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Ferad woke with a start and immediately regretted the sudden movement. Everything above his waist ached dully, but whatever he moved throbbed horribly in response to the effort. In spite of it all, the pain also meant he was still alive.

He squinted against the lamplight, it wasn't doing much for his headache, but his mind was beginning to clear. The last thing he remembered was hitting the ground after being overrun. He had no idea what had happened after that, not to himself or Skeks. Pain or no, he needed to know where he was and what had transpired. Ferad reached up to shield his eyes from the glare. At the very least, someone must have treated the worst of his injuries. He had full use of his arms and hands even if they did scream at being used, the right was still covered in bandages.

“Braxton, keep him still. Thalbi said he wasn't to move," the strain in Shield's voice was evident. Was he in a tent? He could hear people talking and saw an occasional blue flash out of the corner of his eyes.

The Lieutenant stood between him and the lamp before carefully pushing his arms back down. “Sorry, Sir, but you heard her. A right nasty lump on the back of your head it was." Braxton grimaced at the thought, “Healer's orders, you stay put till he's done over there."

With the glare blocked, Ferad was able to make out the canvas ceiling and the throbbing behind his eyes subsided a bit. Tent it was, though his immediate concern still wasn't addressed, “Right fine, but what about..." His voice cracked into a short cough which sent another jolt of pain coursing through him. He was beyond thirsty, and his mouth felt tacky with dryness.

“He's workin' on her, Sir," Braxton glanced toward the other side of the tent. “Quick thinking on your part. That tent banner kept her from our bolts and got her to Thalbi right quick. Good thing too, he said she was almost gone." Ferad's scowl at that last bit of news prompted a hasty addition, “Thalbi's being his usual worrisome self, but he saw to her first, being the most in danger, then worked on you. Fixed enough to move you both. Ever since we got back, he's been seeing to her."

It was a bit of a roundabout explanation, but it told him what he needed to know. Ferad knew better than to nod, but he tried to pull some moisture forward into his mouth so he could speak, “Fair enough. I'll be good for now, don't want to distract him."

“It's really best that you don't, Commander," The healer's voice broke above the conversation. He sounded like he'd been working for several hours straight, but remained fully alert, “And please, this time don't try your best to undo my work in little more than a day or two." The healer's grumbling continued on the other side of the tent for quite some time. Apart from voicing Thalbi's frustration, it gave Ferad a bit of confidence in the outcome. If the man had breath enough for complaining, it meant his treatments could spare it.

Shield walked over, hauling both a chair and tankard with her, and sat close enough to talk relatively quietly, “Rem, we've cleared out what remained of the Scourge, but you need to know two things. We lost one patrol, Bergen's, confirmed dead, none captured." She took a moment to collect her thoughts as she stared at him intently, “The second thing is they were either really unlucky or targeted at the outset. The beasts were just suddenly there, right on top of them. I didn't sense anything sneaking in, and there weren't any tracks leading to the site when we found it, just away. Same goes for all the other places they arrived."

This explained the worried tone in her voice, and frankly it was unsettling to him as well. There were too many similarities between when they fought Mahozarm's forces and this incursion. A rouge gnoll here or there wasn't of too much concern, but several packs brought to heel under someone was dangerous. Perhaps even worse was the fact that the packs were gathering outside of Alkat. It meant politics getting between himself and a resolution at the very least. Ferad motioned for the tankard and shifted his position enough to get a small drink. The action hurt like hell but at least he had some relief to the dryness. “So no clues as to where they came from?"

Shield shook her head slightly, her brown eyes locked against his own, “None. There's other things about yesterday, but those are the most pressing."

Ferad sighed in resignation, this wasn't a matter to be handled quickly, not by a long shot.

* * *

Ferad forced himself to eat, even if he didn't much feel like it. Extensive healings could actually kill someone if it went through enough of their body's reserves. Skeks, on the other hand, was still resting and would certainly be ravenous when she woke. Ferad looked away from the table and bowl of thick stew toward the makeshift bed they'd assembled under the loft. The gnoll hadn't even so much as twitched since Thalbi finished his workings, even when moved to his house by cart, though the healer gave his assurance she was holding out rather well considering the circumstances. Both of them would bare scars from this one, their bodies had been pushed well beyond where the healer felt comfortable with adding extra strain for anything cosmetic.

Ferad pushed a rather large chunk of potato through the heavy stock, “Aside from their claws and teeth, we weren't hit by anything else. I certainly can't explain it." Thalbi had asked him to cover everything that happened from the time they left the camp to the final moments of their fight against the Scourge. When pressed as to why, the healer was convinced a rather exotic poison had been used against them.

“Then it's all the more reason to worry." The thin man sat across from him, drumming the table's surface with the fingers of his left hand, “How the devil did they poison you without blade or arrow? If you're right, then the poison would have been on their claws, but that's a dangerous affair and as likely to hurt them as well as you." Thalbi had downed nearly two bowls of stew himself as Ferad recounted the evening's events. Shield and Braxton had held to a modest half serving each, paying more attention to the details of the narrative than their food.

Five places had been set at the table, a few of which were outfitted with dishes from the camp's stores given the general lack of normal housewares at his home. The extra was set for when Skeks finally rose, though when she'd wake was beyond anyone's knowledge. Thalbi's guess was a rather vague “before tomorrow afternoon", meaning that if she slept longer than the morning, there would be cause for concern.

Shield traced his gaze to the sleeping form under the loft, “Whatever they used, it works against their own as well as humans. I sensed something was off when Raspin was looking after Skeks. Her wounds weren't closing like they should during his healings. It was slow, even by human standards."

“Indeed it was. It took every bit of skill I had just to get her stable, though in the moment I was thinking it was because of how close she was to crossing over." Thalbi noticed the grimace forming on the commander's face, “Don't give that look Ferad, be happy that you both lived. Now then, you were in quite a different state, sluggish and unresponsive and not just from that bump. I'd trust Shield's senses on this one. The poison may impact the species differently, but it doesn't explain why only the Scourge were unphazed. Quite the opposite in fact, given her reaction to it."

Yet another puzzle to solve, though less worrisome then the gnolls' sudden appearance in the first place. Ferad finally scooped the potato piece up along with a bit of meat and a carrot slice. The pressing issue, at least as far as he saw it, was securing both the village and fort against such an attack. An enemy that could appear directly in your midst wasn't something normal procedures could compensate for. They'd need help with this matter, and the closest which could render such aid weren't exactly his favorite people to deal with.

Ferad pushed the bowl to the center of the table, “Braxton, take two with you, fastest horses, and get back to the fort. I don't give a damned about the time, have the Speaker get an audience for me, we'll plan to arrive tomorrow, early morning."

“Aye sir. You know the court's going to have issues." The Lieutenant was right of course. Involving the elves without word from the ministry broke all manner of protocol, and he'd already stepped clear to the edge of his authority.

“But there's no time for that. Rem, I'll support this, not that it means much, but I don't see any other way to handle things. We're a training fort, we don't have anyone that can do the workings needed." Shield pushed her bowl to the middle as well, then glanced back at Skeks, “What happened to Bergen's patrol was too much like what we saw after Meshra fell, and it almost cost us you two as well." She nodded towards where Skeks was just beginning to stir.

The healer rose from his chair with an obvious look of relief, “Ah, I'm glad to have stayed then. She'll probably be thirsty at the least, if she fully comes round that is."

Ferad had already grabbed the mug of heavily watered down ale which had been set aside along with a pitcher containing the same. “Yeah I know, this isn't my first go." He'd been hit with a poisoned blade more than once himself, and each time the effects left him with a horrid case of dry mouth after being treated, this time being no exception. He knelt down beside the canvas covered straw, giving just enough room in case Skeks woke without realizing where she was, “Hey."

She had been set on her side to avoid choking if anything came up, a request which made sense given the healer's suspicion. Her ear had been stitched back together, but it seemed functional as it swiveled towards the sound of his voice. He could see her eyes crack open, squinting against the lamplight. Skeks pushed herself up slowly, growling at first before the dryness in her throat choked the sound out into a coughing fit.

“We've got drink and food, but start with the drink." Ferad held the mug out. “It'll help."

Skeks took the offered mug, drinking slowly for the first few sips, then finishing it off in large gulps once the initial dryness had been alleviated. Her arm, shoulder and back had bore the worst of the injuries, and these were still covered in bandages as was his own arm. Her neck had been fully treated as one of Thalbi's concerns was how deep the gashes went, though nothing vital had been hit. Skeks held the mug out after draining it.

“I'll pour you another." Ferad took the mug back, refilling its contents from the pitcher before offering it back to her, “Think you can stand? If not, I'll bring the bowl over."

Skeks glanced at him before taking the mug and downing its contents a second time. At times like these she was awfully hard to read, choosing to hide any discomfort rather than revealing a sign of weakness. Perhaps with enough time she'd be a bit less guarded in the present company, though he had his doubts.

Ferad stood, holding his hand out to her, “Come on then, we've got a place set for you and I think Raspin will have a few questions. I've been grilled for the past hour or so anyway." He gave a sidelong glance to the three others already at the table.

Skeks took his hand, pulling herself up with a slight growl. The last thing she probably felt like was answering questions. Food and rest would be her best allies for the next few days, at least so long as nothing else randomly appeared, and a long conversation would deny her of the latter. She made her way to the one setting with a stool rather than backed chair. It was the best they could do given the fact Skeks had a tail, though with the stew, there wasn't much helping the inclusion of a spoon.

“Glad to see you back up." Braxton nodded to her as she sat, “Hell of a fight you had."

Skeks gave a non-committal grunt in answer before taking the bowl in hand. Rather than dealing with the spoon at all, she ate from the bowl directly. Whatever questions were to come, they could wait.

“There's more of that in the pot by the fireplace, and bread if you want that too." Ferad sat back down at the table and motioned for Thalbi to do the same. Skeks wouldn't be overly long in eating her fill, and he just didn't have the energy to spare for standing needlessly. What did become clear was how stiff she was moving with each trip back to refill her bowl. He felt terrible right after waking up, hell he still ached all over, and she was no doubt worse off than he was. At the end of the fourth bowl, she sighed heavily and pushed it to the middle of the table where the rest of the dishes sat.

“First off, I'm sorry for not being able to do more," Thalbi had watched her movements closely and was acutely aware of his patient's state. “But with you two having both physical injuries and what I can only guess as being poisoned, I wasn't going to push it. Not after what you'd already gone through."

Skeks swiped her tongue over her muzzle as the healer spoke, clearing away any errant bits of stew. “Do not apologize, I live." She yawned widely at the end of her response, taking a brief moment to stretch as much as her shoulder would allow. “I expected not to."

Shield looked up from her glass, “I'm guessing it's because of who you fought?"

The gnolls ears pricked forward in surprise for a second, but she nodded in agreement, “You know of the Fang?"

“No, can't say that I do." Shield took another drink awaiting further explanation.

Skeks turned her head to the side slightly, thinking for a moment, “Your gift then. You sensed them?"

“Only once we got close enough." Shield traced the edge of her cup with her finger as she thought, “Today I learned I could tell you apart from other gnolls, so long as you weren't too close to them, even from far distances." She closed her eyes focusing on the memory, “The others that stood out were completely different. It was like something was pushing my mind away, warning me against looking too closely."

“Your instincts served you well. Do not focus on them, just knowing what they are is enough." Skeks poured herself another cup of ale, downing it quickly. “The Fangs are ones which have caught the attention of their god. It is not acts of bravery or skill which draw his eye, the demon craves brutality above all else." Her ears went back as she spoke, “Breakers are often chosen, but the gifts they receive differ from those we faced. Fighters are granted size and strength beyond most, and depending on the favor shown them, teeth and claw which cause festering wounds."

Thalbi nodded as her statements confirmed his earlier suspicion, “Then it was poison, of a sort at least. But why would it hurt you? I mean humans I could see, elves too for that matter."

“What better way to ensure the chosen lead?" Skeks looked at the healer, her lip curled in a slight snarl at the topic, “You think as a human does, but the Scourge lead through strength alone. If those which challenge loose limb or worse, the rule of his favored is assured. Other Fang are immune, so only between them is skill important." Skeks looked back at Shield, “Our line is of hyena and demon in equal parts. At his touch, the Fang tilt more toward demon. Do not let your gaze linger on them, lest you see what touches them. It is bad enough to hear it."

Ferad had remained quiet through her explanations, “Then you knew when they arrived?"

Skeks nodded though her ears stayed back, “Yes, but it didn't matter. I could tell by sight what they were, but not what gifts they had. Nor would it change how we fought."

Ferad shook his head, “Not questioning that, I could see they were of a different sort and there wasn't time to say more. It just explains a few things that bothered me is all."

Skeks brought her ears upright, “There is one more thing you managed, though you wouldn't know it. Their alpha refused to name his master to me, but your taunts may have brought it out where pain alone failed. Karvashen was named, at least in shouting what fates would be brought upon us and by whom."

Braxton chuckled as he stood, “Aye. Commander Rem's a better bastard than most when it comes to it." The Lieutenant gave a brief salute to Ferad, “I'll go as you asked, but best let Officer Skeks know who she'll be seeing in a few hour's time at first light." He turned to leave, but paused at the door and looked back, “King's word?"

Ferad nodded, “King's word." He turned his attention back to his newest officer, “Skeks, we don't have time to replace your armor, but we'll do what we can." Her ears had pricked forward again with Braxton's comment, “This is the first I've heard of a Karvashen, and I think it's the same for everyone else here. Doesn't seem like a gnoll name either." Skeks nodded in agreement, gnoll names were usually short and had a sharper tone. “One more thing, think you'll be alright for walking by early morning?"

Skeks put her ears back, “If needed, but only if, and only walking."

The commander nodded, well aware he was asking a lot, and now he'd have to ask for even more, “Alright then. For now, rest up, we can use the tent in camp again if you're fine there. In about four hours we'll be off to see the Summar, maybe they'll know something even if they refuse to help directly."

Skeks didn't bother smothering the growl, and honestly he felt the same way.

* * *

Any woods claimed by the Forest Folk became a work of wonder, though few ever had the privilege of seeing it with their own eyes. Ferad had been to Summar before, both his visits stemming from his role in defeating the cult, but it'd been years since he last set foot in the elven domain. These were a people steeped in magic, nature, tradition, and secrecy. Their homelands being living monuments to the first and last in equal parts.

Doing anything more than passing through the forest was impossible without a guide. Experienced huntsmen would find themselves walking out of the woods along the same path they just entered moments ago, often swearing they did nothing more than walk in a straight line. Other times they'd be expelled miles away having walked less than ten minutes while going at a leisurely pace. Wildlife was free to roam throughout, the workings were specific enough in their targets to not interfere in the natural order of things.

Ferad wasn't against this, everyone had the right to keep to themselves after all, but the elves took their isolation far beyond reasonable measure. He'd read the histories. It had taken the near destruction of all civilized people to have something as necessary as diplomatic relations between the elves and humans, and nothing he'd seen or experienced had swayed him from believing the veracity of those accounts. Hell, twice now Scourge had appeared within, or right next to, their lands and still they did nothing.

Their contingent for the meeting was small, apart from himself only Shield and Skeks were present. As was custom, each carried one weapon but armor was forbidden. Shield carried a bronze dagger, a common weapon for those gifted with Murtaqua given the lack of iron. Ferad carried his spear while Skeks retained the dagger he'd given her. Two plain overshirts along with tabards bearing the kingdom's colors of blue and white had been delivered at Ferad's residence overnight. Someone had managed to retrieve their belongings from the campsite as the leather pouch which displayed the Kestra's symbol was sitting neatly on top of one of the tabards. Shield met with them at the edge of the camp wearing clothing of the same style.

They'd taken a cart for most of the way, it meant less energy spent for both Ferad and Skeks, but their travels into the forest itself had to be on foot. There were several roads which led into the forest, this one in particular stopped a short way into the trees and was used exclusively for those meeting with the Folk. Under normal circumstances they'd have been greeted upon arrival, but then the events of the past few days weren't standard by any measure.

Skeks sniffed the air, ears pricked forward and alert, “One alone watches us now, but two were here shortly before." They'd been standing there for several minutes and so far none of the anger she'd displayed near the pyres was showing outwardly.

Shield nodded, “I suspect they thought only Ferad and maybe myself would be arriving. Since that's not exactly the case, the sentries would have sent for instructions." Having a gnoll in the group would certainly cause a stir, but like it or not, Skeks was an officer in the command and she had direct knowledge of the happenings.

Try as he might, Ferad couldn't see anyone in the trees. Skeks could smell them, but she too would have difficulty spotting the guard until they wanted to be seen. There did come a point, one which they were fast approaching, when remaining hidden ceased being cautious and turned to rudeness.

Just as Ferad began to step forward, a slender figure separated itself from the trees where the road ended. The man was about the same height as Ferad, maybe an inch or two taller, but his build was similar to Thalbi. While the healer could be described as woefully thin, the slender frame somehow fit perfectly with the person standing before them. His hair was approaching silver in color, it flowed easily in the slight breeze as if caressing the essence of the air, and his eyes were a piercing pale blue. At first glance, the man's clothing was simply colored natural shades of brown and green, but one could see the intricate patterns which adorned the garment once he stepped onto the road's surface. “Commander Ferad Rem, and I do believe it's Sub-commander Ellen Shield now, is it not?" Here the man paused and waited for a response, his greeting done.

“It is, and yes, the last time we met she was a Lieutenant. Greetings Percival, I hope you've been well." Ferad walked forward his hand extended to the newcomer, “Though I'd appreciate it if you'd do two things for me."

Percival moved to the border of the forest, taking Ferad's hand in a firm shake as they met at the edge of the trees, “And what would those be?"

“First, at least have your guards acknowledge our arrival. Being stared at without seeing the one doing the staring isn't pleasant," he didn't bother masking the agitation in his voice.

At the request, the elf nodded slightly. As if by magic, another appeared only a few feet away, bow in hand and garbed in nearly the same outfit as Percival. He was about the same height as well, though not quite as slender, and his hair was more blonde than silver. This, presumably, was the guard which had been watching over them since they arrived. “And the second?"

Ferad motioned back towards Skeks, “I know damned well how the formalities work. This, Percival of Summar, is Warrant Officer Skeks Kestra. Newly added to my command, but an officer nonetheless." The glossing over of her existence hadn't gone unnoticed.

The smile which briefly flashed across the elf's face was plastered there for sake of maintaining at least a veneer of civility, “Ah, but of course." Percival offered a short bow before continuing, “My apologies, Officer Kestra, but I didn't know in what capacity you were serving under the Commander. He tends to forget that Gifted though we are, we lack clairvoyance."

Skeks stared at the elf, ears back and hackles only slightly raised. Ferad was impressed that she didn't snarl outright at the insult to her or the second one leveled against him. “Courtesy, not clairvoyance, is expected, Percival of Summar," her statement was ended with a very small dip of her head.

It took a fair amount of self control to not laugh outright, the thought of a gnoll lecturing an elf on manners was rather humorous. Judging by the quickly stifled reaction of the second guard, Ferad wasn't the only one who thought so. Percival had been this way ever since Ferad first laid eyes on him some years ago. The man was held in high regard, a quintessential elf by any measure of field skill, too bad he was about as personable as a troll's backside. “We're here on matters of state, so you can expect us all to be on our best behavior while in your lands." Ferad ended with the same thin smile the stuffy bastard had produced moments ago.

“On your word then," Percival turned on his heel and strode into the trees, his hair flowing elegantly behind in spite of the rather brisk pace he set. “Do keep up, you'll end up lost if you fall behind."

The three of his company and the other guard followed along the winding path set by Percival. Whatever trail markers used were visible only to the elves, if they even used such things. He'd been told that the winding nature of the trek was to bypass the workings laid to keep trespassers out, though there was always a part of him that settled on the Folk having a bit of fun at their visitors' expense.

Ferad's knowledge of trees was fairly thin but he knew the forest was mainly a combination of ash and oak, though the specific varieties were unknown. What was remarkable to him was the health of the trees. They tended to go green sooner and hold their leaves far longer than in other places. The only time the trees were mostly bare was the dead middle of winter, and even then the elves had placed small pockets of evergreens to conceal the inner forest from the outside. It was said that the elves primarily traveled among the trees, and the lack of trails bore testament to this.

By his measure, their walk had gone on for a little under an hour before the seemingly random turns and twists settled into a straight path. In spite of his cynicism, the initial view of the elven city was still awe inspiring. Spires as high as the tallest castle towers reached to the skies, built entirely from the living trees, and as far as he knew without a sculptor's blade. The city was crafted almost completely using workings, training the branches and trunks into shapes useful for the Folk.

Ferad glanced back at his companions. Shield wore probably the same look he did, it was an incredible sight after all, but Skeks seemed far less impressed. Her people roamed the plains, and if Scourge, simply burned the forests down rather than deal with them in any meaningful way. Walking among the trees was probably foreign enough. He could see the moment she realized she'd be high up within the trees, her ears folded back and hackles raised to their full height, though her growl was kept to a barely audible level.

Shield stepped up beside Skeks, following her gaze to the pathways far above the solid earth, “I felt the same way when we first saw on this place. Once you're up there though, it's not as bad as it seems from down here. The paths are really wide in the places we'll be and there's ropes along the sides."

The guard nodded his agreement with Shield's assessment, “Sub-commander Shield is quite right. Though we host few visitors here which are not of the Folk, they do acclimate rather quickly." At the nearly hostile look from Skeks he hastily added, “And I do apologize for not introducing myself earlier. I am Tennal, a guard of Summar." This fellow seemed to lack the raw arrogance of his senior, as his words held a measure of sincerity.

Percival stopped a few steps ahead, at least he had the decency to not wander off while they were taking in the view, though Ferad felt it was entirely possible Percival had no choice but to keep watch over them. State's business or otherwise, they were still outsiders. The elf turned back, taking note of the discussion, “Perhaps your officer would be more at home down here. I could have a tent fetched if she prefers solid earth underfoot, or is it paw? I'm not sure of the proper terminology."

Skeks glared at the elf, “I stay with my pack. Our business is with those above both your station and the ground. That is where I will go." The challenge in her voice left no uncertainty as to who would win this war of wills; stairs, heights, and insults be damned. She was more than capable of sparring with words when needed and so far she'd kept pace rather well against the elf.

Ferad walked forward a few steps, pausing as he came up beside Percival, “I've known you for what, five years now? I'm fine with whatever you want to throw at me, I've earned that much." Regardless of how good Skeks was at verbal jousting, the sticking point was that she had to deal with the offhand comments in the first place. “But no more remarks like that to anyone under my command, am I clear?"

Percival glanced between Skeks and Ferad before turning to face the city ahead, “Very well, Commander Ferad, but let me also be quite clear. Some of us are old enough to remember what you humans call the Northern Wars first hand. I'm not sure why or how you ended up taking a half demon into your ranks, and quite frankly, I don't care." Any hint of civility left the elf's features, replaced with a tense and barely restrained anger, “Bringing it to our lands to begin with is an insult and forcing an audience with it using long held treaties is yet another. We will bear it, but expect your superiors to hear of this."

“I've already sent a report on what I'm doing, it'll be a few days getting there though." Ferad shook his head, “Who knows, maybe you won't have to deal with me anymore by the time this is all said and done." Causing a strain between the elves and the kingdom would very well be a career ending move, “But while you're busy working yourself up over events some seven hundred years in the past, you'd do well to remember what happened just eight years ago." The elves weren't the only ones to lose people to the Scourge, hell they weren't even the most recent to fight them. “Think long and hard before you begin to lecture me about who is or isn't in my command based on little more than their species. She's needed here and I've damned well earned the right to make that call."

Throughout Ferad's reply Percival only became more enraged, “You haven't even begun to..."

“And here you are, with the Commander and his, rather unique company." Heated though the argument may be, Farisia of Summar ended it instantly. Ferad respected the elves' abilities, he wouldn't be here otherwise, but few had his respect on a personal level and Farisia was counted among them. Elves, as far as Ferad knew, had elders in name only. Past a certain point, they didn't seem to age at all and Farisia was a living testament to this fact. The woman's right eye was a bright shimmering silver, its gaze conveying both warmth and strength fitting of the eldest in the Summar council. The left was covered by a patch adorned with intricate glyphs, though it didn't detract from the woman's grace in the slightest. Her eye had been lost in defense of her homeland seven centuries ago, the result of a poison tipped arrow from a human archer's bow. Humanity fought on both sides of the Northern Wars, a fact which eroded trust between human and elven kind and contributed greatly to the attitudes prevalent within both societies.

Percival's demeanor switched immediately. “Lady Farisia," all the natural grace of the elves was put on full display, replacing the anger of just a split second ago, “I do apologize for the unsightly scene. The Commander's choice in companions aside, I should not have allowed my ire to rise as it did." The man was still a snarky bastard though, no hiding that behind flowery language.

Ferad gave a short bow, trying to maintain his own temper against the man's verbal antics. “Lady Farisia, it's been a while. You remember Sub-commander Shield," the two women nodded to each other cordially. Both times they visited, Farisia made a point to talk with them after the council briefings were concluded, and with far less formalities involved. Regardless of the underlying reasons, it was a chance to discuss matters plainly and the option was appreciated. For better or worse, Ferad had a soldier's command of language. While the elven council may not appreciate the more colorful descriptions, the Lady was far more responsive to candid accounts than the nearly scripted versions recited in the council's chambers.

“That I do, and welcome back to each of you. Percival," Farisia fixed the elf with her gaze, “it would be most helpful for you to gather the council. I expect discussions to extend into the evening at least. Our guests will need rooms made ready, so see to that as well. Tennal, while the preparations are made, please fetch something suitable for everyone's tastes." She turned her watchful eye back to Ferad's group, “I'm afraid we don't have much which would appeal to your entire company beyond what keeps within the stores."

“I'm sure it will be fine," regardless of whatever was in the elves' stores, it was sure to be several steps in quality above the fare he was used to. “But that does bring us to the newest addition of my command, Warrant Officer Skeks from the pack Kestra. Skeks, this is Lady Farisia, head of the Summar council."

Percival had remained standing just behind the council's elder, a look of concern etched across his features. “Lady Farisia, a word if I may..."

“No, Percival, you may not," she left no room for discussion, the decidedly hard edge to her voice forcing the other into compliance without so much as giving him a glance. Tennal had the sense to follow orders at the outset and was already well on his way. Percival nodded stiffly then headed off towards the city at a brisk pace. While his concern had honest intentions, it was equivalent to suggesting she was unsafe in her own domain in the presence of a single gnoll.

In spite of Percival's interruption, both elf and gnoll had locked eyes, each seeming to take the measure of the other. Whatever tension was between them passed just as suddenly as it appeared, with both giving a brief nod of acknowledgment.

“Welcome to Summar, Officer Skeks. I'm not sure how much Ferad has told you of our customs, but if we are in the presence of others, please address me as Lady Farisia. While in the present company, though, formalities aren't necessary. Ellen and Ferad are of the few that don't let titles or rank get in the way of things, and I hope you're of similar mind." Appearances were important in certain circles, and elven society was one such place regardless of Farisia's personal preferences.

Percival was in line with what Skeks expected, and judging by her general reactions to anything elven, had experienced in dealing with the Folk. Farisia was nearly a polar opposite of this, and the genuine welcome had caught her by surprise, “Skeks, then, is fine."

Farisia nodded then turned to face the city, “Then again, Skeks, allow me to welcome you to Summar. While Percival may have meant ill of it, his observation isn't without merit. Our fate is tied to the earth, but our way of life is above in the trees, far removed from the plains where the packs roam. Ferad or Ellen should be able to answer many questions, but for those which are beyond their knowledge, seek Tennal or myself for answers." Farisia sighed heavily, but kept her eye trained on the city ahead, “There are many here that know of your kind only through the Northern Wars, as the humans call that point in history. For those like Percival, it is enough to hold all but our own in contempt. This is the first time, and I prey not the last, that one of your kind has set foot in our domain as guest rather than invader."

* * *

The elven city was deceptively large, its size being measured not only in length and width, but height as well. The forest was rumored to be fed, in part, by an underground river which allowed the elves to coax the trees into growing ever higher. Perhaps the most astonishing feature of the city was that none of it was visible from beyond its borders. The workings in place to conceal it must have taken decades to construct, but then again the defenses of Summar had been worked on for the better part of seven hundred years.

Farisia set a rather deliberate pace in leading the group though the city, ever aware of the state of her guests. Skeks had performed admirably in keeping her apprehension and fatigue masked, life among the packs had well prepared her for the task, but the Lady missed nothing in her observations and adjusted accordingly. From time to time, she'd stop and point out the city's landmarks or explain some of the features unique to Summar. The woman was obviously proud of her people's accomplishments, and the breaks gave Ferad's group a moment to catch their breath. Shield was doing well enough, but the uphill trek was taxing his already depleted reserves and Skeks would be faring about the same, if not worse. The walkway they were on led to the guest lodgings that were used the last time he'd been to Summar. It was likely that they'd be using the same, as Tennal was standing just outside of the archway to greet them.

Farisia nodded to the guard then turned back, “Here is where we will part ways briefly. There are some light refreshments for you, and I will see that such is available at the council as well. I'll be a short while with the other elders, but Tennal will be with you in the meantime should you need anything." Percival's actions aside, the elves were polite in almost everything. Whether accommodating an already exhausted group or placing the same under guard, neither was openly acknowledged. Civility was paramount for a people that could live indefinitely.

Tennal offered a genuine smile at the arrival of the group, “Commander, I've been told you've used these quarters previously, and I doubt much has changed since your last visit. In any case, consider this your home while you are here, and as Lady Farisia noted, I am at your service."

“Well, thank you both then," Ferad gave both elves a quick nod before heading into the dome like structure. Between marching through the forest at a blistering pace and then making it up to the quarters, he was glad to finally have what should be an extended break. Like the rest of the city, the rooms here were crafted from living wood. Boughs grew from the side of massive tree trunks which were interwoven and cascaded downward before meeting up with the thicker branches that formed the base. The workings here rivaled the skill of any human craftsman, the floors were completely level and not a seam could be seen. The furnishings for the rooms served to accentuate the natural beauty on display, each piece crafted solely for its use here and made for the exact spot in which it rested. In spite of the elegance surrounding him, what caught his attention was the assembly of finely crafted wooden chairs accompanying a round table that had been furnished with a variety foods and drink. Beyond this room were two separate bedding spaces.

There were few places in Summar that had proper doors or shutters. Instead, the elves made use of heavy curtains for the archways and rounded windows to afford some measure of privacy. Tennal pulled the curtain across the entrance after both Skeks and Shield entered, his duties would keep him just outside until the council called for them. For now, though, they were free to enjoy the comforts of their rooms, and Ferad wasted little time in sitting himself at the table.

Skeks approached the spread, only slightly put off by the high backed chairs which weren't designed with consideration for someone of her species. As it was, she sat slightly forward on the seat, giving enough room for her tail to curl around to the side. Ferad glanced back at the drinks, “Looks like there's water, thinned ale, but I'm not sure of the wine. I'd stick with the first two, some of the wines can be stronger than what we're used to."

Shield had also glanced over the table's contents prior to sitting down, “A glass of each of the first two." In most places, drinking straight water was asking for problems. It'd set you down for a week or more as your innards dealt with the folly, though here was an exception. The elves used some type of working to make the water both safe and refreshing, even after being stored for months. It was a near miraculous thing. Ferad poured three glasses of the water, placing one in front of both Shield and Skeks before setting his own aside. He then poured three glasses of the ale. Though it was excellent in its own right, it was just really good ale and lacked whatever workings the water held.

Skeks gave the glass a curious look before sniffing it. She would know as well as anyone that humans in particular could have problems with water. Whatever workings were done, it shouldn't leave any particular smell behind. Some places called the stuff sweetwater, though Ferad felt it was a misnomer. For one thing, it didn't taste sweet, just exceptionally pure. Second, the stuff could revive an exhausted soldier. March with this in your stores and your troops could make it one and a half times their normal distance. Add in some of the elven bread and you'd go fully twice as far. He managed to mask his own reaction to the drink, as did Shield, each of them curious as to what the gnoll's take would be.

Skeks shrugged, she had to have noticed the both of them waiting for her to drink, but there wasn't any cause to refuse the stuff, and she was probably too tired to care. She'd be able to tell if it was poisoned by smell alone, and the fact that it wasn't was enough. The water was downed nearly instantly, there were dried meats and other things waiting which would have been far more appealing. Just moments after setting the glass on the table, Skeks focused back on it with her head titled to the side and rounded ears pricked forward in attention.

Shield smiled at the innocent scene, “All I know is that it's some kind of working that humans can't perform. Feeling better?"

Skeks made a brief nod in response, “Yes, but I smelled nothing unusual."

Ferad chuckled, “It took us by surprise the first time too."

They were fighting against Mahozarm's cult when they first set foot in Summar. Given the nature of their foe, Ferad and Shield had been ordered to brief the elves and see if they'd offer any insight. Farisia, along with the rest of the council, had listened to their hour long report on the matter, detailing everything from the types of creatures to the abilities Mahozarm wielded. Another few hours after that were spent with questions. True, the elves didn't offer direct assistance, doing so would have meant leaving their home, but what they did provide was sound advice for dealing with such enemies. It was in these quarters that the water had been provided to them by way of refreshments back then, and Ferad probably had a very similar look on his face to what Skeks wore now. In this case, he was glad to have it prior to facing the elders rather than afterwards. The council meeting would be as long, if not longer, than the two he'd been in before.

Skeks, while intrigued by the water, moved on to the rest of the food stuffs. She was hungry, and rightfully so. Ferad felt the same way, but his attention was on his two companions and their well being. “Skeks, the elves' idea of a short while could be anything from half an hour to half a week, and with our circumstances, the council discussions may take even longer." Ferad took a bite from the bread and within moments the weariness in his limbs decreased even further. “In case you're wondering, the bread has the same effect as the water. I'm glad they work for you, I was a bit curious if they would."

Shield nodded, “If I had to guess it's because she's part hyena and she's found guidance within the Light." After another bite of bread she looked back at Skeks, “When we first took some of this into our stores, we were worried that Mahozarm's forces might find and use it to the cult's benefit. It turns out it just doesn't do anything to them. Plain old bread and water as far as the Scourge or their ilk can tell."

Skeks had taken a few bites of the bread but quickly turned to the dried meats and nuts during Shield's explanation, “That is good to know. For now, I need more such as this, and then rest."

Ferad felt the same pull towards the heartier offerings. As refreshing as the bread and water were, their bodies needed something of substance to replenish the losses of the last few days. Tennal undoubtedly heard the conversation, no point in pretending otherwise. Ferad called back towards the curtain, “I assume you heard Officer Skeks? The same goes for me too, Tennal. We've been a bit too close to the other side, Skeks twice now, and both had extensive healings just days ago."

Tennal shifted the curtain aside and stepped just within the threshold, “I expected as much given the Lady's orders along with my own observations, and have scheduled for more to be brought." The guard waited a minute, “Is that all you needed of me?"

“You're welcome to pull up a chair if you want," the elf looked as if something crazy had been suggested, “unless there's a specific order saying you shouldn't. The fact is you're just outside and can hear everything, even if you're supposed to be acting as if you can't. It doesn't make sense to me at least." Ferad paused for a moment, if the guard took the slight against protocol in good stride, there was at least a chance he'd be reasonable to deal with. “Since Farisia assigned you to watch over us, it means you're a fair bit better than Percival, personality wise anyway."

Skeks swallowed the portion of meat she was working on, but kept her thoughts to herself on what the elf should do. Shield took a quick sip of the ale then turned her focus to the guard, “Do you have a title, or is Tennal sufficient?"

Tennal stood completely still for a moment, probably as he thought exactly what to do given the situation he found himself in. The breach of protocol was clearly not something he expected from Ferad, but once he settled on an appropriate response, he gave a slight nod, “Apart from my position as guard, I don't hold any particular titles of note, at least nothing worth worrying over. Tennal is fine with me." The elf looked back at the curtain, “And as much as I'd like to take you up on your offer, Commander, while I may not be directly ordered, it would be a breach of my post."

A diplomatic answer, and without the snark or rudeness. Ferad appreciated that, it was the first time anyone bothered to say why they stood there with more than a thin smile and a “No, thank you" when offered otherwise. “Fine, then perhaps some other time. Maybe when we're not under watch, or at least you're not the one responsible for the watching."

Tennal managed a smile at that, “I really would appreciate that, Commander. It would be, hmm, a change of pace to my usual routine. And I'm glad you understand my position in the matter. Percival's view of things, well, it's clouded by his own experience, so please don't hold it against him."

Ferad laughed a bit at the request, “Oh, clouded is one way to put it." After a quick swig from his own ale he shrugged, “Though truth be told, his is a problem too many have. It's not just elves, mind you, humans and others share that same. One look and they think they have the measure of someone figured out, without the slightest interest in taking the time to learn otherwise."

Tennal nodded, “Which is why I regret not having that chance now. Farisia holds both you and Sub-commander Shield in high regard. For that reason, and that reason alone, Officer Skeks is welcome here. Any other time and a gnoll would be turned away, or worse, from Summar without hesitation..."

Skeks pushed her ears back as she interrupted the guard, “Then you should have done so days ago." Ferad could understand her issues with the lack of action. It probably wouldn't have saved her pack, but at least a few of the humans might have survived given aid.

The elf gave a resigned sigh, “That is, well, something a bit more complex. The council will, I'm sure, address that particular issue with you."

Ferad had his guess that the guard wanted to say more, but for some reason was bound not to. “Skeks, let that one be."

The gnoll shot him a glance, but eventually gave a subtle nod. Though small, it was a sign of trust in his decisions as her commander. If anything positive came from the second appearance of the Scourge, that was it. Ferad knew of her skills, he'd seen evidence of it based on his own appraisal of the field when they'd found her. It was a completely different thing to have actually fought side by side though, and the same probably held true for Skeks.

“I am sorry, but I must excuse myself," Tennal gave a quick bow and exited without giving chance for anything else to be said.

* * *

It was about an hour after the short conversation with Tennal that he delivered a missive containing the council's course of action. After a brief knock on the archway, he handed the note to Ferad and left after offering a short bow and little else.

The elders were set to deliberate on some issues through the rest of the day and well into the night before considering anything Ferad might have to report. As it was worded, for Ferad's sake, and that of his company, the council would call upon them in the morning, letting them recover from recent events before taxing them further. Also included in the note was news that several of their guard were being dispatched to Husinbiu as a precaution, with another contingent being sent to the fort. Presumably the decision was based on the information they received in the request for an audience.

Skeks had made her way to one of the sleeping rooms, and as far as Ferad knew, she was sound asleep when the note arrived. Shield had stayed with Ferad, since his own energy levels were in question, and he wanted to make sure at least someone was awake for receiving word. After reading the note, she gave him a questioning look, “So what do you make of it?"

Ferad shook his head, “It's all fine, apart from that last bit. There's something they already knew, or at least pieced together recently. There's no way they'd send anyone outside these borders without damned good reason." He shrugged back at the curtain, “And my guess is Tennal knows something too, or at least has some guess as to the matter. Seems a nice enough fellow though, so I won't hold it against him that he's not able to speak freely."

Shield gave him a brief smile, knowing full well the last of Ferad's statement was for the benefit of the guard standing mere feet away. “If they knew, then why wouldn't they take action, the fight went within their borders when the Kestra fled through the forest with the humans in tow. From all I've seen, the most they did was send word through their speaker."

“That's the rub of it, and what I'm having issues coming to terms with. Percival, much as the man's a bastard, hates everything that's not an elf. That at least makes him predictable. If they had advanced notice, he'd have intercepted the lot with a full detachment and put more than a few arrows into every gnoll's hide. The problem is, he didn't. The fighting took place in the forest, yes, but not anywhere near here from what I can gather." He motioned in a direction he reckoned was vaguely toward the southeast, “My guess is they didn't know it was coming either, so even if someone was in the vicinity, it'd be a regular patrol, not enough to fight the Scourge."

“They know what kind of magic it is," a horrified look of dawning washed over Shield's face as she came to the same conclusion he had. “Rem, they've always known."

Ferad merely nodded, “Yeah. But they aren't about to let onto understanding workings that can take a group of men from one spot and move them directly to another. They know how to defend against it, too, but that may be only a skill they know. Or worse, it's something a human can only manage with enough external power."

“It was the reason for the cult in the first place." Having the gift of Murtaqua, Shield knew from experience how workings were performed. Ferad only knew as much as was tactically important. Take a group of people who may not have the gift, but did have a common belief, and their combined energies could be manipulated by a highly skilled magician to do things beyond their normal power. It had been used throughout history to manipulate people into believing in false gods by way of so-called miracles, the latest being Mahozarm. “But spill enough blood..."

“And the same can happen." Mahozarm drew energy from both sources, but the Scourge of the Northern Wars used sacrifices, both on and away from the field, exclusively. “But the thing I don't get is why we didn't run into the Fang until now. The wizard had gnolls in the ranks."

“One bound to a human master would be unsuited," Skeks stood in the passage between rooms. Their conversation must have been louder than he thought, or perhaps Skeks was having trouble resting in the unfamiliar space and was lightly sleeping to start with. “The Fang serve only their god, not coin or power as some covet."

Shield shook her head, “But then that means that the pack that you fought would only be bound to their god. That doesn't explain them being with a wizard that's powerful enough to do the sort of working we're talking about."

Ferad rubbed his temples, feeling the onset of a rather bad headache, “It does if the wizard, or more than likely a group of them, serve the same master."