyiiyiihaii!" It was his battle cry. Each battle cry was just slightly different and unique to that Barbarian, but there was no mistaking a berserker battle cry.

A third and fourth Drow appeared, trying to flank the Elf as she darted behind a tree for cover, having dropped her bow when she dove for the ground. Tristan saw a flash of blonde hair whipping by in the trees behind the third and fourth Drow and another fell with an arrow in the back of his neck. Tristan charged to the two nearest him. One was bearing down on the Elf as she tried to retrieve her bow lying in the leaves where she had dropped. She whistled loudly and bent for her bow and the Drow raised his spear. Tristan leaped in between them, parrying the blow from the spear and shoving the Drow back several feet. He lunged and swinging his gigantic broadsword, relieved the Drow of his head.

"Tristan, left!" Amarisa shouted. He dodged left and ducked. He looked over in time to see his sister taking a flying leap into the air for height and release an arrow. It flew over his right shoulder, embedding itself in the forehead of the Drow with a bow.

The Elf darted through the trees and another Drow, also wielding a spear, tracked her and made to throw his spear. She was creating a distraction. An arrow whizzed toward him from behind, but he ducked behind a tree just in time. Tristan flanked him, and he jerked around the tree to flee. He ran right into Tristan's sword that sliced through his arm. He dropped the spear and staggered.

Tristan lurched to the side when he heard the roar of a giant cat. A black blur sailed past his shoulder and landed on the Drow's chest, catapulting him backwards into the ground with a crash. The gigantic panther tore the man's throat out with one bite. He heard a hiss and turned. There was a sixth Drow! He'd been distracted by the huge black cat. Stupid! The Elf had retrieved her bow and let loose with another arrow. It flew by him and hit the last one behind him in the spear arm. Tristan spun, swinging his sword and sliced through his neck. He dropped in a heap. Everything went quiet for a few seconds.

The blonde man and the Elf emerged from their blinds behind other trees and approached. "Duvan!" Amarisa cried.

He nodded and greeted them. "Amarisa, Tristan," he greeted them. "Thanks. Six against two, the odds were not good."

"That one was almost on me," the Elf said. She whistled and the giant cat padded over to her and sat at her right side. She kissed its head and ruffled its fur on her neck. Tristan relaxed, realizing the panther was under the girl's control.

She turned to Tristan. "You saved my life. I owe you a jhori paer." She bowed at the waist.

He smiled. "What's that?" he asked.

Duvan smiled. "A life-debt," he translated. Over the years his wife, Cyrida, had taught him a lot of Elven language. He wasn't fluent but knew many words and phrases.

"No problem. I am Tristan Wolfsbane. This is my twin sister, Amarisa. May I have your name?" he asked politely.

Amarisa noticed how he couldn't seem to take his eyes off the comely Elf. "I am Bamba Depota, Duvan's apprentice. And I would say it was a problem. I misjudged. I would not have reached my bow in time."

Tristan smiled. "I've heard of you. You could not have a better teacher."

"I know," she said, grinning.

Duvan huffed. "She is no longer my apprentice. She's a full-blown Beast Master in her own right."

"I see that," Tristan said, smiling at the large cat. From Amarisa and all the other rangers, he knew the procedure and held out his hand carefully.

The big cat extended her blunt nose, sniffed him and settled back. He tentatively petted her head and said, "Good work, partner."

Bamba smiled. "This is Ebony."

"She's beautiful," Amarisa cooed and introduced herself, letting the big panther sniff her and petting her shoulder.

"Crap, what are Drow doing on this side of mountain?" he asked.

Duvan frowned. "I don't know. I can't imagine they'd get over the pass without being seen."

Amarisa said. "They could have come through the tunnel."

"We need to spread the word," Duvan said.

Amarisa nodded. "I'll inform the village. We have to retrieve my buck. We were headed back anyway."

Duvan nodded. "Cyrida and I can go to the Mill Valley Caves and Ocelot."

Bamba said, "I'm heading back to Forest Haven, so I can inform the council."

Tristan frowned. "Forest Haven is a ten miles from here. If there are Drow about, you don't want to travel at night alone."

Duvan said, "He's right, Bamba."

Amarisa said, "Come with us. It's two miles. We will put you up for the night in Brevan. Then you can go in the morning. Drow probably won't attack during the day."

"Okay, that's probably best. While I can handle myself and Ebony will protect me, I don't wish to be that outnumbered again."

Duvan said, "I'll go to Brevan too. We'll have to come back tomorrow with help and bury these Drow."

"Will Cyrida worry about you?" Bamba asked.

He smiled. "Probably, but she knows sometimes hunts don't go as planned and I'm gone longer than usual. Let me grab those pheasants we bagged and then we'll go."

Tristan grabbed a nut bar out of his waist pouch and munched on it. It was a baked bar of honey, nuts, water and flour that Valasca had taught them to make. They were superb for restoring energy after the rage wore off. Duvan trotted into the trees, retrieved the four pheasants, tied by their legs with a thong and hung them over his neck. Tristan retrieved the fallen buck and hoisted it over his shoulder. He sagged a bit.

"You okay? I can get it," Amarisa offered.

"I am tired," he admitted and coughed.

Amarisa turned and he hoisted it off his own shoulders and onto hers. Amarisa explained as she saw the confused look on the elf's face. "The berserker rage is very tiring when it wears off. They must eat if they travel soon after without rest."

"Ah, I see. We could cut it up and each of us could carry some for you," she suggested.

Amarisa smiled and said, "No, I've got it."

Amarisa was six feet, two inches tall and she was extremely muscular. She was not bulky like her brother, she showed the Elf and human in her with her more slender build. But her height and muscle was all Barbarian. While not equaling Tristan's strength or height of six feet, six inches, she did not find the buck a burdensome weight. They hiked the remaining two miles to the village.

Tristan cupped his mouth as they reached the meadow below the gates. "Aiiee, Aiiee," he called. The giant wooden gates of the village swung open and Torin and Marina appeared, seeing the bedraggled group. They ran out to help and Torin took the buck from Amarisa. He could see that they'd been in some sort of scuffle. Their buckskins were dirty. The Elf's tunic was torn and Tristan had blood smears on his arms.

"What the blazes happened?" he asked.

"Drow happened," Tristan said.

"Drow!" Kethtia exclaimed as she and Brock came jogging toward them as came through the gates, having overheard. They'd both been worried when the siblings hadn't returned by dark. "Holy Grenth, what happened?" Kethtia stopped and ran her eyes over Tristan. She grasped his arm. "To the med hut, now!"

"I'm fine, Ma."

"You're covered in blood!" she said.

"It's not mine," he breathed heavily.

"Let's get them cleaned up, Tia," Brock said calmly. "Then they can tell us what happened. Let's call the council."

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Chapter 2
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Brevan Village
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"Those that worship Sehanine Moonbow have long held a tradition of fashioning a house crest into a saloral, or talisman, in the common tongue. There are only two reasons to give a personal saloral to another. One is to symbolize the debt of a jhori paer. The other is symbolize a commitment to a potential life-mate prior to hand-fasting." From 'Life of the High Elves' --xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Once cleaned up and clothes changed, they met in the square. The Barbarian council, which now consisted of Brock, Kethtia, Remos, Valasca, Sogarth, Alice, Adonna and Wolfer, Garos and Morganna, sat in a circle and waited for the tale. As Warlord, Brock got to choose his own council members. Garos and Morganna were the tribe's elders now.

Duvan told of being set upon by Drow out of the blue. They'd been on a hunt and Ebony was after a couple remaining pheasants when an arrow narrowly missed Bamba's head. She'd heard the whistle of it and ducked. Duvan had seen the Drow, ordered her to drop and she did. He'd fired over her head. That was when Tristan and Amarisa came upon them. He told of Bamba trying to retrieve her bow. It had almost been a fatal mistake until Tristan intervened and blocked the killing blow meant to end Bamba.

He finished the tale, and Bamba stood and faced Brock and Kethtia. "I owe your son a jhori paer," Bamba said, bowing before them.

Everyone but Kethtia and Adonna looked confused. "Life debt," Adonna explained.

Brock said, "Explain."

Bamba said, "When one saves the life of an Elf without being asked, Sehanine says we owe that person a life-debt. We are beholden to come to that person's aide upon request forevermore unless the debt is repaid."

"How is the debt repaid?" Tristan asked.

Bamba turned to him. "I save your life without being asked."

Tristan frowned. "I respect your traditions, Bamba, but you do not owe me. I would have come to anyone's aide. I am a warrior, a defender of the tribe and the forest."

"Regardless, I will hold myself beholden unless the debt is repaid."

"That's not necessary, truly," he said.

Adonna placed a hand on his shoulder to stop his further protest.

Bamba unwound a thong that was braided into her hair, releasing its bountiful waves that hung to her waist and it cascaded around her shoulders. Tristan sucked in a huge breath, unable to take his eyes off her. The thong was braided and hung from a silver disk with two colorful purple and blue feathers attached to one end. She handed it to him. "It is a symbol of my oath. My saloral." Talisman. "Any Elf who sees will know an Elf owes you a jhori paer and aide you in my stead." She held it out to him.

"Talisman," Adonna whispered in Tristan's ear.

He swallowed harshly and took it from her. "I will treasure it and keep it safe," he replied.

She smiled. "I am weary. May I prevail on you for lodging?" she asked Brock.

He grinned. "Of course, I will show you to the guest cabin."

"What about Ebony?" he asked.

"She'll be fine. She'll stay near the edge of the meadow till I come for her." He and Kethtia got her settled, while the rest disbursed. Duvan went to the cabin he usually occupied when visiting, and finding it empty, settled in for the night.

He was not surprised to find Cyrida and Losse at the gates of the village shortly after day break. She'd been worried when he didn't return.

Brock grinned and whispered to Kethtia when Tristan emerged for breakfast that morning. "Look at his neck." He was wearing the saloral around his neck as a necklace. The feathers fell down the front of his buckskin tunic. "Did you see the way he looks at her?" Brock asked.

Kethtia smiled. "Like his father still looks at me?" she teased.

Brock grinned. "Yes, like he just saw the sun for the first time."

BROCK WOLFSBANE


KETHTIA DRIMSHA WOLFSBANE


REMOS SATANA


VALASCA ARETO SATANA


SOGARTH VALIN


ALICE VALIN


ADONNA ARCFUR


WOLFER ARCFUR


GAROS WOLSBANE


MORGANNA RAINRAGE WOLFSBANE

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Chapter 3
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Thysaer Calael
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"The Elven courtship rituals vary from group to group, but usually involve the man procuring gifts, often from the fruits of his profession, to show his worthiness as a suitable suitor." From 'Life of the High Elves' --
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The story of the Drow attack spread through the village like wildfire. No one was happy to know the Drow were finding their way to this side of the mountain. No one this side of the mountain had dealt with Drow for many generations and little was known about them except that they were the bastard cousins of the Elves and lived underground. It was decided that they needed some expertise from those most likely to know. Bamba assured them she would take the case to the Elven Council and see what they had to say. Tristan insisted on accompanying her home and refused to let her go alone.

Duvan and a group of Barbarian Warriors left mid-morning to see to burying the Drow.

Most Elves couldn't imagine living underground. While they would scout out caves and take shelter in them, they didn't like earth above their heads. Cooper Shol spotted Bamba as she headed for the Council building and trotted up to her in the street. It was only then that he realized she was not alone. A tall blonde Barbarian towered over her despite her height of five feet, ten inches tall. He had to be at least six and a half feet tall. "Bamba!" he shouted.

She stopped and smiled at her latest suitor. He was a nice man, an eligible bachelor and ranger but she simply felt no more than fondness and friendship for him. Although he claimed to understand when she'd told him, he continued to invite her on hunts with him and bring her unwanted gifts in an attempt to woo her. Tristan stood behind her shoulder like a sentinel and watched as the dark haired elf approached and stopped about an arm's length away. "I was worried when you didn't return yesterday," he said.

"I'm fine, Cooper, but I must meet with the council. We did run into some trouble."

"We?" he asked, eyeing the tall Barbarian with suspicion.

Bamba turned and gestured to Tristan. "Tristan, this is my friend, Cooper. Cooper, this is Tristan. He and his sister helped Duvan and I yesterday," she said, intentionally keeping it light. He didn't need to know the details. Everyone would know soon enough, but not before the council did.

"Pleased to meet you," Tristan said, sticking out his hand. He studied him; he had dark black hair and green eyes. Tristan could sense Bamba's uneasiness around him and it put him on alert.

Cooper shook it tentatively. "What trouble?" he asked.

Bamba replied, "I need to see the council first, Cooper. Everyone will know soon enough."

"You can tell me," he said, brushing a lock of hair from her face and tucking it behind her ear. He saw the Barbarian's jaw muscle twitch and smiled. He hadn't missed the protective stance of the huge man. He then noticed her saloral was missing and her hair was tied loosely in a regular leather thong. He frowned as she jerked her head back from his hand.

"No, Cooper. I'm sorry, but I have to see the council first. Tristan escorted me back and I don't want to keep him longer than necessary."

"What happened to your saloral?" he asked. She had always had it braided in her hair, the silver disk shining on the back of her head and the feathers hanging on either side of the thick braid.

"Later, Cooper," she almost snapped, but managed a weak smile.

His lip curled but then he stepped back. "Very well. I'll speak with you later this evening. Perhaps we can have dinner," he hinted.

"I'm probably going to be busy, but we'll see," she said.

With that, she turned and made her way up the steps to the council building. Tristan nodded to the man and followed her up the stairs.

Neither of them heard or saw Katrina come to stand beside Cooper. "Whoa, who is that hunk?" she asked.

Cooper snarled. "Just some Barbarian," he spat, turned and walked away. Katrina smiled. Seems the untouchable Bamba had returned with competition for Cooper. Good. Bamba wasn't right for him anyway. She didn't understand why he wouldn't give up. Bamba was not cold, but she was aloof. While her tutelage under the famous ranger, Duvan Evver, had gained her respect and status among many, she never flaunted it or seemed to think it was her due. She was quite modest. That made it impossible to hate her. However, Katrina had loved Cooper since they were teens and she knew that if the esteemed ranger turned her eye to Cooper, she was no competition for the accomplished Beast Master. She sighed and turned to go back to her home.

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Giselle eyed the young woman sitting at the opposite end of the table from her. The council was assembled and quiet after hearing her tale. "Drow," Giselle said finally.

"Yes, and we have no idea if they were an isolated band or if there are more about. Tristan insisted on accompanying me home."

Giselle nodded at Tristan. "He was right to do so. While they usually don't, Drow can travel by day. Their armor disintegrates in sunlight, but they have been known to steal armor for daylight excursions."

"I didn't know this," Bamba replied.

"So what is it that you think we should do?" she asked.

Bamba's brow furrowed. "I do not know, but I felt the council should be informed right away. The people need to be informed so they are on alert for them, especially if they travel after dark."

Tristan cleared his throat and raised his hand slightly.

"Yes, Tristan?"

"We here in Kongel are unfamiliar with the Drow. Your people from Morin have much more knowledge and experience."

"This is true."

"Perhaps you could write a short description of their most known habits and motivations. I'm sure we could disseminate it to the others in the kingdom, to the city and the villages."

Fannen Singer, Giselle's mate, spoke up. He was a warrior. "Perhaps a better idea would be to hold a summit with a few representatives from each area. We could give them what knowledge we have. This would allow them to ask any questions we might be able to answer. They could then take this knowledge back to their people."

Giselle nodded. "Yes, I think we could get more information out in that way."

"Where would we hold the summit?" Tristan asked.

Bamba said. "Any of us could host, but it might be easiest to request a meeting place from King Fongel."

Tristan grinned. "Yes, he can get a bit testy if he's left out of the loop about the goings-on in the kingdom."

The King ruled over the city of Maruk and all those that lived within its confines and in Fongel Forest heeded his edicts, but Elves, Barbarians and various schools – while they respected him, were not his subjects and did not have to answer him. They followed his law while in the city and mostly followed his edicts out of respect, but they weren't beholden to him.

Giselle smiled. "We respect the King of Maruk. His palace would provide a private place to meet."

Tristan added, "It would please him, and truth be told, his guard would provide protection. If the Drow are up to something big, we don't want them to be able to get to a summit of leadership. Held anywhere else, if they attacked in force, we could sustain huge losses. While all villages and communities have their warriors, we are divided still. I have no idea how many there are, but they are here for a reason, and I can only assume the reason isn't good."

Fannen nodded. "I agree with Tristan. You only encountered a myr kyr."

"What's that?" he asked.

"A scout group," Bamba supplied.

Giselle nodded. "Drow offensives are usually preceeded by a myr kyr, a small group of four to six Drow that do reconnaissance and report back to a main force. They check out the lay of the land, possible defenses of their enemies, and bring back other such information."

"Then they were advance spies," Tristan said.

Fannen continued. "I can't be sure, but I think so. If they don't report back, another group will be sent, probably larger, to see what happened to them."

Giselle said, "True, and not knowing when they were due to report back, we have no idea how much time we have before others are sent."

"Then time is of the essence," Tristan agreed.

Giselle said, "We need to leave time to inform and assemble. Let's plan to meet a moon hence at the palace. Someone will need to ride to the City and request a meeting place from the King. If he refuses for any reason, they must make it back here within that time."

Tristan replied, "I'll go. I left my stallion in your stable. If I ride, I can be in the City inside a week, six days at most. If I ride hard, I can make it in five."

Bamba said. "I will go also. The King will want an account of what happened and the reason for the summit."

"Are you sure, Bamba?" Giselle asked.

"I can tell him what happened," Tristan volunteered.

"No, I want to go. It will give me a chance to visit my parents anyway. I’m overdue for a visit. They'll be thrilled," she added.

Giselle smiled. "Yes, we old folks love to have our children visit."

Bamba laughed. "You’re a long way from old, Mistress Giselle."

"Thank you for saying so, dear," she replied.

Tristan turned to Bamba. "Then we travel together?"

She smiled. "Yes, let's go to my place and get some provisions."

"You mean to head out today?" Giselle asked.

"Yes, why wait? But I need to repack my knapsack and get my tent."

"What about you?" Giselle asked Tristan.

"I brought my tent. I always travel with it just in case. You never know when you'll get caught out."

"Very well. I will send a messenger to Brevan so that your people don't worry at your absence," Giselle informed him.

"That would be appreciated. It will save us the trip back there first."

She nodded. "Be careful, children. Go with Sehanine," she said.

They stood and made their way out of the building. They paused on the steps outside and Tristan said, "Don't feel like you have to do this," he said. He touched her talisman hanging around his neck under his tunic. "I do not feel you owe me any debt."

She smiled. "You are an honorable man, Tristan Wolfsbane, and you are young, but we both have a role to play here, and I will see this through to the end. I can do nothing else."

He nodded. "I'm not that young," he said. "I'm 22."

She smiled. "I just turned 30," she said, her voice a tease.

"So?"

"So I am your elder, and if I say I owe you a jhori paer, then I do. You will argue no more."

"Oh ho! You don't think so?"

"Not if you're smart," she teased as they began the walk to her home.

"Then I shall be smart, besides, my father taught me well."

"What do you mean?"

"He taught me to be polite, and to always heed beautiful ladies," he said.

She smirked but felt heat rise up her neck. Fortunately, it didn't blossom on her face. She had felt his eyes on her for most of the trip, but wondered if he was just curious about her and the jhori paer he was so unfamiliar with. She wondered if he found her attractive. While she felt slightly absurd eyeing the tall, young Barbarian, she couldn't deny the sparks she felt when he would accidentally touch her. 'Why did she have to feel sparks with one she owed a jhori paer to?' she wondered. By its nature, she was bound to come to his call for aide, which meant they would probably spend a bit of time together, if not now, then in the future. She examined her heart and decided that the idea had much more appeal than it should have.

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Chapter 4
Xxxxxxxx
Bamba Depota's Home
Forest Haven
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"Every Drow wears a solaral of their house in a necklace. However, rings are worn with the crest of the closest allied house. Jewelers are in fierce competition to create the most ornate solarals and rings for their house." -- Alister Mas – From 'Book of Drow' --
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They arrived at her home and she ushered him inside. They packed some food and extra furs and attached folded tents to their knapsacks. It was just mid-afternoon. "Will Ebony come with us?" he asked.

"Yes, but don't worry, she can keep up."

He laughed. "I don't doubt it. Do you have a horse or would you like to ride with me?"

While the idea of riding double with the Barbarian had a certain appeal, she declined. "No, I will bring my friend, Mahogany. She is feeling neglected anyway."

He smiled. "Okay, then. Let's go."

Katrina and Cooper found them in the stables, saddling the horses. Tristan's stallion, Maddox, was an imposing mountain stallion, sired by Zeus, Remos' prize stallion.

Katrina was a lovely Elf with long blonde hair. She as a good hunter but tended to be shy with people except for her few close friends.

Cooper scowled, and asked testily, "Where are you going?"

Bamba frowned. "We make for Maruk to arrange a summit with the King," she answered.

"What for?" he practically shouted.

Tristan frowned at him but his voice was low and calm, and all the more intimidating for it. "Lose the tone, Sir."

Cooper startled but he bit back a smart remark seeing the anger on the young Barbarian's face. He didn't want to admit his fear.

"I meant no disrespect, I'm just concerned."

Katrina slipped into the breech of silence that followed. "We're just curious. You just got here."

Bamba had tensed when she'd heard Tristan growl at Cooper. She didn't know how volatile the young Barbarian was, but she knew he could crush Cooper in one blow should a fight break out. She really didn't want to deal with jealous men just now. She relaxed and answered Katrina. "The short answer is that there are Drow about and we need to inform the kingdom. Giselle is arranging a summit of leaders. We are assigned the task of obtaining a meeting place in the city."

Tristan and she had both volunteered but he didn't correct her, figuring she wanted the man to believe it was an assignment from the council for some reason. The tension between them was obvious.

Cooper said, "You can't wait to leave until tomorrow?"

"Time is of the essence," Bamba said. "I've been given my assignment. End of story."

"Shouldn't someone else go with you?" Cooper asked. "I could go."

Bamba bit her lip. "No, Cooper, we'll be fine."

"I know he's a warrior, but there's safety in numbers."

"He's a berserker, Cooper. I'm sure he can handle trouble and that's why he's going with her. Let it go," Katrina urged.

Tristan understood the man's concern. He suspected that he was sweet on Bamba and felt sorry for him as her body language told him she was clearly not interested. Deciding he could be magnanimous, he said, "You are correct, Cooper. There is safety in numbers. However, we will be traveling with all haste. We'll go fastest with just two. There will hardly be time to talk, let alone run into trouble. I am sworn to guard her on her journey. I will do so to the best of my ability. No harm will come to her under my watch."

Cooper swallowed, heartened a little to know they wouldn't be spending much down time together. He sighed, knowing when he'd lost an argument.

Tristan bent down to check Maddox's hooves. When he did, Bamba's talisman swung out of the neck of his tunic. Cooper paled. "He has your saloral! "What the hell, Bamba?" he shouted.

Tristan straightened and scowled at him again, upset that the young man was being so rude. Katrina sighed. Saloral's were given to intended mates.

"It's not what you think," Bamba said.

"And what do I think?" he asked haughtily.

"First, we've discussed that." She gave him a pointed look. She didn't want to embarrass him by declaring her non-interest in front of others. However his attitude was beginning to grate. "Second, I gave it to him."

"Why? Didn't you just meet?"

"You misunderstand. I owe him a jhori paer," she announced. "He doesn't understand the nuances," she hinted.

Katrina gasped. "What happened? I know you're in a hurry to leave, but please tell us."

Bamba sighed and said, "I was with Duvan. We ran into a myr kyr of Drow, six in all."

"Sehanine have mercy," Katrina whispered.

"I dodged an arrow and Duvan hollered for me to get down. I did and he took out the Drow that had shot at me but I dropped my bow. I ran to take cover and whistled for Ebony. Tristan and his sister, Amarisa heard the scuffle and came running. I tried to go back for my bow, a stupid mistake," she sighed.

"Bamba!" Cooper exclaimed.

"One of the Drow was bearing down on me but I thought I could reach my bow. He had a spear."

"Oh heavens," Katrina said.

"He was about to throw a killing blow. I realized my miscalculation, but it was too late." She swallowed. Then she turned to Tristan. "I heard a battle cry and then this giant man was suddenly there between me and the Drow. He blocked the blow that would have killed me, and beheaded the man. His sister took out another coming for me over his shoulder with an arrow. I watched her leap in the air and fire over his shoulder. One of the finest running shots I've ever seen; truly amazing. Hit him right in the forehead. Ebony got one and then Duvan and Tristan took out the rest."

Tristan added, "Only after you disarmed the last one. That was a good shot too."

"Your sister was dazzling," Bamba complimented. "I was humbled."

"That's high praise from you, Bamba," Katrina commented. While always friendly, few impressed the young Beast Master with their ranger prowess. She truly was one of the best.

Tristan grinned. "Nobody can hit a moving target like my sister. She's poetry in motion," he said with pride. "Don't feel bad, she humbles everyone."

"Even you?" she asked, with a teasing tone.

He nodded sagely. "Especially me."

Bamba smiled. "I heard her yell to you – Tristan, left!" she said.

He nodded. "I cut left and ducked so she could get her shot."

Cooper reluctantly looked at the Barbarian with admiration. He was torn between jealousy and gratitude that the man had saved Bamba. "How did you know she wasn't telling you of an enemy on the left?" he asked.

"She would have said, 'on your left', had that been the case."

"You must be quite a team," Katrina said with admiration in her tone. "I'm Katrina Garen, by the way."

He smiled. "Pleased to meet you. Amarisa and I have our own set of hand signals and voice prompts. We've hunted together since we were children. Now I accompany her on hunts when I'm bored," he said, shrugging. "Glad I did this time."

"You are very close," Katrina said. It was a statement.

He nodded. "We are twins."

"Twins!" she exclaimed.

Twins were very rare and considered favored by Sehanine. The Elves always celebrated if twins were born. It was considered an omen from Sehanine of good fortune when twins were born. Of course, these were Barbarians, but they still held a bit of mystique for Elves. Twins were known to have an extraordinary affinity with one another and to operate as one as though they had telepathy. It was clear this Barbarian shared that with his other half; for that is the way the Elves thought of them -- two halves of one-whole. It was even more fortuitous if they were male and female, balancing the scales of nature.

Tristan turned to Bamba. "We really should get going. I'd like to make the main road by nightfall. That means we ride hard. If there are Drow about, they'll be avoiding the main roads."

She nodded and mounted Mahogany. He mounted Maddox.

"Fare well," Katrina said.

Bamba nodded to her. "We'll be back before you know it."

"Be careful," Cooper said, knowing there nothing more for him to say. The man was a twin besides, of all the rotten luck.

Bamba looked at Tristan. "Ebony will join us outside the gates."

He nodded. He nudged Maddox with his legs. "Let's make haste, Maddox." The stallion whinnied softly and took off at a fast trot. Mahogany followed.

Once they were out of the stable and out of sight Katrina said, "She'll be fine."

Cooper turned to her. "That's not what I'm worried about, although knowing Drow are about is not a happy thought."

Katrina smiled sadly. She patted him on the shoulder. "Cooper." She took a deep breath, gathering her courage.

"What?" he asked, distracted and still looking down the road where they had disappeared.

"She's not your only option," she said firmly. His head jerked to face her. She smiled and said, "See you at dinner." With that, she turned and walked away.

Katrina had been his friend since they were children. She'd grown into a pretty woman, he admitted, but he'd never looked at her that way. Had she just extended an invitation? It was hard to shake the image of Bamba with the Barbarian from his head, but he tried to think of Katrina objectively as he made his way home. Perhaps it was time to look at other possibilities. When, year after year, Bamba had not chosen a mate, he had allowed himself to hope. While she was always polite and kind and friendly, he realized she'd never given him any reason to believe he was being considered as a true suitor. He'd just wanted her so badly.

He had admired her since she'd come to live here as a teen of 16. Perhaps his interest had been because she was new and different, not someone he'd known all his life. She had grown up in the city and yet, was already an accomplished ranger and well on her way to being a Master. She'd gained that status a mere two years later after studying under the Beast Master, Duvan. Even though he was human, many had envied her. Duvan was famous. Everyone knew of her fairy mark. It was rumored the famous Beast Master had first taken an interest in her when she was only ten years old, but she was very close lipped about it.

She'd become a Beast Master at twenty. He remembered the day she'd come home with the tiny panther kitten and he'd thought her crazy. Cooper had been jealous of Duvan also just because he got to spend so much time with Bamba and she'd seemed enamored of him, hanging on his every word and talking about him constantly. He had visited Forest Haven often while training Bamba and Cooper had met him. He'd lost his jealousy when he'd heard that he was married. His wife was an Elf. He'd finally gotten to meet Cyrida Evver as well when she'd come with him on one trip.

When he'd mentioned it before he knew of the wife, Bamba had busted out laughing at his implication and told him he was ridiculous. Duvan was her mentor and he was crazy in love with his Master Necromancer wife, Cyrida, an Elf of unsurpassed beauty. He was old enough to be her father.

He sighed, finally admitting he had to give up his pursuit of Bamba. He was wasting his time.

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Chapter 5
Xxxxxxxxxx
Mountain Road
Midnight Forest
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"Despite the tactic being known to the putas, the Drow still employ the myr kyr before planning the strategy of an attack. My suggestion of a subtler method of spying serving them better was met only with smug laughter. It was then Phaer introduced me to the molael oli, the Silent One." -- Alister Mas – From 'Book of Drow' --

It was nightfall by the time they reached the main road. They'd traveled all the way from Brevan to Forest Haven and now back to the road in one day and they were weary. They stepped into the trees until they were shielded from the road and pitched their tents. Tristan built a small fire and they roasted two pheasants. One she had taken down with an arrow, the other Ebony had caught and delivered. Ebony had caught a rabbit as well. Bamba skinned it and then cut pieces off and tossed them to the giant cat while Tristan dumped some grain on the ground for the horses. They nibbled on grass and leaves after finishing the grain. He sat on a log next to her and asked, "So, what's with that Cooper guy?"

She raised her eyebrows and smirked. "He's been a friend since I moved to Forest Haven."

"He's smitten," Tristan said. "He doesn't even know me, but resented me for just standing next to you."

Bamba sighed. "I've told him I don't feel that way about him, but he won't give up. I don't wish to hurt his feelings. He's been a good friend, but it is becoming rather bothersome."

"I didn't like his disrespectful tone with you," he admitted.

She smiled. "Neither do I but I allow him certain liberties because he is a friend."

"And because you know you're breaking his heart?" Tristan inquired.

She sighed again. "I suppose so."

He chuckled. "I don't blame him," he said quietly. "You're a beautiful woman, Bamba."

She peered at him from under her lashes. "Thank you." The firelight made his hair flicker like spun gold. He was a handsome man. Despite his youth, he was indeed a man. She had met his Half-Elven mother and his Barbarian father. If you didn't know he was not a full-blooded Barbarian, you would never guess. As she examined his face, she did notice his features were a bit softer than the average Barbarian. His jaw was not as square, his nose not as prominent. His ears were only slightly pointed, a slight narrowing near the top.

"Why did he react like that when he saw your talisman?" he asked.

She explained, "Talisman's are also given to intended mates. In that case it is called a shodai'urai. It is given as a gesture of affection and friendship and intent. It usually has a family crest on it."

He slipped it over his head and peered at the silver disk. It had a clasp on back to secure it. "I've heard of that actually. My mother gave one to my father. It's an iron snake bracelet. It was an arm bracelet on her, but on him it’s a bracelet on his forearm. She had no family crest, but it was her protection against the dark spirits as a Ritualist."

Bamba laughed. "Yes, our jewelry would be dwarfed by your size."

He smiled. "My mother is tiny. I pat her on the head all the time, ticks her off."

Bamba laughed again. "Your mother is an amazing woman. I read all about her when I was a young girl. I must have read that book, 'Journey on the Forsaken Mountain', a hundred times. And your Mom is six feet tall. I'm only five feet, ten. What does that make me?"

He laughed quietly. "Can I pat you on the head?" he teased.

She laughed. "Only if you don't value your hand."

He smiled. "It can suck having famous parents," he said. Two small holes in the center had the ends of the thongs threaded through them and tied to the feathers. "This is your family crest?" he asked, pointing to the embossed engraving of the mortar and pestle with wings above it.

"My mother's family came from a long line of healers and apothecaries. It's where I met Duvan."

"Amarizi's Apothecary?" he asked. "We have shopped there for years. Still do."

She smiled. "Yes, that is where my introduction to Barbarians and fairies began. It is where I met Duvan for the first time."

"So Cooper recognized the crest?"

"Not from where he was standing. But I always wore it braided in my hair. He probably recognized the feathers. I am one of the few that always use pheasant feathers."

Tristan nodded and looped it back over his head. He'd noticed her saving the plucked feathers from their dinner. "Does it bother you to have me wear it this way? I don't want to make you uncomfortable by giving people the wrong impression. I could attach it to my sword scabbard or something."

She hesitated but then said, "No, I don't care where you keep it. It is yours until my debt is repaid. I will make another. My mother had many of these disks made by a blacksmith. She will have another for me to use. I plan to visit her when we get to the city."

"Okay, then I shall wear it around my neck where I always know where it is."

She smiled. "I'm tired," she admitted.

"We better get some sleep. I want to start early tomorrow. I'd like to cover as many miles as we can."

"Good night, Tristan," she said. She crawled into her one-man tent and curled up in her furs. She hadn't really lied to him, she just hadn't told him the whole truth. He didn't understand the significance of wearing it on his neck and she wondered why she had hesitated to tell him. He'd done it in total innocence. She thought it might be an omen from Sehanine. That must be why she hadn't explained, she thought to herself. She didn't want to jinx herself by making him remove it from where he'd chosen to wear it.

His tent was bigger. He'd brought it with him just in case and was glad he had. His feet would stick out the end of her little hide pop tent. He stripped to his pants and slid under the furs. He fell asleep picturing her in his head, and fingering the feathers of her talisman that he wore around her neck. He admitted to himself that he was fascinated with the lithe Elven Beast Master. He wondered what it would feel like were this to be a shodai'urai from her. He shook his head. "Dream on, Tristan," he whispered as he fell into sleep.

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Chapter 6
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City of Maruk
Amarizi's Apothecary
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"He appeared, a black scarf hiding all but his eyes and a deep cowled cape covered his hair and body from head to mid-calf. His approach had been silent. I was privileged to know of his existence as I was a puta. But the warning was clear. To learn the name of the Silent One was death." -- Alister Mas – From 'Book of Drow' --
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They made good time, and late afternoon on the fifth day they were entering the gates of the city. They went to her parents' house first and let them know Bamba was in the city. They were thrilled to see her and horrified about her run-in with the Drow. They fell all over Tristan after learning of his heroic rescue. He put a bedroll on their living room floor for the night. They lived above the shop and had no extra bedrooms. He thought about going to Tahl Manor, but decided he didn't want to make the trip to the outskirts of the city and back again in the morning.

After breakfast, Tristan watched as she made a new talisman with a family crest coin she'd gotten from her mother. She braided the leather tightly into a half inch wide strip and threaded the ends through the holes in the disk and tied two new pheasant feathers she'd plucked from their previous dinner and saved onto the disk.

When she swept her hair up, he asked, "May I?"

"What?" she asked.

"Amarisa taught me. I braid her and mother's hair all the time."

She looked at him in astonishment, but then curious as to how he would do, she turned her back and handed him the wooden comb. He carefully combed her hair giving her shivers. Then he swept the sides back from her temples and carefully secured the clasp around a clump of hair at the back of her head. He separated her mane into two equal halves and used the braided thong as a third and began to gently but tightly braid her hair. Bamba fought to suppress the shivers that raced through her every time his warm hands brushed her back. When it hung in a fat rope down her back with a couple inches to spare, he tied the split ends of the thong around the bottom to tie it off so it wouldn't unravel.

Amarizi came into the living room and watched silently from the door, smiling. When he was finished she said, "A man of many talents."

They both whipped around. Tristan smiled and Amarizi blushed slightly. "How does it look?" she asked.

"He's a pro," she said.

He joked. "Just because we're big doesn't mean we're all thumbs."

Amarizi laughed. "You've done this before, obviously."

"I grew up in with a mother and sister who braid their hair constantly," he explained.

"We best be getting to the palace," Bamba said, interrupting the conversation, clearly uncomfortable that her mother had caught them. They hadn't been doing anything wrong, so why was she so embarrassed?

"Yeah, let's get it over with," Tristan agreed.

"You'll come back here afterwards?" Amarizi asked.

Bamba smiled. "Yes, I think we can stay a couple days. May take that long to work out the details anyway, but we'll have to leave within a week to make it back to Forest Haven with the arrangements."

"Good luck," Amarizi said, as she followed them downstairs and watched them exit the shop.

Nothar came up behind her and put his arm around her waist. "You look contemplative," he remarked.

"I think our daughter may have found a new suitor," she said.

"The Barbarian?" he asked, surprised.

"I think it’s just beginning, but yes. He braided her hair and she blushed when I caught them." She turned to find him frowning. "Would that bother you?" she asked.

"I don't know. I don't think so. I never thought about it. I thought she might hook up with that young man we met in Forest Haven. What was his name?"

"Cooper."

"Yeah, him."

Amarizi shook her head. "No way."

"Why not?"

"Nothar, I could tell in two minutes he was crazy about her but she had no interest."

He frowned. "How?"

She grinned. "A mother knows. I can read her like a book."

"And you read interest now?"

"Oh yes. She hasn't done anything about it, but he definitely has her interest."

"He's a big man," he said warily.

Amarizi laughed. "Barbarians do tend to be large."

He tsked his tongue. "I know that, I just mean."

She cut him off. "Size doesn't matter," she joked.

He snorted. "Amarizi!"

She laughed. "He was very gentle with her. His mother is a Half-Elf."

"Really?"

"Yes. His father is a Barbarian."

"You'd never know it," he said.

"No, but if you look close, you can see it. His eyes are slightly slanted on the edges. His ears are slightly pointed, and he isn't as rugged looking as most Barbarians in the face."

"I didn't look that close."

"Men never do," she said.

"What's that supposed to mean?"

Amarizi just chuckled. "For a rogue, you can be incredibly oblivious, darling. I love you anyway," she said. She leaned over and kissed his cheek. "She's been alone a long time."

"She's still young. No need to rush," he said.

"I know the idea of her with any man bothers you, but she's a woman, Nothar, and has been for a long time. I would like to see her find someone. She's so independent, but I would feel better knowing another heart was concerned for her welfare."

"Well, he saved her life. It might just be lingering gratitude."

Amarizi smiled. "I think it's more than that. She is a smart woman. She will choose well."

"I guess time will tell."

"It always does," she said finally.

Xxxxxxxxxxxx
Chapter 7
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Maruk Palace
City of Maruk
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"Warring families is a way of life for the Drow. They know no other way. The ruthless are rewarded. The weak pay with their lives. Murder is not a crime. It is simply the price of being weak in their minds. While insanely brutal, it does ensure that only the strong procreate. Alliances between lesser houses shift constantly." -- Alister Mas – From 'Book of Drow' --
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King Carter Fongel readily agreed to host the summit. He knew the mountain pass brought many benefits to Maruk. He supposed something was bound to happen eventually. He was just glad those Beast Masters hadn't brought dragons to Maruk. He was nearly 70 years old now. Time had taught him many lessons, including that he could learn a lot from others. He had the utmost faith in his guards. If an attack were coming, he knew the City was highly defensible. He also understood that the people of the forest were vulnerable. Although most, other than those in Ocelot, were not his subjects, he'd learned to value of good relations with others.

He called a meeting of his inner circle to discuss logistics for the meeting. Every scribe in the court was going to be called into action to record the events. Perhaps one could be assigned to each visitor to concentrate on their input, this way nothing would be missed. He was weary and began to wonder if it was time for turn over his crown to his son, Cameron. He was a nephew to the old King Raul Barrett. He wrested control of the throne from him after he was assassinated following the fever that had decimated the City. Barrett had been his uncle and a cruel and ruthless man. He hoped his reign had restored the gravitas and good will to the throne. He looked at his most trusted friend and guard, Tiebolt Sklar. His hair was completely gray now but he still served admirably. Perhaps it was time to pass the scepter. He thought he was getting too old for the business of running a kingdom.

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City of Maruk
Vassar's Bows and Arrows
Xxxxxxxxxxxx

Togarth Vassar, Master bowyer and fletcher smiled widely when he turned to see the young Elven woman come into his shop. "Bamba, darlin'! How you doing? Long time, no see," he scolded gently, rising and giving her a hug.

She chortled. "I know, I'm overdue for a visit, but I've been busy."

"That's what they all say. Who's this strapping lad with you?"

"This is Tristan Wolfsbane."

"Nice to meet you, lad."

"Pleased to meet you as well." They shook hands.

"What can I do for you?"

"I figured as long as I was in the City, I would pick up some new bracers and some new arrows."

"Didn't that heathen Duvan teach you make your own?" he asked.

She laughed. "Of course he did, but as I said, I've been busy, and ran into a spot of trouble."

"Trouble?"

She nodded. "Keep it under your hat?"

He tipped his straw hat at her. "Of course."

She frowned. "Duvan and I were attacked by Drow, Togarth."

"Drow! For the love of Methandru! Are you all right? Is he?"

"Thanks to Tristan, I'm fine. So is Duvan. He and his sister came upon us at a fortuitous moment. It was six against two at first. But Tristan and his sister, Amarisa, evened the odds. He saved my life, Togarth."

Togarth grasped Tristan's forearm in a warrior handshake. "The Gods be with you lad. Thank you. I'd have an awful sore heart if we lost young Bamba here."

Tristan nodded in respect. "Glad we came along when we did. We're here to arrange a summit. The Elves have agreed to teach the rest of us about Drow tactics and their habits. We've no idea what they are up to, but I wager it isn't good."

"The Elves know the Drow?" he asked.

Bamba nodded. "In Morin they pop up occasionally. They haven't warred with them in many generations, just had minor skirmishes, but the Elves of Morin know the most and so they have agreed to advise the rest of us until we figure out what's going on."

"Mercy," he mumbled.

Bamba patted his shoulder. "Everything will be fine, but I need those bracers. I want my equipment in tip-top shape, just in case, and these I'm wearing are worn out."

He peered at her worn and scuffed bracers, running a finger along one of the bad creases in the worn leather. "Should be ashamed of yourself, wearing those rags," he said. "They are ready to crack. Should have come to me sooner. Tell her lad, can't have anyone saying you get your equipment from Vassar's and be wearing shoddy stuff."

She and Tristan both chuckled. "Let's get her looking prime, then, Togarth," Tristan suggested.

"Bet on it, lad. Bet on it." He began grabbing several sets of bracers from his show case and laying them on the table for her to choose from.

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Chapter 8
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City of Maruk
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"An oddity of Drow physicality is the inability to replenish color to the skin. Once the skin is broken, the wound heals to pink, never to darken again. Battle scars are worn with pride. Surviving a battle with attained scars is a sign of prowess. Heavily scarred warriors are considered attractive and sought after as prime life-mates and considered choice protectors for a family." -- Alister Mas – From 'Book of Drow' --
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They stood outside the shop and Bamba said, "Where to now? Did you have anywhere you wanted to go?"

"Yeah, actually, I was thinking of visiting a bookstore."

"Bookstore?"

"Yeah, I didn't bring much coin with me though, but I wanted to see if we could find any books on Drow."

"I hadn't thought of that. I just spent what I had on those bracers."

"We could go to Tahl Manor. I'm sure Kashmir and Lyzea would lend me some coin. I can pay them back."

"You know them that well?" she asked, then snorted. "Oh, that's right."

He grinned. "They are friends with my parents."

"Right, well, I've never been there, but everyone knows about the hospital and Tahl Manor. Fortunately, I've never needed their services. But I know Kashmir, my father works for him."

"Let's go, follow me."

They mounted up and headed for the outskirts of the City, Ebony following obediently at Mahogany's heels. She turned heads. While Beast Masters were more common now and often seen with familiars in the City, she was an unusual sight. As they rode, Tristan asked, "You remember Valasca Satana?"

"The red-headed woman on the council?" she clarified.

Tristan nodded. "Yeah, had you met her before?"

"No. Believe it or not that was my first trip to Brevan."

"I believe it. I would have remembered you," he said pointedly.

She felt a strange dart of joy at his professed admiration, even if it was a tease. "So what about Valasca?"

"She's a Beast Master also, her familiar is a mountain lion named Brasca."

"Really?" Bamba asked excitedly.

"Yeah, you're the only one I've met other than her that had a big cat for a familiar."

"Was her mate the one with the eagle on his shoulder?"

"Yes, that was Remos. He's the Stable Master also. Maddox here was sired from his favorite stallion, Zeus."

"I would like to see more of these mountain horses. They are magnificent animals."

Tristan smiled and patted Maddox on the neck. "Yes, they are. Of course, Maddox is my favorite. I'd be happy to show you the stables and have Val introduce you to Brasca. I'm sure she'd love to meet Ebony."

She smiled and said, "We had bigger things to worry about than introducing her to a new environment, so I had her stay in the meadow over night."

"Well, bring her in when we return."

"If we go back to Brevan," she said.

He looked at her. "If not this trip, then when you can, come visit us. Any friend of Duvan's is a friend of ours."

She smiled thinking he was giving her an excuse to visit. They had cut down a dirt road past the last of the city buildings and now were trotting down a long leveled drive with lush green grass and flower beds on either side. "Wow," she said.

"Yeah, Kashmir runs a tight ship. The place is spectacular." Just then they topped a rise in the road and the house rose up before them. Bamba gaped at it. She'd never seen a home so large. A large outbuilding off to the left had a sign over it that read, "Crystal Mage Hospital."

They were still a good five hundred yards away when a man came loping up on a bay gelding. "Hail, Quid!" Tristan hollered.

Quid rode up to them and reined in his horse. "Tristan! What brings you to our humble abode?"

Tristan laughed. Humble was not a word he would use for Tahl Manor. "Is Kashmir or Lyzea about?"

"Both. Lyzea's in the hospital. Kashmir is in the house," he replied. He turned and rode back toward the house with them.

"I bring news from Brevan and Forest Haven, and I need a favor."

"Well, just leave the horses at the hitching post. I'll grab Zilex and we'll take care of them."

"Thanks." They reached the front porch and slid out their saddles. "Quid, this is Bamba Depota."

Quid smiled and shook her hand. "I'm Quid, Kashmir's stable boy."

Tristan snorted. "He manages the stable and all the other animals around here. More like stable master."

"Nice to meet you," she said politely.

He eyed the big cat. "However, my expertise does not extend to big cats."

Bamba smiled. "This is Ebony. I'll leave her here. She won't hurt anyone."

Kashmir was coming out the front door. "Hey Tristan. Hi, Bamba. You can leave her on the porch," he said. "What brings you two together?"

Bamba signaled to the cat to stay, and she laid down on the porch as they watched Quid lead Tristan's stallion away. "Hi, Kashmir. We have some news, and I need a favor."

"Anything, come on in."

Just then, an Elf with long, dark hair rounded the corner. "Hey Tristan," he greeted him. "Who's this lovely lady?" he asked.

Bamba bowed at the waist. "Bamba Depota, Sir, and you are?"

"Zilex, gardener and … whatever else his highness needs me for," he joked.

Bamba laughed.

Kashmir shook his head in tolerant amusement. "Just take her horse to the stable, Zilex."

He chuckled and grabbed the reins, leading the horse away.

They went inside and sat down. Zana brought out tea and then disappeared. Tristan explained about the Drow and the reason for their trip to the City.

Kashmir frowned. "Well, I can anticipate the King calling on us to investigate this. Thanks for the heads-up."

Tristan nodded. "But I have another small favor to ask."

"Shoot," Kashmir said.

"We left in a hurry. I didn't have time to go back to Brevan. I'd like to see if I can find any books on Drow, but I have two problems."

"Name them," he said casually.

"I don't know a good book seller."

"I can give you a list of a couple or three that I would recommend. And the second problem?"

"I need to borrow some coin. I will pay you back as soon as possible, but I just didn't bring much with me. I think I have a silver and maybe five copper on me and that's it."

"No problem. Wait here." He jumped up and left the room.

"Just like that, huh?" Bamba asked.

Tristan smiled and shrugged. "He's knows I'm good for it. My parents would kill me if I wasn't."

She chuckled and drank some more tea. Kashmir returned within two minutes. He had a scroll in one hand and a small draw-string pouch in the other. He tossed the pouch and Tristan caught it. He opened it and his eyes widened. "I don't need that much!" he exclaimed.

There were five gold and five silver coins in the bag. Kashmir shrugged. "Don't worry about it. A book on Drow might be expensive."

"No book is that expensive."

"You might want to buy more than one."

Tristan huffed. "How many books on Drow do you suppose there are? I might not even find one."

Kashmir smiled. "You never know. Since the pass opened up, a lot more stuff is coming into the City. Scribes and merchants from Morin are bringing stuff in every day." He unrolled the scroll and there were three bookshops circled in charcoal on a City map. He pointed to one of them. "I'd recommend you go there first. Madam Polo has some of the more rare items. The other two are good also, but they don't carry rare stuff. Then again, like I said, they might have more stuff that's rare to us now."

Tristan nodded and took the map, carefully folding it and putting it in the pocket on his tunic. He'd left his knapsack at Bamba's. "Thank you, Kashmir. I'll bring back what I don't use."

Kashmir waved his hand in a casual gesture. "Don't worry about it. Get it back to me whenever you can. Or not, doesn't matter. I'm happy to contribute to the cause. Lord knows if there are Drow about, it can't be good. I remember our encounter with them in Morin. Nasty."

Tristan shook his head in amazement. "I don't even want to know how much money you have stashed here."

Bamba asked, "Aren't you afraid of being robbed?"

Kashmir laughed. "No, they'd have to be stupid to try."

"There are plenty of stupid thieves around. I know you're a famous rogue, but still," she said.

He smiled. "My wife has placed protection wards all over this house. If I didn't hear them or they got past those, every hiding place in this place has one of my traps on it."

"What kind of wards?" Tristan asked.

"Spells that detect ill-intent and protect everyone that lives here."

"How do they do that?" Bamba asked.

"Say someone tried to pick the lock on the front door rather than using a key," he began. He smiled. "A bolt of lightening will probably take their fingers off or knock them out."

"Holy stars!"

Kashmir laughed. "If their yelp didn't wake me, the bang that sounds when the spell goes off will."

"Wow. Remind me never to mess with you," Tristan joked.

Kashmir smiled. "No worries. I know I make a tempting target. That's why even my hidden places are trapped. Unlikely anyone would find them, but if they did, or even got that far, the chances of them getting past Lyzea's spells and wards and my traps – very unlikely."

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Chapter 9
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Midnight Forest
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"Young boys are not considered warriors until they have received their first scar. This is usually acquired during training. They are considered men only after obtaining the first scare in a battle with a puta, providing of course that they survive. If not, they were simply not worthy to be a warrior and weak, and therefore, disposable." -- Alister Mas – From 'Book of Drow' --
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Valasca killed the rabbit caught in her snare. She thanked Methandru and stood up. It was the fifth of ten snares she had to check. Dermott and Pandora had returned to the enclave for a few days. Her twelve-year old had decided she wanted to be a shaman like Aunt Kethtia and Tia had graciously agreed to train her. "Valanna, get over here and reset this one."

Valanna was making the rounds to check snares with her and looking for wild herbs that she learned about this week from Kethtia. The girl didn't answer. Her brow furrowed and she hollered, "Lanna! Where are you?"

Brasca snarled down low in chest. It was a warning growl. Valasca dropped the rabbit. "Find Lanna, girl," she commanded, and pulled her bow off her back and strung an arrow. She trotted behind Brasca who had taken off into the trees. She mumbled to herself, "Where'd you get off to? I told you not to wander." Then she shouted again, "Lanna!"

She heard Brasca snarl loudly and she cut left toward the sound. She came into a small clearing with a dying fire. She scanned the surrounding trees, watching the hair rise on Brasca's neck as she snarled. "What is it girl?" she whispered.

Lanna stepped out from behind a tree at the edge of the clearing.

"There you are," Valasca said. Then she looked at the girl's face. She was pale with fright and her eyes were huge. "What is it?"

A tall Drow stepped out behind her, wearing a thick leather armor vest. A livid pink scar ran from the corner of his eye to the edge of his lips. She gasped as he put a hand on her daughter's shoulder and held a knife to her throat. "I'm going to ask you questions and you're going to answer me."

Valasca nodded. "Just don't hurt my daughter." They weren't far from the Village maybe only a quarter mile and it was already dusk.

"And stop that damn cat from growling," he hissed.

Val made a hand gesture to the cat. Brasca stopped growling and looked at her. She made another hand gesture and the cat slinked off into the trees.

"Impressive," he said. What he didn't know was she'd just given her familiar her hand signal to get help.
"Now, how many Barbarians live in that village?"

"I don't know exactly. At least two-hundred, maybe two-hundred, fifty," she answered. There were more like five-hundred.

"How many are warriors?" he asked.

"Maybe seventy, or about half of them if you count the rangers," she said. It was more like 200 warriors.

He nodded. "How far away is the Elven village?"

"Ummm, about ten miles or so."

"How many live there?"

"I don't know."

He pressed the knife to Valanna's throat.

"I don't know! I swear!" she shouted in panic. "I can guess for you. I don't know, maybe a hundred, or hundred, fifty, but I don't know for sure. They come and go from Morin," she said, scared stiff that the Drow would slit her daughter's neck. "We only deal with their leaders, the council."

"Who is their leader?"

"A man named Fannen." That was a lie too. Giselle was the head of the council. Fannen was her mate and in charge of their army.

"You're doing well, cooperating. She may live after all."

"Please! I'll do anything you ask. Just please, let my daughter go. Take me instead."

"Anything?" he asked, seeming amused.

"Yes, anything!"

"Momma!" her daughter squealed in fright, tears streaking down her cheeks.

"Hush, Lanna. Just be still."

"Heed your mother, Lanna," he said. "Where is the Womb of Methandru?"

"It's south of here, near the edge of Midnight Forest."

"How many Masters and how many mages?"

"I don't know." He pressed the knife deeper and a small dot of blood appeared on Lanna's neck.

"I don't know!" she screamed. "I'll tell you what I know! There are five Masters, I think -- maybe ten adepts. Each Master has acolytes, but I have no idea how many! I swear I don't know how many."

He eased the knife away from the girl's throat.

"You've been very helpful. What's your name?"

"Valasca," she said.

"Well, Valasca. You're very beautiful. Since you were so cooperative and I really have no interest in a child, I'll let her go."

"Thank you!"

"If you give yourself to me," he added.

"What?" she screeched.

"You heard me. You said anything. If you give yourself to me willingly, I'll let the girl go."

Valasca trembled. She had no choice. She would die but her daughter would live. It was a sacrifice she was willing to make. "Okay," she said softly.

He smiled and it was pure evil. "Come to me," he said.

She was trembling but stepped walked toward the Drow. "Let my daughter go or no deal."

"Put the bow down and hold out your hand to me."

She placed her bow and knapsack on the ground with her quiver. She stepped within arm's reach, wondering if she could reach her daggers. But she didn't dare risk it. He grasped her wrist with his free hand in an iron-like grip and she hissed in pain.

He lowered the knife and shoved Lanna with his leg. "Run!" Valasca shouted.

Lanna ran a few steps but then stopped at looked at her mother. She knew what her mother had agreed to. "Momma, no."

"Lanna, RUN!" she shrieked.

The girl began to sob, but she turned and ran. As soon as her footsteps could no longer be heard, the Drow turned to her. "Drop the knives."

She swallowed and pulled the daggers off her hips with her free hand and bent to remove the hunting knives attached to her boots. She tossed them into the leaves at the base of a nearby tree. "Please don't do this," she said.

"You promised – willingly. Or shall I go find your daughter? I'm sure I can catch her."

"Let's get it over with," Valasca said. She had no illusions that the Drow would let her live afterwards. She had one chance to end this and she would have to be quick.

"One last question; this one is about the Mill Valley Caves. How many Masters?"

"More than the mages; six or seven I think," she said. Her voice trembled with the lie, but he apparently took it as nerves. He yanked her forward with a hand behind her neck and kissed her hard.

She grunted and he whispered, "Willingly, remember, or I'll gut you and find the girl."

She whimpered and tried not to stiffen as he nipped her neck and rubbed against her, never releasing his iron grip on her wrist. His free hand ran over her waist and he grabbed her ass, squeezing hard.

A loud cry of a bird sounded overhead and they both looked up. Nyoka was circling overhead. "Maybe we're near her nest," he said, not realizing this spelled trouble. Remos was on his way. She had to stall.

"You always do it standing up?" she taunted. "Even dogs have more class."

He growled and wrapped one arm around her shoulders tightly and strong-armed her to the ground. He kissed her roughly and his breath was foul, but he let go of her wrist. She took a deep breath and relaxed her body under his, feeling his arousal against her leg. She let him feel her breasts and cringed, but slowly slipped her hand to the back of her pants. When she lifted her hip, he groaned and smiled, thinking she was aroused. There was one dagger he'd not seen. It was small, but the four inch blade would be enough if she hit the right spot.

He ripped open her tunic and seemed mesmerized by her breasts. He squeezed one hard and hummed with satisfaction. She knew she would have bruises from that. As he leaned toward one, she yanked the dagger out of its holster and whipped it out, jamming it into his side with all her strength. He bellowed with rage, grabbing her wrist and smashing it into the ground. She heard a bone snap and screamed in pain.

He straddled her and ripped the dagger out of his side and blood spread down his side. He backhanded her hard enough to snap her head sideways. She cried out again. She tried to crab walk out from under his spread legs but her hand hit the ground and she screamed in pain, knowing she had broken something.

Then she heard the sweetest sound in the whole world. "Aahhhyaaaahaiii!"

The Drow leaped to his feet and grabbed his spear from the ground, but he bent forward, protecting his injured side. Val scrambled away, rolling out of fray. Remos charged into the clearing like an avenging angel, his hair flying out behind him as he hurtled a fallen log. He was swinging two eight-inch fighting knives before he landed and one swiped the man's wrist, gouging deep.

The Drow dropped his spear and he retreated a few steps. He turned and ran a few steps, but then Brasca was there, growling and crouching, cutting off his retreat. He spun again as Remos dropped one knife, lunged at the Drow, and spun him, putting him in a head lock with the arm holding the knife. "DIE FILTH!" he roared. Remos grasped his chin, jerked his head and Val heard his neck snap. Remos' knife slashed the man's neck from ear to ear. Blood gushed down his chest and over Remos' hands. He shoved him away and he fell in a heap, dead. Remos roared again and kicked the dead body so hard in the ribs that it rolled from its stomach onto its back, his head flopped, nearly severed.

Sogarth and Alice came running into the clearing, swords drawn but stopped when they saw the fallen Drow.

Remos dropped his other knife and rushed to Val, dropping to his knees next to her. She was sobbing and holding her hand. He took her in a crushing embrace as she held her wounded hand over his shoulder. "Shhh, I got you," he whispered. He backed up and rage washed over his face, seeing her ripped tunic. "Did he hurt you? Did he?" he spat out, unable to finish his question.

She shook her head. "No, but my hand is broken."

He ripped off his tunic and carefully helped her take her's off and put his on over her wounded hand. It hung nearly to her knees. He helped her to her feet. Alice retrieved his knives, wiped them off on the leaves and handed them back to him. He sheathed them and grabbed her knapsack, bow and quiver.

Sogarth said, "Go, we'll bury him and bring back her knives." Sogarth walked her home, Brasca trotting next to her leg as she cradled her wounded hand.

None of them saw the cowled figure drop from a tree further in the forest and disappear into the night.

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Brevan Village
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Lanna had entered the village sobbing and screaming, pouring out the tale. A frantic group met them at the gates and Kethtia rushed her to the med hut and splinted her hand. Brock went to the enclave to get Dermott. Val told of seeing Nyoka and knowing help was on the way and stalling and stabbing the Drow to buy time. The Drow had broken the bone in the side of her left hand. It would be weeks before she could hold a bow again, but it would mend. She gave her medicine for the pain and a tea with a sleeping aide and she collapsed on the cot in the med hut. Remos refused to leave her even though she was sleeping.

The council convened at Garos and Morganna's house where Rachelle was sitting with her younger sister, who was totally traumatized. She looked up as they entered. Her eyes were red and swollen from crying. Morganna hugged the girl. "She's going to be fine, Lanna. She has a broken hand, and a cut lip, but that's all."

Brock pulled up a footstool in front of the girl and took her hands in his. "You did great, Lanna."

"I shouldn’t have left her," she sobbed.

Rachelle rubbed her back, trying to soothe her.

"No, darlin'. You did the right thing. You ran to get help."

"Brasca got help," she argued.

Brock shook his head. "No, darlin', you let us know what was going on. Your dad knew something was wrong when Brasca showed up without your mom, but he didn't know what. Because of you he knew right where to go and neither of you were seriously hurt."

"She was hurt."

Rachelle sighed. "Lanna, both of you could have died. We're so relieved neither of you did. Her broken hand will heal."

"Are you sure that's all that happened?" she asked timidly. They all understood what she was asking.

Kethtia smiled at her. "Yes, you're Mom stabbed him before he could do what he threatened."

A little smile appeared in the corners of her mouth for a second, but then it disappeared. "Didn't think your Mom would go down without a fight, did you?" Brock asked.

"She, she, bargained for me," she hiccupped, starting to cry again. "She was going to sacrifice … herself for me."

Kethtia said, "Of course she did. She loves you, Valanna."

"I was so scared," she cried out. She turned into Rachelle and her sister embraced her and rocked her.

"It's over now, Lanna. It's over now."

Kethtia said, "Why don't you take her home, Rachelle. I'll send Mabel over with some dinner." The girl loved Mabel and she knew if anyone could calm the girl down it would be Mabel.

Rachelle nodded, and stood up, still holding onto her younger sister and they went out the door. Kethtia looked at Brock. "I'm going to go get Mabel. You need to talk to Remos. He can't be a wreck when he sees her."

Brock nodded and said. "We'll meet tomorrow to discuss this in detail. Until then, no one goes out alone, two-by-two detail, minimum, spread the word. No kids leave the Village without at least two adults." Everyone nodded and he stood to leave.

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Chapter 10
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Brevan Village
Med Hut
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"Wealth is revered. Therefore the acquisition of precious metals and gems is of top importance. Much like the dragons, status is gained by the size of their hordes. Weekly announcements of acquired metals and gems are posted in the complex squares. Those that acquire metal and gems are called the Seekers." -- Alister Mas – From 'Book of Drow' --
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Remos had crawled onto the cot with Val and had her head resting on his bare shoulder and her wounded hand lying on his bare chest. Luna and Dermott were curled up on the other pillow resting. Brock entered and looked them over. "Get up."

"What?"

"Get up and wash the damn blood off your hands and neck."

Remos looked at his arms as if he hadn't even noticed. He gently extricated himself and tucked the covers around Val, gently placing her arm on the bed. He gave Brock a dirty look but went over and scooped water out of the water barrel into a basin and washed his hands with the pumice stone Brock handed him.

When he was done, Brock tossed him a towel. "You okay?"

Remos met his gaze. He swallowed noisily. "He almost got her, Brock."

Brock nodded. "But he didn't. Almost doesn't count."

Remos blinked rapidly. "I'd die if I lost her. You know that, right?"

"Yes, I feel the same about Tia, but remember, your daughters need you too."

Remos scowled at him. "What's that supposed to mean?"

"It means that your twelve-year daughter is beside herself with worry and guilt about leaving her mother behind; the mother that was going to sacrifice herself to save her. She got it, Remos. She understood that Val was going to allow herself to be raped as well as killed to save her. Now, we've told her she did the right thing by running, and that her mother is alright. And she is, for the most part. Her hand will heal."

"But mentally?" Remos asked.

"He didn't get her, Remos. Keep that up front. She'll recover fine if you love her and be understanding, which you will."

"What are you trying to tell me? Spit it out."

Brock met his gaze again. "You need to pull yourself together before you see Valanna. She needs you to reassure her that her mother is fine and she did the right thing by running for help."

"Of course she did, she's couldn't fight him."

"You know that, and I know that, but she feels guilty, like she abandoned her. She needs to know Val is alright. If you're pacing like a frantic mad man around her bed, that's not going to be very convincing."

Remos stared at him. "Okay, I get it. I just couldn't leave her yet."

"He's right," Val rasped softly from the cot.

Remos stepped around Brock and went to her, sitting on the edge of the bed. "How you feeling?"

"I'm fine, Remos. You got there in time. That's all that matters. We'll talk about it privately later. It's just my hand." Her lip was split from the backhand to the face so her words were slightly slurred. Both fairies had sat up.

"It's more than that and you know it," he snapped in frustration. "I could have lost you!" he cried in frustration.

She smiled gently at him. "But you didn't." She looked into his eyes. "Remos, I would have given my life for Lanna just like you would but I didn't plan on going out easy. A broken hand, split lip and few bruises is a small price to pay for Lanna's life. I'd pay it again, and I'm fine and I’m safe here. I just need to rest. Go to Rachelle and Valanna. Or bring them here so they can see I'm alright, one or the other. I'll be fine. In fact, I could go now."

"No, stay here and rest in peace and quiet."

"Then go. Be with the kids. Tell them I'll see them at breakfast." Her eyes were drooping.

He leaned over and kissed her forehead. "Okay. I'll be back after they go to sleep."

"No, just stay there. Lanna was traumatized too. That bastard held a knife to her throat, broke the skin. She needs you. I'll be sleeping anyway. Be with the girls. I can't right now."

He frowned but nodded. He watched her for a full minute. She was asleep again already. Alice appeared in the doorway. "I'll stay with her Remos just in case she wakes and needs something."

Dermott said, "I'll be with her Remos. I'll come get you if she needs you."

He nodded. "Okay. Thanks, Alice. I've got to be with the girls." He realized now how close he'd come to losing his daughter as well. If not for Val's quick thinking and stalling, this could have been a total tradgedy.

Alice smiled and moved into the room. Brock walked him out. "You need to talk first? C'mon, get it off your chest."

Remos sighed. "I've been a lot of battles, but I don't think I've ever been that scared."

Brock nodded for him to continue.

"When Brasca scratched on the door, I opened it and realized something was wrong right away. She wouldn't come to the house without Val. She would have gone to the stable. She was growling and pacing away from me. I knew she wanted me to follow. I called Nyoka and followed Brasca. Alice and Sogarth were on guard duty and saw me tear out of the gates. They didn't know what was wrong, but followed me. I'd just gotten past the river beyond the meadow," he said quietly.

Brock waited silently.

"I saw Lanna running toward me. She screamed, 'Daddy, a Drow has Momma!'" He gulped. "I think my heart landed in my boots."

Brock put a hand on his shoulder in silent support.

"I asked her where and she pointed. I yelled at her to get back to the village. Nyoka had flown ahead and found her and called to me. I could see her circling. Then Brasca cut off and disappeared. When I got there, he had her on the ground, Brock. He'd torn her tunic open." He put his hands over his eyes. "I lost it."

"No, you didn't."

He huffed out a breath. "That filthy bastard had his hands on my wife!" he snarled. He took a deep breath. "I called the rage. Of course, the fear was gone then. He tried to run but Brasca cut him off, bless her. I disarmed him and then I killed him, snapped his damn neck like a twig."

"You did good."

"Brock, I slit his throat, even though he was probably already dead. Then I kicked the evil bastard like he was still alive and I could punish him."

"That bothers you?"

"Bit of overkill, wouldn't you say? We're supposed to lose the rage once the enemy is down."

Brock said calmly, "Remos, he tried to rape your wife. I think you're entitled to be a bit over the top. We can have good, old regular emotional rage too, you know?"

Remos sighed. "I guess I've never gone there. Scared myself."

Brock patted his shoulder. "Don't worry about it. Just don't show it to your kids. You'll scare them. They'll think it means Val is worse than we're saying."

He nodded in agreement. "Thank Methandru they were close. If she'd been further away, it could have ended a lot differently. I'm glad for that. At the same time, that means the Drow were within a quarter mile of the Village."

"I know. I've ordered a two by two detail at least. We'll meet in the morning. I just hope Tristan gets back soon." He paused. "Remos, remember what we say?"

"What?"

"Who's the richest man in the world?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.

Remos swallowed heavily and whispered, "The man with a family that loves him."

Brock nodded. "You still have yours, all of them. Don't forget that. Let it go."

Remos clapped him on the shoulder. "Thanks, man."

"Any time," Brock replied and headed home.

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Chapter 11
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City of Maruk
Tajol Corysia Shyl Myr
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"The Seeker who brings in the most wealth is given the title of Prime. Successful seekers are valued by the houses and given favors by the family's ruler, ranging from sexual favors to more luxurious quarters. Ironically, defending your status as the house's Prime Seeker is a full time job, leaving little time to enjoy the favors bestowed." -- Alister Mas – From 'Book of Drow' --
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Bamba read the sign above the door. "Making History Book Shop," she translated. They had come here first and entered the shop. It was dimly lit, but an area with tables and chairs for reading was brightly light with candles in glass hurricane shades to protect the paper of the books from any accidents. An elderly Elven woman sat behind a counter and looked up as they entered.

"Hail, children," she greeted them. "I’m Madam Polo. Let me know if I can help you."

Tristan approached the counter and gave her his best winning smile. "Hello. A friend recommended your shop," she advised her.

"What friend would that be?" she asked.

"Kashmir Tahl," he said.

"Ahhh!" she responded, smiling. "The dashing rogue. Well, what can I do for you?"

"We're looking for books about the Drow."

"The Drow. Hmmm. What would young ones want with that?"

"We've a need to learn of them," he said gently. "Forewarned is forearmed."

She raised her eyebrows. "Well, I guess I don't want to know what that means, young man. I do happen to have something that might peak your interest. One I've had for a bit, the other, came in a moon ago." She stood and slid off her stool and wandered to one side of the shop where a wooden sign hung above the bookcase that said, 'Rare Books'. Her eyes skimmed the bindings and she finally reached and pulled down a bound book of scroll paper. Then she went to another shelf and pulled a leather bound volume and brought them back to the counter."

The bound scroll paper was clearly old and delicate. The title, written in ink with a quill read, 'Book of Drow'. The leather bound volume had silver stenciling on the cover that read, 'History of the Drow'. "These are the single copies I have of each," she informed them. "The scroll is old and written by a Elven mage several generations ago. His name was Alister Mas. He lived among them for a time. The other is more recent, written about seventy-five years ago by another mage. Her name was Corina Masol. I think she was a decendent of Alister."

Bamba nodded. "Alister's last name is the Elven word for star," she commented. "Masol is the Elven word for starlight."

"Quite right, dear. The Elves take the surnames of their mother's, but sometimes they combine it with their mates. Or they did in those days. Some changed their name for anonymity. It wasn't popular to know of the Drow, was considered a bad omen. People thought if you knew of them, you must have consorted with them and therefore you were feared. Those that had dealings other than war with the Drow were sometimes shunned and exiled. Chances are, these are not the names they lived under in reality, but pen names they chose," she educated them, ending her short speech.

"How much?" Tristan asked.

"You'd want them both?"

He nodded. "How much?"

"Most of my books are a copper per 10-page, but these," she trailed off.

Tristan smiled. "Name your price, Madam," he requested.

"You are a friend of Lieutenant Tahl?"

"Yes, ma'am. My parents were with him when he eradicated the evil of the Forsaken Mountain."

"Well, you know your history, don't you? I'll give you a discount then. I've much respect for the champions of Maruk. Was no small thing to destroy a lich."

"No, ma'am. I was born about a year and half after their return."

She nodded. "Okay, two silver for the History?"

"Done," he said. "And the scroll book?"

She seemed to consider. "I would normally ask a gold piece for it. It's so rare, but … I'd let it go to you for five and half," she said. She meant five silver and five copper.

Tristan opened his pouch and carefully laid two silver and a gold piece on the counter.

She stared at them, her eyes lighting up. It was probably more than she made in a moon. "No, son, you don't need to pay the full price. I'm assuming you've a real good reason for wanting this."

"I do, but that's no reason to short you. These were hard to come by and I'm sure you paid well for them."

"Are you sure?"

He smiled at her. "I'm sure. Take the coin, Madam, buy some more rare books."

She grinned and swiped the coins off the counter. "I'm grateful, lad."

Bamba said, "If you find any more, would you purchase them?"

"Books on the Drow?" she clarified.

Bamba nodded.

"Yes, I probably would. My reputation is for having things no one else has."

Tristan said, "Would you do me a favor, Madam?"

"What?"

"If you acquire any more books on the Drow, could you contact Kashmir at Tahl Manor and let him know?"

She nodded. "Yes, I'll keep my eye open. More vendors are coming in since the folks of Morin came over."

He gently took her hand. "Thank you. You've done us a great service. Be well."

"Be well, children."

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

They went to the other two bookstores, but neither had anything on the Drow. They went back to Kashmir and returned the four gold, and three silver pieces they hadn't used. They told him they had requested the Madam to inform him if any books on the Drow came in. He agreed to snap them up if they did.

Chapter 12
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Womb of Methandru
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"I happened upon the dragon's roar, not knowing her target. Quetzacoatl prepared to attack. Her nostrils emitted a spray of freezing icesicles and it was met mid-air by a spray of fire from my staff. I had counter attacked on instinct. Thus was Phaer Helvi spared retribution for the theft of the egg. Hating to be beholden to a puta, he agreed to share information about his people and answer any question I asked so long as it was within reason. I agreed to accept this as payment for his jhori paer." -- Alister Mas – From 'Book of Drow' --
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Marianna Foster looked at the mini-catapult and then at her acolyte. "It's almost dark," she said.

"One more round," he said. She nodded, but then purposely didn't focus on him and kept her face blank. Without warning, she hit the release and the catapult shot a lump of clay high into the air.

Derek deftly took it out with a fire bolt. She reloaded and waited, choosing a different wait time between shots. She released another clay ball, and he reacted instantly, shattering it with a lightening bolt. The exercise continued. The next one he smashed by hurtling a rock with magical wind and force. Without warning, she turned and laid down a fire wall between them. Within seconds it was doused with water from his staff.

"That's enough. It's dark now," she said, calling a halt to the final exercise. She sighed heavily and shook her head.

"What? Did I do something wrong?" he asked.

"No, it was perfect," she said.

"Then what?"

"I'm going to have to start over with a new adept, damn it," she said, and then smiled.

A slow crept across his face. "Because?" he prompted.

She grinned now and said, "Because you no longer need my tutelage. You are a Master," she declared.

"YES!" he shouted, pumping his staff in the air. They laughed together.

"Sure you're ready for that?" she teased.

He grinned and held up his wooden staff. "To trade this in for a crystal one? You bet!"

"I'll inform the council. It's been a true pleasure, Derek."

He bowed to her. "I could not have had a better teacher, Marianna."

She approached him and they embraced. She gasped when he suddenly roughly shoved her to the ground. "Derek!" she shrieked, unable to believe he would be rough or cruel with her.

Then she heard the grunt and thud of a body hitting the ground. She rolled to her hands and knees. "DROW!" he bellowed. A fire dart had blown the head off a Drow.

She was on her feet in seconds, seeing seven others emerge from the trees and advance toward them. Some had spears, others bows. She snatched her staff out of the holster on her back, whipping it over her head one handed. An arrow came right for her head. She hollered, "Tylesi si shols os torosaelol!" Bring the winds of misdirection. A fierce funnel of wind sent it flying off target and it hit the ground several feet from her leg.

She glanced and saw mages pouring over the hill into the practice field. The entire Mage's council took up fighting positions in the field. Kyruby, Vigoth, Enoka, Senira, Gehardt, Zona, Aiden, Jonah, and Tomen were all there. They were ten Masters in all; eleven she thought, correcting herself. Derek was now a Master.

Adepts and acolytes appeared on the hill. Kyruby hollered, "Back in the Womb, all of you!" They hesitated but didn't dare disobey her and fled back through the gates of the guild.

The Drow actually hesitated. But more appeared behind them. A heavily scarred warrior suddenly bellowed and they all attacked. Some ran straight for them, others cut to the side, trying to flank the row of mages. Kyruby shouted orders. Vigoth, Enoka, Senira – forward defense! Gehardt, Zona, Aiden – forward offense! Jonah, defend left! Tomen, defend right. Marianna – left offense! Derek – right offense! She went on offense and defense alone for the rear as they formed a loose rectangle facing outwards, their backs to one another.

Fire rain and walls of fire that flared and then disappeared had the Drow stumbling and dodging the defenders. Funnels of wind deflected rains of arrows and chucked spears.

Then bolts of lightening and fire darts began picking off the attackers. Hurricane winds toppled attackers to their knees. Spikes of earth shot up from the ground, tangling the warriors legs. Rocks went flying across the field clobbering into heads and weapon arms.

It was almost over. A few stragglers made to flee into the tree line and Marianna threw up a wall of fire, blocking their retreat. Kyruby took them out with lightening. Everyone was focused on the last two Drow to fall.

It was Derek who felt the slight breeze whip by his neck. He spun, realizing Marianna was off the side by herself. He glimpsed a shadow on her flank and shrieked, "Mar, DOWN!"

She didn't hesitate and threw herself to the ground as a dagger flashed over head. Everyone spun and ten fire darts shot into the air at a shadow and the flash of a silver dagger descending. A loud hiss was the only sound and then a thud as the nearly invisible body hit the ground in front of Marianna's kneeling frame. At least one dart had hit him.

Derek ran to Marianna and shouted, "Don't let your guard down!" He didn't think of the incongruity of shouting an order to the Mage Council. He sunk to his knees and ran his hands over Marianna's arms and face. "Are you alright?"

"I'm fine," she breathed out. "Thank you."

The body suddenly lurched up off the ground and a silver blade slashed toward Marianna's face. Derek threw himself in front of her and the blade sliced through his robe and across his chest. He groaned in pain, falling onto his back and clutching his chest. The Drow croaked, "The bitch lied. She said there were only five Masters."

Marianna screamed, "Die you bastard!" She pointed her staff at the sitting Drow and fired a bolt at him. His chest exploded. She scrambled to Derek as everyone ran to them.

"It burns," he screamed.

"Drow assassin," she declared. "The blade was poisoned; get him into the Womb," Kyruby shouted.

Vigoth and Aiden each grabbed a shoulder. Tomen and Jonah each grabbed a leg and they hoisted him into the air on their shoulders and ran. Marianna followed them and Kyruby watched them go.

Kyruby turned and said, "Zona, get the blade. Be careful. We need to know what was on it."

Some twenty Drow or so lay dead in the clearing they used for target practice. She looked around. "Gehardt and Enoka, you burn the bodies. The rest of you, get this pile of refuse to med room. Be careful, he may have other poisoned weapons. We need to strip his clothes and jewelry. We need to know what that poison is, and fast. Senira, you're with me."

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Chapter 13
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Womb of Methandru
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"The Drow have a name for all other races. Puta. The word literally means, 'lesser'. The same word is used for 'outsider'. They consider all other races inferior in intellect and battle prowess, a mere step above animal. They view most nature worship as banal and silly. They worship Kalai-pahoa – the God of Poison. He is symbolized by the serpent. For this reason, being related, the dragons are also venerated. They view them as Kalai-pahoa's representatives to the mortal world, his avatars if you will." -- Alister Mas – From 'Book of Drow' --
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Senira Tyl entered the med room with Kyruby as they laid the dead Drow on the examining table. Marianna's fire dart had scrambled his insides and he had a gaping chest wound. Senira was the most knowledgeable herbologist in the guild and an expert on poisons. She taught a class in toxic plants and substances. Zona handed her the knife, gripping the hilt with a rag. She carefully took the knife, noticing a slimy mucus-like substance on the blade. She set it down carefully, laying the rag under it. She bent and sniffed the blade. Her keen nose alerted her brain and in seconds she turned to see Kyruby's expectant face. "It's Giant Brown Toad toxin. I can smell it."

Kyruby nodded and they both hurried to the library. Senira yanked a book off one of the shelves and quickly flipped through index. In minutes she had the information they needed. She shouted for her acolytes and two came running. They followed her as she ran down the hall to where Derek lay in agony. "I need ginko biloba, garlic, dandelion greens, sunflower oil, hazelnuts and butter, passionflower, yarrow," she rattled off. They hurried off to gather what she needed. She and Kyruby entered the room and began pulling bowls and pestles and jars off the shelf.

Marianna looked up with pain and near despair at them. "What can I do?"

"Get his clothes off. Get a bucket of cold water and keep wiping him down. Hit the neck and armpits mostly. Try to cool him down," Senira instructed her.

She looked at Aiden and Jonah. "Get another bucket of water, funnel water into the wound, irrigate it constantly." They moved instantly to obey her.

Marianna also rushed to do as she said. "We need to get the fever down and I need to make a remedy to try and head off convulsions, and something to calm his heart, which is racing."

Derek was shaking his head and drooling excessively. He would occasionally curl from cramps and then vomit. They kept him on his side and held a chamber pot up for him to vomit when this happened.

Senira's acolytes rushed in to the room with their arms loaded. Senira hadn't said how much she needed, so they grabbed what they could. "We didn't know how much," one of the young girls said.

"It's okay, dump it on the table here," Senira snapped. They did and retreated to the door and stood just outside looking frightened. Senira snapped her fingers twice, "Willow bark. Get me some willow bark!"

One of the acolytes took off. The other stayed in case her mistress thought of something else she needed. Kyruby looked at her. "Tell me what to do." It was statement no one had every heard her utter.

Senira didn't hesitate. "Cut the ginko into small pieces, grind it up with the garlic and dandelion greens. Grind it to near powder and then mix sunflower oil in until it’s a paste."

Kyruby nodded and went to work. Meanwhile, Senira was mashing hazelnuts and other things a mortar bowl. Marianna draped a cloth over Derek's groin once he was naked. It was her only concession to preserve his modesty. She couldn't worry about it now. She bathed him from head to toe with cool cloths and whispered encouraging things to him through the tears she was nearly choking on. "You're a Master now, Derek, my first one. Don't you dare go anywhere until I hand you that staff."

Her acolyte returned with the willow bark. Senira turned and said, "Press it, make a strong willow bark tea."

"How much?" the young girl asked.

Senira handed her a gallon sized glass jar. "Fill it."

The girls eyes widened but she rushed out to do her Mistress' bidding.

Kyruby finished her concoction and told Senira's other acolyte to get Neowald. He was her newest adept. He was also the most nimble horseman she'd ever seen. He appeared in the doorway and frowned as watched Derek scream, drool and roll over to vomit. "Mistress?"

"Neowald, get your fastest horse. I need you to ride to Forest Haven. Find Bamba Depota." He nodded as she paused, staring at him. "Find her fast," she said. He understood. Marianna's adept might not make it.

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Chapter 14
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Mill Valley Caves
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"Thus it was that the ruling house of Cor was destroyed by Piasca, after being lured to the surface. The house of Helvi was the new ruling family. Phaer would not commit to my inquiry regarding the payment that had procured Piasca's cooperation. However, a smirk I interpreted through long-association as confirmation told me Quetzacoatl's egg had been the price. House Helvi had been championed by an avatar of Kalai-pahoa. No one would challenge them for some time. Phaer was next in line to rule the family. I wondered how long his father would live before Phaer found a way to dispose of his sire and take control. For this was the way of the Drow, ruthless and without care if it stood in the way of ambition. The strong prevailed, the weak perished. And Phaer was as ruthless as they came." -- Alister Mas – From 'Book of Drow' --
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Witfar Cythril was humming as he brushed his horse. He was outside the barn furthest from the Caves and keeping one eye on the road that led into the Mill Valley. Cyrida Evver was coming to visit and he was looking forward to it. He hadn't seen her many moons. But a messenger had brought news of her visit. She said she had important news for Cafedra. He hoped she would tell him. Cyrida had adopted him as a little brother more than twenty years ago and while he was glad she'd found such a handsome and established mate who loved her, he missed her dreadfully.

His mate, Casdon Sina, approached and smiled. "He's actually humming," he commented, as though someone else were there.

Witfar grinned at him and continued with his task.

"When does she get here?"

"By nightfall, I hope."

"And this is hum-worthy?" he teased.

"Indeed," Witfar said, playing along.

"I'm trying to remember if I've ever made you hum," he said with mock seriousness, putting on a look of inured pride.

Witfar laughed. "Oh yeah, baby. You've made me hum, all right."

They both laughed and Casdon hugged him from behind. "It's nice to see you smile," he whispered into his ear.

Witfar sighed and stopping brushing the mare. He leaned back into Casdon. "I miss her. What can I tell you?"

"I love Cyrida too, you know?" he said.

"I know."

"I'm hungry. Let's get dinner."

"Okay. I'll just stand here looking down the road if I don't," he admitted.

Casdon backed away and turned. He gasped loudly. Witfar spun and they both peered down the road. "What is it?" he asked.

Casdon cocked his head to one side. "Someone's out there."

"Cyrida?"

"No." There was another pause and a flash of white flickered in the tree line off to the side of the road. "Sound the alarm," Casdon said, stiffening. "Go."

"What is it?"

"Drow."

"Casdon, there are no Drow around here," Witfar replied, but he'd whispered just the same.

Casdon was from Morin, and had moved here about ten years ago. They'd hit it off immediately and been a couple ever since. He had decided to study as a necromancer and moved to the Caves. He was good, an adept, but not yet a Master. Casdon snapped his head toward Witfar. "I know what I saw. It was a Drow. Go! Now!"

Witfar didn't question him anymore. He turned and raced toward the caves.

xxxxxxxxxxxx

The ensuing battle was horrific. Thanks to Casdon, they were forewarned and ready to meet the invading force. Undead were used as fodder for the advancing attack force, whittling them down. Fallen Drow were reanimated and attacked their own. Dark spirits took control of Drow warriors and made them rage, tearing at their focus and making them easy targets that ran headlong, with no thought of protecting themselves, into the defender's force.

Cyrida and Duvan heard the cries of battle on their approach and tore up the road, joining the fight. It had been a long time since she'd practiced her art, but she'd lost none of her skill. Losse protected their backs as they worked together, picking off enemies that strayed outside the lines of the defenders guarding the basin below the entrance to the Caves.

An exhausted group surveyed the carnage after dismissing spirits and banishing them. Witfar had spotted Cyrida in all her glory, but had been unable to spare more than a glance. Now he walked up to her in the odd silence that often follows a loud battle. "So glad you're okay," Cyrida said, throwing her arms around him.

He hugged her back. "Hell of a welcome home," he retorted.

Duvan smirked. "I can think of better ones."

"No doubt," Witfar said ruefully.

Casdon approached and hugged Cyrida, then shook Duvan's hand. "Thanks for the help."

"You're welcome. This was part of our news, that there were Drow on the mountain. Guess they beat us here."

"Was there more?" Witfar asked.

Cyrida nodded. "Giselle Starborne has called a summit of all the leaders of the various communities on the mountain and here in Fongel Forest. We meet in a fortnight at Maruk Palace to discuss the situation and be educated somewhat on Drow habits and tactics."

He nodded. "Well, I'm sure Cafedra will want to know everything. First, we're going to have to bury the dead, and rebury the ones used here."

She nodded. "We'll talk later."

He nodded. "C'mon, let's go find Cafedra. Bet she's madder than a wet hen," he remarked.

Cyrida laughed at his description. Cafedra didn't like to be surprised. As surprises go, this was one of the worst.

Xxxxxxxxxxx
Chapter 15
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Brevan Village
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"The only weakness in the Drow from a battle stand-point that I could discern was there total disdain for nature, and therefore, for all of its creatures; except for the dragon. While they didn't fear them, they had no desire to know them. All animals with instinct shy away from the Drow, sensing evil is near. No Drow can ride a horse, which puts them at a disadvantage for speed. While there are plenty of hunters and bowmen, none are Beast Masters or want to be. An animal is just another lesser creature to them, and therefore, they deprive themselves of their aide." – Alister Mas – From the 'Book of Drow' --
xxxxxxxxxxx

Kethtia jerked to a halt as she neared the front steps of her home. She was walking back to her house after checking on Val, who was mending well. Her head swirled with vertigo and she staggered to sit on the bottom step, her eyes going white. Jaylar was well acquainted with all the signs now. He flew to the fairy door, pushed it open and hollered, "Brock, get out here."

As he zipped back out the door, Brock was on his feet and headed for the door. He saw Kethtia slumped on the bottom stair and leaped to sit behind her and support her body. Her eyes had washed white with her trance. Pandora landed on Brock's shoulder and listened. Her eidetic memory came in handy. She'd learned a hard lesson from her mother not to interfere in another's vision. Misinterpretation was always a danger. The nuances and feelings associated with a vision were not always transmitted to one observing a vision. She waited patiently and then Kethtia said, "Neowald, the mage adept. Send someone now to stop his flight to Forest Haven. Hold him at the crossroads. Go now, he rides like the wind with ill news from the Womb of Methandru."

Several people were forming a semi-circle in front of them having seen Kethtia slumped on the stairs. Alice whispered, "I'll go."

Brock nodded to her. "Wait," Kethtia breathed and Alice halted in mid-step. "Tell him to head toward Maruk, he will meet his target on the road. She and Tristan are on their way back here," she said in a dreamy voice.

Alice said, "Got it." She turned to her son. "Alec, go saddle Fedra and bring her out." Fedra was her mare. He ran off to obey his mother.

There was silence for a few moments but her eyes were white so they knew the vision was not completed. Then she gasped. "The Womb was attacked by Drow – so were the Mill Valley Caves. They both prevailed, but one has fallen at the Womb. Sogarth, go with Alice. Arianna is needed. After you stop Neowald, go with all haste to the Womb of Methandru. Derek's life hangs in the balance." Her eyes washed blue back into her irises and she shook her head. "Go, there's no time to waste."

Alice and Sogarth both turned and ran for the stables. Sogarth shouted to his younger son, Garth. "Get our knapsacks and meet us in the stable. Hurry!"

Brock helped Kethtia stand and looked at the small crowd that formed. "Okay, nothing to do but wait now. I'll call a meet if we get more information."

xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Garth hobbled into the barn, dragging his parents' packs. While he was strong, his parents' packs were enormous and heavy. They snatched them up throwing the sacks straps over the shoulders on top of their swords scabbards. Sogarth saddled his horse, talking over his shoulder. "Stay with Marina and Torin while we're gone. Be good. We'll be back as soon as we can." They mounted and looked at the boys.

Arianna and Nilex got into the fairy sacks made of felt that where attached to their protectors' belts. "Don't leave the Village without an adult for any reason," Sogarth said hastily.

"Dad," Alec started to protest.

Alice slashed her hand in the air. "No argument, boys. There are Drow attacking everywhere. Understand? We don't know what's going on out there. You stay in the Village until we know more."

They nodded. Alice and Sogarth trotted out to the gate. Torin and Marina were on watch. Sogarth hollered up to the watch tower. "Watch the boys for us?"

"No problem," Marina shouted. "Go."

They kicked their horses and tore out of the gates into the meadow and onto the road. It was five miles to the crossroads. It was the place the main road to Brevan intersected with the roads to the Mill Valley and to Forest Haven. Forest Haven was to the west. Mill Valley Caves was to the east. Another three miles south, the road cut to the southeast to the Womb of Methandru. They rode hard, bent low in the saddles and focused, their eyes scanning the sides of the road. It was daylight, but they were both on alert. The Drow were unknown enemies with unknown capabilities.

They reached the crossroads and slid out of the saddles, letting the horses cool down. They kept their eyes peeled on the road to the south. "Should we go further south to where the road meets up with the turn to the Womb?" Alice asked.

Sogarth shook his head. "No. Kethtia said the crossroads. We might miss him if he went off road or something."

She nodded and said. "Keep watch. There's a stream a little ways in. I'm gonna take the horses."

He nodded, standing like a sentinel in the middle of the road. Alice led both horses to the stream and let them drink. She'd just emerged back onto the road when they heard crashing off to the left. They watched and a tall stallion leaped out of the tree line, emerging from a foot path in the woods. A tall Elven man sat atop the stallion and he veered right to avoid Sogarth.

Sogarth raised his voice. "Neowald?"

The man reined in hard and the horse spun to face them. "Yes."

"We were sent by our Head Shaman. She had a vision. You are to continue south toward Maruk."

"I make for Forest Haven," he said immediately.

Alice said. "Your target is on her way back from the city. She isn't in Forest Haven."

His brow wrinkled. "Are you sure?"

"As sure as we can be. Our Warlord's son is with her. They are on their way back from the city. You'll miss her if you go to Forest Haven."

He seemed to debate for a minute. "Okay, you better be right about this," he said, clearly uncertain.

Alice said. "I come with my fairy. We'll ride with you to the fork in the road. We go to the Womb."

Arianna popped out of her sack and said, "I am Arianna, a healer. Kethtia said I may be able to help the fallen mage."

That seemed to convince him. "Then let's go. I'll continue south from there."

"They mounted and took off, all three horses lurching into a gallop at once as they tore down the road. Mountain stallions were known for their speed, endurance, and sheer strength, but even they had trouble keeping up with the Elf. He rode as if part of his horse.

When they approached the fork in the road, Sogarth hollered, "Good luck."

"Thank you, farewell," the mage shouted and didn't even slow down as he continued his head long rush south towards Maruk.

They veered off and slowed to a lope to rest the horses a bit. When their breathing became regular, they pushed them into a gallop again.

Xxxxxxxxxxxx
Womb of Methandru
Xxxxxxxxxxxx

Everyone in the Womb felt the vibration of horses' hooves in the crystals of the womb long before they entered the meadow below the entrance.

Kyruby said, "I hope it isn't someone needing help. We're not really in shape for it right now," she said, spooning her concoction into Derek's mouth. She kept at it, even though he threw much of it up each time within minutes. "Hang in there, Derek."

He coughed and lay back on the stack of pillows, his head flopping to the side. "I'm not going to make it, am I?" he asked.

"You are if I have anything to say about it," Senira said. Her face was a mask of concentration as she washed his festering wound once again and smeared a paste of healing herbs into the cut. He hissed in pain, but she had stopped saying she was sorry. There was nothing she could do. She'd searched every book she owned for more remedies but found none.

Once his pain abated, Kyruby supported his head again and held a tea cup up to his lips. It was strong willow bark tea laced with valerian root tincture to settle his stomach. He sipped, making a face at the bitter brew, but kept sipping until he felt his stomach roll. Then he sagged and Kethtia let him lay back again.

Jonah came swinging into the room. "Mother, Barbarians have arrived. The man said he was Sogarth and you would know him. He's here with his wife, Alice. Their shaman had a vision."

She stroked Derek's head and said, "I'll be back."

He nodded weakly. Kyruby rushed out of the room, hoping it was not more bad news.

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Chapter 16
Xxxxxxxxxx

"Enraged at the betrayal, Quetzacoatl abandoned her treacherous worshippers. She took her remaining egg and disappeared from the known world. She settled in an uncharted wilderness ripe with marshlands and swamp. Some thought her killed by Piasca. For her mate, Oroborus was now seen in the company of Piasca. In fact, she had merely ensured that her remaining egg would not fall victim to treachery." -- Corina Masol – From 'History of the Drow' --
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Tristan and Bamba slowed their horses to a walk, hearing the horse ahead of them coming fast. They pulled off to the side of the road to make way for the rider who was obviously in a hurry. When he came into sight, his head swung and sighted them. He slowed to a fast canter and then reined in his mount hard in front of them, his stallion prancing beneath him. "Bamba Depota?" he asked.

"Yes, that's me." She frowned.

"I'm Neowald, one of Kyruby's adepts. I'm to escort you with all haste to the Womb of Methandru."

"What's wrong?"

"I’m sorry, Miss. It's your brother."

"What's wrong? He not dead!" she hollered, seeing the look on his face.

"He wasn't when I left, but he's in trouble."

"What kind of trouble?"

"Poisoned by a Drow assassin's blade."

"Oh heavens. Methandru have mercy," she whispered.

"How?" Tristan asked.

"The Drow attacked the Womb. He took the injury defending his Master."

She turned to Tristan. "You don't have to go," she said.

He shook his head. "I'm not leaving you, Bamba."

"Lead the way," she said. Secretly, she was grateful Tristan was coming with her. She had enjoyed every minute spent with him and her attraction was growing by the day.

Xxxxxxxxxxxx
Womb of Methandru
Xxxxxxxxxxxx

Marianna came running out as they arrived. Bamba slid from the saddle as the woman rushed up to her. She opened her arms and Marianna embraced her. She had visited her brother many times over the last ten years and they knew each other well. "Bamba! The idiot, he threw himself in front of me."

"Am I too late?" Bamba asked, her voice quivering.

"No, he's still with us."

"Thank the Goddess. What happened?"

"I tell you later. He's poisoned. Kyruby and Senira haven't left his side. They're doing all they can, but he's losing ground. He's weak."

"Take me to him."

Marianna turned and waved over an acolyte. "Care for their horses," she ordered.

Neowald took the reins of Maddox, and the other young man nodded and took the reins of Bamba's horse. Bamba turned to Ebony. "Down, stay," she ordered. The big cat sank down at the edge of the courtyard and watched her. They followed Marianna inside. On the way in, she explained. "The Brevan Head Shaman had a vision and sent people to intercept Neowald or he would have missed you. She also sent a fairy to help."

"That's my mother," Tristan said.

Marianna looked at him. "I'm sorry I didn't introduce myself. I'm Marianna."

"Derek's Master," Bamba supplied.

"No longer."

"What?" Bamba asked in surprise.

"I pronounced him a Master, only moments before the battle broke out. He spotted the first one."

"I'm Tristan. Which fairy did she send?" Tristan asked.

"One called Arianna," Marianna said.

Tristan nodded. "She's the best healer."

"I know. She's the one that saved my brother as an infant and did my reading," Bamba informed him.

Marianna said, "He's had less pain since she arrived." She stopped outside the door and said, "Prepare yourself. He doesn't look good, and I don't want you to show your shock. He needs you, Bamba. He's giving up, I think."

Bamba nodded and took a deep breath. They could hear Arianna singing on the other side of the door.

Tristan put a hand on her shoulder. "You alright?"

She shrugged. "As alright as I'm gonna get, I guess."

He put his hands on her biceps and she peered up at him questioningly. He leaned down and murmured in her ear. "I'm here for you, whatever happens."

She laid her palm on his chest. "Thank you."

She took another deep breath, smiled and nodded at Marianna.

Marianna reached out and pushed the door open softly. Everyone looked up as Bamba strode into the room and right up to Derek's bedside. She was shocked at his appearance. He was soaked in sweat and smelled of vomit. His complexion was nearly gray. Her smile wobbled but was fixed back in place when his eyes opened and he spotted her. She put her fists on her hips. "Derek Depota, what have you gone and done now, you clumsy sot?" she asked.

The corners of his lips turned up and then he coughed. Kyruby wiped his forehead with a wet cloth and he settled back into the pillows. "I think I really knotted it up good this time," he said, his voice scratchy and soft.

"Looks like it," she declared. He blinked slowly and looked at her. Her smile left her face. "You look like crap, bro," she said.

"Nice to see you too," he replied. He sighed. "Can you do something for me?"

"What?"

"Tell Mom and Dad that I love them."

She scowled. "Tell them yourself," she barked. She sounded harsh but she was trying not to cry.

"Bamba, please," he breathed out.

She frowned. "Derek, you give up on me and I'll never forgive you. Fight, damn you."

"I did fight."

"Keep fighting. I'm not going to hear anyone say a Depota is a quitter. Don't you dare give up on me!" she nearly shouted the last.

He smiled wanly at her. "I won't. I'd never hear the end of it. You'd haunt me in the ether, you evil nag."

Everyone chuckled. "You bet I would," she said. She took his hand and squeezed and locked her gaze with him. "Don't you leave me, Derek. Don't you dare. Fight," she spat.

He nodded but then grimaced. She backed up as Kethtia helped him lean to side and vomit again. When someone came in to announce dinner, she left him, promising to come back right after she ate. She walked out the open door. Tristan had stood in the hall the entire time observing the scene. He took her elbow gently and guided her as they followed an acolyte down the hall to the communal dining room. Once out of sight and hearing, Bamba's breath hitched and she moaned.

Her body sagged and Tristan scooped her up, wrapping his arms around her. Her head landed on his broad chest and she began to sob. He spied a bench along the wall and sat down, pulling her sideways into his lap. She clung to him with her arms around his neck and he let her cry herself out. The acolyte had stopped and waited patiently, his eyes averted. "Shhh, I've got you," he cooed to her, kissing her hair as she buried her face in his chest. She didn't rebuff his touch or his chaste kisses of comfort and for that he was thankful. He had a feeling from observing her over the last week or so that she thought she always had to be strong.

He looked up at the acolyte. "It's down there?" he asked.

The acolyte pointed. "End of the hall, turn left. You can't miss it."

"Go on. We'll be there in a bit," he said. The acolyte turned and left.

She whispered through hitching breathes, "I'm so glad you're here with me."

"Until you order me away, Bamba," he replied.

He was still cooing to her, cradling her body in his lap when two sets of footsteps brought his head up. Alice and Sogarth stood a few feet away. "Hey," he said softly. "Thanks for coming."

Bamba was sniffling and still crying, but she wasn't sobbing out of control anymore. "You're mother sent us," Alice said.

"I heard. What the hell happened?"

Bamba lifted her head and Alice handed her a cloth napkin. She wiped her face with it, drying some of her tears. She looked up expectantly. Tristan said, "Bamba, you obviously know Alice and Sogarth Valin."

Bamba nodded. "I do. I met them when I was six years old. Thank you for bringing Arianna here."

Alice smiled. "No problem. We just hope it helps. I'm so sorry. If anyone can help, Arianna can. He already has her mark, so she has a connection with him already."

Bamba slid off of Tristan's lap, blushing and Sogarth chuckled, not helping matters. "Don't worry about us. We're not ones to stand on propriety."

"He has to make it," she said. "It will kill my parents if he doesn't."

Alice nodded. "I know. Your mother is amazing. Feeding him bananas all those years."

Bamba laughed. "You couldn't get him to eat one now on a bet," she joked. "Goddess, he hates them."

They all chuckled, lightening the mood. "Let's get some food in you," Tristan said.

"I don't know if I can eat," she admitted.

Alice said, "You're no good to him if you go in a heap. C'mon. We'll find something you can stomach."

They all went to the dining hall. Bamba nibbled on fruit but didn't eat much. Kyruby appeared and sat with them. She poured out the whole tale, and assured Bamba that Senira was the best, and they were doing everything they could.

"Marianna said he passed his final tests," Bamba said.

Kyruby smiled. "Yes, I keep reminding him there's a crystal staff waiting for him when he gets better."

Bamba smiled. "Good, he needs something to look forward to – a reason to fight."

Kyruby nodded. "Yes, he's worked long and hard for that staff. I'm hoping it will be enough to give him the strength to fight." She paused. "And you being here is also a help."

Bamba frowned. "I hope I wasn't too hard on him, but it's what he would expect of me." She shrugged. "And it was a choice between scolding and sobbing. I chose to scold."

Kyruby patted her hand. "He's glad you're here. Senira was joking, but after you left, she said, 'well, she isn't the warm and fuzzy type, is she?' He laughed for the first time since he fell. He said, 'Marianna, you always thought you were scary to me, but you didn't grow up with Bamba'."

Bamba smiled softly. "I've always looked after him."

Marianna said, "He loves you, talks of you often. Says you were like a second mother to him, always watched him and cared for him while he was growing up while your mother was running the shop."

Bamba got a melancholy look on her face. "Well, you see, it was like this. A fairy showed up one day and diagnosed my brother and told how to cure him of his convulsions. Then she judged me and told me," she cut off, choking up.

Kyruby and Marianna smiled encouragingly.

"He was just an infant then. She told me I would be ranger one day. I still remember it word for word. She told me to help my mother with the babe, that it would not always be hard for me." Tears sprung from her eyes and cascaded down her cheeks again. "I might have disobeyed my mother sometimes, but I wasn't about to disobey a fairy," she said. "From that time on, I considered him my responsibility if my mother was unavailable."

Tristan put his arm around her shoulder. She didn't resist, and in fact, leaned into him where they sat on the bench and laid her head on his shoulder. Everyone was silent, waiting. Finally she said, "It was the most amazing thing that had ever happened to me in my short life. I've done and seen many amazing things but I think that is still the most amazing thing that ever happened to me."

Alice grinned now. "Arianna can be quite humbling."

Bamba smiled. "She humbled me, that's for sure. I was so scared when I first saw you. I thought you were a giant."

Alice laughed. Sogarth chuckled and said, "To a six-year old Elf, yeah, I can see it." Alice slapped him with the back of her hand on his shoulder and everyone laughed again. It was a good release from the tension.

Kyruby finally stood. "I need to be getting back. I'll have a chamber made up for you."

"And me?" Tristan asked.

She startled. "Oh, I thought you were mates. I'm sorry. Of course, I'll have one made up for each of you."

Tristan grinned, but Bamba stuttered, "What? Why did you think, what made you think that?"

Kyruby smiled. "He wears your solaral," she said.

Tristan chuckled. This was exactly what the Elf, Cooper, had thought when he saw it around his neck. He'd asked if he should keep it elsewhere, but she'd said she didn't care.

Bamba said, "I owe him a jhori paer, that's why."

Kyruby nodded. "I see." Her tone indicated that she clearly thought there was more to it.

"May I go with you?" she asked.

"Yes, dear. I'll get a chair brought in for you."

Tristan said, "I'll be along in a bit. I want to talk to Alice and Sogarth." She nodded, stood and left. He watched her till she was out the door and then turned to them.

They were both grinning. "Don't start," Tristan said automatically.

They both chuckled. Alice said, "That's what we thought also when we saw you in the hall."

"I was just comforting her."

Alice nodded sagely, but couldn't wipe the grin off her face. "You like her, admit it."

"Of course I do. What's not to like, but … it's not like that."

"Yet," Sogarth said.

Tristan said, "I want to court her, but I'm not sure she'd be receptive. Then again, I guess the fact that I have this thing around my neck is giving the wrong impression, but she said she didn't care where I wore it. I offered to put it on my scabbard and she said she didn't care; and to wear it wherever I liked."

Sogarth hummed thoughtfully. "I think she was saying that she didn't care if people got the wrong impression. You didn't get the hint."

"What do you mean?" he asked earnestly.

Alice said. "Adonna told us of the solarals after you left and how they are used as shodai'urai."

"Yeah, I know, but also apparently as a jhori paer oath symbol."

"Yes, but she said, if given for a jhori paer, it would normally be put on some personal item like your scabbard or the bridle of your horse or even your knapsack. If worn on your person, like the arm or around the neck, it is usually a shodai'urai."

"I had no idea. It was just the easiest place to wear it and not lose it. I didn't understand the significance," he said quietly.

Sogarth smiled. "But she did."

Tristan felt warmth steel through him. Maybe she was interested after all.

Xxxxxxxxx
Chapter 17
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City of Maruk
Maruk Palace
Xxxxxxxxxx

"Alister trusted few after his return. He gave his ring and manuscript to his daughter, Alison, swearing her to secrecy and bidding her to pass it down to her most trusted descendent before her death. That trusted descendent was me." – Corina Masol – From 'History of the Drow' --
xxxxxxxxxx

Giselle Starborne, Fannen Singer, and Melisande Darmor stood at the front of the room. Seated before them were Cafedra Erim, Witfar Cythril and Casdon Sina from the Mill Valley Caves. Kyruby Ipdorn, Vigoth Doran, and Enoka Safize had come from the Womb of Methandru. Brock and Kethia Wolfsbane, along with their daughter, Amarisa, were there for Brevan. Shania Took was the sole representative from Ocelot. She was a half-elf, trained by Kethtia to adept level, and then left with Zestoria to complete her training many years ago when Kethtia had answered a call to aide the kingdom when evil threatened the Forsaken Mountain.

Giselle's gaze ran around the room, seeing that both Kashmir and Lyzea Tahl were in attendance, as was Colby McKent and Duvan and Cyrida Evver. The doors opened and the late arrival of Ellory and her son, Flynx Starborne completed the assembly.

Both Marianna and Bamba had refused to leave Derek, even for the summit. Tristan had refused to leave Bamba. Senira had stayed behind to treat him. Kethtia asked how Senira was holding up and Kyruby had said, "Poor woman hasn't really slept in days." Derek, however, was on the mend and for that, everyone was thankful.

The King was seated off to the side for once with his Head Paragon, Tiebolt Sklar and a couple of other paragons Giselle didn't recognize. She tapped her staff on the tile floor and it echoed through the room. The murmuring stopped and all was silent.

"Thank you all for coming. For those that may not know, I am Giselle Starborne. I head the council of Elves in Forest Haven. My second is Fannen Singer. On my right is Melisande Darmor. She is an elder mage from Elvin and the most educated on the Drow. She will be taking questions at the end. However, first, I will read a set of scrolls put into a book by one of our ancestors, Alister Mas. These will give you insights rather than me spouting random information. Once I have read this information to you, we will take questions."

The hall was silent as she opened the scroll book brought by Kyruby. She was truly grateful that young Tristan had thought to seek out books on the Drow. It hadn't even occurred to her that any existed. Most of her learning was from small passages in other books during her training as a ranger and her history lessons as a child.

She read on for some time. Everyone listened attentively. The scratching of quills on paper by the King's scribes could be heard, but this was the only other sound. Giselle planned to ask the mages to copy this book many times and have it handed out, and distributed to all the booksellers.

Finally, she came to the end of the book after three long hours of reading. She read the final passages.

"So the day came when Phaer asked me if I felt his jhori paer was paid in full. I knew he'd grown tired of my presence. I also knew that he had enjoyed the opportunity to tell of his people, often bragging of their accomplishments, in particular those achievements of the House of Helvi. Phaer had larger ambitions to tend to – removing his father as the ruling head of House Helvi, for one. I knew better than to suggest he do otherwise. I was a mere observer and powerless to change the hearts and minds of the Drow, and didn't dare try. My life depended on my peaceful agreement to all their demands. I was under Phaer's protection seal while in the Drow underground city of Shar. I also knew that should something happen to Phaer, my life would be forfeit within a day. I still had many questions, but dared not overstay my welcome. So I took the sane path, suppressing my near irrepressible curiosity and shook his hand at the exit of the City. It is located on the far eastern side of Morin just outside the Amazon rainforest. Unable to help myself I asked him, 'And if we should meet again on the surface?' He gave me his trademark smirk and said, 'No mercy, puta.'

"My return to the world after my long absence was met with skepticism. Rather than lie, I fell silent, saying only that I had been lost in wilderness. I had been in a wilderness, just not the one they thought I meant. I had been lost in the wilderness of my own thirst for knowledge and the inability to pass up the chance to see and learn something few ever get to see or learn and live to talk about. Some believed me and some did not. It has been many months since my return. I am left alone for the most part and I have not spoken another word, saving those for these precious pages. To tell of my journey would mean exile, but I am unable to go to my grave without putting my knowledge into the world. I asked Sehanine for the answer as to whether to impart my knowledge. I finished my prayers and went for my daily solitary walk around the lake. Within minutes the opalescence of a stone in the water caught my eye. Bending to inspect it, it was the largest moon pearl I'd ever seen, just lying there. I took it as my omen and began recounting my adventure here on these pages for posterity. I've made the pearl into a ring which will be passed down to my family as an heirloom to the keeper of my secret. Sehanine came to me in a dream saying she would send an omen should my decendant ever release my knowledge into the world. This is the end of my tale. May it have value to someone one day in the distant future."

Giselle closed the book, and sipped on the tea that had been placed beside her to ease her dry throat. She looked up at the assembly and said. "I recommend we take a break and have something to eat. Then we can reconvene. This will give you time to think of any questions you wish to ask."

The King had arranged a gigantic feast and they were all taken to a dining hall and fed well with fresh game and sweet wine. Once reconvened, Melisande took over. She stood from her chair at the front of the room and held up her hand, back side out. Everyone saw an ornate silver ring on her hand. The setting surrounded a huge moon pearl. A few surprised gasps were heard. Melisande, although elderly, was still a beautiful elf with light violet eyes. Her hair was the grayish white of the elderly Elf. They retained their beautiful faces and changed little as they aged. Elves lived to be around hundred years old or so, and Melisande was old even for an Elf at the age of one hundred, twenty.

The signs of her age were in her voice which was thin and reedy but perfectly audible in the room. "I am Alister's great, great, great granddaughter. Darmor is my mother's name. One mage in the family in each generation has been trusted with his story and given his manuscript to be kept safe. Family legend is that Sehanine would give an omen should the story ever be given to the world. Four moons ago, I walked by the lake near Elvin and found a pearl that matches my ring." She gestured to her neck where another huge pearl hung in a silver necklace. "I took this as my omen that the time had come. I knew I was still alive for some reason," she joked.

A few chuckles were heard. "So I copied the manuscript and hired a messenger to take the book to Maruk, after having a vision of the city. It was sold to a Madam Polo, I'm told, where it was purchased by a young Barbarian. He carried it with him to the Womb of Methandru." Brock and Kethtia were smiling. It was then brought here." She paused. "Do you have questions?"

Kyruby stood. "I think it might be prudent to relate the tale of our battle and have anyone else who's had contact with the Drow to relate their stories as well. This may give us insight as well." She went on to tell of the attack at the Womb, of young Derek being poisoned. "I believe this 'silent one' referred to in the text is their name for a Drow assassin and the deep cowl is their trademark."

Melisande said, "You are correct. Is he buried?" she asked.

"Yes, why?"

"Did you save his clothing and jewelry?"

Kyruby smiled. "Yes, I did. I brought them with me."

"You are wise. I will look later and see if I recognize a house sign. There are several House crests illustrated here in the book."

Cafedra stood next and told her tale of the battle at the Mill Valley Caves. They had escaped with no casualties, she believed, because of Casdon's sharp eyes and his warning of an impending attack. Had they been taken by surprise, she surmised the outcome would have been vastly different. "Their tactic seemed to be an overwhelming frontal attack at first, but then we caught others trying to flank and get behind us. I think the frontal attack was a diversion, to take out the mass of the opposition. Then they send individuals with stealth to the flank and rear to try and take out specific targets."

Brock stood next and related the tale of Valasca and her daughter being attacked by a single Drow. He told of her giving up information, but only to save her daughter's life, and that she had lied, underestimating the populations of the areas asked about by at least half.

When he finished, Melisande said, "He was not alone. Only a molael oli travels alone."

Brock frowned. "She saw no one else."

"She would not see the silent one. They tend to hide in trees and observe. They employ stealth, much like your City rogues. They are assassins, but are also information gatherers. I'm certain there was a silent one that heard all she said."

Kyruby said, "Yes! The Drow that stabbed Derek said the woman had lied about how many mages. He meant Val, although we didn't know it at the time. For them to have that information, someone besides the one Remos killed had to have been there."

"Why wouldn't he have joined the fight, defended the other Drow?" Brock asked.

Melisande replied, "He would not care for the life of the other Drow, as long as he got the information. It would be more important to get away with the information than to risk his own life. As the book has told; when the Drow warrior died, he would simply think that it was because he was weak and made a stupid mistake. He was greedy and wanted the woman as well as the information, and so he paid with his life for his inattention. The silent one would not make such a mistake."

Brock nodded and asked, "Why was Brevan not attacked? Not that I want them to, but it doesn't make much sense. The Womb and the Caves were attacked, and they asked for information on Brevan and Forest Haven as well, and yet, they were not attacked."

"I do not know. Perhaps they did not have enough warriors to do a simultaneous attack on all four, so they attacked two, and Thysaer Calael and Brevan may be next."

Shania stood and waited her turn. Then the Ritualist said, "Ocelot was not attacked either. Neither was Meadow Abbey."

"Did he ask about Ocelot or Meadow Abbey?" Melisande asked Brock.

Brock shook his head. "Val didn't mention it, so not to my knowledge."

Melisande replied, "They may not know of them in that case."

"If that's the case, I'd like to keep it that way," Shania replied. "Perhaps whatever they want is not in Ocelot or the Meadow Abbey."

Cafedra scowled. "What the blazes are they doing though? Why attack? What are they trying to gain? What is their purpose? They don't live on the surface, so it's not about territory."

"They are searching for something," Fannen said. "They have to be. Unfortunately, there's no way to know unless one of them brags or spills the news and that's not likely to happen."

Kethtia whispered, "Brock." Then she slumped in her seat and her eyes washed white again. Brock swung around and lifted her into his lap.

"What's happening?" Melisande asked calmly.

Shania said, "She is receiving a vision."

Kethtia was silent for a few moments and then said in a flat voice, "Talk to the Dragon Masters. They can find your answers. For those with the answers will only reveal them to their mothers." She moaned and shook her head and peered up at Brock. He sat her back down beside her but kept an arm around her to steady her.

Ellory and Duvan stood up after everyone turned to look at them where they sat with their spouses. Ellory said, "Sounds like Olima and Zaheng can give us answers," she declared.

Duvan sighed and said, "Guess we're going on another trip. Still have that yellow scale, Ell?"

She nodded. "Still have that green one?" she countered.

They both smiled. Ellory turned and said, "We'll leave right away."

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Chapter 18
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Morin
Zoggar's Clearing
Xxxxxxxxxx

"It is said that that Piasca and Oroborus basked in the worship of the Drow and promised them the favor of Kalai-pahoa as long as tribute was given. This was not theirs to promise, but they took advantage of the Drow's ambitious nature and turned it to their advantage. So the Seekers were bidden to pay tribute to Piasca and Oroborus with ten percent of their acquisitions. Many believed that by giving greater tribute, their houses would be the most favored. This competition between houses caused the death of many Seekers. The silent ones of each house were set the task to kill the Seekers of rival houses and steal their acquisitions so as to increase their tribute to the dragons. In this way, Piasca grew wealthy in a very short time." – Corina Masol – From 'History of the Drow' –
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Flynx and Cyrida refused to let their spouses go to Morin alone and traveled with them through the tunnel. Bruno, Osal, and Losse followed obediently. They traveled with haste, resting only as much as necessary and made it to Morin at dawn of the fifth day. It was the fastest they'd ever made it from one side of the mountain to the other.

They didn't rest then either but went straight to the clearing and placed their scales on the boulder. They were too heavy to blow away, but they placed stones on the corner of each scale just in case. Then they retreated to the trees and pitched their tents. All four were weary to the bone from their hurried race to Morin and fell asleep within minutes.

At mid-day, Duvan lurched upright from under the furs. Cyrida groaned and rolled over. "What is it?"

"They're here. I can hear him in my head." He yanked on his pants, boots and tunic and grabbed his bow and quiver, leaving the rest behind. By the time Cyrida and Flynx dressed and emerged, Ellory and Duvan were already in the clearing, greeting the dragons. The surprise wasn't that Olima and Zaheng were there, but that Zoggar was as well."

Zaheng snorted fire and said, "Good to see you mother. You leave the green scale. What is the trouble?"

"Good to see you too, Zaheng. We've got trouble with Drow in Maruk."

"You wish us to eradicate them?"

"Not really. They are attacking unprovoked and we don't know why. They have gathered information, false as it is on four places and attacked two already. We expect the other to will be attacked soon. Problem is, we don't know what the hell they are after."

They spent some time telling them what had taken place. Duvan asked, "So our shaman said you would know what they were after, so that's the main question. We don't expect to stop the attacks, but I'm guessing having the answer will help us somehow."

Zoggar said, "Let us search our memories."

All three went silent. Dragons had genetic memory; the females of their mother, and the males of their fathers. Although able to access just about anything from memory at will, in Zoggar's case, 1000 years was a lot of crap to sift through.

Olima finally spoke. "My brother and Zaheng's sister were never hatched."

"Right, just you two. We did it that way because your sires were different, otherwise you would be too closely related to mate. You have the same mother but different fathers."

Zoggar suddenly jerked his head and then Zaheng said, "It must be."

"What?" Ellory asked.

Zaheng snorted fire again. "The fifth egg."

Ellory's eyes went round with realization. "Oh my God! The fifth egg. It was a different color. Purple and blue!"

Olima said, "Yes, from your story. The Drow bought Piasca's service with the egg they stole from Quetzacoatl."

"Where are the other eggs?" Zaheng asked. "I never cared really. I knew you took them or they would have still been in the cave.

Zoggar said, "I had Zaheng as my heir and so didn't care about the other eggs. I knew they wouldn't risk my wrath to hatch them and create more rivals for my territory."

Duvan said, "I think Luna wondered why you never inquired about the other eggs."

Zoggar snorted. Fortunately the fire was way above their heads. "I suppose my daughter and Oroborus' son could mate but I just wanted an heir. I didn't fancy sharing my territory with two more."

Duvan said. "They probably remember the story too, and they think if they can find the egg, they could offer it to you for favor. After all, it worked once for House Helvi. And this egg isn't protected by a dragon."

Ellory was thinking out loud. "Judging by the attack on Val though, they don't know what they are up against in Kongel, so they need information on troop strength and likely hiding spots."

Zoggar said, "They lost my favor when they ignored my command to leave the surface dwellers alone and not seek revenge for the death of their warriors. I told them to consider it a sacrifice to me and my cause."

Zaheng actually laughed, a low rumbling sound that shook the ground. "They lost all chance of my favor when they attacked my mother." He meant Duvan.

"Mine as well," Olima. "I have no desire to deal with superstitious worshippers."

Ellory said, "But they don't know that. And Oroborus and Piasca are gone. To them, it may seem that their God's avatars have abandoned them. They are desperate to get back in the good graces of their God.

"Idiots!" Zoggar spat out.

Duvan said, "They may know the egg still exits. After all, no other dragons appeared, and so they know Piasca and Oroborus disappeared before they were hatched. They know you hatched your heirs because they tried to attack us and it brought retribution from you."

Ellory was nodding. "So they are thinking if they can retrieve the egg, it might be a fitting offer to regain your favor."

"Or bring," Duvan began but then stopped.

"Or bring what?" Zaheng asked.

"Crap," Duvan said. "Or bring Quetzacoatl back, appease her by returning her egg," he said.

Zoggar squinted at them. "In your story, what became of Quetzacoatl?"

Duvan sighed. "She fled with her remaining egg."

"She lives?" he asked, his eyes laser focused on Duvan.

"I don't know."

"You knew all along and kept this from me," he accused.

Ellory jumped in. "No, we just found out by reading this manuscript. We told you, Alister's book and his granddaughter's history were just discovered, mere weeks ago for goodness sake."

Zoggar relaxed his posture and they both sighed in relief. Calmly he asked, "What does the book say became of her?"

They had no choice but to tell him now. "Before I tell you, remember we're just going by what the book says. There's no evidence or proof and we have no way of knowing how accurate it is."

"I understand," Zoggar said.

"It says she fled far north of the Amazon rainforest to a marshy, swampy area with her remaining egg. That's all we know."

Zoggar hummed. "Ahhhhh, if she lives, do you realize what this could mean?"

Duvan swallowed. "You could have a mate again."

"Yeesssss," he hissed, flowing spurts of flame from his nostrils. "Where are the eggs?"

Ellory said. "The Elves took one, the Amazons took another and the Barbarians took the third."

"Who has Quetzacoatl's egg?"

Ellory shook her head. "I have no idea who took which one."

"You wouldn't lie to me, would you?" he asked slyly, a hint of a threat in his voice.

Ellory scowled. "No, I wouldn't. The Elven mage handed them out. We were in a bit of a hurry at the time -- and busy, I might add. We were attacked by Drow, remember?" she snapped. She couldn't help making the jab about his mistake. That happened after distributing the eggs, but he didn't have to know that.

"Still bitter, little mother?" he asked.

"It was not a fun day," she replied sarcastically.

He laughed at that finally. "Okay, I concede."

Olima said, "Mother, they may think there were only us two. They may not know of the other two eggs, and think Quetzacoatl's is the only one left, since we hatched."

"You're right, Olima. They'd have no reason to know there were five eggs. But they know neither of you are offspring of Quetzacoatl. She's a water dragon."

Zoggar snorted again. "Not my favorite, but I can't exactly be choosy."

Duvan laughed. "No, your choices are quite limited."

"They have to be after the egg. They haven't found it here, so they think it's in Kongel and they are going to tear it up until they find it," Ellory said.

Duvan said, "But why so few? I mean, they did plenty of damage, but we're talking warrior parties of twenty or thirty and a few assorted information gatherers."

Olima said, "Remember the Drow nature. They are not a unified race. This is probably not a Drow offensive, but a House offensive."

"You're right!" Ellory exclaimed. "One house is searching for the egg to gain favor, probably to topple a ruling house. So each house only has so many warriors and they aren't going to send them all and leave their House undefended."

"And you have killed the ones they sent. They will send more, if they have them, but their resources are going to be limited and they can only sustain so much loss without putting themselves in danger of a House eradication or overthrow by a ruling house."

Duvan looked at Zaheng. "Who is the ruling house?"

"I don't know. I don't pay attention to them."

"Can you find out?"

"Why?"

"Because if you can, and we find out who's against us, we could rat them out. They might tear each other apart and save us the trouble."

"I like this plan. I will find out for you and then search for Quetzacoatl," Zoggar said.

"Will she seek revenge on them?" Ellory asked. "Or us, for that matter. If she finds out we have her egg, that could be disasterous for us."

"Unless we give it up," Duvan said. "We have no use for the eggs. We merely took them to keep them safe. We have to go to the Amazons and Elves and see which eggs they have."

"Didn't Giselle take one too?" Ellory asked. "My God, there may be two eggs in Kongel."

Flynx shook his head. "No, she left it here when she moved to Kongel. I don't know who she left it with though, but we can find out, or just ask them to tell us what color it is. We'll be able to tell from that who it belongs to."

"Okay," Ellory said. "We thank you for the information."

Duvan looked at Zoggar. "Can you wait to search for Quetzacoatl?"

"Why should I?" he asked.

"Because we don't want her to go nuts knowing we have the egg. Just let us find out who has her egg first. We'll convince them to give it back to her. You could use this to entice her as well. I don't know if the egg is male or female but if it's male, she could hatch your daughter and they could be mates. They would be unrelated, your daughter is from you and Piasca. Hers is from her and Oroborus. She must want an heir also. She probably thinks she's the last of her kind as well, just like you did."

"And if it's female?" Zoggar asked.

Olima snorted. "I will kill any rival for Zaheng," she snarled.

Ellory said, "Then Zoggar and she can mate and hatch a male mate for her. She can split her territory with her heirs, like Zoggar did with you. There would be no need for her to come here."

Olima seemed mollified.

"Okay, I will determine the ruling House and get back to you."

"Have Olima contact me," Ellory said. "Flynx and I can stay here until you find out."

"You sure?" Duvan asked.

"We have a house in Elvin, Duvan. It makes sense that I stay and you go back to report once we figure out who has the Q-girl's egg."

Duvan smirked. "Q-girl?"

"That name is a mouthful," she said wryly.

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Chapter 19
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"Drow politics are brutal and succession through assassination is the usual method to advance one's aims. All Drow know of poison, but it is a favorite of the silent ones, who coat their weapons with all manner of foul concoctions. It is said that the House Ruler is the only one that knows the true identity of the silent ones for their own house. It is likely that even Phaer, son to the Helvi House Ruler did not know who the silent one was." – Corina Masol – From 'History of the Drow' --
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Amarisa asked Marina to go on a hunt with her. They were still low on meat and Drow or no Drow, they didn't want to run out. The threat of attack was imminent and if they had to defend against some sort of siege, they were going to need to be well supplied. While not a Master Ranger, Marina was an adept hunter and had snares of her own. Each ranger that used snares generally staked out an area, so their trapping didn't overlap. They didn't want to wipe out an area of wildlife.

Torin was as fine a warrior as any in the Village and he was good with a bow himself. He refused to let Marina go out without him anyway. So he shadowed them as Marina checked her snares, including five of Val's that she never got to check the day she was attacked by Drow.

Amarisa followed and kept her eye out bigger game. A doe sprinted by several yards out and she took aim, but then saw the fawn following close behind and lowered her bow. If it had young, they always let it go. The forest had to be replenished too.

They were close to Forest Haven, maybe only a couple miles south. The roar of a big cat reverberated through the air and they all turned. "Brasca?" Torin asked.

"No, she's with Val in the Village," Amarisa said.

"The little Elf, Bamba has a panther," Marina reminded them.

"It could just be hunting," Torin said.

Marina and Amarisa looked at him like he was crazy. "Cats are quiet when they hunt, Torin," Marina said.

He shrugged innocently. "What do I know?"

"Let's check it out," Amarisa said. They headed toward the sounds of a scuffle and another roar and then whimper of pain floated back to them. They began running.

Amarisa jerked to halt and held up her fist. They stopped and peered through the trees. Two Drow were circling a white lioness. White lions were rare. The cat growled, a spear sticking out her side, and lunged at the Drow with another spear at the ready, pelting his side with a gigantic paw. He dodged, but the claws raked his leather armor and he yelped and rolled, but had not been killed.

Amarisa made quick hand signals, telling Torin to go around behind them and Marina to flank the Drow with the bow. She bent low and moved without a sound to a tree ahead with low branches and scrambled up to the sturdier branches and inched her way out on a sturdy limb, keeping one eye on the fight below. She remembered the tale of the Drow killing the polar bear. Osal was white as well. Perhaps the white fur held some significance to the Drow.

The white lioness was bleeding profusely now, with a spear in one side and an arrow in the other. They were hoping to weaken her. The Drow with the bow slung the bow into a sling on his back and whipped out two long, light swords and began twirling them in a figure eight. The spear Drow lunged with his spear, distracting the cat and the one with the sword moved in for the kill.

Marina's arrow whizzed into the clearing.

One of his blades sliced across the lion's face, but she reared up on her hind leg and swatted at him, sending him flying backwards, and Marina's arrow missed. She heard Torin's battle cry, "Aaahhhhyiyihaihai!" Both Drow turned to meet the incoming threat. Amarisa let an arrow fly and hit the base of the neck on the drow with the swords. He grunted and fell, pawing to get the arrow out his neck. Torin appeared and fought the second one, parrying a couple of stabs from the spear and then swiping his sword across the Drow's neck. He dropped.

She glimpsed the spray of a black cape as a third Drow, unseen before dropped from a tree and circled behind Marina. She hissed, "Marina, you're flank!" She sighted the blob of cape and shot an arrow. He dodged and kept coming. Marina spun and fired at the blob of whirling cape barreling toward her. He grunted but his forward momentum had him raising a long, thin, double-sided dagger.

Amarisa dropped from the tree and sighted the neck of the cape. No telling what he was wearing for armor under that cape. His cowled hood fell back and his head was wrapped in black silk completely covering his head and neck and face, with just eyes peering out. Marina dodged the blow.

Then Torin reached her side to aide her and leaped, his sword coming down, and slicing the man's hand right off his arm. The caped man screeched in pain and twirled, stumbling. Amarisa let her arrow fly and it hit the bulleye. His jugular spouted blood like a fountain in an arc as he fell backwards.

Torin pulled a huge buck knife and stabbed him through the heart. He went and did the same to the other two, making sure they were dead. They all went to the lioness that was flopping on the ground and releasing bellows of air and pain. She'd fallen and driven the spear deep into her body.

Marina frowned. "Oh Methandru," she whispered. She looked at Amarisa. She had tears streaming down her face, but she nodded, and sighted her bow again and put an arrow in her eye. The cat exhaled a final breath.

Amarisa dropped to her knees, folded her hands and bent her head. Torin and Marina stayed standing but folded their hands and bent their heads as well as Amarisa said a prayer to Methandru to take the soul of her child. She stood slowly.

Torin said, "Why didn't she run?"

Amarisa's head came up. He was right. Normally a cat would run from danger. "She should have unless … she was protecting something. Oh heavens!" She looked around frantically and then began trotting in into the trees. "Help me, I'll bet there are kits!"

They began making ever widening circles around the area. About an eight of a mile south, Marina finally found them. "Over here!" she shouted. They came running and stared at the entrance to small recessed cave.

Amarisa went down on her hands and knees and crawled in carefully. There she saw two snow white lion kits. She reached out and picked one up by the scruff of the neck and carefully backed out of the den. She set it down and went back in for the second one. It wasn't a tight squeeze but she had to go in head first and back out. There was no way to turn around in there. She emerged with the second one and held it up by the scruff. She checked the first one. "One male and one female," she declared.

"What now?" Marina said.

Amarisa cradled both cubs in her arms. She felt warmth wash through her and shivered. "In the market for a familiar, Marina?" she asked.

Marina held up her hands palm out and backed up a step. "Oh no! Not me. I'm no Beast Master."

"Well I can't leave them here. And one is my familiar. I just felt it," she said with wonder in her voice. "I can't take one and leave the other. It will die without its mother and … I don't know which one I just reacted to." She could still feel the tingles racing up her arms.

"Put one down at a time and see if the feeling stays," Marina suggested.

Amarisa carefully nudged the male off her lap and the tingles continued. She scratched the female ears and it purred, rubbing its nose on her leather vest. She shivered, but then set it down and picked up the male. The shivers continued. She looked up, confused. "It doesn't stop with one or the other."

Torin sighed. "Well, we need to bury these Drow. How about we go to Forest Haven and get some help. It's not far from here."

Amarisa shrugged and stood up. She fastened her bow back in its sling on her back and then picked up one kit and then other, cradling one under each arm. "Guess I take them both till I figure it out."

Marina grinned and patted her shoulder. "Congratulations … Beast Master," she said pointedly.

Amarisa grinned. "Oh, this should be interesting."

Torin said. "Brock said we should take their jewelry. That mage of theirs, Melisande may be able to identify the House they are from."

They walked back to the fallen Drow, stripped their rings and necklaces and earrings and proceeded on to Forest Haven.

MARINA RAINE


TORIN RAINE


LION KITS

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Chapter 20
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"A Drow's complexion is various shades of black, ranging from dark gray to pitch black. I have surmised that perhaps this may denote family spirit passed from generation to generation but we really don't know. However, most dress in dark blue and black. However, it has been noted that the rulers of families often wear white. It is a symbol of their status as a ruling patriarch or matriarch. Dying leather white with fermented urine is a common practice, which may account for their foul smell. White animal fur is prized highly and one with a white tunic or full white cape would be considered very regal. Anyone bringing white fur to a ruler of a house would be favored and rewarded by said ruler." – Corina Masol – From 'History of the Drow' --
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Duvan and Cyrida emerged from the tunnel and headed for Forest Haven. They figured it was more important to impart their news fast than to return home first. They reached Forest Haven to find the trio of Barbarians already there. Tristan and Bamba had returned as well. Derek was out of danger although still weak, but he was eating solid food on his own now. They had stayed for his crystal staff ceremony and graduation to Master Crystal Mage. Then they had left, with Bamba promising to return soon and check on him.

They were shown to the council building immediately where the council was already assembled and talking with Torin, Marina, and Amarisa. Melisande examined the jewelry carefully, comparing the crests on the necklaces and rings to the illustrations in her copy of Alister's book, while Duvan related their conversation with the dragons.

She looked up and said, "These wear the symbol of House Ardul. The rings are the crest of House Teken. I surmise this means that Teken is a lesser house allied with Ardul."

Duvan added, "Neither of which would be the ruling house, if our supposition is correct."

Melisande nodded. "Yes, these two houses may be joining forces with a plan to overthrow the ruling house. The ruling house may be weakened for some reason. This could prompt a coup attempt. Your scenario makes sense."

Giselle looked around the table. "Now, the question of the hour, Duvan. Who has Quetzacoatl's egg?"

He sighed. "Remos. We checked with the Elves and Amazons. The daughter egg of Zoggar resides in Elvin. The male egg of Oroborus lies in Wyantinock. Remos took the purple and blue egg."

She nodded. "We'll have to inform them."

Cyrida said. "Perhaps we could move it to the City."

Duvan shook his head. "No, the King would never agree to that. He was nervous as a cat in a room full of rocking chairs when we had the hatchlings on this side of the mountain. My bet is he doesn't even know there's an egg in Kongel."

Everyone laughed at his description. "It would be safest there," Cyrida said. "And Kashmir and Lyzea might take it and protect it."

Again Duvan shook his head. "They would attack the Barbarians anyway."

"Yes, but the egg wouldn't be there for them. God help us all if they get a hold of it."

"I don't think that's a danger, but even if they did, Zoggar or Zaheng wouldn't accept it as a tribute. Neither would Olima."

Giselle said, "No, but they could hatch it Duvan."

He stared at her. "They never work with animals."

"But a dragon is not an animal per se. And it is the symbol and avatar of their God. Can you imagine the power that would bring to a house to have a baby dragon?"

Duvan gulped. "I never even thought of that possibility. We were so focused on the story. I figured they had to want it for an offering."

Giselle nodded. "We do NOT want a Drow House with control over a dragon."

Torin said, "Aren't we taking it to Zoggar anyway, to entice Quetzacoatl with it?"

Fannen said, "Yes, but we have to keep it secret until we can get it there. Things are moving swiftly. If that group of Drow was this close to Forest Haven, that means we may be next. Protecting this village is our primary concern right now."

Torin said, "I recommend we retrieve the egg from Remos and send Duvan with a contingent of Barbarians for protection back to Morin as soon as possible. Get the egg out of Kongel. If the Drow surface in Morin, not that I wish them strife, but they are better equipped to deal with the Drow. There are three dragons over there willing to wipe them out if spotted in Morin."

"He has a point, Duvan," Marina agreed. "It may not stop the attacks until they learn it's no longer here, but it would erase the possibility of them getting their hands on it if we can get it to Zoggar quickly."

Giselle contemplated for a few minutes. "Okay, here's my recommendation for what it's worth. We have three things to accomplish. One, we need to send a group of six to bury the Drow that were killed and skin the lion and cut it up for its meat."

Fannen said, "Two, we need to have you, Duvan, go back to Brevan and assemble a team. We'll leave it to your discretion how many to bring with you to transport the egg. The group shouldn't be too big. We don't want to alert them that something of import is happening. I have a funny feeling we are all being watched."

Duvan nodded. "And the third thing?"

Giselle said, "We need to get Amarisa escorted to Brevan with a protection detail as soon as possible."

Duvan sat up straighter. "Why? What'd I miss?

Melisande said, "I think they killed the silent one with those two Drow, but if there was another, they know of the white fur."

"What?" he asked, totally confused.

Amarisa smiled. "Duvan, the fight was because we came upon them trying to kill a lion."

"Why is that significant?"

Melidande said, "Because Drow love white fur. It is a status symbol for rulers."

"A white lion," Marina added, realizing he'd missed the beginning of the meeting. "And Amarisa recovered two white kits."

Duvan smiled, "A familiar?"

Amarisa nodded. "I don't know which one, I'm responding to both."

He smile turned into a full blown grin. "Maybe it's both."

Amarisa's eyes widened. "Both?"

"It's rare – really rare, but it's known to happen."

"Oh Heavens, like I don't have enough problems."

Duvan laughed. "I'll help. Well, after we finish this mess. But both Bamba and Valasca have big cats as familiars. I'm sure they'd help you as well."

She gulped and nodded. "I won't feel safe till I have them behind the walls of Brevan," she admitted.

Fannen said, "I'm going to send four Elven warriors to escort you back to Brevan."

"There's seven of us now. We should be alright," Torin said.

Fannen said, "Better safe than sorry. We've seen myr kyr of six members. They may get larger since those have been defeated, and their offensives on the Womb and the Mill Valley both failed."

Duvan sighed. "Let's hope they are running out of troops."

They all agreed to eat a good dinner, get a good night's sleep and head out in the morning. After dinner, Duvan turned to Amarisa. "Where are the kits?"

"I left them at Bamba's place. She said they would be safe there."

He smiled. "Let's go have a look."

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Chapter 21
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Morin
Amazon Rainforest
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"Drow have been known to defect. It is a rare occurrence as most don't survive the attempt. If they do, they were destined for a life of exile and loneliness, wandering on the fringes of societies to eek out survival. They live under the constant strain of having no family or community to back them up. While politics are brutal among the Drow, they do value family and the safety and protection of their families. They may fight among themselves, but to threaten the family of a Drow was unwise. Like siblings that would like to kill each other, they would fight for that same sibling to the death over a simple insult. – Corina Masol – From 'History of the Drow' --
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Yvette 'Lala' Sanchez stared at the downed moose lying on the ground and sighed. She had a lot of work ahead of her. She talked to Thimosor, her stallion familiar. His name meant 'free spirit'. She'd visited the Amazons about ten years ago to ask permission to hunt on their lands. They'd granted permission and she visited the stables and happened upon him. He was just a colt then, but they'd bonded instantly and he began following her around the barnyard. She'd been there a few days and the young colt had whinnied franticly whenever she came in sight, even leaving his mother to follow her around. The Amazons had begun to breed the mountain stallions of the Barbarians once they had come to live in Wyantinock after the Pass was finished.

She'd left for a long hunting trip. She returned when he was able to leave his mother, and he'd practically been her shadow ever since. He was enormous and Lala was a small girl, but she'd learned to ride him, after getting over a slight fear of how high up in the air she was when perched on his broad back. She bent to her task and gutted the moose. It took almost an hour to remove the antlers, which she planned to keep. They were good for all sorts of things. She couldn't leave it overnight or scavengers would make off with her magnificent kill.

She was glad it was still morning. She had all day to work on it. She skinned it and then began cutting it up and smoking spitted pieces over a fire, resting occasionally and then going back to her task. Thimosor whinnied softly and she stood up from her stooped position where she'd been about to cut into the flank. "What is it, boy?" she asked, as an indistinct warning rushed through her.

She quietly backed from the moose to her familiar. She pulled her bow off the strap she'd fashioned for that purpose that was around his neck, and slipped her quiver strap over her head. She knocked an arrow and her eyes scanned the trees in a circle. Thimosor, stomped a foot and shied to the left. She turned and heard another twig snap. She put an arrow at the ready and aimed it toward the sound.

"Whoever you are, come out with your hands where I can see them."

A soft voice emerged from the trees. "I mean no harm. May I approach?" The voice was soft but heavily accented. She didn't recognize it. It wasn't an Amazon, that was for sure.

"Hands where I can see them," Lala growled.

A figure stepped out of the trees. She wore supple leather gloves and a huge gray cape that covered her from head to ankles. Leather boots showed below the cape which was tied closed. A big cowl hid her face. On her back was a bow, quiver and two long, thin fighting knives in crossed scabbards.

"Show your face!" Lala demanded.

"If I do that, you will not listen," she said. The woman took a step.

"That's close enough," she growled.

"Easy child; I will not harm you."

"What do you want?"

"I need contact with Elvin."

"So go there."

"They will kill me on sight," the voice informed her.

"Why? Are you an exile?" Lala asked, never taking her aimed arrow off the woman's head.

"You could say that. I need a … how do you say? A go-between. May we speak?"

"Drop your weapons," Lala ordered.

The woman obediently removed her knives, bow, and quiver and laid them on the ground. She didn't appear to be carrying other supplies, other than a small food sack. Something was wrong. "Take off your belt," she said.

"Clever," she whispered, and removed her belt, tossing it in the pile. Two large daggers hung in sheaths on either side of it, along with many pouches.

"Remove the knives from your boots," Lala further instructed.

Now the woman chuckled. "I am not dealing with a novice. That is good."

"One wrong move and I put an arrow in your brain. People are not exiled for no reason."

"No, they are not," she agreed. "But I am not really an exile, per se, merely feared and unwelcome."

"Open your cape."

"I'd rather not just yet."

"I said, open your cape! Show me you have no more weapons."

The women unlaced the thong around her waist and opened the cape to show the sagging waist of her tunic where she'd removed her belt but she made sure her chest and face remained covered.

"Nothing in the back of your pants?" Lala asked.

The woman turned her back on her and raised the cape, and carefully lifted her tunic show the waist band of her leather pants. There was no weapon. "May we speak now?"

"Sit, on that log right there. Keep your hands where I can see them."

Lala was sensing something wrong, but she couldn't figure out what it was. Was the woman hideous, scarred, and afraid to show her face? Would she recognize her if she did? The woman closed her cape around her, moved forward to the log, out of reach of her weapons, and sat on the log, then slid her hands to her knees. Her head was bowed ensuring the deep cowl did not reveal her face. Lala glimpsed a silk scarf around her neck inside the cowl.

"What do you want?"

"I am a traitor to my people. I wish to help you."

"Me?"

"Not you personally, but the … people of this kingdom."

"Help them with what?"

"They are soon to be attacked. The ones on the other side of the mountain are already being attacked."

Realization washed through Lala and she hissed, "You're Drow!"

"Yes, child," she admitted, but held up her hands. Despite that Lala had no illusions she could defend herself. Not everyone needed weapons. She slipped her hood off and pulled down the silk scarf that surrounded her head and covered her face and neck. It pooled around her collar and her hair spilled out over her shoulders. Lala was surprised by her beauty. Her skin was light for a Drow and her lips were full. Her white hair and eyebrows were streaked with blonde. She'd thought their hair was always just white.

"Are you a mage?" she inquired.

The woman chuckled. "Would that I were; but no, I am a Seeker."

"What's that?"

"I acquire wealth for my House in the form of metals and gems."

"You mean you steal them," Lala said.

The woman chuckled. "Yes, you would see it that way, although we do have some secret mining places."

"Why shouldn't I kill you where you sit?" Lala hissed through clenched teeth.

"Because I have valuable information, and unless you aide me, I will be put to death for my treachery."

"Why should I care if they lop off your head?" Lala asked.

The woman chuckled again. "How very … Drow of you dear, such an attitude."

"Don't play games with me," Lala warned. "And I'm not your 'Dear'. Why would you betray your House?" She'd only recently learned of all the trouble in Kongel from Flynx and Ellory who were currently still staying in Elvin. "You would lie to me when the truth is better. You're Drow!"

The woman sighed. "What's your name, child?"

"What's yours? And stop calling me child. I'm 38 years old."

"Very well, I have merely much longer than you."

"Which means you are dangerous to have lived so long," Lala countered.

The woman nodded. "I am good at what I do. My name is Vincenza. May I have yours?"

"Your worst nightmare."

The woman laughed now. "You have spunk. I like it, but if you don't wish me to call you child, you'll have to offer an alternative."

"Yvette."

"Well, Yvette, I have a proposal for you. I wish you to take me to Elvin and arrange a meeting with their council."

"All the while wondering when you're going to stab me in the back? No, thank you," she said pluckily.

"You are cautious and wise for a puta. I admire that."

"We may not be so far below you as you surmise," Lala spat back.

The woman smiled. "No, I don't think you are. I have never really believed that. To say so in certain company, however, would be most unwise."

"I'd imagine," Lala said sarcastically.

"Are you mated, Yvette?"

"None of your business," she said automatically. Her husband was a Half-Elf from Ocelot that had moved to Dawnrest with her fifteen years ago. He was a warrior named Edward Veldar.

"Okay, that's fair. Will you help me?"

"I don't know. You still haven't told me why you would do this."

"Because they killed my mate."

"They who?"

"The ruler of my House. My mate opposed a plan of war that is taking place on the other side of the mountain. For merely voicing his opinion, he was killed. I have often hunted the outskirts of this territory and observed the Amazons and the humans. I have learned much of their life and even admired many parts of it. Unlike my mate, Angaste, I never told of my opinion. I knew it would get me killed. I spend more time on the surface than below. It has changed me."

"That what put the blonde in your hair?"

The woman nodded. "Yes, this is a sign that we linger during daylight too often. It has already been remarked upon. We are supposed to do our seeking only at night. I told them that is why I am Prime, because I put no such limitations on myself. When they killed Angaste, I realized I gained more than tolerance for surface dwellers. I realized that I had begun to enjoy the sunlight on my face," she remarked.

Lala's arm was shaking from holding her bow and she finally sat down on another log, setting her bow beside her, but keeping her hand on it. "What else have you gained?" she asked, not letting her guard down but relaxing a bit as the woman had made no move from her position on the log, no attempts to come closer.

"An appreciation for some of things you can do. Several myr kyr have been sent and not returned. Two contingents of warriors have gone to Kongel and not returned. This can mean only one thing."

"They were killed," Lala said, having heard of the battles in the Womb of Methandru and at the Mill Valley Caves. The woman nodded. "And this does not make you hate us more?"

"No. It gives me admiration for your battle prowess. It is no easy thing to take down a contingent of Drow warriors."

Lala smiled. "I suspect your race has always underestimated us."

"Why do you think that?"

Lala replied, "You call us puta. Is this not the word for 'lesser', in your language?"

The woman smirked. "Yes, it is. Depending on context, it can mean lesser or outsider."

"We are not lesser than you," Lala said firmly.

"Then what are you Yvette?"

"Just different, Vincenza. Just different."

"We are taught that different is wrong. From the time we are children, it is drilled into us that we are the chosen race and that we are better than everyone else."

"You don't believe that," Lala stated.

"If that were true, we would win every battle against puta, no?" she said, with a touch of irony in her voice.

"What information is it that you wish to pass on?"

"Information about the attacks, troop strength, their intentions. They betrayed my love and I find I have no heart to defend them. I want them destroyed as they have destroyed me with his death."

"We know their intentions."

The woman actually looked startled. "You do?"

"They are looking for the dragon egg," Lala said.

The woman now looked surprised. "You figured that out."

"Yes, we are not as … stupid as we appear to you."

"Apparently," she said.

"So you'd have to have something more valuable than that nugget of information. Tell me something I don't know."

"They have a list of possible places. Their plan is to attack them systematically and turn the places inside out looking for it. That plan has been stalled because their defeats, but they are regrouping and planning for more attacks but with larger numbers."

"How many soldiers do you have?"

"Hundreds."

"From just your house?"

"From two houses that have joined forces. They want to overthrow the House of Xun."

Lala worked hard to keep her face blank. This was part of the information they were looking for. "That is the ruling family, I take it?"

"Yes, I am from the House of Ardul, the Second House as it is called. Our allies, the House of Teken have joined forces with us. The idea is to join our families to become a larger force once the coup is achieved and retain power."

Something in the way she said it made Lala say, "But that's not going to happen, is it?"

The woman raised her eyebrows. "Why do you ask?"

It was Lala's turn to smirk with skepticism. "Drow do not share power."

The woman smiled, showing her teeth. "You are wise for one so young. My house plans to double cross the House of Teken, once the coup is achieved."

"And if House Teken were to find this out before the coup?" Lala asked slyly.

Vincenza replied, "It would definitely cause some … strife."

"Enough to dismantle the plan and kill their dream?"

"It is possible."

"So why are they going to attack Elvin?"

"Because they have not found the egg or heard any mention of it and they are beginning to doubt their assumption that it was taken out of the kingdom."

"And you think people would talk about it all the time?"

"We would. The possession of a sacred dragon egg would be big news in Shar. Many thought this was the reason for the creation of the mountain pass."

"That would be crazy! It took years to build that pass. Why would we do that just to transport an egg?"

The woman looked at her. "We do not think like you do. You do not realize the value of the egg to the Drow. Just to possess it would bring great power."

"Was it to be an offering?" she asked.

"That was one idea."

"And the other?"

The woman was silent.

"If you want me to trust you, tell me something I don't know," she said firmly.

"I risk my life if I tell you this information."

"You risk your life by sitting here talking with me. What's the difference?"

The woman contemplated for several moments and then said, "You are right. My life is probably forfeit anyway." She paused. "They plan to try and hatch it."

"That's a minimum two-year commitment and you don't have Beast Masters."

"Why would we need a – what did you call it? -- a Beast Master?" the woman asked.

Lala snorted. "Are you serious?" She laughed then. "You people have no idea what's involved, do you?"

"What do you mean?"

"You think it just pops out with all the knowledge it needs to live?"

Her brow furrowed.

"It will bond with the first person it sees and think of that person as its mother. The mother must feed it for several months until it learns to hunt and develops whatever defense it has. Who do you think teaches it to fly? Who do you think teaches it to hunt? Who provides its meals until it can do so for itself?" she rattled off, her voice increasing in amusement with each fired question.

"This is true?"

Lala just shook her head as though amazed at the woman's ignorance.

"It would not know these things?"

Lala stared at her. "It will be a baby. Just as any creature is a baby. It relies on its mother to teach it skills it needs to survive."

"We believe that Kalai-pahoa imbues his avatars with his essence and teaches them all they know."

Lala laughed out loud then and the Drow woman growled at her which made her cut off the amusement abruptly. "I'm sorry, but that's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. I do not know of your God, and don't want to frankly, but a dragon is a creature of sentience, its true, but they are a creature of nature, and subject to her laws as every living creature is subject to her laws. It must learn, it must eat, and it must grow into its survival through experience. While I admit they are stronger than most creatures, they are not magical, Vincenza. They are merely intelligent and able to converse. And, by the way, how do you think they learn to speak? Magic? No, their mothers teach them to speak."

The woman was staring at her with equal parts admiration and consternation. "I can tell by the conviction in your voice that you believe this and are not lying to me, as far as your beliefs go anyway. This does not mean that you are correct," she said defensively.

Lala chuckled. "I don't think it's true. I know it's true. I'm sorry, but this is rich. We know more about dragons than the Drow?" she asked rhetorically.

"Never!" the woman said in a huff.

"I can prove it to you."

"How?"

"I'll make you a deal. If I arrange a meeting with the council in Elvin, and you swear to answer any and ALL of their questions without reservation," she began. She paused. "I will prove it to you, that what I have said about dragons is true." She was taking a risk that Ellory and/or Duvan would go along with her plan, but it was an offer too sweet for the Drow to refuse. To have information on the avatars of their God, even though she planned to turn traitor was just too inviting.

"I will make this deal," she said.

"I cannot take you straight there. I will need to speak to them before I bring you in."

"Okay, but I cannot be seen. Most would try to kill me on sight."

"Tell you what; help me finish cutting up this moose and packing the meat, and we'll find a place for you to hide until I come get you to bring you in – or worst case, I tell you they couldn't be convinced, in which case, I will question you and pass along the information."

Lala did the cutting, not trusting the woman with a knife. She did give her a scraper and had the woman scrape brains into the hide to preserve it until she could cure it. Then she had her rolling the smoked meat into cured hides she'd brought for the purpose. The woman watched as she packed the pieces into huge leather saddle bags, two sets of them. "Cover up," she told the woman.

While she put her silk scarf on and tied up her cape around her again, Lala retrieved her weapons. She tied her bow and quiver to the strap next to hers. The knives she stashed in her knapsack.

"You would leave me defenseless?"

"I only look stupid," she said sarcastically. "I don't fancy a knife in the back. If we are attacked, which is unlikely if you keep yourself covered, then I will return your bow. Are you any good with it?" she asked.

The woman snorted. "Of course, I'm the best," she said haughtily.

Lala mumbled, "I doubt it."

She took her saddle bags and one set she draped over the horse's saddle, the other behind it. She tied the antlers to the saddle horn, balancing them across the saddle. Thimosor fluttered his lips and she said, "Don't worry, Thimosor. I won't make you carry me too."

The woman looked at her like she had two heads, talking to the horse. "What do call him free spirit?" she asked.

Lala huffed. "It's his name."

"You name your horse?"

Lala snorted. "He's my familiar."

"Ah, I have heard of these familiars, rangers of prowess that can communicate with animals. Most Drow view it as a myth."

"Another miscalculation on their part," Lala said. "One of many, I'm sure." She put her knapsack on her back. "And they call us Beast Masters. There are trappers, hunters, Master Rangers, and then us, the Beast Masters. We are the top of the food chain in our profession." She locked eyes with the woman. "I'm very good at what I do also." The warning was clear.

"You trust the animal not to run away with your bounty?"

Lala just smiled and said. "Come," she said without answering the question. She made a hand signal to Thimosor and a short whinny. She began to walk. The woman startled when the huge stallion turned and began to follow them.

Lala grinned but made sure the woman didn't see it. She brought her to a cave near the base of the mountain. It was about a mile and a half from Elvin. She gave the woman one of her large knives from her belt and her food sack but took the rest. "Stay here, and stay quiet. Don’t come out. I'll come for you once I have an answer from the council."

"Will they listen to a human?" the woman asked.

Lala smiled. "We aren't like you, Vincenza. We respect other races and we cooperate. Our Gods have declared this the Age of Cooperation. Those that cooperate with their fellows are to be rewarded. Those that don't, well." She shrugged, leaving that hanging. "If you are not here when I return, I will assume you have betrayed me."

"I won't betray you. I know you have no reason to trust me, but why would I risk my life to talk to you?"

"To pass on misinformation, to learn of our defenses and numbers, to find out where the egg is. I can think of about ten other reasons."

The woman smiled. "I get it, but I swear. There is revenge in my heart for my lost love, but I will not betray you. I wish to leave the Drow."

"Leave the Drow," Lala said carefully.

"If I go forward with this, I will no longer be welcome and my life will be forfeit."

"If they know it was you."

"When I don't return at the appointed time … they will give me some leeway, but they will know I have strayed."

"And straying isn't allowed," Lala concluded. "All right. We have a tentative truce."

"You will not bring warriors to kill me?" she asked.

Lala stared at her. "No, if I wanted you dead, I could do that myself," she stated firmly. "I'll be back. It might take a day or so, so don't get nervous if I'm not back by morning."

The woman swallowed. Something about the way the young woman had said she could kill her herself, made her wonder. She had not thought puta had such courage. She doubted this was true and figured it was bravado on her part, but … then again, there had been no doubt or hesitation in the statement. There was more these surface dwellers than she had thought. Much more.

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Chapter 22
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Elvin
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"The Drow fear few things, other than assassination by rivals or humiliation in battle and the loss of courage. This is more a superficial fear though, experienced only if they doubt their own superiority or prowess, which isn't often. There is only one thing that the Drow truly fear, and ironically, it is also the thing they revere above all others – the dragon. For the wrath of a dragon is to the Drow, the wrath of their God, Kalai-pahoa." – Corina Masol – From the "History of the Drow' --

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She had gone to Dawnrest first and dropped off the meat in her cellar storage, along with the antlers for later use. Then she mounted Thimisor and took off for Elvin. It was just dusk when Lala reached the gates of the Elven village. The watch admitted her, recognizing her and her great stallion. She went to Ellory and Flynx's house first and told them of her encounter with the Drow.

Flynx was skeptical but Ellory thought it could be a good opportunity to learn what they needed to know. It was also confirmation that the House of Ardul was behind the attacks, as Melisande had determined in Forest Haven. They went together to the council and a meeting was called.

Amandine still headed the Elven Council and she listened attentively to the whole tale. "I hesitate to bring a Drow into our midst," she said finally.

Lala said, "Well, we could meet her at a neutral location, but she may be less forthcoming if we insist that she expose herself that way. She understands the risk she is taking."

"You trust her?" Amandine asked.

"Not at all," she said casually. "And you shouldn't either, but like Ellory said, she did voluntarily give up her weapons and she is taking a risk."

Vanwen said, "The Drow will follow Yvette. It hink this is the situation Sehanine hinted at when she lead us to you so long ago."

Tanrathon, the old Druid said, "I have another idea." He had passed his position as Head Druid to Losara, who was also on the council, but he retained his seat at the table.

"What?" Amandine prompted.

"Despite her betrayal, or supposed betrayal, she clearly still reveres the dragons. If Ellory could introduce her to Olima, she might be more unwilling to lie to her," he suggested.

Ellory's eyes lit up. "Yes, and Yvette promised to reveal the truth of her information regarding hatchlings. We could use that to get her there, and then I can feed Olima questions. She won't lie to her."

"I don't want to bring her into the village. Someone might kill her out of fear if they discovered her here. Besides, I'd rather she didn't know the layout of the village or any other information about us until we know more," Amandine said.

Flynx added, "Plus, Duvan is coming back with the egg from Remos. He will bring it here. We don't want her anywhere near it. Even if her stated intentions are true and she plans to give up her life with the Drow, that might be too much of a temptation."

"I agree," Amandine said.

Ellory said, "Something bothers me though. Apparently, even though Zoggar told them to leave us alone, they are willing to risk attack here. That bothers me a lot."

Heads were nodding in agreement around the table.

Flynx said, "But perhaps Zoggar only spoke to some Drow, meaning whatever House they were from knows the edict and the others don't."

"Possible," Ellory replied. "We can ask her, but again, who knows if we'll get the truth."

"I'd bet the ruling House knows, but her House may not know of the edict," Losara said.

Ellory sighed. "Well, we know the ruling house now, Xun. We could just have Zoggar rat out the House of Ardul and Teken."

Lala said, "I think we should hold off on that. It's an option, but if we do that, we have betrayed her. She may be willing to leave them and go into exile, but that doesn't mean she wants the whole family destroyed. If we do that, we have to do it after we get whatever information from her we need."

"The young one is right," Tanrathon said.

Somehow, it wasn't an insult coming from him, Lala thought, remembering how it grated when the woman had called her a child.

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Duvan arrived in the morning with Cyrida and a contingent of six Barbarian warriors. Alice and Sogarth were among the six. He delivered the egg to Losara, who was in possession of Zoggar's egg as well. He was briefed on the appearance of Vincenza and her proposal. After much discussion, they decided that Losara and Vanwen, who was now the Head Mage, would accompany them to gather the information.

Duvan, Cyrida, Ellory, Flynx, Losarra and Vanwen, along with Alice and Sogarth for extra protection, set out to the cave led by Lala. She missed Edward, but he'd long ago accepted that she would periodically be gone for long hunting trips. He had no desire to follow her around on these trips. He was a good warrior, but stealth and subtlety wasn't his thing.

She told everyone to wait outside the cave entrance and she went in alone. She had her bow at the ready, just in case the woman attacked, but she sat calmly on a rock eating some venison jerky when she appeared. The woman looked up, indicated the stick of jerky and said, "I didn't think risking a fire was a good idea."

Lala nodded. "I am here with my brother and his wife, Ellory. She is a Dragon Master, as is her brother, Duvan, who is also with us."

"Dragon Master? What is this?" she said, sounding alarmed.

Lala smiled, not answering her question. "We have a couple other friends with us, but they will not harm you as long as you make no hostile actions."

"What is a Dragon Master?" the woman hissed.

"They can call the dragons. I told you I would prove my knowledge as an act of good faith. Yours will be to accompany me while I do so."

"No one can call a dragon," she said.

"Let's find out, shall we?" she said slyly.

Ellory and Duvan had already left their scales on the rock and contacted Olima and Zaheng, to let them in on what was going on. The dragons were waiting for their call to enter the clearing. They'd worked out a plan speaking telepathically. It was a bit staged, but they hoped it would be dramatic for the Drow and force her into total truthfulness.

She snatched up her small pack of food and her knife. Lala handed her the belt with the other knife. "You return another weapon," the woman said, strapping on her belt of pouches and the second knife, which had all been inspected. "It might be your first mistake," she said.

Lala got up in her face. "It's an act of good faith. Don't make me sorry." She paused and then said, "I don't trust you, but I do not fear you either." She turned her back on the Drow and strode out of the cave.

Vincenza couldn't help but admire her. Among the Drow, turning your back meant you had no fear of the person, and was almost an insult to their abilities as a fighter. She wasn't sure if the girl knew this, but figured she was either awfully brave or awfully stupid. Something told her she was not stupid. This puta was turning out to be a constant surprise. She took a deep breath and walked out of the cave.

She covered her gasp, but came to an abrupt halt when she saw the putas before her. The two tall ones had fairies on their shoulders and huge broadswords on their backs. An Elven druid was standing casually with her hand on the neck of an enormous white tiger. And a blonde human was there with a white wolf. A smaller blonde stood off to the side with a huge white polar bear lounging beside her on his butt. Next to her was a Half-Elf man with a black bear next to him. "What is this?" she hissed.

Lala smiled and said, "You said Beast Masters were a myth to most Drow. I thought I'd introduce you to a few … besides myself of course." They each bowed slightly as they were introduced. She indicated Flynx. "This is my brother, Flynx and his familiar, Bruno. That's his wife, Ellory, and Osal, her familiar and Losara, Head Druid of the Elvin council and her familiar, Tanga; Head Mage Vanwen of the Elvin council. The big ones in the back are Barbarians; Alice and her fairy, Arianna and her husband, Sogarth, and his fairy, Nilex. And last but not least, Ellory's brother, Duvan, and his familiar, Losse. That is Cyrida, his wife. You've already met Thimosor. Everyone, this is Vincenza."

Lala paused and let her take it all in. She supposed the sight was quite intimidating to the uninitiated. Including herself, there were five Beast Masters standing here. While more common than they used to be, to see five in one place was a bit awesome. She gave the woman credit. Other than her abrupt halt and silence, she'd shown little in the way of surprise.

"Are you alright?" Lala asked.

"Yes," she said quietly. "I have just never seen so many different animals in one place. You have control of them?"

Lala replied. "Of course we do. We are Beast Masters." It was said boastfully, but she knew modesty was not going to impress this woman.

Vincenza swallowed and nodded.

"Follow me," Lala said. Vincenza followed. She looked around in a near-nervous gesture as the rest fanned out in a circle around her as they proceeded to the road and continued on. She never thought a group of puta would give her pause, but she realized she had a lot to learn still. If she was to survive, she would need to respect their ways even if she didn't agree with them. The Drow would consider her attitude soft, as they considered all puta soft in mind and courage.

They hiked to the clearing. Silence reigned for the first half hour but then small side conversations started up. They were all careful not to say anything too revealing in case the Drow was false in her intentions, but they inquired about each other's families and such.

When they reached the clearing, they fanned out along the tree line at the back side of it. Lala said, "Follow them, stay between them."

Vincenza stepped in between Ellory and Duvan. Duvan and Ellory commanded Losse and Osal to stay and they sat down, watching attentively. They strode into the clearing, stopping about twenty yards out. Vincenza asked them quietly. "What are you going to do?"

"Call the dragons," Ellory said casually.

They both looked up and closed their eyes, putting a bit of a theatrical spin on it and called to Olima and Zaheng in their minds. Out loud, all they said were the names quietly. Nothing happened for about thirty seconds and Vincenza smirked, clearly unimpressed. She'd just crossed her arms on her chest and said, "You are wasting my time."

Just then two snarls, one right behind the other, sounded in the air. Two specks appeared on the horizon. They flew in fast and grew huge in their sight within seconds. Vincenza actually stumbled backwards. She watched in horrified amazement as the two dragons arrowed toward them. They flew in sync and together backflapped their wings and came to land within yards of Ellory and Duvan.

They each lowered their heads toward them. Vincenza gasped and went down on her knees. Zaheng said, "You called, Mother?"

Duvan smiled. "I did, thank you for coming."

Olima looked at Vincenza and hissed, "What is that? Don't they know not to harm you? Was killing their kin too subtle? I'll kill it for you, Mother."

Vincenza actually whimpered as Olima took a step forward and pointed her nose at her. Ellory put up her hand. "No, Olima. We promised her protection in exchange for information. I gave my word."

"You don't want me to kill it?" she asked, sounding confused.

Ellory suppressed her grin. She was playing her part to perfection. "No, I do want you to question it though. We need information she has."

Olima raised her head, snorted and fire blasted out of her nostrils over their heads. "Alright, because you asked, I won't kill it. I wouldn't want you break your word."

Vincenza was staring, her mouth hanging open, unable to believe the small puta had saved her life. She had been sure she was toast, but the dragon had obeyed her. She was shaking with fear and struggled not to let it show.

Duvan said, "We know why they are attacking on the other side of the mountain but need to know how to stop them."

Zaheng moved his head closer to Vincenza. She stood and stumbled back two more steps. "Please, I'll tell you anything you want to know," she shouted.

Zaheng cocked his head to one side and stared at Vincenza. "My mother lives on the other side of the mountain. I would be most displeased if harm were to come to my mother," he said. "Perhaps I should go there and remove the threat for you," he said to Duvan.

Vincenza gulped.

"I don't think you need too, Zaheng. But I would appreciate any information you could give us to help fight the threat."

"Why are they attacking?" Olima asked.

Vincenza said, "They are looking for a dragon egg, Quetzacoatl's. Not yours!" she added hastily.

"Why?" Zaheng asked.

"It would bring power to their House." She didn't even realize she had separated herself from her brethren with that statement. It was her house too.

"How?" Olima asked.

"Just having it, or they thought maybe they could offer it to Quetzacoatl for her favor or you. Piasca destroyed a House in exchange for that egg centuries ago."

Olima roared and everyone cringed. "You would lure another dragon to MY territory! If she returns, I'll destroy her!"

It went on this way for an hour. Zaheng and Olima were relentless; being fed questions telepathically by Duvan and Ellory they alternately plied her with questions and threatened her. By the end of it, Vincenza was shaking and stuttering, convinced that the two Beast Masters had saved her life several times by interfering with the dragons' wrath.

At end, they knew the name of the ruling house, troop numbers, the order of attacks planned, and various other tidbits of information. "I think that will do it," Duvan said.

Zaheng sighed in the silence that floated over the clearing for a few moments. "What do we do with you?" he asked rhetorically.

Vincenza sniffled. "Please, spare my life."

Zaheng turned his head to Duvan. "Should I spare her, Mother?"

Duvan seemed to consider.

Vincenza whispered, "Please, I beg you. I'll do anything you ask."

Duvan said, "Yes, I think you should spare her. She has been honest with you, right? She told you what you wanted to know. That's worth her life if she swears an oath to you not to harm us or lie to us."

Zaheng turned to Olima. "My beloved?" he asked her

Olima said, "If Mother agrees, I don't wish to cause her grief."

Vincenza stared at Ellory, her eyes begging for mercy. Ellory turned to Olima. "I vote she be spared as well, as long as she swears an oath. She has given valuable information. That is worth a lot to me. It would be unfair to kill her when she's cooperated. They are a deceitful race, but I would not have it said that I am deceitful also by going back on my word. I don't wish to stoop to their level."

Olima said, "Then she shall be spared."

"Get my scale, please, Mother," Zaheng said. Duvan trotted to the boulder in the clearing and retrieved his and Ellory's scales and came back with them. He laid them on the ground between the dragons and Vincenza.

Zaheng said, "Swear over our scales that you will never harm my Mother's people and you will never lie to them."

Vincenza knelt before the scales. "I swear I will never harm your Mother's people or lie to them."

Olima said, "If they grant you sanctuary, you will learn their ways and live among them as a friend."

Vincenza nodded.

"Swear it!" Olima barked out.

"If granted sanctuary, I will learn their ways and live among them as a friend."

Olima bent down closer and Vincenza gasped. "You understand the penalty for breaking an oath sworn over a dragon scale?" she asked, the threat clear.

"Yes, sacred one."

"What is the penalty?" Olima asked. "Say it!" she barked.

"Death," Vincenza whispered.

Olima raised her head. "Don't forget it, Drow." She turned to Ellory. "It was good to see you again, Mother."

"You too, Olima. Be well."

Zaheng looked at Duvan. "You know the location of the eggs?"

"Yes, I do," he nodded.

Vincenza looked up. "Eggs?" she whispered softly. She hadn't known there was more than one. No one answered her inquiry.

"Would you bring them to us for safe keeping?" This had already been agreed upon, that they would bring the eggs, especially Quetzacoatl's to Zoggar, but Vincenza didn't know this. Having Zaheng request it of Duvan was a ploy to give him power and status in Vincenza's eyes as a Dragon Master.

"You will be sure to keep them safe and hidden from the Drow?" Duvan qualified.

"Yes, Mother."

"Then I will bring them to you. It will take some time to transport them."

"I will wait for your call, Mother. Be well."

"Be well, Zaheng. Till we meet again."

The two dragons walked back several steps, turned and kicked off into the air, rising gracefully and disappearing over the horizon. Ellory and Duvan turned to Vincenza. "Are you all right?" Ellory asked.

"I will be," she whispered.

The others emerged from the tree line and surrounded her. She stood slowly and faced Ellory and Duvan. "You have humbled me. This is not an easy thing for a Drow to say. I request malesia." Sanctuary.

Vanwen stepped forward. "You will return with us. Elvin will grant you sanctuary so long as you hold true to your oath."

Vincenza nodded. "I will swear fealty to your leader."

"Very well, then. Come with us."

Ellory and Duvan retrieved their scales, and put them in their packs. The group made their way back to Elvin.

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Chapter 23
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Brevan Village
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"Most marriages are arranged among the Drow. Often children of a ruler will marry children of a Second House, to solidify solidarity and allegiance. Despite this, love, while not usually a deciding factor in anything, does occur among the Drow. It is rare, but a Drow in love can be a vicious and fierce thing. It is the one thing, other than ambition that can cause a Drow to act with treachery, even turn against their own house." – Corina Masol – From 'History of the Drow' --
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Remos watched Val squeezing the hide covered ball, stuffed with sand. Her hand was still not back to full strength. While she could grip her bow, she didn't have the strength yet, to fully extend it. She was restless and he was glad when Amarisa had appeared with her new charges and requested Val's help. She'd thrown herself into assisting with the training of the lion kits.

Duvan had determined that they both had bonded with Amarisa after conducting some tests. Both kits suffered separation anxiety if kept away from Amarisa for too long. They were younger than most that chose to bond with a Beast Master. Duvan surmised that this might be the reason they both had latched onto her as their mother in the absence of their real mother.

Remos could only grin when Val told him of Bamba's decision to stay in Brevan for a while and help as well. Between Brasca and Ebony, they should be able to help the overwhelmed Amarisa train her new familiars. Remos commented, "She will help, but it's an excuse to stay near Tristan."

Val had laughed. "I know. She's quite transparent."

"Everyone seems to know it but Tristan," Remos said affectionately.

Val had given him a sly look. "I think he knows, but he's careful, doesn't want to blow it."

"Young love," Remos had said airily.

"Old love isn't so bad either," she countered. Remos had been his usual affectionate self with hugs and kisses but not asking for anything more.

He'd kissed her and murmured, "No, it's not. You up for some old lovin'?" he teased.

"Bring it on."

Xxxxxxxxxx

Tristan thanked Wolfer for his commissioned bracers and slipped them into a cloth drawstring bag. He made his way over to the guest cabin where Bamba was staying. Sogarth's comment while at the Womb about Bamba knowing what the talisman meant worn around his neck had nagged at him. He'd wondered if it meant anything. In the days that followed he'd admitted that he was totally taken with the lithe Beast Master. He'd only had one lover as a late teen when his hormones were raging, but it was short lived and the intimacy had left him feeling empty. He'd foregone any other relationships after that to concentrate on his training.

Bamba was the first woman to ignite desire in him since then. While his mother was a Half-Elf, and his grandmother was an Elf, he'd had limited contact with the Elves since they'd created their community in Forest Haven. His life had been spent in Brevan and the surrounding forest. He'd been to the City and the Womb and the Caves before as a young boy on sight seeing trips his father had taken him and Amarisa on, but the history of those places he'd learned from lessons and books as a child.

His mother and grandmother were so integrated into the tribe, that they didn't talk much about the traditions and history of the Elves, although they knew a great deal and would answer questions if asked. When Bamba had agreed to stay on for a bit and help Amarisa train her new familiars, he'd been elated. It would give him more time with her. She'd accepted every invitation to hunt, and he'd taken her on an in depth tour of the Village and its surrounds. She'd listened attentively as he took her through the hives and stables and gardens, explaining their habits and communal style of living.

While she'd made no romantic overtures, she always seemed eager to spend time with him, when she wasn't helping Amarisa. Amarisa had asked him to come and guard the training sessions in the meadow, saying she couldn't concentrate if she was constantly looking out for intruders and danger. Then she'd winked, and he knew she was helping to keep him involved and around the Elf that had caught his eye. Remos often came as well, each of them circling the meadow while the girls worked with the animals, keeping a keen eye out for trouble.

He knocked on the guest cabin door and she opened it, smiling. "Hi, Tristan, come in. Is it dinner time?" she asked. He had formed a habit of coming each night to fetch her for dinner in the square.

"Not yet. I brought something for you."

"Oh!" She eyed the bag in his hand.

Tristan had asked his mother and grandmother for information on the proper way to court an Elf. He had asked Amarisa for the white lion hide and had it made into a winter cape for her. His wooing gifts also included maple sugar candy made by Mabel, a brace of frinely made arrows, and new supple backpack with many pockets and sections to store her things. "Before I give it to you, let me ask you something?"

"Yes?" Bamba had accepted all his gifts, thrilled that he was wooing her according to Elven tradition.

"Do you know the story of my parents and the lich?"

She smiled. "Yes. I read the book of that journey many times. It was my favorite as a girl. I was, of course, focused on Duvan. When I first met him, it was so momentous for me. He was my hero. I practically worshipped him."

"That's right, you told me you'd read the book."

"I had much respect for your parents, even before I met them that day; the day you saved me. Somehow, it didn't surprise me that their son was the one to save me." She looked down, seeming embarrassed.

"I am not my parents, and I am no hero," he said.

"You are to me. You saved my life, Tristan. I am beholden to you."

He met her gaze and asked quietly, "Is that the only reason you spend time with me?"

She stared back at him and swallowed hard. "I could say yes, but that would be a lie," she finally admitted.

He smiled, but then cleared his throat. "I need to ask you something."

"Ask me anything."

"I feel more than friendship for you, Bamba," he said quietly. "Obviously."

She just continued to stare at him.

"So I have to ask you something. I wish to make my courtship of you official," he blurted out. "Would you be receptive to me if I did? I know you feel you owe me, so I don't want to make things awkward if this would be undesirable for you."

"Oh my," she whispered.

Tristan looked at the floor. "Look, I know you feel like you have to come to me if I request it. I don't feel you owe me anything, but I respect your traditions. But I don't want it to seem as though I'm taking advantage of that, because I'm not. If you spend time with me, I don't want it to be out of obligation. I want it be because you want to, because you feel something for me. Something … more than friendship. I would like to see if we can … have a relationship."

When she didn't say anything, he looked up. She licked her lips. "I didn't expect this."

"You didn't?" he asked, giving a skeptical twist to his lips.

"Well, maybe. I guess I'm not used to people being so straight-forward with me."

"I wouldn't push you. I mean, we can take it real slow, I just need to know if I would be wasting my time," he said finally.

She approached him and he held his breath when she reached for her necklace and pulled it out of his shirt, laying the feathers down the front of his tunic. He breathed out shakily. "I have a confession to make. I was not entirely truthful when I told you it didn't matter where you wore this," she began.

"I know," he said.

She looked up at him. "How?"

"Sogarth and Alice explained it to me, that wearing it on my person meant something different than if I were to attach it to my scabbard or a personal item."

She smiled gently. "They were correct. You didn't take it off though," she said.

"I hoped that when you said it didn't matter where I kept it, it meant that you were interested in me, you know, as more than a friend."

"At the time, I wasn't sure why I didn't tell you the whole truth."

"Now?"

"Now I know that the idea of people thinking you were my betrothed … did not bother me, at all. It made me feel … special."

"You are special, but you still haven't answered my question. Will you accept my shodai'urai?" If she did, it would mean that going forward, he was her intended mate and she would accept no other suitors.

"Yes," she breathed out. It was barely audible but he heard her.

He took a deep breath and said, "Then let's sit down."

They sat on the couch and he said. "In the book; do you remember the part about dark spirits and the fact that iron repels them?"

"Yes."

"This is not so much of a danger anymore, but they are still about. Necromancers call them from time to time and sometimes one will slip the leash."

She chuckled at his metaphor.

He slipped the bracers out of the bag. They were thin rounded iron, but coated in pure silver. There was a felt lining glued inside to protect the skin. A set of thick leather straps could be tightened to close the two ends together around the forearm. Embossed with the family stamp in the center, was the outline of a flower with long thin leaves and an elongated oval leaf protruding from the stem. It looked much like a daisy. Egg tempora paint had colored the flower yellow and the stem and leaf green. "This is Wolfsbane, a plant, it's our family crest."

"Oh my goodness."

"These are just silver-coated, the inside is iron alloy, more flexible than plain iron, but thin. But my mother assures me it is plenty of iron to protect you from the dark men. I know you have the new leather ones, but I would be honored if you would wear these."

Her hands were shaking as she took them from him. "They are so beautiful. This is a lot of silver, Tristan."

He smiled. "Not so much." He cleared his throat again. "Bamba Depota," he said formally. "I'm in love with you. Will you wear my shodai'urai?"

Her eyes became damp with tears but they did not fall. "I would be honored," she said softly.

He grasped her wrist and slid one on her forearm. It fit perfectly, and he slid the two leather straps through the slits in the edge on each side and threaded it through silver buckles that locked it onto her arm.

She held up her arm and twisted her wrist and bent her elbow. The bracers did not interfere with her movement at all. "They are almost too nice to wear."

Tristan chuckled. "The Barbarians have a saying," he informed her.

"Another one?" she teased. He was constantly peppering her with Barbarian adages and wisdom.

He smiled. "If it's too good to use, it's no good at all."

She laughed. "I like that. Thank you, Tristan, this is a rich gift. What's this?" she asked, pointing to a small metal loop near the elbow of the right bracer.

He grinned. "That's to tie your bow to. This way you won't lose it if you ever have to let go of it again."

"I'm never going to live that down, am I? Master Ranger drops her bow taking a nose-dive," she joked.

He smiled. "It's just a precaution. I can have Wolfer drill a small hole in the end of the shaft. It won't affect arrow flight or balance of the bow."

He pulled her chin up with two fingers and gazed into her face. He lowered his head slowly. She did not pull away. The little gasp she pulled in just sent a curl of excitement through him. He kissed her softly. "So beautiful," he murmured, his lips brushing hers. He moved slowly but deepened the kiss when she opened her mouth.

He wasn't sure how long he'd been kissing her but he couldn't seem to stop. They were finally interrupted by a sharp bang on the door. His father hollered, "Dinner's starting."

They both jumped at his fist banging on the door and then chuckled quietly. "We better go," Bamba said.

"Yeah, I am hungry," he said.

She breathed out a shaky, breathy laugh. His look told her he wasn't hungry for food. Despite that, he stood and held out his hand.

She quickly removed the bracer and put them carefully back in the cloth drawstring bag. "Let me put these away." She scampered into the bedroom and then reemerged.

"I almost forgot," he said. "He pulled out a braided leather necklace. It was done much like hers and it had a round pendent with the wolfsbane plant on it. It was also an iron disc with silver coating. He handed it to her.

"Tristan, this is too much!" she declared.

"No, it's not," he said. "You won't always have your bracers on." He lifted it and placed it on her neck. She turned and he tied it behind her neck as she lifted her hair out of the way.

She fingered the pendent. "It's beautiful."

She touched his chest again. "I love you too, Tristan. If anyone asks, this is my shodai'urai," she said.

He smiled widely and kissed her on the nose. They went out to dinner and when he took her hand, she laced her fingers through his. They ignored the sly looks of everyone they passed as they realized something had changed between the young couple. Everyone was secretly pleased.

Of course, only Mabel, who didn't have a subtle bone in her body, said anything. They sat down and she snorted. "Well, glad that's finally settled. Even turtles move faster than you, lad."

Everyone cracked up, including Bamba. Tristan merely shook his head with amused tolerance and blushed.

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Chapter 24
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Forest Haven
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"Children of the five Gods are known as demi-gods; Gaia and Sehanine Moonbow being the most well-known. An odd bit of trivia is that the God of the Drow, Kalai-pahoa does not give guidance to his followers through visions as the others do. The Drow believe the dragons are his voice and avatars. We who follow the five Gods believe this is false and a construct invented by ancient Drow to appease the need for spiritual intervention from their false God. Although we cannot be certain, the prevailing thought is that Kalai-pahoa does not exist at all and that the Gods abandoned the Drow long ago because of their evil ways." Corina Masol – From 'History of the Drow' --
xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Melisande was about to leave the council chambers when her head spun. Her knees buckled and Giselle rushed to catch her, guiding her into the chair she'd just left. They waited and her eyes went blank and her head bent back. She was receiving a vision.

"There is a black cloud over Brevan. They come to attack. There are many more Drow this time, at least a hundred warriors plus bowmen and assassins as well. They will be there by nightfall." She was silent for a few seconds. "Sehanine wishes us to aid them for they will aid us in our hour of need. None come for us now. A token force can protect the Haven. We must warn them."

Her awareness returned and she coughed, sagging in the chair. Giselle turned to Fannen. "Gather the army." It was only mid-morning. "Be ready as soon as you can."

He stood and ran from chambers to do her bidding. She then turned to Runenesima. "Send Cooper and Katrina to warn them. Tell the Barbarians they need to be ready for battle by nightfall."

Runenesima nodded and left the chamber to find the two young rangers. Giselle sat down next to Melisande. "How many should we keep here? Do you know?"

Melisande looked at her. "Not sure, but twenty warriors and ten rangers should be enough. They do not come for Forest Haven tonight. I will send ten mages with the army."

Giselle nodded and said, "Go rest. I'll see to that."

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Brevan Village
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Pandora was chatting with Dermott, Jaylar and her son, Pander in the loft of Brock's house that was set up for them. She suddenly gasped and said, "Oh dear."

Brock and Kethtia heard the sudden silence as the fairies stopped chittering and went into the living room, looking up. Mabel was in the living room, knitting a scarf. "One of them there Oracle visions, I expect," she said.

Pandora's voice went flat, a sure indication of a message from Methandru. "Sehanine sends riders with a warning. She has seen a black cloud over Brevan. It is coming fast. We must gather, as the messengers arrive any minute now." She shook her head and looked down at Brock. "Call the council, now," she commanded.

Brock ran for the door and yanked it open. He started ringing the large brass bell that hung from the railing on his porch. Heads turned and noises stopped as people began to make their way into the square. The Warlord was calling a council meeting. Meetings were usually in the evening before dinner. A meeting called before noon only meant trouble.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Katrina and Cooper rode like the hounds of hell were on their heels. They stuck to the roads, figuring any enemy force would avoid them. It was a ten mile ride to Brevan and they pushed the horses, stopping only once to water them in a stream. Cooper was watching her more carefully now, and he was amazed at all the things about her that he hadn't seen before. He admired her prowess in the saddle. She rode as if part of the horse, easily dodging small obstacles with subtle nudges of her legs against her mount.

The horses were lathered and puffing by the time the road opened into the meadow below the village. The huge wooden gates loomed ahead of them. There were people in the meadow and they slowed to a lope, seeing Amarisa, Bamba, and Val all whistle. Ebony and Brasca returned to their Masters sides. The lion cubs, now named Shorikos and Shorshai, trotted toward Amarisa. Their names meant white girl and white boy, respectively in Elven.

The Barbarian Warlord and his wife, the Head Shaman stood shoulder to shoulder. Next to them was Remos, a huge Barbarian with a fairy on one shoulder and an eagle on the other. He stood with his arms crossed over his chest. Cooper recognized the tall, blonde Barbarian next to him. It was Tristan. They swung out of the saddles before the horses even came to a stop and bowed before Brock and Kethtia.

"Hail!" Cooper breathed out. "You're expecting us?

Brock said, "Yes, the Oracle told us you were coming. Catch your breath, lad."

He nodded and swallowed.

Katrina coughed, but then said, "I am Katrina Garen. This is Cooper Shol. We bring urgent news from Melisande and the Elven council. A Drow force moves on Brevan. They'll be here by nightfall."

Brock nodded once and waved to people behind them. "Get these people water and food."

Marina and Torin ran forward and guided the messengers in through the gate. Brock turned to Tristan. "You and Amarisa tend to their horses and then get to the square."

They took the reins of the horses and led them inside. They shied away from the cats. Bamba said, "I'll get the horse." She grabbed the reins and Amarisa nodded to her and went back to put a leash on her familiars and tow them inside. Tristan and Bamba quickly rubbed down the horses and put them in stalls with buckets of water and some grain and hay and then hurried back to the square.

Meanwhile, hundreds had gathered in the square. Brock hollered for attention and he nodded at the two messengers. Cooper said, "Melisande had a vision. At least a hundred warriors plus bowmen and assassins come to attack Brevan. They will be here by nightfall."

Katrina said, "We were sent to warn you and let you know that Giselle sends her army to assist."

Kethtia said, "Will this leave Forest Haven undefended?"

Cooper shook his head. "No, she said they did not come for Forest Haven tonight, and a token force could defend the Village."

"Was there more?" Pandora asked.

Katrina said, "Yes, Oracle. She said we were to aid the Barbarians for you would aid us in our hour of need. Fannen is assembling his army and they plan to be here before nightfall if they can. They come with all haste but it takes time to assemble the army."

Pandora's eyes fluttered and she mumbled incoherently. Then she looked up. "If they make it here before nightfall, we will coordinate, but I don't think they will. We will have to trust the Gods in this matter. Brock, have all warriors and rangers check their equipment. Double the watch on the walls."

He nodded and gave the order to check all equipment. He ordered Sogarth and Wolfer into the forge. Rachelle, as their apprentice went with them. Anyone with equipment that needed sharpening, or repair was to see them immediately. Shamans were sent to set up the med huts, and make sure they were stocked with provisions and bandages.

Xxxxxxxxxxx

Bamba strapped on her new shiny bracers and loaded up her two quivers with as many arrows as she could stuff in them. She exited her cabin and whistled for Ebony who was crouching under the porch of her guest cabin. Ebony emerged and Katrina and Cooper approached her. They stopped and looked as Tristan exited the cabin behind her. He was sporting metal breastplate armor with iron bicep bracelets and shin coverings over his breeches. Two long, eight-inch fighting knives hung off his belt next to smaller daggers. There were throwing knives strapped to wrists, thighs, and in sheaths on the outside of each boot. But the enormous broadsword strapped to his back was the main attraction. His wore a headband which kept his hair out of his face.

Katrina said, "We've been assigned to the wall."

Cooper asked, "Are you on the wall also?"

"No, Ebony and I are assigned to retrieve the injured and get them to the med huts."

"That will put you in the middle of the fight!" Cooper exclaimed.

"Ebony will shield me. Val, the Beast master with the mountain lion has the same task, as well as several other Beast Masters, Tristan's sister also. Our familiars can warn us and guard us while we get the injured off the field."

"But still," Cooper objected.

Tristan said, "The animals are not their only protection. Each Beast Master has been assigned a warrior to watch their backs. I'll be watching hers."

Cooper suppressed his scowl. Tristan stared at him until he lowered his eyes. It was then that Cooper noticed her bracers. "Bamba, where'd those come from? You score a dwarf horde?" he joked, trying to lighten the tension.

Bamba smiled. "No, Tristan had them made for me."

Katrina took her wrist and examined them. "They are gorgeous," she said with obvious admiration. "What is this crest symbol?"

"Wolfsbane," Bamba replied.

"What's that?" she asked. "I've never been good with herbs."

Tristan said, "It's my surname."

The implication hung in the air. "Oh!" Katrina breathed out, realizing what it meant that Bamba had accepted these fine bracers, and that they bore Tristan's family crest. "Congratulations," she said sincerely and gave Bamba a quick hug, which she returned.

Cooper gritted his teeth remembering his resolve to give up his pursuit of Bamba. It was easier said than done, but he'd known he had lost his chance before now. He realized at last that Tristan was the Warlord's son. Bamba looked at him and said, "I'm sorry."

"No, you're not," he said.

"I am sorry if you were hurt, my friend," she amended.

He nodded. "It's alright. C'mon, Katrina. We better get to our post."

"I'll show you the way," Bamba said. The girls walked ahead of them.

Tristan knew the man beside him was not competition but he wanted to make it clear that he wouldn't take kindly to interference. He felt his stare had gotten the point across. He knew the man wouldn’t appreciate pity, but he did feel sorry for him. "You are a good friend of Bamba's?" he asked quietly.

Cooper nodded. "Ever since she moved to Forest Haven," he replied.

"Any friend of hers is a friend of mine," he said.

Cooper looked at him and nodded. "Do you realize how lucky you are?" he asked.

Tristan smiled then. "Yes, I do. I'm a little stunned, in fact."

Cooper huffed. "Yeah, she is stunning, in more ways than one."

Tristan said, "I'll watch out for her. You can count on that."

"Is there anything that could prevent that?" Cooper asked.

Tristan met his gaze. "Yes, if I'm dead," he said bluntly.

Xxxxxxxxxxx
Chapter 25
Xxxxxxxxxxx
Brevan Village
Xxxxxxxxxxx

"Warfare is almost like religion to the Drow. It is the mainstay of their existence. Believing themselves superior in all things battle-related, their tendency to rush ambition can be used against them. As well, believing in their own superiority, alliances are slippery at best. However, to ally with another race is unthinkable. It would never occur to them that anyone else would either." Corina Masol – From 'History of the Drow' --
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By nightfall, a hundred Barbarians lined up in formation in front of the gates. Another seventy-five were stationed in groups of twenty-five in the trees, south, west and east of the village. Twenty-five were inside the gates in case the force broke through. All along the catwalk of the thirty foot high walls of the Village, archers stood shoulder to shoulder with extra quivers of arrows leaning against the bulkhead.

The clang of armor, shuffling of feet and the occasional cough was all that was heard as dusk fell. The elderly and children were shuffled into the rear of the village and packed into the houses farthest from the gate.

The force in the forest let the Drow slip past them, staying hidden and even backing off to stay unseen. Nyoka flew in circles high up in the sky. Once the force was inside the perimeter they'd established, she let out a shrieking squawk.

The battle cry of a hundred, seventy-five Barbarians was truly deafening. Those who were not accustomed to it heard their ears start ringing. The Barbarians in the woods formed a net and herded the Drow force toward the large wide open meadow below the gates where they vulnerable. Fighting in the forest was much tougher.

The battle was horrific. Fairies darted around the battle field casting spells to blur, duplicate and conceal the warriors. The Drow were shocked when Barbarians were hit with arrows and continued to fight. Unfamiliar with the berserker rage and the lack of fear and pain that came with it, this confused them. Warriors with two and three arrows in their chest and legs were still fighting and wouldn't go down until a mortal or near mortal blows were struck. This was not easy as most of them had enormous reach with their gigantic broadswords that they wielded as though they weighed nothing. They were so sharp that cutting through muscle and bone was like slicing through butter.

Beast Masters used their familiars to watch their backs as they ran out and dragged wounded from the battlefield and through a small door hidden in the wall that was blocked from sight by a barricade of sand bags. Bamba did not have the strength to drag a full grown Barbarian, but Ebony would bite into their tunics and help her drag them if she didn't have Val or Amarisa or one of the others to help. Remos often helped her out. Tristan would plow a path through fighters to the fallen warrior and fend off enemies until she and the others could drag them away. Dermott was concealing Val as she ran into the field and helping conceal others when he could.

Kethtia called the martyrs and the spiritual fathers and mothers to confuse and addle the enemies, while the five other shamans in the village and their acolytes manned the Med Huts. They were winning the fight, but too many were slipping away into the trees, perhaps trying to circle around and find a way into the Village.

The battle had been raging for less than twenty minutes when the Elven force arrived. Seventy five warriors, fifty archers and ten mages, led by Fannen descended and spread out in the forest around the back sides of the meadow, picking off stragglers and herding them back into the meadow where the Barbarians decimated their force.

Katrina and Coooper were both assigned to the wall on the eastern side. They kept their eye peeled on the tree line. An arrow flew toward them and she ducked and hissed, "The trees!"

Cooper sighted the trees and saw the vague outline of a body in the branches. He began firing arrows into the branches. It was impossible to hear the impact with all the noise, but after his third shot, a body fell from the trees draped in a black cape with a cowl.

He scanned again, saw movement on the ground inside the tree line and hollered, "On the left!"

Katrina turned follow his line of sight, but just then a knife whizzed out of nowhere and sliced across her collar bone. She yelped. Cooper lurched toward her just as another knife followed the first and this one sank into her chest just above her leather breast armor. She gasped and fell, blood blooming from her neck and cascading down her front.

"Katrina!" Cooper shouted.

Another archer ran up. He didn't recognize her. "Hand her down to me!" she shouted. The woman scurried down the ladder and held up her arms.

Cooper scooped her up, surprised at how light she was and eased her over the lip of the catwalk and into the woman's arms. The Barbarian woman cradled her easily and took off running with Katrina in her arms. He felt a wave of hurt. He couldn't leave his post. He was surprised at the wave of grief that hit him when he thought of her not making it. She had to make it. He scrambled back to the wall and shot at Drow heading for the wall from the tree line. His shot went wide. He swallowed, knowing he was having trouble concentrating. A huge Barbarian archer next to him shouted, "Shake if off! You can't help her. Get angry, man!"

He took a deep breath and thought that yes, he would make the bastards pay for injuring his friend. His next shot went right through a Drow's throat. He began methodically sighting, aiming and firing at one after another as they broke cover from the trees.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The battle finally ended. Elves and Barbarians fanned out in the woods, looking for stragglers and found a few. Fannen shouted to check the trees. Several assassins were routed from hiding and taken out. Finally confident that only a few got away, they convened in the meadow and Kethtia began doing triage, sending the most badly wounded in first.

Morganna was supervising the med huts, three in all. One for the critically wounded, the second for those with severe injuries and the third for those with minor cuts, scrapes and burns that needed to be cleaned, disinfected and bandaged.

This is where Val found Valanna, working diligently to clean cuts and put disinfectant herbs on cuts and scrapes and putting bandages on the lightly wounded. She smiled watching her work with concentration. She went next to the forge and found Rachelle sharpening swords and daggers on a whetstone grind wheel. Having assured herself that both her kids were fine and unhurt, she went back out to find Remos. He'd been helping Bamba haul in the wounded when he could as she was not strong enough to lift or support a Barbarian. She found him coming in the gates with an Elven soldier. One of the man's arms was tossed over his shoulder. And he was supporting him around the waist as he walked him to the med hut. She left him to it and went out to see if she could help.

Unwounded warriors or those with minor cuts were loading severely wounded onto stretchers and bringing them into the village.

Xxxxxxxxxx

Cooper turned to the Barbarian next to him after they climbed down from the wall. "Thanks," he said to him. "I lost it there for a second. I'm Cooper, by the way."

The man nodded. "I'm Torin. That was my wife, Marina, that took her. First battle?"

"Other than minor skirmishes, yeah."

"First one always sucks, and this was bigger than most. You did well."

"Thanks. Can I see her? Or is it too crazy?"

"I'll take you to the med hut. C'mon, let's go find that woman of yours."

Cooper opened his mouth to correct him but then just nodded and followed the man through the village. He found her in the second hut and sat on the edge of her bed and took her hand in both of his. He was so relieved to see she was alright. Her leather was removed and she was wearing a gauze tunic with a big bandage on her shoulder, covering the cuts. They'd cleaned the blood off and although she was pale and appeared sleepy, she looked okay; much better than he'd imagined. He gently ran his fingers over the bandage. Her eyes opened and she rolled her head to toward him. "Damn klutz," he joked, to hide that he was choking up.

She smiled wanly. "Yeah, can't take me anywhere."

"You scared the crap out of me," he declared.

She blinked slowly. "Didn't know you cared," she joked.

She watched as his eyes became wet. "Damn it, of course I do. You're my best friend. I could have lost you!" he said, losing all his humor.

She looked at him calmly. "That would have mattered to you?"

He leaned forward and kissed her forehead gently. He whispered in her ear, "Yes, more than you know. More than even I knew."

"Good to know," she whispered, and then her eyes closed and she drifted off to sleep. "Katrina?" he asked, feeling a dart of panic.

He looked up as a young girl with flaming red hair walked up. "She's okay, just sleeping. I gave her some tea to help her sleep. She'll heal faster that way."

"Thank you."

"I'm Valanna."

"You look familiar," he said.

She smiled. "I look like my mother, Valasca. She's the one with the mountain lion."

"Oh, okay, I remember now. Who's your dad?"

The girl grinned. "The one with the eagle."

"Both Beast Masters, eh?"

"Yeah, I don't know if I'll inherit that gift."

"What's your gift?"

"I'm training to be a shaman."

"Did you treat Katrina?"

The girl looked at the woman on the bed. "I helped. Morganna, the elder shaman treated her and sewed her shoulder. I just disinfected and bandaged it."

"Well, I thank you for your help."

"You're welcome. She is your mate?" she inquired.

He frowned. "No, but she's a dear friend. Why did you think she's my mate?" he asked.

The girl frowned. "Just something she said. You're Cooper, right?"

"Yes. What did she say?" he asked.

"When Morganna was sewing her, she said, 'If I don't make it, tell Cooper I love him'." She paused. "Then she passed out," Valanna said matter-of-factly. "Well, I have work to do. Nice to meet you, Cooper." She turned and walked away as if she hadn't just said something terrific.

He stared down at Katrina. Her blonde hair was tangled and spread out on the pillow under her head. He swallowed around the lump in his throat. He whispered, "Katrina. I'm so sorry. I've been an idiot."

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Chapter 26
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Morin
Village of Elvin
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"I've spent much time pointing out the flaws of the Drow, but make no mistake, they are fierce warriors and a formidable foe. The error of their ways lies in their unwillingness to learn from anyone but their own kind. It limits them as a people and as an army. This is something that can be used against them by anyone clever enough to anticipate their battle tactics, which never seem to change." -- Corina Masol – From 'History of the Drow' –
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A similar battle was raging outside Elvin. Sehanine and Venus had both given warning to their followers. To the Elves' surprise and gratitude, two platoons of Amazons showed up, attacking from the rear and turning the tide of the battle. The Elves had been losing ground until the Amazons showed up.

Ellory and Flynx, and Yvette were both still in Elvin. Duvan and Ellory had returned the eggs to the dragons. Cyrida were there as well. Ellory and Duvan had called to the dragons but they had been far away and it taken them time to get there. The battle tide had turned, but there were still plenty of Drow fighting when Zaheng and Olima showed up.

The Elves had taken Vincenza in, despite the skepticism and wary eye of many. Ellory let her stay with her and Flynx in their extra bedroom for now. Until they Elves grew more used to her, she was afraid to leave her in a place of her own. They had spent hours telling her of Human and Elven tradition and the nature of their worship. No one asked that she change her worship, as they realized her belief in the dragons probably kept her in line. They only asked that she learn of their Gods and respect them. Vincenza had been fighting alongside the Elves as the screams of 'sarys' rang in her ears. Traitor. She's stayed close to Ellory and Duvan. She and Yvette worked in tandem, watching their backs.

Vincenza's fighting style was fierce and fearless. She wielded long fighting knives in both hands with finesse and dexterity, often screaming in rage as she attacked a foe.

The Elves were impressed when Cyrida had raised the dead Drow and had them begin attacking their own. There were no necromancers among the Elves on this side of the mountain.

Vincenza held to her resolve even though she felt pangs of guilt as her kin shouted at her and called her a traitor. She knew what they didn't, this attack was pointless, as all three dragon eggs had been turned over to the dragons already. They were not here. She'd learned of the other two after coming to Elvin and been further impressed that the puta tribes had not just one, but three eggs in their possession. That they had obtained these eggs without retribution was further evidence to her that they were favored, despite what the other Drow might think. It confirmed her belief that she had made the right decision to defect to the surface.

That was when Zaheng and Olima showed up. Their angry growls split the din of the battle and Zaheng had roared, "You DARE ATTACK OUR MOTHERS!"

The remaining Drow had turned to flee but Zaheng and Olima fried them with blasts of fire, careful to not hit the Elves or Humans that retreated to the Elvin gates to get out of the line of fire. They chased them away and hunted them down until the last one was dead. As the Elves were retrieving their dead and wounded, the dragons returned and landed on the battle field.

Ellory and Duvan trotted out to greet them. "Thank you for your aide," Duvan said.

"You're welcome," Zaheng said.

Olima said, "I'm sorry we were so far away, Mother."

"You came as soon as you could. We survived. That is all that matters." Vincenza wandered toward them, but not too close. It was her second encounter with them and she was just as flabbergasted as the first time, watching the Dragon Masters converse with them.

Olima turned and stared at Vincenza. She froze. "She'd held true to her oath?" she asked.

"Yes, Olima. She fought bravely at my side, protecting my back."

"The Drow have violated our edict once again," she snarled. "This was the final insult. They are no longer welcome on the surface," she hissed.

Vincenza bowed her head. Then she looked up as Olima said, "Except for this one."

Vincenza went to her knees and said, "I held to my oath, revered one."

Olima said, "You protected my Mother. For this, you have my gratitude."

"Thank you, revered one," Vincenza said.

Olima clawed a blue scale off her side and tossed it. It landed right in front of Valasca.

She gasped and looked up at the dragon.

Olima said, "Take my scale. It is a symbol that you are an exception -- also under my protection and a friend of my Mother."

Vincenza picked up the small scale which was approximately five by seven inches and cradled it to her chest. "I will treasure it always and keep it safe."

"Till we meet again," Duvan said.

The dragons dipped their heads in fare well, then turned and disappeared into the sky over the tree line. Ellory walked up to Vincenza who was slowly getting to her feet. "Are you alright?" Ellory asked.

She nodded, still cradling the scale in both hands and hugging it to her chest. "I am yours to command forever more … Dragon Master," she said.

Ellory smiled. "Just keep your oath. No need for formality."

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Lala watched Vincenza poke a hole with a bone needle in the dragon scale. "What are you doing?" she asked, as she pulled up a chair at Flynx and Ellory's dining room table.

"I'm making it into buckle for my belt. I plan to wear it on me always."

Lala smiled. "You fought bravely."

Vincenza smiled. "I know no other way. You're style is much different from mine."

Lala smiled. "Well, I use a bow for one thing."

Vincenza chuckled. "Yes, I was impressed with how well you used it in close-quarters. Stabbing that one in the eye with the arrow was interesting."

Lala remembered taking out a Drow and pulling another arrow. She'd turned, hearing a screech of rage to see another bearing down on her. She had no time to draw her bow, so rather than placing it on the bow, she'd merely wielded it like a spear, stabbing the man in the eye as he charged at her and spinning off to the side. His own momentum worked against him and he'd fallen, driving the arrow through his skull. "You work with what you've got," she said, shrugging.

"Perhaps we could learn from one another," she said tentatively.

"I'm sure we could. I've sparred with a sword, but never really learned knife or sword fighting. Flynx is good at both."

"I can shoot a bow, but I overstated my prowess when we met. This is not my expertise. I used it only for hunting food while I was seeking."

Lala grinned, "Yeah, I figured that. Let's make a deal," she said suddenly.

"What kind of deal?"

"I'll teach you advanced bow techniques, and you teach me to knife fight."

Vincenza stared at her for a moment. "I wouldn't want to hurt you."

Lala let a slow smile crawl across her face. "That might not be as easy as you think."

Vincenza laughed now. "No, perhaps not. Alright, I'll make this deal."

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Chapter 27
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Brevan Village
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"The underground city of Shar is reported to be vast, stretching from the eastern most side of the Amazon rainforest, southward under the mountain. Alister described it as a labrynth of underground tunnels that opened into grand open chambers lined with housing and stunning architecture made of carved stone and wood. Each house claims a portion of the City, each House having its own dwellings and communal buildings. There is one huge City square that is lined with shops in the fashion of a marketplace where artisans ply their wares – everything from weapons and scabbards, to furs and cloths. This area also contains brothels, drinking and gaming establishments. It is truly a city under the earth." -- Corina Masol – From 'History of the Drow' --

Pander, the son of the Oracle and Dermott was ready to bond. The Barbarians assembled, glad to be doing something normal and cheerful just days after the battle. Brock sat with Kethtia. The Oracle was on his left shoulder, and Pander was on his right. "It is time, find your spark and make your choice, Pander," the Oracle commanded.

He flew through the rows of seated Barbarians. He chose Tristan. His bond was accepted and Tristan was thrilled. He had always hoped to be chosen. He retreated to his home, which he currently shared with Amarisa and now with her two familiars. They weren't old enough or well-trained enough yet to be left alone in the stable. They had built a smaller barn to house familiars for Beast Masters who had them, or those that were visiting. Some of them made the horses nervous, so they decided to build them a place of their own. The two lions were not yet confident enough to be away from Amarisa so they slept on mats which she'd placed on the floor near near the foot of her bed.

Bamba followed and a long discussion ensued about the benefits of bonding. The secrets of bonding were not so tightly kept anymore since the destruction of the lich.

Xxxxxxxxxxxx

The Oracle, meanwhile was receiving another message from Methandru.

Brock and Kethtia listened as she told them that Duvan, Ellory, and their spouses were returning to Kongel after having delivered the egg to Zoggar and participating in a battle against Elvin. With them were Flynx's sister, Yvette and a Drow who had defected from the House of Ardul and was helping them. They would arrive the next day and they were not to harm the Drow.

Brock called a council meeting and the Oracle explained what she had learned. The Drow had valuable information that would help the Elves of Forest Haven. When they arrived at mid-afternoon the next day, the entire council met them at the gates. Duvan had agreed to take Vincenza to Brevan. She had asked Yvette to come with them. Oddly, she trusted the young woman more than the others. The Dragon Masters did not warm to her as the young woman had. Yvette seemed to be the only one to actually sit and talk with her about something other than the business of the kingdom and impending attacks.

The Elves were convinced that this was the task Sehanine had saved Yvette for so many years ago. Without her, the Drow would have been so agreeable. They were sure this relationship would save many Elven lives. It already head.

Vincenza did not miss the fact that Barbarians in watch towers were all aiming arrows at her from high above the wall through slits made for this purpose. As she was introduced to the council and then led inside, she was chagrined to find herself wary and even a bit scared. Being marched into the square of the village, Barbarians stopped and stared at her. She also didn't fail to notice that every one of them was armed with some sort of weapon. These people were huge. Although she'd met Alice and Sogarth during their previous trip to Morin, seeing this many of them in one place was truly like being in a village of giants. Although she'd seen Amazons, obviously, she'd never been in their stronghold or seen so many gathered in one place.

There were seated before the council in the square. The council was lined up and a sea of Barbarians stood like sentinels in rows behind them.

Brock turned to Duvan. "The Oracle saw your coming. We were instructed to hear you out."

Duvan nodded and indicated Vincenza. "This is Vincenza. She approached Flynx's sister asking for contact with Elvin. The dragons interrogated her and she gave valuable information. She requested sanctuary as she is now branded a traitor and would be killed if she tried to return to Shar. She has sworn fealty to Amandine and Elvin."

"You trust her?" Brock asked.

Duvan replied. "Not entirely, but I believe she will honor her oath, sworn to Olima herself. She did fight in the offensive against Elvin and was granted Olima's protection because of it."

Brock turned to her. "I am Brock Wolfsbane, Warlord of the Barbarians. This is my wife, Kethtia, our Head Shaman. If you are true, you are welcome here. If you are false," he said, pausing. "You will be killed without mercy. Is that understood?"

She met his gaze. "Yes, I understand. I am true. I admit to doubts at first that I had chosen the right course. Now I am sure of my path. I belong on the surface. I have no wish to return to Shar. I have sworn to follow the Dragon Masters, and sworn fealty to the surface Elves."

"What information is it that you wish to impart?"

"House Ardul believes that Quetzacoatl's egg lies in Kongel. They are searching for it, but have stalled because their offensives have failed."

"This is true. Attacks on the Womb of Methandru, the Mill Valley Caves and this village have failed."

Vincenza nodded. "They don't know that the egg was moved and will continue to try. If they can take one village they will torture for information to locate it. They only need to conquer one area to get what they need. Since they have failed so far, I believe they will commit what resources they have left to attack the Elven village on this side of the mountain. They have always thought the most likely location was the Womb of Methandru or with the Elves anyway."

"Do you know when this attack will occur?" Kethtia asked.

"No, but it will be soon. They won't wait too long and strategies change. I do know that the dwindling of their forces will not be overlooked by House Xun. By now, they know they are up to something so they can't afford to wait long to make a final attempt to find the egg."

"We anticipate an attack on Forest Haven," Brock said.

"Yes, but I know the City of Shar. There are only four exits, and three of them are in Morin. The fourth is the farthest from the City proper and requires a long trek through tunnels to access, and then a further trek under the mountain."

The Oracle said, "You know how they are getting to Kongel?"

"Yes. I'm not sure of the exact location. I've never traveled it myself, but I can guess its approximate location."

The Oracle said, "We have wondered how they were getting here. Paragons are stationed at the tunnel in shifts. If they were coming through there, we would have known. Of course, there are also stations of paragons in the Pass and they have not come through there."

"They have come from underground. The passage begins in the far southeast corner of Morin almost under the mountain and proceeds south, relatively straight, as straight as tunnels go to this side of the mountain."

Ellory said, "Where does that line up with though?"

"Do you have a map of Kongel?" Vincenza asked.

Brock hesitated. "Yes."

Vincenza smiled. "You hesitate to show me. I will not betray you."

Brock looked at Pandora. Pandora stared at Vincenza. "Will you submit to a judgement?"

Vincenza swallowed. "What is a judgement?"

Brock said, "The judgement of a fairy sees into your heart. She will be able to tell if you are pure of heart and your intentions are true. If you have deceit or false intentions, they will be detected. You cannot hide from a fairy's judgement. And if you have false intentions, the judgement causes you pain. If the fairy does a reading in addition to the judgement, she will see parts of your life and possibly parts of your future. It is up to the fairy whether this is revealed to you."

Vincenza looked at Yvette. Yvette stared into her eyes. "Be sure. If you have any doubts or any false intentions, you will feel the pain of those doubts. If the judgement is not good, you will bear the mark of being rejected by a fairy. To those that can feel the mark, you will be considered an enemy."

Vincenza closed her eyes, remembering each of her experiences since she'd been on the surface. Did she have any lingering doubts? She had a few before her second encounter with the dragons, but no more. She was committed to this path, wherever it might lead her. She was sure that, even if the price was her life, she had made the right decision. She opened her eyes and looked up. "I will submit to a judgement," she said firmly.

Brock stood and went down on one knee before her where she sat. He held up a hand and the Oracle slipped into his palm. He held her up to Vincenza's face and she pressed her hand to her forehead. Her wings began to hum and a clear soprano note that would shatter glass erupted from her throat. Vincenza cringed once but then relaxed when she felt no pain although her ears seemed very sensitive to the high note. It went on for about thirty seconds. Then the notes began to rise and fall. Vincenza felt shivers wash through her. The cold in her bones seemed to thaw a bit and she breathed a sigh, feeling the weight in her heart lighten and lift. All fear of her path left her and she swayed, not even realizing the notes had stopped.

Brock stood and the Oracle flew back to his shoulder. They waited for her to get her bearings again and she looked up, waiting expectantly. The Oracle smiled at her. "You have lived hard Vincenza Ardul, and survived much trial and toil. You have been a Prime Seeker and favored in your house, but even then, you felt remorse for some of the things you were commanded to do."

Vincenza breathed in hard.

"You're heart is not entirely pure, for it will take time to change a life of sorrow into happiness. However, your intentions are true. You are committed to changing your life and shedding the violent values of your ancestors. Unlike most Drow, you have experienced love, and know the pain of losing it. It also taught you that there is more to life than the sparkle of wealth and the ego of ambition. This is what led you on this path to start with. Do you wish to know what I saw of your future?"

"I would be honored if you would tell me," she replied.

"You will help us defeat our foes, but that is in the here and now. When these events have passed and you return to Morin, you will come to a crossroads, a crises of faith."

"What does this mean?"

"It means that you will always revere the dragon and honor them, however, you will face a choice. For Kalai-pohoa is a false God. He is a demon. Your choice will determine whether you are cleansed and walk as a true child of nature with a pure heart, or fall back into darkness and perish with your kin. For your kin are destined for extinction."

"If I make the right choice?"

"Then you will become a friend to nature and find love again."

Vincenza lowered her head, unable to process what the fairy was saying.

Pandora turned to Brock. "Show her the map."

Morganna approached and handed a large scroll to Vincenza. She opened it and stared at it. She pointed to the eastern side of the mountain near the eastern most compass point. She ran her finger south. "I know the entrance is not in the Midnight Forest."

"Where then?" Lala asked.

She stared at the locations of Ocelot and the Meadow Abbey, south of the Womb of the Methandru in the Fongel forest. She drew a circle with her finger. "My guess it that it comes out here somewhere between these two places. It is unpopulated there, correct?"

Brock nodded. "Yes, there is nothing but forest between Meadow Abbey and Ocelot. That's about ten-square miles of nothing but trees and caves."

"I would check the caves. That would be the perfect place. If they could intersect a tunnel with an existing cave, they would do it. It won't just be a hole in the ground. But it will be concealed."

"With magic?" the Oracle inquired.

"It's possible. We use leaves and broken branches to conceal other entrances though. They may merely use the forest itself as camouflage."

Duvan said, "I personally know of at least six caves in that area."

Vincenza said. "Well, I'd look for one with recent traffic. There will be some evidence of their passing."

"I recommend we split up into groups, and search it in a grid. We'll need a fairy in each group to detect any illusion magic. If we can find that entrance before they attack, we could ambush them right there, away from any populated area," he suggested.

Everyone agreed, and Brock began giving orders. Six scouting parties of ten, consisting of six warriors, four rangers, and at least one fairy, were formed. Each were given a section of the map to search. If found, they were to leave the exit undisturbed for now. Tristan and Bamba volunteered to go to Forest Haven and let them know what was going on.

Vincenza eavesdropped while they told of the battle at the village and they told of the battle at Elvin. It was dusk when dinner was served in the square. They were shown to guest cabins after dinner, and Yvette stayed with Vincenza. Vincenza was a bit overwhelmed by the Barbarians and admitted to being impressed with how quickly they formed and executed a plan. Their Warlord was an impressive figure. She mentioned it to Yvette.

Lala said, "He is a great man. Have you ever seen a Ritualist in action?"

"A Ritualist?"

Lala smiled. "You think Brock is impressive? If you ever see Kethtia in action, I'll bet she would have even you shaking in your boots."

Vincenza gave her look of skepticism. "What does she do? Like the necromancer, Cyrida? I admit to finding her skill with undead impressive. It was shocking to see bodies rise from the dead."

Lala said, "A Ritualist does not command the dead flesh."

"Then what does she do?"

"She commands the spirits of the dead. She can call them from the ether to attack the living, remove dark men from living bodies."

"The spirits obey her?" she asked.

Lala nodded. "Yes. She is a Master Ritualist. Even the paragon martyrs that guard the ether heed her call. I saw her teacher, Zestoria, in action during a battle with your kin many years ago when I was just a girl. Barbarians are impressive without a doubt, but you really don't want to get on that woman's bad side. You can't fight spirits with a sword or knife. And her fairy, Jaylar, is the Oracle's brother."

Vincenza found her story incredible. How did the Drow not know of these witches? Just when she thought she knew everything there was to learn about these puta, something new cropped up. Then she realized she was a puta also now. She was officially an 'outsider'. She had much to learn.

"I worry about this 'crises of faith' she said I was to have in the future," Vincenza admitted.

Yvette smiled. "I think that if you are to truly become one of us, and not spend your life looking over your shoulder, then you will have to convert."

"Convert?"

"Give up your worship of kalai-pahoa and choose to worship another God, or demi-god."

"How can I do this? His avatars have sworn me to oath."

Lala sighed and said, "Vincenza, the dragons are powerful creatures and worthy of respect, even reverence for their abilities. However, they are not avatars, they are not magical. They are simply powerful creatures. We respect them so that we can live in peace with them, just like we try to live in peace with all of nature's children."

Vincenza said, "In Shar, you would be killed for such blasphemy."

Lala met her gaze. "Yes, but I'm not in Shar, am I? And neither are you. Get that through your head, Vincenza. You cannot live on the surface and hold your old beliefs to your bosom. That is what the Oracle was trying to tell you. If you do, you will fall into darkness."

"I have lived in darkness most of my life," she said.

"Yes, and now its time to walk in the light. Time to let the sun shine on your face, Vincenza. The deceit and politics and ambition of the Drow will not serve you here. They will get you killed. So do you want to live or do you want to die? Because you can't go back now. You know that."

"I want to live, Yvette," she said, her eyes becoming wet. "But I don't know how," she whispered. There was a long pause and she said, "I've never said this before, but."

"Said what?"

She looked up at Lala. "I'm scared and I don't know what to do. Heh, that's two things I've never said before."

Lala patted her knee. "Stick with me, Vincenza. I'll teach you what to do."

Vincenza gripped her hand. "You are my only friend, now, Yvette."

Lala squeezed her hand. "You will have many more in time. You'll see."

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Chapter 28
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Brevan
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"Preparedness is the watchword of the Warrior. To travel unarmed is folly, even if expecting no trouble. Evil never takes a holiday, and neither should the warrior entrusted with the well-being of another." – From 'The Babarian Warrior Handbook' --
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It was morning and they prepared to leave after eating breakfast. Bamba watched with tolerant amusement as Tristan strapped knives to this thighs, boots, and wrists as if he was going to war. Of course, he had the gigantic broadsword on his back. "We're just riding to Forest Haven, Tristan," she said wryly.

He winked at her and said, "Well, you know what we say?"

"Another Barbarian adage?"

He grinned. "Yes, a good one, too."

"Lay it on me," she said and sighed.

"We call it the six P's."

"I can't wait," she said sarcastically.

"Prior planning prevents piss-poor performance," he said dramatically.

She laughed out loud now and shook her head, turning back to packing food into her saddle bags.

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Forest Haven
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They arrived in Forest Haven at mid-afternoon. Katrina saw Tristan and Bamba heading for the stables and followed. She entered to see them removing saddles and and wiping down their mounts. "Hey, you two!" she greeted them.

Bamba smiled at her. "Hey, yourself. How's the shoulder?"

"Good, almost completely healed. Still sore though. You here to stay for a while?"

"Don’t know. We have to see the council again."

"What now?" she said, losing her smile.

"Just keep it to yourself until the council knows, okay?" Bamba requested.

"Sure," she said.

"We're searching for the spot where the Drow are getting into Kongel."

"Searching where?"

"They've narrowed it down to a section of Fongel Forest."

"How'd they do that?"

"A Drow told us," Tristan added.

"A Drow! How did that happen? Did they take one prisoner?" she asked.

Tristan shook his head. "No, believe it or not, one apparently defected."

"She could be a spy," Katrina said immediately.

Tristan continued. "We don't think so. The Oracle judged her and said that, at least as far as this goes, her intentions are true."

"Well, that's different," Katraina said, scowling.

Bamba chuckled. "First for me, I'll tell you that." She looked up and her eyes widened. "Is that what I think it is?" she asked, pointing at her neck.

Katrina smiled. "If you think its Cooper's saloral, then yes."

Bamba yanked her into a hug. "Oh, I'm so happy for you."

Katrina laughed and hugged her back. "And happy for you too, I'll bet."

Bamba shrugged. "Maybe a little. You know I never had more than friendship with him, right?"

Katrina nodded. "Yes, I knew it was one-sided."

"Is he wearing yours?" she asked.

Katrina grinned. "Yes, he is."

"What changed his mind?"

"I took a knife in the chest. If I'd know that's what it would take, I would have done it a long time ago," she joked.

Bamba said, "Goddess! Don't say that, even as a joke."

Tristan said, "I know what she means. Sometimes we don't know what we have until we lose it, or think we're going to lose it."

"Well said," a new voice sounded. They looked up and Cooper came into the stable. "Hey Bamba – Tristan," he greeted them.

He slipped his arm around Katrina's waist and she blushed prettily.

Bamba smiled. "Well, I'm very happy for you guys, but we have to get a move on here," she said, as she led Mahogany into her stall. Tristan put Maddox in the next stall.

"We'll catch you later," Tristan said.

They nodded and watched as they left around the corner and out the door. Cooper turned and said, "I take it you told them?"

"She saw your saloral on my neck and asked." She paused. "You don't mind, do you?"

He smiled, seeing her insecurity. It was his fault. He had a lot to make up for. Time would convince her that this wasn't a passing thing for him. "No, I don't care if you climb on the roof and shout it to the mountain top."

She giggled and hugged him. "I love you so," she whispered.

He embraced her and kissed her softly. He lifted his head. "I can think of better places to make out," he joked.

"Ha!" she blurted. She took his hand and led him toward the door.

"Let's go to my place," Cooper suggested.

"Okay, I'll tell you what you missed before you arrived. But we have to keep it to ourselves until after the council knows."

He nodded and followed her out.

Xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Fongel Forest
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The search took two days, but they finally found it. Branches, leaves and vines were covering the opening, but Luna had detected magic there. They removed all the brush and saw nothing but a mound of earth, that is, until she cast a dispel illusion spell and the illusion rolled back to show the entrance to the cave. She told everyone to stay out and she flew in and back out in a matter of seconds. "This is it, fresh footprints in the sand all over the place."

She replaced the illusion and they put the camouflage back in place. They scattered two by two to find the other groups and let them know they'd found the entrance, and they could return to Brevan.