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Tokala

Nearly three days had passed since the battle with the troll.

While the incident had weighed heavy on my mind since, Fyrsil was usually quick to bring my spirits back up.

That's what I loved about my adoptive brother. He was perhaps quickest to accept any of my quirks, and certainly in trying to stamp out any self-doubt or pity.

Though his habit of taking the form of a she-wolf was growing tiresome.

At first it had been to try and win the affections of our druid companion, but once it became fairly clear that that would not be happening, my brother opted to maintain the form when we travelled.

I suspected it was because he knew that even without the female canid pheromones, I was aching for a good romp.

It had been a while. The stables, I think. Our stay in Mireshadow had been void of almost all fun.

If our current companions where more fun, we would have been fucking each other nightly on this little adventure. Alas, I was attempting to show some respect to my rescuers, despite the troubles it caused me.

"Should probably look for some game." Ciara said as we all huddled around our pitiful fire.

"Not likely to find much bigger than birds and fish here." Aatu replied.

"It's been a while since some of us have eaten. Frankly, my last meal was oats and hay, and that is about as appetizing as it sounds." Fyrsil commented.

"Why didn't you steal better food? Not even horses like living off of that stuff." I laughed.

"I did! It's just that they kept the really good stuff locked away in that idiot guard captains personal larder!" he shot back.

"Well, I suppose we should go look for any signs." Aatu said. "Ciara?"

"Yeah, let's go." She climbed to her feet and slid her quiver belt on.

"We can go too!" I said, hopping up suddenly.

I was a terrible hunter.

"That is okay. I think the larger the group, the worse our chances. Humanoids don't hunt quite like wolves." Aatu said.

"I can hunt like a wolf. And fuck like one, too." Fyrsil said with a wink.

Aatu had grown to completely ignore my brother's comments.

"Then why does she get to go?" I asked in a fake whine.

"You have a bow? Are you a skilled hunter?" the halfling asked.

I shrugged.

And with that, the two moved off into the swamp.

"So, ya think they're goin' off to see if that monster of a cock will fit?" Fyrsil asked.

"Knowing them, they're actually going hunting, if you would believe it." I replied.

"What if they weren't, though?" Fyrsil whispered in my ear as his clawed hands reached up and began to unfasten my ring belt from behind.

I already felt his stiff cock pressing up against my rump.

With a deep inhale, I began to unlace my jerkin.

"I imagine that lass is in for a shock. Don't peg her for the type that would go shoving random objects up her love canal for fun." I replied, leaning into his hard member.

My belt fell to the soft earth, and I felt a small hand slip in to my trousers.

"How big do you think he gets aroused? Like fucking a stallion, I bet." The furry goblin whispered in my ear.

He grasped my cock firmly.

"Unfortunately, one could only imagine." I moaned as he began to stroke me gently.

I turned my head over my shoulder, meeting my brothers gaze.

I gave his lips a gentle lick.

He met my tongue with a kiss.

We broke our kiss for him to push me down on the ground roughly.

I stumbled to my hands and knees, just as I felt his hands catch in my trousers waist.

"I hate that you wear these." He smirked.

"Can't go waltzing around indecently like you, can I?" I asked feinting coyness.

He answered by roughly pulling my trousers down. I helped him by wiggling out of it, freeing one foot paw, and then another.

"Wanna feel what that halfling is feeling right now?" his voice whispered in my ear.

A weight suddenly plopped down on my back, the furry gobbling being replaced with a large black male wolf.

"I've been wanting that wolf inside me since we met." I moaned, just as I felt Fyrsil's cock prod at my entrance.

"Bet his knot is the size of a melon." Fyrsil growled in my ear, before gently licking me.

I felt his head begin to slide in, his cock wet with canine lubricants.

Feeling the entrance, my fey brother rammed forward suddenly, sliding in as far as he could manage with a single thrust.

"and that halfling wants to take it all!" I gasped, as the air was knocked from me with the sudden intruder.

The massive black wolf began to pull out of my anus slowly, his massive girth drawing shivers from me the entire way.

He suddenly thrust back in, sending me rocking forward.

"Fuck me like I'm your halfling bitch!" I moaned.

Fyrsil did not have to be told twice.

He suddenly went wild, thrusting away like a sex crazed beast.

Every thrust sent him deeper and deeper inside my boy pussy, drawing moans of pleasure from my muzzle.

I grasped my rock-hard cock with one hand, bracing myself with the other.

My brother slammed into me again and again, until I felt his massive knot ramming against my tail hole.

"Take the knot, pup!" Fyrsil growled in my ear.

I would have replied, but he was so deep inside me and I was being bombarded with pleasure. I was struggling to breath and think, let alone formulate sex talk.

The force of my brothers thrusting was making me fuck my own paw.

Pain and discomfort shot through me as my brother slammed his knot into my entrance, where all at once it slipped in, locking my ass firmly to his cock.

He gave an unintentional howl of victory and his thrusting renewed in vigor.

Not that he could really gain any purchase, since he was locked tightly inside me.

I gasped, feeling the pressure in me.

Just then, the savage wolf erupted, spurting his canine cum deep inside me.

I immediately followed, shooting my load into my own face unexpectedly.

I collapsed under the massive wolf, who slowly and awkwardly lowered himself to his side, still buried deep inside me.

His move pulled me with him, and I found myself being spooned, with a cock still buried in my ass.

We were both panting heavily.

"Fuck, it's been too long!" I heaved.

Fyrsil replied by licking cum from my face with a sloppy tongue.

"Don't make me wait so long again." He whispered with another lick.

I collapsed into him in agreement, hand slowly dropping to my slowly softening fox dick.

I began to gently stroke it, trying to coax it back into full erectness.

"Not done, eh?" Fyrsil asked.

"Absolutely not. You've been driving me nuts by parading around with that juicy wolf cunt. I'm thinking it's time to get some payback." I replied, a small grin growing across my muzzle.

"Big talk for such a tiny fox. Besides, you're still wedged pretty firmly on my knot. Don't think that's coming out anytime soon." My brother replied.

To emphasize his point, he gave a sudden thrust, causing me to yelp in surprise.

"You know you want it like a bitch in heat." I growled playfully, nipping at his muzzle.

"Doubt you could even reach." He laughed, though I felt him shrinking quickly inside me.

"Try me." I whimpered as a rush of wolf cum followed his retreating cock.

Fyrsil rose, twisting around playfully until his now feminine rump was facing me.

He still maintained his dire wolf form, though, and I knew he was playing with me, knowing full well I could not climb up to mount him properly.

"C'mon, Tokala. Fuck a pup into your brother's belly." The phooka taunted, swaying his tail back and forth in taunting invite.

A rush of canine pheromones washed over me, sending my cock to full attention.

That bastard.

I buried my muzzle in his twat, driving my tongue as deep into the shapeshifters pussy as I could manage.

Fyrsil moaned in pleasure as I probed, tasting his moistening love hole.

I withdrew my tongue suddenly, drawing a whimper from the she-wolf.

"Lay back." I commanded, feeling my magic slip into my words.

Fyrsil quickly followed my orders, rolling onto his back and splaying his rear legs, tail wagging excitedly.

Fyrsil was the only creature I ever used my magic on this directly for sex. Even when I was trying to convince some random tavern wench, I would only use my magic to increase my charms or make myself appear less...fox like. But with Fyrsil, well, he got off on it.

I kneeled before the animal, his large red eyes watching me expectantly.

I placed my throbbing fox cock at his pussy lips, drawing an impatient whimper.

"Told ya you wanted to be fucked like a bitch in heat." I whispered smugly, slowly drawing my cockhead across his entrance.

"Fuck, you were right! Just do it already!" he moaned.

With that, I suddenly rammed forward, sinking completely to the hilt with the first thrust.

He was a dire wolf after all, and I, but a little fox.

As soon as I felt the warmth completely encasing my fox cock, I went wild, slipping almost completely out, before ramming back in, each time drawing a whimper from my brother.

I kept this up until my knot began to swell.

I would pull it completely out, before ramming right back into his pussy, making obscene popping and slurping noises.

His whimpers grew deeper and more alarmed each time my knot popped out, only to slam back in.

His wolf cunt was dripping by now, and I could feel my own climax building.

"Spray me full of pups!" the wolf gasped, just as I slammed my hips against his entrance.

I felt my cock erupt, coating the inside of his pussy.

I pulled out quickly, realizing what I was doing, and sent the last few spurts all over his stomach and chest.

Panting, I quickly collapsed on him, unconcerned with the sticky mess I had just made.

I glanced up just in time to catch a wet tongue on my muzzle.

I smiled sleepily.

"If you get pregnant, it's your fault." I mumbled.

Phooka's, being shapeshifters, where technically sexless though they still reproduced sexually. Made them fun sexual partners, though troublesome if you were not wanting any unexpected little ones running around. I usually tried to refrain from cumming inside Fyrsil when we experimented with female parts.

We've had no "accidents" yet, though I'm sure with our games, it was only a matter of time.

"My fault!" he feigned outrage.

"Ehem...'Spray me full of pups!'" I mimicked.

"Yes, well. I was in the moment, wasn't I?" he replied. If a wolf could blush, he would have been doing so.

"Just saying, if you're pregnant, it's on you." I yawned before burying my face into a portion of fur not currently covered in either of our fluids.

"And you would just abandon us? Leave me a helpless single mother?" he gasped.

"Probably wouldn't be the first time." I mumbled sleepily.

I began to slowly drift off, dozing on my she-wolf.

Ciara O'Connor

"They've been at it." Aatu sighed as we approached camp. "I can smell it."

I cringed, slinging my bow over my shoulder and grasping the dead bird in two hands.

"I suspected they would be all over each other the moment we left. I was sorta hoping it would get out a lot of pent up energy." I commented.

I thought of my brother in that moment.

How many times had I returned to camp to dress and cook a meal for my brother and I, only to find him and Aklys together?

The thought brought a smile to my face. However, it was quickly followed by a pang of fear.

We had only just been reunited. Much of our reunion had found Camden confined to a recovery ward in Rainhaven. Even then, there was an overbearing sense of sorrow consuming the elven palace.

How long had it been since we parted yet again, each following different magical beasts?

He had followed Aklys north into the Expanse, chasing some seer. I had followed Aatu east to learn of his family's fate.

Where we really that different?

I mean, other than him and Aklys--mating. Or being mates. Or lovers. Whatever.

I wasn't even sure what to call them, really. In all honesty, I wasn't even sure I fully understood.

The thought brought me pause. And a sense of guilt.

I had believed I reached a point of acceptance. Not when I left Northmeadow with Camden, but after his capture, when Aklys revealed her true nature to me. I had believed that her sentience somehow made their intimacy okay.

Clearly, I still had some mental barrier preventing me from acceptance.

"I may patrol around, ensure we are really alone at camp. Perhaps let those pheromones disperse into the swamp." Aatu commented.

"I can't imagine. Don't stay out too late. I'll have to come look for you, and it's cold." I said, ruffling up the fur in his scruff.

He gave me a funny look, causing me to quickly withdraw my hand.

"I won't be long." He stated, before trotting off.

I cringed, worried I had offended him somehow.

I continued into the camp, where the humanoid fox was laying sprawled out on the large black wolf, who was fast asleep.

Tokala was naked, and by the looks of it, had just expended quite the energy.

I shook my head, seeing the fire had died down to embers. I guess keeping it lit is too hard when fucking is on the mind.

It did not take long for me to get it going once again.

Shivering, I allowed my fingers to warm in the heat of the flames for a moment before I set to work dressing the bird.

Some large pheasant-like bird, one I had never encountered before.

After I had disposed of the unsavory bits of the bird, I crafted a makeshift rotisserie stand out of sticks gathered for the fire.

Finally, with the bird cooking, I sat back, gazing into the flames.

I wondered what sort of adventures Camden found himself on.

He had only just regained his freedom from the dungeons of Manir, and I had feared his imprisonment would have lasting scars. To set off so soon, not even fully recovered. I was worried.

With everything that had happened since Mireshadow, I had been happily distracted. Now, with time and distance, concern began to grow once more.

And now, with the possibility that Aatu's siblings were bound by the fabled Troll Witch, I felt my heart beginning to sink.

It seemed I jumped from one crisis directly into another. One legend giving way to one myth.

What could I possibly bring to a fight with the fey witch of legend? If Aatu, a large powerful wolf druid didn't stand a chance, what could I do?

Not that I wished to abandon the wolf now. Not at all. I owed him more than that.

He had rescued me from certain death without hesitation. I had to be here.

I shifted uncomfortably.

Was that the only reason I was here? To repay some debt?

I mean, what would I be repaying by marching willingly to certain death, if the legends of the witch proved true?

He had been through a lot in his short life. Losing his family, his mother.

It was impossible not to be stricken with awe at the beast. It had been nearly a century since winter wolves had last been seen near Northmeadow. Still, we had stories. Tundra phantoms, some humans called them. Ghost wolves. They would stalk the night during the fiercest blizzards, setting upon any unfortunate enough to be caught out in the cold darkness.

But that was not Aatu. Not even slightly.

He was caring and compassionate, helping those who needed him. Like a lone halfling on a hostile island so far from home.

But it was more. He was calm, thoughtful, wise. Far wiser than any creature his age should be. By the gods, he was far wiser than myself, and possibly even old Vissa back in Northmeadow.

Probably a side effect of his druid training.

Yet it seemed more than that, even. He seemed quiet, as if he was always curiously considering the world around him.

I've been catching his large black and white eyes on me more and more lately. Only weeks ago, I would have been intimidated by such, fearing he was beginning to view me as prey. Yet, his body language was clearly unthreatening, as if he was trying to figure me out.

I seriously didn't believe there was much to figure out. I was a halfling. No special qualities or anything. At least Camden could command magic.

A yawn caught my attention. The nude fox was beginning to stir, stretching.

Even nude and compromising, he still moved with grace and confidence. It was somewhat unnerving, the way not even sleep could cripple his composure.

"Dinner will be ready soon." I said, causing him to jump.

"Oh, um, Ciara...." He stumbled, reaching for his trousers.

"I'm sorry you found us like this." He said, slipping into his garments.

"I'm not. You almost caught a fun time, lass." Fyrsil said with a yawn.

I refrained from laughing, thinking back to Akyls and my brother.

"Perhaps now some of that tension has been lessened?" I asked.

"You underestimate our abilities." The phooka grinned, still in the form of a large dire wolf.

"Nevermind my brother. I did not wish to offend anyone." Tokala said, gazing around, I assumed for Aatu.

"He's patrolling one more time, just to ensure our camp is secure." I stated.

The fox seemed to accept this, and finished doing up his belt.

"So, you, uh, seemed to react rather calmly to us. I mean, for a non-fey." He said at length, coming to sit beside the fire.

"I used to catch my brother and Aklys all the time. I've grown used to it." I replied.

"I'm somewhat surprised at your suddenly timid behavior." I added with a chuckle.

"It just feels wrong, offending my rescuers." He replied. "Tell me, is this brother of yours even half as attractive as his sister?"

"I wouldn't know. I've never viewed him in such ways." I replied.

"Older, younger? And Who is this Aklys? The name sounds familiar." Fyrsil urged, sitting beside his brother as a fuzzy goblin thing again.

"Camden is my twin. And Aklys is a Nae--a snow leopard." I explained, hesitating to say "Naettura."

I wasn't sure if it was wise to share that sort of knowledge with anyone we hardly knew.

"A snow leopard named Aklys. As in THE Aklys? The Naettura?" Tokala asked, sounding shocked.

"Uh, yeah...?" I replied, unsure. Apparently, her reputation has spread far in certain circles.

"Fyrsil, remember Cesan's stories? Of the Naettura? His dad marched to war with one named Aklys." The fox explained.

"Marched to war with Aklys? When?" I asked, trying to picture the feline dressed in battle armor and marching in rank and file.

The image brought me a smile.

"Long ago. Probably longer than any elf alive today could remember." Tokala said.

"You always loved listening to those stories. I think dad was finally happy to have someone who would actually sit and indulge him!" Fyrsil laughed.

"I can't imagine there are many Naettura named Aklys, who also happen to be snow cats. I can't believe she is still around. And fucking a halfling, no less!" Tokala laughed.

He caught my gaze suddenly, and quickly corrected himself.

"Uh, I mean, mated to a halfling. Sorry."

"I thought they were just raging hormones when I first found out. Something that my brother would get over. I didn't know anything about Naettura or magic then, really. Just what little I'd seen my brother do. I know differently now."

"I'd love to hear their tale sometime." Tokala stated.

"As would I." I laughed, realizing with everything, I had never heard the full story of their return from the Academy.

We sat in silence for a moment, as I slowly turned the large bird over the fire.

Finally, Fyrsil spoke.

"So, what about you? Any special someone?" he asked.

I glanced down at my work, acting particularly invested in my project.

"Nope. Not really." I muttered quickly. I could already feel my cheeks turning red, and I cursed myself mentally.

"Well, I mean, you don't seem particularly bound by halfling society. Not like you're a princess or noble that must worry about blood alliances and the like. Ever thought of having some fun with a phooka?" he asked.

My cheeks reddened. To my surprise, Tokala replied before I could even find words.

"Now Fyrsil, I don't think she's interested. She's got an eye for another, I'll wager, and you know them non-fey types. They seem to be pretty set on monogamy." He said with a laugh.

"But that's stupid!" Fyrsil said, "I'm trying to change their ways!"

"What do you mean, I have eyes for another?" I asked, trying with every desperate bit of willpower to keep from blushing even deeper.

"Aw, keep that up, and your skin will match my fur!" Tokala laughed.

I had obviously failed.

"It's nothing. I just may have read some signals incorrectly. Or possibly invented them altogether in my abstinence induced insanity." He laughed.

"Hey, I'm not joking. I'll bet we could show you a time you would never forget." Fyrsil said.

"No thank you." I replied, shifting uncomfortably.

"Hey, Fyrsil. Drop it. She's not interested." Tokala snapped a bit harshly.

The tone caught the fey off guard. He considered his brother with hurt eyes.

"Fine!" he replied with a huff.

"What signals? I certainly haven't been sending any signals." I pushed.

Aatu entered my mind instantly. I shook the thought away. If I wasn't even sure how I felt about Camden and Aklys, why was the wolf so prevalent in my mind?

"As I said, I may have just been imagining things." Fyrsil retreated.

He glanced off into the swamp for a moment, nose twitching as if he was searching for the scent of danger.

"It's just that, and I know you non-fey folks have funny views on this, so if I'm wrong, don't get mad, but...do you...or are you...you know...interested in our canine companion?"

I quickly looked way, knowing my face was redder than the foxes fur.

"I-I...h-he is a good friend, and a strong ally," I stuttered pathetically, "b-but that is all."

"HA! I knew it!" Fyrsil burst out suddenly. "You've got a little crush on the wolf!"

"What?! I do not!" I snapped.

"Woah! Not sure who's bite is worse, yours or his." The fey laughed.

"C'mon, Fyrsil. Easy now. I'm sorry if I was off the mark." Tokala apologized.

Damn his innocent emerald eyes, and that sweet sincere face.

"It's nothing." I said quickly, busying myself with the bird, which was more than done now.

What did I feel about the wolf?

I had been struggling with that very thought all night. Was it that obvious?

I knew I cared for him. He was a good friend and a loyal companion.

But, could I actually love him beyond the bond of a friend or family member?

Perhaps my difficulties in accepting Camden and Aklys were really just projections of my own inability to accept my feelings for the wolf? Was this what my brother felt when he first learned of his feelings for the Naettura?

Could I truly be attracted to the beast?

I mean, he had no bad qualities that I had witnessed. His traits were those I would find appealing in a potential husband.

"I-I don't know what I feel." I said at length. "I've been dwelling on the wolf a great deal since I met him. He rescued me from an unspeakable fate. Perhaps all I feel is gratitude." I explained, more for myself than the other two.

Tokala placed his paw gently on my shoulder.

"If I may? Perhaps you are reluctant to let go of your past life. It was certainly one free of dangerous witches and evil gods. There is a sense of comfort to be found in the mundane and the familiar. Perhaps your feelings for the wolf represent a departure from that? As if, you accepting your feelings would plunge you into the deep cold of the ocean? I'll take it you are a virgin?" he asked.

For some reason, I nodded.

The fox gazed out over the swamp.

"So, you are in a world of chaos and danger, and you have never experienced the touch of a lover. No wonder you are conflicted. Everything may seem hostile and dark. Your brother has a bond with a creature that you have never known. You may be seeking out the familiar solely out of fear. Fear of uncertainty."

I remained silent.

"I say embrace whatever feelings you have for the wolf. You clearly care a great deal for the beast. Perhaps acting on these feelings will bring a new sense of comfort?"

As the fox spoke, I knew there was truth to his words. I gazed into the flames, the food long forgotten.

"You almost sounded like dad for a moment there, Tokala!" Fyrsil laughed.

"I doubt Aatu would take me as his mate." I stated, ignoring the phooka.

"Why not? He clearly respects you a great deal. He also doesn't seem to be nearly as bound by instinct like others of his kin. And I've seen the way he looks at you." Tokala stated.

My gaze returned to the fox.

"I don't wish to discuss this any further. Nor do I wish you to discuss it with Aatu. I clearly have a good deal of thinking to do."

With that, I pulled the burnt bird off the fire, and served my two troublesome companions before making an excuse about being tired and turning in early.

Ivaylis

The entirety of the war council had gathered in the tent of the elders, an elvish map spread out on the table before us.

"My scouts have been gathering information on the cities status since our arrival." Lord Livillios was explaining to the elders as I entered.

"Reports suggest the city remains in chaos, though three distinct factions seem to have formed. The first appears to be a militaristic faction of gnoll-orc hybrids that have barricaded themselves within the barracks. They may prove to be our most challenging obstacle."

Hestross caught my eye as I entered. He gave me a warm smile.

"The second group appears to be what remains of the human nobility of the city. They have locked themselves within the palace itself. They are likely besieged within their own city." Livillios continued.

"And the third?" Vanmarr asked.

"A loose coalition of hybrids which seem to hold the greater city itself. They riot and throw themselves at the gates of the other two factions, but to little affect. With no centralized leadership, I doubt they will stand united against a coordinated assault on the city." He replied.

"This dungeon entrance. It will take us in direct conflict with the Manir nobles?" Vissa asked, unseeing eyes turning on Lord Livillios.

"Yes. It leads to the dungeons of the palace itself. Which may work in our favor." He replied.

"How so?" Dagrin asked.

"The humans within have been besieged for weeks now. With no clear sign that the city would fall so suddenly, It is unlikely their food stores were prepared for such a hasty siege. They may be desperate, and prove a willing ally."

"You want us to befriend those who stole our lands? Pushed us into the fringes of our own home?" Vanmarr snapped.

"You said it yourself, a prolonged assault on the city in the midst of winter is not an ideal tactic. If we can find an ally within the ranks of our enemies, it may prevent a prolonged conflict." Livillios argued.

"You think these nobles will just hand over their city and leave once the battle is over?" Vissa asked.

"It is not likely. They will argue claim to the land, land they have stolen." Dagrin growled.

"Perhaps, it is time to mend old wounds? The crimes of the royal family may not have been shared by all in Manir." Livillios pleaded.

"I fear we cannot set aside an entire history of injustice so easily, Lord Livillios. Even if we chose to ignore the dark experiments that went on within the cities walls." Vanmarr said coldly.

"Then an offer of freedom then. They may just wish to flee with their lives. There may be no need for conflict with the humans." I suggested.

"I doubt they will listen." Dagrin huffed.

"If we can avoid violence, then we will. If we cannot, so be it. We shall not move on this issue, however." Vissa stated.

That seemed to solve it.

The rest of the meeting commenced with no more major disagreements, with talk of beach landings and assaults on the city.

With the last of the plans finalized, I left the elders tent feeling anxious.

With no word yet from the giants, we were moving forward with our plan to send an elvish force, accompanied by Hestross, into the dungeons of the palace. We were to make contact with the nobles, and either peacefully or forcefully take command of the stronghold, and establish a foothold within the city. From there, we could strike from outside, as well as within.

It would be myself and Hestross leading the elvish force into the dungeons.

The thought sent chills down my spine. I remembered the night vividly. The Harbingers voice as it called from everywhere, yet nowhere.

If I never had to see those damned dungeons again, I could go to eternity in peace.

"Best get some rest tonight. We have long days ahead." Hestross stated as we left the tent together.

That was one small mercy. I was glad to have the centaur accompany us, though I knew even the powerful druid warrior feared the darkness of that dungeon. He hid it well, but I could sense it.

What that poor halfling went through, what all those prisoners were subjected to. I couldn't even imagine enduring such horrors.

"I'll sleep best with you there." I whispered, before turning off for my tent.

Vailadriel

Cesan led the way as we approached the Fey Circle. I could just see a gathering of creatures awaiting us within the ring of standing stones, each appearing more fantastical than the last.

Oddvarr was conversing quietly with an old dryad, Eika I think her name was.

Beside them stood Skempta and the halfling, Camden.

As we entered the circle, Cesan stepped aside.

"Lord Oddvarr, Lady Vailadriel." He said with a slight bow.

"My lady." Camden said with a bow of his own.

"Well met, Camden O'Connor. You come with news?" I asked.

"Yes, though I fear it may not be the news you would hope for." He replied.

"It seems the seer in the north believes they have a way to defeat the Harbinger." Oddvarr explained.

"Defeat Rekkdyr, you mean." Skempta growled, a cold look coming to her face.

"I fear that is no longer the gnoll you remember. It is merely a vessel for the Lord of Shadow to walk this world." Eika stated, her voice an oddly soothing oaky rasp.

"What of Rekkdyr? The wolf said he needed me." I stated, fighting to keep the sorrow from my voice.

"The wolf?" Camden asked. Nobody answered him.

"His consciousness still exists, I am sure. However, it is likely subdued beneath the will of Malmyrkris." Oddvarr replied.

"When Rekkdyr killed the Harbinger, it appears the Shadowlord was forced to find a new Harbinger. Perhaps the vessel was destroyed."

"Would killing the vessel free Rekkdyr's soul?" Skempta asked with an edge of skepticism.

"It is possible." Oddvarr replied.

"Is there any chance of breaking Malmyrkris' hold on him?" I asked, an ember of hope kindling to life.

"Unlikely. It would be a direct battle of wills with the Lord of Shadow himself. Not even I could muster that sort of power." Oddvarr stated.

I could feel that moment of hope sink into despair once more.

"You claim the gnolls sword, this Silvernight, is capable of destroying the Harbinger?" Oddvarr asked.

"That is what the Naettura believe." Camden replied.

"What if killing the Harbinger doesn't free Rekkdyr?" Skempta growled.

"How will we even know?" Cesan asked.

"We may not." Eika replied.

"Is it even worth the risk?" Skempta growled.

"I-if it a choice between R-Rekkdyr and my people, Rekkdyr would want me to choose them." I stated, though I was trembling and lightheaded.

Skempta caught my eye, and I could see a shift in her gaze.

She nodded slowly.

"If that is your wish. I know Rekkdyr would honor that." She said.

"Where is the sword now?" Oddvarr asked.

"Rainhaven." Camden replied.

"I should return at once." I stated, pulling myself to my full height.

"And do what? Die with your people?" Skempta asked.

"I will not cower here while they face annihilation."

"Even if the rest of the elvish army had not sailed off to Manir, it is likely they wouldn't stand a chance. The forces of darkness grow with each victory, their numbers swell as every death on our side equals a new soldier on theirs. The elves are well versed in magic, but even they cannot hope to face this darkness alone." Oddvarr stated.

"Rainhaven is the last standing stronghold that could oppose Malmyrkris. If it falls, then Ryze will fall." Eika argued.

"The elves stand alone and weak. They cannot hope to achieve victory on their own, even if they were at their full strength." Skempta snapped.

"They're not alone. Vanmarr said that three Naettura have found their way to the city." Camden stated.

"I fear even the Naettura may prove unable to turn the tide, small one." Oddvarr said.

As the discussion went on, I could feel myself slipping back into that darkness of despair. I could almost hear a voice whispering in my head, feeding me thoughts of hatred and sorrow.

"Enough of this!" I snapped suddenly, shaking my head fiercely.

"I will not cower here while my kin suffer and die. I may be marching to my grave, but If we refuse to do anything, the darkness will still spread. It will not end with Rainhaven. The entire world will be consumed by shadows, and there will be nothing to stop it. Not even the Fey will be safe. I would rather meet my fate fighting, like Rekkdyr, than die a coward trying to prolong the end."

I was trembling as I spoke.

I glared up at all the ancient or powerful beings around me. Even the halfling could outspell me if it came to it. I was suddenly very aware of all the eyes on me.

Skempta nodded.

"I shall accompany you back to Rainhaven. If none other can wield Silvernight, then so be it. It's what Rekkdyr would have done. It's what he would have wished." She said at length.

"As will I. I've got some things to make up for. I didn't know the gnoll for long, but I owe him more than my freedom. I owe him my life." Camden said.

I nodded at the halfling, tears beginning to roll down my cheeks. I was not worthy of such companions.

Oddvarr considered the three of us for a moment, before he spoke.

"You cannot go to war in a travelling gown, Princess Vailadriel. Cesan, ensure the Princess is well equipped for the road ahead."

The satyr nodded, before reaching out his arm.

"Come along, Princess."