2: Unwavering Wills and Uncertain Paths

The days passed for Rayann and Myth. While they had confessed their love for each other, many things still remained between them that needed to be laid to rest once and for all. They spent hours talking about the things that happened and they found a way to slowly begin to trust each other once more. And after a few weeks they were able to pick up their training, once Myth was back to full health, where they left off.

Several times Myth tried to get Rayann to tell him what really happened but she would merely shake her head and change the subject. While it frustrated the warrior to no end, he knew he couldn’t force her to reveal anything she wasn’t ready to. Rayann knew Myth was concerned for her but she simply couldn’t bring herself to tell him because she wasn’t sure exactly how. But it was mostly due to the fact she didn’t want him to see what was happening to him in the process.

Rayann explained that after the battle in the void she remembered the secluded cottage her parents used to have on the outskirts of Balifor and had used her magic to port both of them there. And not a moment too soon either. As she closed the port she saw some of the Queen’s soldiers starting to enter the cave. Myth was concerned they would somehow be able to follow them to the cottage but Rayann had used a spell that would wipe out all traces of the ports origin and destination.

The cottage had enough provisions to last them for a couple of months and Rayann thought it was the best place to bring him since he would need time to heal in all ways. The warrior had endured a great deal of soul felt pain and Rayann knew one didn’t recover from that quickly. Several times in the night, Myth would begin thrashing about and it was only by holding him close and whispering softly in his ear could she get him to calm. While she knew he didn’t sleep like she did, she knew he rested in a state where he was able to recall memories and she prayed endlessly these memories would leave him.

Each night brought the pair closer as they expressed their love physically for each other. Rayann didn’t think it was possible for her to experience anything greater than feeling Myth’s emotions for her but she was wrong. The warrior training Myth kept in tight control melted away during these times and he opened himself to her in ways Rayann never realized possible. Her heart soared and her soul knew beyond a shadow of a doubt it had found its mate.

But as with all good things, it wasn’t meant to last. At least not yet. One night, Myth was starting to have those terrible memories invade his mind again when something happened. The memory he was having was one he didn’t remember. He and Rayann were at the cottage and they were walking along the path in the colorful flower gardens. It was dusk and the sunlight was beginning to turn the sky vibrant colors of gold, orange, violet and amber. Rayann commented on how beautiful the sky was when Myth stopped and turned to face her, taking her hands in his. She smiled lovingly up at him and he was getting ready to say something to her when he heard an eerie whoosh, whoosh sound followed by a sickening thud. Rayann’s eyes grew wide and blood gurgled from her lips. Myth looked on in horror as the life drained from her lavender eyes as she collapsed against him. As he held her limp body against his own he looked over her shoulder and saw the blade of a wicked double axe buried deep in her back. The wound staining her pristine, white robes a dark crimson color as her blood flowed freely.

In shock of what was happening, Myth trembled as he slowly eased Rayann’s body down to the ground and looked up to see the one responsible for her murder. Walking towards Myth was the armor clad Blackguard Kashan. Even though the only thing that was visible of his face was his eyes, Myth could see he was smiling beneath the skull helmet he wore. Glancing down at Rayann’s body once more and saw the blood on his hands, he realized the Dark Queen had discovered where they were and had dispatched her most vicious Blackguard who specialized in dismemberment.



Myth startled awake hearing his own voice in his ear screaming the word no. Disoriented at first, he blinked a few times to gain his bearings. A noise next to him made his head snap in that direction. The moonlight illuminated the room in a soft, pale, white light and he saw Rayann’s bare back as she lay on her side next to him. Her flawless, ivory skin unmarred, save for the mark on her shoulder. He felt his heart beat slow as his panic began to ease but his mind refused to rest now. Rolling over and pulling her close, he held her against him for the rest of the night listening to her even breathing and feeling her heat beat steady against him. In her sleep, Rayann knew he was there and curled closer to him, sighing contentedly.

As Myth lay there holding Rayann, he knew he had some kind of vision. A horrible vision but a vision all the same. Knowing it would come to pass if they didn’t leave this place. There was no way he was going to let anything happen to Rayann. IN the morning, he would make sure they were ready to leave. Even if she protested, he’s carry her over his shoulder if he had to.

The next morning, Rayann woke and rolled over to see Myth’s smiling face next to her again only to find an empty bed. Furrowing her brows, she heard him moving around downstairs and was even more puzzled as she sat up. Reaching across the bed, she found his shirt and pulled it over her head. Sliding out of bed, she pulled her hair out from the shirt, that nearly reached her knees, and walked downstairs. What she saw confused her even more and she stopped midway down the steps. He had packed two light weight traveling bags for them. When he turned to look at her, she tilted her head, giving him that deeply confused and concerned look as her voice touched his mind.

Myth? What are you doing?

Much to Myth's delight the path to redemption was not as difficult as he had first thought, but that by no means it was easy. He found that his trust in her had been unwavering and that it was her trust in him that needed the most repair. Myth was often over critical of himself and after a couple lectures he finally began to relent and that is when true progress started being made. When enough time had passed he was eager to return to their training. More than once magic had been brought to bare to get the point across that he needed to recover more before returning to the rigors of his own training style let alone their combined practice. At times it made him stir crazy but he knew it was for the best and tried not to argue.

Try as he might he was never able to coax the truth of that day out of her and inwardly he was grateful that she refused to tell him. He could barely imagine what horrors the queen had been putting him through when he retreated into himself. Even though a great deal had been done to him in his mind there was physical evidence of his torture as well. Most of those injuries surfaced in the days that had followed. However Myth could handle the physical trauma that he had endured. It was the mental pain that plagued him and he knew that at times he had night terrors. He could always tell because of the sorrowful look she had in the morning when he would wake.

Despite their many hurdles he felt the love between them blossom and soon he eased from using his meditative sleep and instead slept as she did. He could scarcely recall have such restful slumber except on the nights the terrors came. However it was the time spent in their loving passion that allowed him to rest peacefully some nights and before long the terrors seemed to fade.

When Myth had recovered his wits after waking from this new night terror it took a good deal of time to calm down. He ran the dream back through many times examining everything he could and as he held Rayann close he knew that it had been a warning. He was not sure how he knew this only that he knew in the deepest fibers of his being that if they did not leave soon the vision would come to pass. He only hoped he would meet the person responsible for the sending so that he could properly thank them. Just before dawn's first light Myth rose silently from the bed so that he could prepare for their journey. If Kashan was coming Myth did not want Rayann there to meet him. Myth was confident he could take the man but Rayann would be vulnerable and Myth would not risk her life in a confrontation with the blackguard. He knew the best option was to move on and in time confront the man on their own terms.

The morning hours passed with a blur as he readied packs and made sure they were provisioned for the road and the weather. They were packed a little lighter than they had been on their previous journey but there were certain amenities that one could skip when traveling with a lover. Myth chuckled at least during the morning as he discovered how much extra room they had for other things when one was packing for a couple. He was finishing some bread for the packs when his ears perked up as he heard her footsteps descending. He turned and offered a smile for a moment as he gazed upon her in his shirt. He could not help but take a moment to gaze upon her form following every curve he could see and even those he did not. His smile faded slightly as she spoke.

"I'm afraid my heart that the time has come for us to set out once more upon the pathways of the world." He split the breads wrapping them and put them in the packs before sealing them. With a tug at the draw strings he moved away from the table and came to the stairs. It was clear in his eyes that there was something troubling his mind. He knew this was the case because he could see the concern growing on her face. He knew better than to beat around the bush and put the facts before her as bluntly as he could as he was known to do when he was serious.

"I beheld a terrible dream last night Rayann... in fact I wouldn't even call it a dream I would call it a vision of the future." He held up a hand knowing she was about to say something "She knows where we are Rayann... She has sent one of her agents to kill us. If my vision is correct then the man coming for us is a beast of a man. His name is Kashan and he is an expert at dismembering his prey.... while they still live. The queen has an agent for every kind of death she wishes. For the torture of information that can last for days or even years she has the High Inquisitor Piramay. I was often sent if she wished for a matter handled quietly with silent precision. Kashan is sent when she wants someone to suffer an agonizingly short or long painful death. In this case she wishes yours to be short and mine to be the exact opposite."

He stepped up the stairs and took her into his arms holding her close. The warmth of her body soothed his own and he rested his forehead to hers. "I can not say why dearest, but I know that if we do not live this night then tomorrow could be our last on Krynn. I do not mean to burden you with such horrid news on such a fine morning but if there was even a shred of truth in that dream then I must insist we get our affairs in order and set out before the sun sets this day. so help me Solanari I will not let the vision come to pass. I love you to much to even think to let such a thing happen." He let out a trembling sigh as he locked away the dream in his mind. He would not let her see this until after the threat had passed and he would tell her as much if she asked him. He did not want her to see a vision of her own death. It was bad enough for him to watch it himself.

Rayann furrowed her brows as she listened to Myth. There was no doubt what he saw he felt was a true account of what could happen if they didn’t leave. And there was no doubt she felt fear from him when the thought of her death at this Kashan’s hands. But to just up and leave? While she knew they would have to eventually, she didn’t think it would be this soon. He wasn’t completely back to being his full self yet. He still needed time to recover. How were they to set out on another journey if he still needed time to recover?

When Myth took Rayann into his arms she felt his resolve and knew there would be no arguing with him. As much as she wanted to remain here longer, it simply wasn’t meant to be. Perhaps they could return here when things were safe once again.

Closing her eyes and listening to his heart beat in his chest against her ear, she reluctantly lifted her head and looked up into his troubled eyes once more. There, in the depths of his emerald gaze, she saw the absolute fear he felt of the vision he’d been given. His emotions were, as always, genuine and Rayann would in no way try to convince him they shouldn’t leave.

Very well. Let me get dressed and I’ll meet you back downstairs in a few minutes.

With a nod of her head, Rayann leaned closer to press her lips gently against his before she turned to make her way back to their bedroom once again. A few minutes later, as promised, she walked back down the steps dressed and ready to go. Walking over to the door and pulling her white robe off the peg, she shrugged the near glowing cloth onto her shoulders, clasping it at the throat then walked over to where he stood watching her.

Lavender orbs locked onto emerald ones and for a moment neither said anything to the other. In the moment they shared, there as nothing to say. Each felt the others love and knew it was deeply rooted to the core of the other. Finally Rayann nodded once more as she continued to look upon Myth.

Let’s go, Mel Amin. Do you have a certain destination in mind? If not….I was thinking that maybe……Sylvanesti….would be a good place for us to go?

Seeing the look that crossed his face, she knew she had struck a nerve but before he could protest, she explained her reasoning.

I know the land is not what it once was, but there is no doubt powerful magic still exists there. It was the home f the elves for centuries. That sort of magic just doesn’t…..go away. It’s still there. I know it is. It’s just buried deeply. But I feel as though that will be where we would protected most. But….I’ll go with you where ever you decide. Just as long as we’re together.

Rayann gave him a smile that would have melted the ice covered sea before she walked up beside him and rose up on her toes to kiss him softly once more. Her lips lingered just a little longer than usual before she reluctantly broke the kiss and eased back down to her feet.

Lead on.

Myth let out a soft sigh as she left him to get dressed for the journey. He knew she was reluctant to leave because she was worried about his health. He was a bit hesitant about leaving as well but he had traveled in worse shape than this. His physical wounds would be gone all to soon and they would cease to be a worry. He hated to admit that he had enjoyed staying here and it saddened him to leave this peaceful place. He promised himself that they would return when they managed to get their enemies to leave them in peace. He intended to make this as costly to the dark one's roster of troops as he could.

Shifting his thinking Myth went to the table that sat near the fireplace and pulled out a small box he had stored away. He lifted the top and inside was something he had been working on during his most sleepless nights. Inside on a velvet pillow rested a hand carved wooden comb that he had made to put in Rayann's hair. Carefully etched into it it was the image of a blossomed rose with vines wrapped around a sword and both objects where being bathed in the light of Solanari. He smiled slightly slipping it inot his pocket laying the box back down.

He moved back towards the stairs where he awaited his loves return in silence. Emerald eyes followed her as she descended the stairs. grabbing her white cloak. A smile was given as their eyes spoke for them. He had been reaching for his own cloak when she mentioned the name of his homeland. Old habits were indeed hard to dismiss and he gave her a disapproving look but not because it annoyed him. It was just how he had reacted to talk of his homeland over the years. She quickly explained herself before kissing him and he could only sigh. He grabbed his cloak and with a flourish had it on and clasped. He reached down grasping his blade, the blue moon. He gave her a small nod and led her from the small cottage and they began their journey anew.

Myth was silent for the first hour of his journey and he took the moment to assure Rayann he just needed to think on a few things. His mind was stuck on her request to travel to former lands of the Sylvanesti. Her reasoning was sound and he could hardly argue with her about the matter. He was simply hesitant to return to the lands he had abandoned in his youth. He was certain there were still elves hidden in those lands but he was not certain what kind of welcome he would get. He had left on a whim and had taken his birthright with him. He glanced at the workmanship of the sheath as he was still carrying it in his hand. After some time he finally sighed

"We will travel to the forests of the high elves... but I can not guaranty a warm welcome if anyone is still inhabiting the cities in the region. My parting left quite the uproar and when I was reported to be working for that woman it caused an even bigger stir up."

He slipped the sword into its normal resting place at his side once more and a thin smile appeared on his face. He had learned to keep hope in ones heart that things would work out fine. Expect the worst but hope for the best. This was the way he would look at things. So far it was a saying that had proven to set his mind at ease on many occasions. This was one of those times were he needed to look brightly at the future and hope for the best.

Rayann knew Myth needed time to think of what she suggested. As the first hour of their journey stretched out she was wondering if perhaps she had spoken about something she had best not speak of. She couldn’t help the nagging feeling she had that it was important they return to his birth home. Just as he had the vision of what could come to pass if they stayed at the cottage, this was just as compelling to her as that was to him.

When Myth finally broke the silence, Rayann glanced up at him as he spoke and while she saw the decision in his eyes to go to the land of the Elves, she also saw the uncertainty in his emerald depths. Taking his hand in hers as they walked, she tried her best to reassure him it was going to be ok, but even her words of encouragement lacked some conviction for truth be told, she wasn’t sure of the reception he would receive either.

It’s never easy returning home after you leave and seek your own place in the world, Myth. And it will be even more difficult for you, I’m sure, but if you can see the light, others will not be blinded to it either. People change. Even the Elves are aware of that. Qualanesti is proof of that. While they may not like it, they can’t ignore it. And besides, you have me. Why would a devoted student of Solinari travel with you and publicly profess her love for you if she was not one hundred percent certain the man you used to be is not the man you are now?

While she saw the skepticism in h is eyes, when she smiled the way she did at him he couldn’t help but chuckle and shake his head. In response, Rayann leaned in closer and laid her head against his upper arm as she brought her other hand across her to squeeze just under the place her head rested in a hug like gesture that kept them moving. A soft chuckle escaped her lips as well before she righted herself and moved along without skipping a beat.

Another hour or so passed and they had met a few other travelers heading to and from Balifor. But when they turned to head towards Sylvanesti, the travelers began to fewer and farther between until they were the only ones on the road. There was still quite a ways to go before they reached the Elven lands and both Myth and Rayann got a very uneasy feelling.

Myth decided to take them off the main thoroughfare and deeper into the forest just to be on the safe side. While that uneasy feeling wasn’t as strong as it was on the road, it didn’t leave them completely. Both were very cautious and several times Rayann cast a detect magic spell only to have it come up empty. What ever was causing this unease in their travel wasn’t from something close by that had any sort of magic to it.

By the time they stopped for the night, Myth had chosen a well secluded spot well away from any roads or paths of travel. As Rayann set up their bedroll, Myth gathered the firewood needed for a small fire. When it came time to rest, Myth told Rayann to go ahead and he would stay up to keep watch for a little longer. As with their previous journey, Rayann had set up a magical perimeter to alert them to any intruders. Finally, after a while with no sign of anything, Myth decided to lie down beside Rayann and try to rest.

When morning broke, the traveling duo awoke with the first rays of light and quickly started on their way again. As they started out, Rayann cast a different spell this time. It was one that merely detected the presence of others and this time, she was rewarded with a return on her effort.

We’re being followed from a distance. What ever it is, it’s not evil that I can sense, but very good at staying hidden. It’s almost a mile behind us and appears to be using the trees for camouflage and travel.

The hours of the day had slipped past him like a blur. He had been lost in thoughts of his home as it had been many many decades ago. His family had not been happy about his departure and less happy with his choice of allegiances. However what Rayann had to say rang with a small amount of truth. People changed with time and he hoped she was right about this. In the eyes of a human change can happen day to day but he was not human and elves were not big on change. However he also knew they were not prone to holding grudges forever. His one saving grace would be that he was traveling with a follower of Solinari.

An uneasy nagging at the back of his mind had given him pause and he decided that traveling on the main roads in the open was not the best idea in the world. If their pursuers were traveling by horse then they would have caught up to them in time but by leaving the roads it would give him and Rayann the edge. He was again thankful for the boots that he had insisted on getting Rayann for they helped her keep up with him even when in the woods. Which was understandably useful when one was traveling with an elf like him.

Myth had no complaints about the time they were making even with the occasional distraction of having to use magic to check for guests. Occasionally there would be a playful jest or a heartfelt look that passed. Myth did his best to keep spirits high and not let the nagging get to him. He attempted to appear at eases but was coiled like a spring ready for anything. He was thankful for the quiet day when they finally sat down and rested. Happy with things he had slipped in beside Rayann before it had gotten late in the eve. The sounds of the forest quieted his mind and set him at ease as he laid there. She snuggled up to him as he wrapped his arm around her and he enjoyed the first peaceful night of sleep in ages.

The next morning he was quite reluctant to move but he did so. Not much was really said between them at this point because they knew there tasks and as such talk was not necessary. With things packed and in hand he waited for her to perform her spell for the first time this day. When she detected something he knew seeing a slight twitch upon her brow. Her words touched his mind and he nodded. As they had discussed she left the link so that they could talk back and forth. His eyes shifted in the direction she had indicated.

"That is a most curious discovery. Only two things I know of can even remotely do what you speak. Highly trained assassins..." he looked pointedly at her "and elves. The fact you can discern no evil intent from the target leads me to think it is the latter but I have known a couple of noble hearted assassins as well. We best be mindful of this beings presence for now. If it continues to follow us past mid day then we will simply have to lay a trap and see what our friend wants."

He could see the look on her face and knew she was about to ask him how and he smiled holding up a hand tapping his head so she would hear his thoughts. "As I said... only elves or trained assassins could do what this one is doing... unfortunately for them... I am both." He offered her his arm and waited to depart once more content to let this shadow follow for now.

Rayann let Myth lead the way. When he offered her his arm, she took a gentle hold upon it for a short time and as they traveled, her hand slipped easily to his and interlocked their fingers in a natural way that both found comforting. His words disturbed her a little. A noble assassin. She never knew there WAS such a thing but he was right. After all, he was walking proof there were such things that existed. He was an assassin, yes, but he refused to harm an innocent and for that he had suffered greatly.

Even now as Rayann thought of that scene she had found in his mind, her fingers closed a little tighter around his. It pained her to know he had been punished in such a fashion. It showed her just how cruel and sadistic the Dark Queen could be. And that was mild compared to some of the other things she’d seen in his mind he had been witness to.

A small shudder moved through her and Myth instantly picked up on it and turned a troubled glance at her. Rayann quickly placed a soft smile on her face and shook her head. Her voice slipped into his mind and with it, a tender caress to let him know she was indeed well.

It’s nothing. Just a distant thought is all.

Then just as quickly she changed the subject to both get her mind off the images that would sneak up on her and set his mind at ease as well.

So what do you have planned for our mystery guest? Anything I should be aware of so I don’t accidentally foil your plans? I may be well versed in magic but sometimes my coordination is lacking terribly. I believe Rorie once referred to me as being as coordinated as a pregnant Ogre. Not a flattering image, I know, but you have to admit it DOES get the point across quite well.

A soft giggle slipped past her looks when she saw the look that crossed Myth’s face as he imagined what a pregnant Ogre looked like.

As the day wore on, Rayann began to notice a change in Myth, rather he knew it or not. After all they had been through and professed their love, Myth still held himself in tight control when they weren’t intimate. Not as much as he did when they first met, but there was still some of that control still evident in him. The deeper they got into the forest, Rayann began to see how he became very acute of his surroundings. His steps became more graceful. His brow relaxed more. His eyes were even more alert. But it was almost as if she saw a younger, more youthful Myth slowly materialize before her eyes.

Now that he was in a natural forest and not pretending to be anything but himself for no other reason than he wants to be there, Rayann saw the way he seemed to return to the man he may have once been prior to his leaving. While she knew they had a ways to go before they reached the borders of Silvanesti, being among the trees, that weren’t haunted by wicked spirits or a Dark Queen, he was finding out his roots ran as deep as any of the trees surrounding them.

They ate a light lunch and Rayann informed him their follower was still behind them. While who or what ever it was had grown slightly closer, they were still keeping their distance. It still bothered Myth something was following them, he didn’t seem too overly concerned. The confidence he had in both of their abilities overshadowed anything else.

When it came time to settle down once more for the night, Myth chose a secluded spot in the woods just beyond Elf Watch near the Bay of Balifor. There was a small, fresh water stream nearby that had formed a small pool and Rayann announced she was going to take a quick dip in it before they ate. Of course Myth refused to let her go alone to which Rayann didn’t object. If what ever was out there DID intend to do them harm, it would be quite easy to do when they were separated.

When Myth insured they were indeed alone and safe Rayann quickly stripped to enter the water. It was quite cool but refreshing all the same. As she swam in the cool water, Rayann tried everything she could to get Myth to join her thinking it would be good for the warrior to feel the cool water. When Myth finally relented to her pretty pouting after she convinced him she could thwart off any attacker, he stripped down as well and joined her in the clear water. It was odd, really. Feeling the cool water surround them yet feeling the heat from both of their bodies at the same time.

When they saw it was getting dark, they reluctantly left the water and dried themselves before they slipped their clothes back on. Myth gathered wood for a fire while Rayann prepared their bed roll for the night and get some food out for them.

As Myth searched for the wood and had put a small distance between himself and Rayann, he heard a strange sound behind him. When he turned to see what it was, he saw the massive wings slowly flexing back and forth before his eyes settled on the body that owned them. She was beautiful. Tall and curvy standing just over six feet. She smiled impishly at him as she began to slowly walk towards him. Her foot falls were as silent as his own and when she spoke, he saw her full, inviting lips move before his eyes moved over her barely covered, perfect form once more. Her voice was soft and seductive.



”A mighty warrior such as you shouldn’t be gathering wood. You should be enjoying more of the warm body that you just had. If you were my lover, that is exactly what you would be doing right now.”

She began to circle Myth slowly as she spoke to him.

”I would give you what ever you wanted, when ever you wanted it. And I would never deny you the pleasures of my body, warrior. We would spend endless hours discovering each other. What do you need with an imp such as that? You need a real woman. One who understands a man like yourself. I’ll make you feel like you’ve never felt before. Something she could never do.”

When she passed by, Myth saw her eyes and while her words were suggestive, he somehow couldn’t get the nagging feeling from his mind her eyes were not normal. While nothing was really NORMAL about her, her eyes…..it was her eyes….



Stopping just behind his right hsoulder, she leaned in a little closer and her voice whispered in his ear. The warm breath that slipped over his sensitive point held a hint of the things she spoke of to him.

”All you have to do……is rid yourself of her and I will be your willing partner.”

Walking back to stand in front of him, she reached out and slowly extended her hand to caress his cheek. The Erinyes was doing her best to seduce him and she was certain she had done just that. Now all she had to do was make the finishing move to make sure he did just what she needed him to do. Once more her voice was whisper soft and seductive.

”Do this…and redeem yourself….and you can have me anytime you wish….”

Myth could tell that a series of unpleasant thoughts slipped through her head at the thought of a noble assassin and he did not question her when she chose to change the subject to what his intentions were for their guest. His nose wrinkled slightly as his brain rather involuntarily conjured up the image of a pregnant ogre. He was impressed he managed to only make a funny face and not burst out laughing. He simply shrugged and smiled slightly "A simple ambush should suffice to let me get the drop on whoever it is... shouldn't need anything special or fancy."

A strange calm swept over him the deeper into the forests they went. As much as he had hated to admit in the past he was always most comfortable out here in the wilderness than he was couped up in a palace or marching with troops. He often deliberately took missions that purposely took him through wooded lands so he could feel at peace for at least a brief amount of time. Here among the trees he could feel the hardened warrior slipping away making room for the seasoned hunter. On the road the rules were a little different than here among the forests of the world. On the road you kept a sharp eye on certain things. Here in the wilds you had to rely on more than sight. One had to use all their senses if they did not wish to be fallen upon by a predator.

The day seemed to pass by in a blur and their follower drew only slightly closer to them as they stopped for the night. THey were getting closer to the border and Myth had chosen this spot because he knew it well. The pursuer was content to follow at distance and Myth could live with that for now. In time he let it slip from his mind as Rayann insisted he join her for a dip in the pool. He feigned dis interest in the guise of caution letting her convince him that it was a good idea and that they were fine. He knew that they were in a good place and he could see anyone or thing that came to close. It was time well spent in Myth's mind as he was able to gaze upon Rayann's natural beauty here in the serenity of the forest. Reluctantly he set off to his task of gathering wood for cooking the evening meal. It was odd however that he had left his blade sitting in camp with Rayann. Here in the forest it seemed unnecessary to carry it everywhere. He was confident that they were in no danger what so ever in this secluded place and that he did not need to full blade.

When the creature first appeared Myth could only stare in stunned silence. His emerald eyes gave her form a once over noting the physical perfection of her body but more importantly the lack of weapons and armor. His ears twitched slightly as he noted the seductive tone of her voice. Something in the back of his mind was starting to nag at him as he took in her form once more. He shook his head feeling a feint fuzzy feeling fall over his mind. Her eyes seemed to draw him in and it was a welcome yet unpleasant feeling all at the same time. He was vaguely aware of the things she said to him as she began to circle. When she stood behind him to whisper in his ear he could feel the warmth of her breath. The scent flowing off her was truly intoxicating and he smiled slightly as she once more was standing before him.

He was again vahuely aware that she was speaking to him as she reached out to touch his cheek. She wished for him to leave some woman to be with her. For a brief moment he could not remember this woman he was supposed to be with but he was almost certain she was not nearly as beautiful nor willing as this creature before him. Their eye locked and his hearing suddenly came into focus.

”Do this…and redeem yourself….and you can have me anytime you wish….”

Suddenly his mind snapped into focus as the very thought of redemption crossed his mind. He had no reason to seek redemption from anyone or anything. He had sought the only redemption that mattered and it was in the eyes of the woman he loved. He remembered now what it was that stood before him and a smile played across his lips. The creature before him had almost charmed him and that was a feat in and of itself because he was of elven blood which made him resistant to charm spells and abilities. Whats more he was of noble elven blood and that made the task that much more difficult. Myth guessed it had been this fact alone that had allowed his will to succeed in the end, well and her poor choice of words.

His emerald eyes flowed over he body as he spoke in a soft seemingly enchanted tone. "you ask of me no small task but the potential rewards are indeed great. A man would truly be a fool to resist such an offer from a alluring beauty such as you."

Myth stepped in closer nuzzling the hand to his cheek. His right arm slipped around her waist drawing her close to him as he looked deep into her gaze. For all intents he looked upon her with amorous eyes leaning he whispered in her ear. "Though not as big a fool as one who attempts to charm an elf into redeeming himself for a unworthy goddess he seeks only to pervert and corrupt the woman he loves."

His grip became as iron as the creature tried to push away. There was an audible sound of metal sliding on metal as a hidden wrist blade came into view on Myth's free hand. There was a a soft sound as metal punctured flesh just beneath her rib cage. The tip of the blade penetrated her spinal column and Myth loosened his grip so he could see the look of shock and fear in her eyes. There was a wicked smile as he twisted the blade severing the cord. Limp as a doll now the creature dropped and Myth stood there over the corpse. With a growl he reached for the stack of firewood he had cast down and hefted it back up. He ignored the extended blade on his arm and spat on the body as he headed back to camp. He knew Rayann would be safe and did not quicken his pace. The plan would have been to remove him and then retrieve her when she was in a grief stricken state. The being had been prepared to deal with a normal elf but she had found out the hard way he was not average.

He returned with a scowl upon his face and blade dripping from a blade Rayann had never seen before. He placed the firewood in its place but said nothing as he took the time to take the weapon off and begin to clean it. He could feel her eyes upon him and he tapped his head whihc was his way of saying see for yourself.

The Erinyes was confident she had succeeded in charming Myth into doing exactly what she needed him to do so when he reached his arm around her and drew her closer, she naturally molded herself against him to let him feel the softness of her curves. After all, there was nothing wrong with letting him sample the wares he was about to partake. But when she heard his whispered words and the sound of the metal scraping against metal, she realized she had been the one fooled.

Try as she might, she couldn’t escape the iron grip that held her against him and when she felt the piercing pain just under her ribs, it punctured a lung and she was unable to take in the deep breath she needed o emit the fiendish scream that was waiting to be released. Feeling the blade slice through her body until it severe her spinal cord, the Erinyes had never experienced such pain. And to make matters worse, she didn’t die right away. As Myth gathered up his wood and made his way back to the small encampment, the fiend watched him walk away before her life slowly slipped away from her. When she breathed no more her body turned to a bubbling pool of black ooze before the ground swallowed it up.

When Myth returned to the small camp, Rayann turned and smiled lovingly at him but as her eyes saw the look on his face then strayed to the blood dripping blade on his wrist, she instantly felt a wave of fear wash over her. She was just getting ready to ask him what happened when he tapped his head with his fingers.

As he cleaned his blade then prepared the wood for the fire, Rayann slipped into his mind to see the images he needed her to see. The winged woman was nothing short of beautiful. A pang of jealousy shot through Rayann as she saw how Myth took in the creatures curves. She could feel him slowly sway towards this creature and she felt the air leave her lungs. But then she felt the near mind numbing affect Myth experienced in the presence of the creature. As the scenes played out before her, Rayann knew Myth would never do anything to hurt her in such a way.

Watching the events unfold, Rayann felt herself silently urging Myth to snap out of it. When he finally did, thanks to the creatures bad choice of words, Rayann felt a wave of relief wash over her. As Myth slid his blade into the creature, Rayann visibly flinched. Quickly removing herself from his mind since she’d seen enough, she walked over to where he knelt preparing the fire and reached out to embrace him tightly as she knelt there with him. Her voice reached out to his mind once more as her fingers toyed with his hair the way she liked to do.

There’s no doubt the road before us will be littered with such trials and tribulations but I know there isn’t anything that can come between us.

Reluctantly loosening her hold and slowly easing back to look into his emerald gaze, her hand caressed his cheek and she gave him a small smile.

She will stoop to any level to try and tear us apart, especially now. But she underestimates us and because of that, we have the upper hand. She knows nothing of love the way we do. And it will be our love that will always save us. Always. Never forget that, Melamin

While Rayann watched the scenes in his mind Myth pulled out a small bowl and retrieved some water from the stream and sat down with a cloth cleaning his weapon. He examined it for a long moment before he was happy it was clean and free of water as well before he applied a thick hunk of leather to the blade tip and pushed the retracting item back into it mechanism before he strapped it once more to his wrist. Flexing his muscles slightly he turned his attention then to the firewood and got the fire going. All the while he could feel Rayann present as things came to a close.

He took a deep breath noting a pleasant scent from the soap she had used in the stream earlier. He found it interesting one could find something fragrance that worked on the road like that. She spoke and pulled away keeping her eyes on him. Myth could only nod as he met her gaze before he responded "I am well aware of the levels to which the dark one will stoop to achieve certain goals. I admit though that this is the first time in which I can recall her setting several plans into motion at once. She will try the overt threat to keep us on the move and before night has even fallen she has sent someone to try and seduce... this will likely be the first of many things to come but it will be a few days before they try again. It is best not to stock one's quarry to soon after an attempt for they will be on guard for the next try. We will be watched for the moment."

There was a degree of certainty in his voice that made it clear his knowledge on such things was good. Myth himself though was always on edge and he was chastising himself a little on the inside for being as careless as he had been. Though while he was condemning himself for this he also knew that he was not all knowing and couldn't see or hear everything that was coming. The creature had been sent with an elf in mind and that had given her the edge. In the end he quit beating himself up inwardly knowing that Rayann would say something similar to him if she caught him brooding on the matter. He smiled slightly at the thought.

He leaned forward kissing her lightly upon the lips placing his hand upon the side of her face and smiled rubbing slightly. "I have no doubts that we will handle the trials ahead with strength and wit. Our love gives us a great strength with which to handle our enemies but we have other gifts that work in our favor as well." He tapped her forehead lightly "Knowing our foe as I do I know that this bond in particular will allow us to beat some of the nastier tricks that may come our way. I am ever skeptical but I am also an optimist"

It was an odd choice of words but in short he knew they would not defeat every trick out right but felt they had enough of an edge that they would beat any situation before it destroyed them both. Myth could not be more grateful of their situation for any other two people would most certainly be doomed. Knowledge of the enemy was useless unless you could use it to your advantage. In games of the mind this became even harder but they had a way to combat this threat. Myth stood once more to get there meal for the evening and begin to cook it. Earlier in the day he had caught a couple of rabbits and he felt the meat would go well in the evening stew.

Rayann was quiet after the encounter Myth had with the Erinyes. She didn’t doubt Myth one bit but she knew they couldn’t underestimate the enemy. There was no doubt they would be tried as they made this new journey they found themselves on but she refused to even let herself think of what would have happened if Myth had not been as strong as he was. Rayann shuddered to think if he had fallen for the Erinyes’ empty promises. No doubt she would have been turned over to the Dark Queen but it was Myth’s fate that frightened her the most. He had forsaken his duty for the love of a woman he should never had developed feelings for in the first place. She should have stayed nothing but a mission to him.

But she didn’t and there in lies the problem. His free will was taken for granted. While he had offered his life and services to the Dark Queen, he never offered up his free will and because of this, he found himself in a predicament. And now, his life was in serious jeopardy. Rayann silently vowed to herself she would never let anything happen to Myth but in all seriousness she found herself questioning if she had the strength to fight the Goddess.

Myth knew there was something weighing on Rayann’s mind but she would give him a reassuring smile each time she caught him looking at her with a concerned look in his eyes. He didn’t need to hear her own fears. There was no doubt they were similar to his own. Besides, it was time she learnt o be her own woman and handle things on her own. There would be times in her life when she would have no one but herself and it was high time she learned to handle these things.

While Myth had prepared the rabbits for cooking, Rayann prepared the rest of the food for their small stew. As they ate, Rayann asked about their route of travel and what to do if their guest decided to come closer. She was convinced now more than ever the creature following them was an elf only for the fact it had not come any closer nor had it left the safety of the trees.

Myth assured her what ever it was could be handled quite efficiently. As for the route of travel, he decided to let that be something he would reveal to her as they traveled. The less that knew it the better. Rayann thought that was good advice. While they could have easily communicated the route without verbally saying a word, she didn’t want to take a chance in anyone finding out and risking their safety any more than it already was.

As they settled down for the night, Rayann put the usual protective spell in place and laid down on the bed roll. When Myth finally joined her, she snuggled back against the large elf and felt her slumber become even more peaceful.

When morning found the duo, Myth was already up and readying their things. After Rayann awoke and fixed something quick for them to eat, they were off once more. Just before they headed out, Rayann checked for their mystery follower only to find her search empty. Relaying Myth this information, she figured who ever it was had grown tired of playing this game and moved on but the warrior was not so sure.

They hadn’t walked very far before they heard what sounded like a rope moving very fast followed by a soft yelp of surprise. The mystery of who and what guest was about to be solved. Myth and Rayann shared a look with each other then went running to see what had been caught. Hanging from a snare was a strawberry blond female elf who was not looking all that happy about her predicament.

When they came upon her she had pulled a small dagger from a sheath and was already pulling her upper body up to cut the snare so she could make a quick get away but try as she might, the rope simply wouldn’t be cut.

Rayann glanced at Myth who had a bemused smirk on his face. Furrowing her brows, she nudged him gently and nodded towards the girl.

Well don’t just stand there, Myth…..help her down.

The elf stopped moving as she now knew there was someone behind her. As the rope slowly turned her to face Rayann and Myth, she blinked, looked at the dagger in her hand then looked at the rope before she looked at Myth and Rayann again. Swallowing hard when she saw the size of Myth and the look on his face, she quickly started rambling on in their native tongue.



”I swear…I was not really following you. I was merely on my way back home when we happen to take the same route. I promise I mean you no harm. By Mishakal, I swear. I would never do anything to bring you any harm. Please do not hurt me.”

Rayann had no idea what she was saying but she recognized the name Mishakal and she reached out to touch Myth’s forearm.

Mishakal? Did she just say Mishakal? Is she the one following us? Why aren’t you helping her? She certainly doesn’t seem a threat to me…especially when I don’t detect any evil from her….

With one woman filling his ears and the other filling his mind, Myth’s peaceful morning just took a serious turn to a more…..talkative turn.

Myth had woken just before dawn so that he could set a trap for their tag along. The distance the person was keeping was putting Myth on edge and he was tired of feeling like he was being followed. This was not likely to happen given the circumstances of their journey but a little peace was better than nothing at all. What he had planned had been simple in nature. Just lay out of series of snares upon the earth and the trees. One way or another he was catching who ever was coming. After taking care to hide the traps from view he took mental note of everything and returned to camp to ready their things for the trip knowing his love would awaken soon,

As he had expected it had not taken all that long for Rayann to finally waken from her slumber. He knew that depending on the morning he could be sure of an hour at the least before Rayann would awaken without him present. He generally used the time wisely as he did this morning if he even felt like moving first. He waited as she cast her spell reporting their friend had gone but Myth knew better. He could feel it deep within his being that the person was still out there. He let the matter slide and led her away dancing around her in a playful fashion maneuvering her feet around the laid out nooses. Once past he stepped in at her side and before long he was happy to hear the voice of a surprised individual.

Returning to see what had been ensnared he could only smile. His eyes noted that as he had planned all the snares had been tripped as one ensuring the capture of his quarry. He was surprised to see an elven woman dressed for only travel and wrinkled his nose only slightly before letting the bemused look return to his face as she noticed the two of them. He was thankful of the enchanting spell he had requested on the rope as he noted she had a knife out and had apparently tried to cut her bonds. A soft chuckle escaped his lips when Rayann asked him to help the elf down.

When she started speaking he simply shook his head until she swore by Mishakal. That alone proved whom she was not working for because even in an attempt to deceive followers of the queen were not allowed to express themselves in such a matter. He could read the sincerity of her words as well and was inclined to agree with Rayann that this elf meant them no harm. He was not however convinced that this was some coincidence af travel. This woman had been folllowing them and he wanted to know why.

He looked at Rayann and nodded his head with a sigh as she began to ramble as well. Just what he needed to rambling females in each ear so early in the day. Myth said nothing and walked towards the strung up elf shaking his head as he did so. In one swift motion his blade came out and severed the rope and returned to its sheath. The elf unfortunately fell to the earth and Myth knelt beside her. He chose to speak in qualanesti but there was a clear sylvanesti ring to it.

"That will be the extent of your discomfort for the moment but I would appreciate it if you answer my questions." He waited for her to nod and also for her head to clear from the fall. It wasn't a big fall but enough to disorient a person.

"Now then I am not completely convinced that you were following us by accident. I can believe that you came across us by accident but that is about as much as I am willing to give you credit for. You have taken careful steps to remain hidden and until today you have been careful to maintain a specific distance from us. We to mean you no harm but we would like answers." He offered a smile sitting there crouched watching her with green eyes. He was unaware that the hilt of his blade was angled in the right manner that the house seal on the but end of the handle was quite visible.

Rayann took a quick step forward to try and aid the young woman when Myth stepped up to cut the snare that held her suspended by her ankle. Unfortunately she wasn’t quick enough and the elf dropped like a ton of rocks onto the ground with a solid thud. Wincing when she heard the drop, Rayann was about to give Myth a word or two when she saw the woman move to the point where she could at least sit up.

Of course when Myth started talking to her in their native language, Rayann furrowed her brows. She was definitely going to have to learn his language. At least enough so that she could grasp enough of the conversations he was having to know what the devil was going on. And the sooner the better. While she wanted to ask him what was going on, she decided to just wait as patiently as she could to let Myth tell her. Her eyes kept glancing from Myth to the woman then back again.



The elf woman saw her life flash before her eyes when the large elf drew his blade and walked towards her certain he was about to slice her in half. But when he cut the rope she felt gravity take over and found herself laying on the cool, morning ground. Stunned but not for long, the woman rolled over and sat up to clear her head. Silently berating herself for being so clumsy and not staying to the trees, she picked the dried leaves and trigs from her hair as the displeasure clearly showed on her face.

When the rather tall elf knelt next to her and started talking in Qualinesti she clearly detected the Silvanesti accent and stopped what she was doing to pay more attention to him. Her brow furrowed as she let her gaze drift from his handsome face to the beautiful, lavender eyed human he traveled with then back to his piercing green stare. It was also during Myth’s semi interrogation that her eyes drifted to the hilt of his blade and she saw the house seal clearly engraved on the butt of the hilt.

Her eyes quickly darted to Myth’s face, over to Rayann then back to Myth. No…it couldn’t be him….he was in allegiance with…with….THAT GODDESS….But…if that were true…why…was he traveling with a student of…Solinari? Why else would she be wearing the white robe like she is? But….he has the blade. It HAS to be him. She was RIGHT. It WAS him she had stumbled onto a few days ago. The description she heard about him was dead on. Flaming red hair, piercing green eyes and as tall as the mighty oak. And darn near as broad as well.

Realizing Myth was sitting there waiting for an answer and the human woman was looking rather anxious, the elf woman blinked and quickly apologized and tried to convince Myth she wasn’t spying on him or anything sinister. As she talked, her eyes drifted from Myth to Rayann then back again.

”I kept my distance because…I did not want you to know I was there. Just in case you worked for the Dark Queen. We have had enough trouble from her lately and we did not need more. While I abhor violence and fighting, I would have done anything I could to stop you if you got too close to my home. At least that was within my dogma to do.”

As the elf woman started talking again in her native language to Myth, Rayann furrowed her brows even more. She didn’t care for being on the wrong end of not knowing what was being said. While she understood the woman was most likely more comfortable speaking in her native tongue, it certainly didn’t help to ease Rayann’s frustration. Still, the magi bit her tongue to keep from taxing Myth with a million questions on her mind.

Sweat dripped down Kwinn's face as he stood over a pair of dead Huruks. Kwinn was a little more than upset that their foul blood was all over his hands and arms. Kwinn set his weapons down and grabbed a large handful of earth and used the dark soil to wash the orc blood from his skin.

All I see are your kind now, where are the elves? Kwinn stood again, his sharp eyes traced the ancient woods around him, he knew he was within the elf borders but had yet to lay his eyes on a single elf face. Kwinn started a large fire and burned the bodies, he did not want to soil this elf land with their kind. He loaded the second orc's body into the crackling blaze, casually punting it's severed head into the flames.

To Hades with you, beast. Kwinn rubbed more of the sweet smelling elf earth onto his arms and chest, the black blood was coming off nicely. The ranger sat near the fire and cleaned his weapons, after this was done he made a meal of some dried deer and swigged the last of his mead.

Kwinn held his wineskin high, the last of the sweet liquor poured into his mouth. From the edge of his vision Kwinn saw movement. A large bear was standing nearby, it sniffed the air. It snorted at the foul smell of the burning orcs, it glared at the ranger.

I know brother, these creatures smell worst than me! Kwinn laughed. He did not take his eyes off the large bear. The bear sat with a thump, the two beings looked at one another for a good long moment. Kwinn tossed the last of his meat at the bear's feet, it ate quickly and got back to it's feet and lumbered away back the way it had come.

Oh well, the deer wouldn't have lasted me too much longer anyway.

After the fire was spent Kwinn slung his weapons back into their harness and continued to push through the forest. The Ranger wondered where the elves were, he had not visited with them in many seasons, these high elves. He hoped that he was still welcome in their lands but was prepared for any unpleasantness. Kwinn had lots of time with the wild or "green" elves but only a few trips this close to the lands of the Sylvan elves, the Silvanesti. He traveled swiftly through the ancient woods, almost as fast as a native elf.

Myth almost groaned when he noted a look of recognition in the elf woman's eyes. His tale was not a popular one among some circles and that alone got it out and around the elven lands quickly. There was nary an elder or child who did not know of the the lost prince. His family had disowned him once he became a known member of the queen's court but it did little to ease some tensions. This would be only the beginning of many issues the closer they came to elven lands. He hoped though that words came before swords. He had a great deal of blood on his hands and he wished to avoid anymore.

He sighed feeling Rayann at his backside watching the whole conversation and realized they had been talking in mostly elven. With a shake od his head he spoke again but switched to common so that his companion was not left out of the loop. "We should speak in common for it is rude to speak in our native tongue in mixed company. My companion's grasp is not yet comprehensive but in time it will be. As to your concerns I assure you that while well founded they are not necessary. We are in fact trying to avoid contact with her highness' forces. Choosing to travel the wilds of the forest is but one of many means we have chosen to employ. You yourself had us on edge because we did not whom you followed. I do apologize for the trap and any injuries m'lady" he bowed his head slightly

Standing he looked to Rayann and offered a smile but there was some concern in his eyes and he tapped his brow a moment telling her to listen to his thoughts. "I should let you do more of the talking here. I'm not sure exactly how but this woman knows who I am, or rather knows something of who I am. She is likely to question my motives and the truth of my words. I think the words of a servant of one of the gods of light may hold more leverage."

He was not happy to turn the matter to her but he knew his past better than she so she would have to trust that he was certain about what this person may know. Myth himself stepped away standing tall crossing his arms. He needed to gain some measure of control of his person and h took in a breath and closed his eyes allowing his senses to fan out. It was something Rayann had seen him do one a day every day since they had entered the wood. He had spent many years away from the forest and it was taking a bit of effort to become familiar with things once more. He did it to become accustomed to the sounds of the wood but also to center himself when he felt out of balance. Ever since he had met Rayann though he had felt out of balance, or rather he discovered just how truly out he was.

As soon as Myth began talking in the common tongue, Rayann was extremely grateful….until he more or less turned the situation over to her. Blinking, Rayann gave Myth one of those ‘do you know what you’re doing’ looks. When he tapped his forehead and she listened to his motives, she glanced at the elf woman then back to Myth. Giving an almost unnoticeable nod of her head, Rayann cleared her throat softly and tried to somehow smooth things over with the elf.

”I’m afraid my companions tactics aren’t exactly like polished stone. But he’s right. We’ve been taking to the forest to keep from encountering any of….the darker forces. We thought the forest would be a less likely route of travel for them. I am Rayann Padraig, student of Solinari. And this is my companion, Myth. Like Myth I do apologize for such measures we took but we were uncertain as to what your intentions were.”

The elf woman gave Myth a look when he referred to the Dark Queen as ‘her highness’ but didn’t say anything. Her eyes drifted from the woman to the tall, flaming haired elf then back to the woman as she explained things to her. While she was well versed in the common tongue, she much preferred her own native language but if the woman didn’t fully understand it then she had no choice but to use the less articulate language.



”I am Tanjee Celebrant. And while there is no doubt who you serve, I still question your companion, even though he is in your company. He referred to that woman as Her Highness. Only those who had been in service to her would call her by that title. The rest of us would not be quite so…..honorable. Which brings me to the next question. Why are you traveling together? He wears no insignia or crest that shows he serves her, but who is to say he is not still in allegiance with her?”

Rayann quirked a brow at the young woman. The magi’s body language changed entirely and Myth would instantly pick up a more defensive stance from her.

”Who said he served her in the first place?”

The elf woman blinked. Her eyes darted from Myth to Rayann then back again.

”I was just assuming since you didn’t deny it”

Rayann held leveled her gaze directly on the woman’s.

”Never assume anything. Until you have proof positive one way or the other, you should always give the benefit of the doubt. If I’m not mistaken, it’s one of the cardinal rules of your Goddess, is it not?”

Tanjee blinked again and looked from Myth to Rayann then back again. Her cheeks colored at hearing the woman’s words. Knowing she had been caught, she nodded slightly.

”Yes. You are correct. It is. I apologize if I offended anyone.”

Rayann smiled softly and nodded.

”It’s quite alright, Tanjee. You’re not the first one to make such assumptions and you won’t be the last. Of course, I’m sure it has to do with the legend that precedes the man.”

Tanjee once more looked at Myth before looking at Rayann and nodding then looking directly at Myth’s intimidating form.

”Yes….there’s only one flaming haired, very tall elf I have ever heard of and when I first saw you I thought it might be you but when I saw the house crest on the butt of your sword hilt, there was no longer any doubt you are him.”

Rayann smiled even more and while she was looking at Tanjee, she spoke to Myth’s mind.

You were right. She did know who you are. I had no idea just how much of a celebrity I was traveling with. I would say we’re lucky we encountered her instead of a more aggressive person who knows about you and your former servitude.

With a sigh Myth's eyes opened and fell upon the young elf. This was just one of many encounters he was certain that he would endure in the coming weeks as they got closer to the former lands of his brethren. This was a silent reminder of the many wrongs that would be levied against him but at the same time it gave him hope. Rayann's presence alone may give people enough pause to question his intentions and presence in these forests. After a moment of silent thought he offered a quiet thank you to both Solanari and Mishikal for this peaceful encounter.

He looked to Rayann when she spoke to his mind and nodded "When a well known prince wanders off and joins the darkness it tends to be well known. This is the case even among humans I have noticed as well. The downside for me though is that unlike human society elves have a long memory. I do agree though that it is fortunate that we met this woman and not a soldier or scout. Admittedly this may work out in our favor though... "

He looked back to Tanjee and offered a slight smile "Trust that I am not offended by anything you have said or done Tanjee. If I were in your place I would be concerned myself and would have chosen a similar course of action. Yes as you well know I served the Dark One for a great deal of time. As such it is hard to break from certain speech patterns when referring to the Dark One. I make no excuses for my past choices and allegiances but do give me some leniency for my choice of words."

He met her eyes directly and there was no no anger or malice in them only understanding and peace.

"I will tell you one thing though that I hope sets your mind at rest to some degree."

He looked to Rayann meeting her lavender gaze with a sad smile.

"The gods of light blessed me with a chance to meet this woman Rayann so that she could steer me towards a more noble path. The road to redemption will be a long and hard one for me I am sure, but I take solace that I am not entirely alone."

There was clearly more to the tale of these two travelers but Myth did not speak of it. He would let her curiosity run rampant on the subject and let her ask the questions in due time. Myth offered his hand to help Tanjee up from the earthen floor.

Tanjee saw the exchanged looks shared between the two travelers. She’d pretty well deducted they were lovers at the least already. Why else would she only see the impression of one sleeping roll when she passed through their make shift camps as she followed them again? Now there was no doubt. And while it was apparent they were very much in love by the looks they exchanged, she couldn’t help but wonder why Myth had sadness in his smile. Perhaps that would be something she would find out.

When Myth offered his hand to help her rise, Tanjee hesitated a moment. Letting her hazel colored eyes drift from the outstretched hand to the face of the lavender eyes woman, who nodded ever so slightly, the elf glanced back at his hand before leveling her gaze to his piercing green one. Reaching out and taking the offered hand, knowing it would have been an insult to do otherwise, she got to her feet and brushed herself off as best she could.

”I am sure that was no small feat, either. You strike me as a very stubborn man who is well set in his ways.”

Straightening, she looked to Rayann then.

”My regards go out to you, m’lady. As do my sympathies. You still have your work cut out for you.”

Glancing at Myth, Tanjee quirked a delicate brow.

”And I mean that in the most respectful of ways.”



Rayann quirked a brow as well and let a small grin ease over her lips before looking at Myth again. Her mind reached out to him as she spoke in the silent way they could to each other now.

I wonder how she really feels?

Rayann looked to Tanjee then and smiled, nodding her head.

”It’s well worth the challenge, I assure you. And I would have it no other way. And please…call me Rayann. Well. Now that we’ve gotten all this out of the way, would you like to travel with us?”

Tanjee looked from Myth to Rayann then back again. There was something about the way the big elf stood that told her he wasn’t thrilled with the woman’s invitation. Which made Tanjee take it all the more. Giving a pleasant smile, Tanjee nodded.

”Why…I’d be honored to join you in your travels. Where exactly are you headed?”

Rayann glanced at Myth for the answer to that. If he wanted to reveal where they were headed, then so be it, but she would leave that decision totally up to him.

Kwinn was ready for another few hours of rest as another day came to an end, the ranger gathered up some deadfall and made a small fire (he was hesitant to cut wood in the Sylvan woods). Kwinn's stomach growled, he had not eaten for most of a whole day. As the evening gave way to night Kwinn found a comfortable spot to sleep, before putting down for the night he set a half dozen snares in hopes of having a big rabbit for breakfast.

As Kwinn laid out in the dried leaves and pine nettles he watched the stars twinkling overhead, he had been told as a boy that the gods looked down from them, this particular night sky was clear and beautiful, the ranger could almost sense the eyes of the gods upon these Sylvan acres.

An owl settled in a nearby tree, it called out a few times loudly, Kwinn turned at the sound.

If it's all the same to you yellow eyes, I'm going to sleep now, soon you will have to hoot louder above my snoring...

With that Kwinn tucked an arm under his head and drifted off to sleep.

He eyed Rayann a moment when she offered a spot in there troop and mentally sighed. Thee were many things about this woman that were typically elven and he still found those tendencies to be quite irritating and new this was going to test his patience. Perhaps it was for the best though as they were heading into the heart of the old country he knew there would be more. This one's attitude was timid by some comparison and the practice of steeling his patience was going to be a great benefit for the more bull-headed. He looked the the elf and simply raised an eyebrow before he smirked. "We are heading to my home of course... right to the heart of Sylvanesti itself." He raised his hand knowing she was about to say something. "I am well aware of events that have transpired since my departure. I would have been a fool not to at least what went on in my homeland. There is no love lost between my father and I but I never turned my eye completely away."

He could see a look of discomfort and only smiled before he looked at Rayann speaking to her mind with a soft voice "This one is sure to test my patience, but I trust that you knew that when you made her the offer... This journey is going to be an... interesting one."

He shouldered his pack and spun on his heel with little more than a word and began upon the path. "We're about a day from the closest town if I am correct. We'll stop there and provision up before we venture further into the woods. I'm not completely aware of what we will run into so I want to be prepared for any unpleasantness." He knew that going into town itself was a risk in and of itself but he also knew they could not avoid going to a town forever. As it was since they had the elf along now as well it was also going to be the last chance for a while for Rayann and himself to be alone and talk of things. They could always speak through their thoughts but Myth preferred to speak mostly because he was still getting used to her form of talking. There was also their companion to consider also. While they could carry on in silence it would actually be kind of rude of them to leave her out of all their talking. He could only wonder what new wonders the coming days would bring.

If Tanjee had any more to say, she had chosen wisely to keep her mouth shut. It was obvious Myth wouldn’t be swayed in his decisions. At least, as far as any suggestions she would make were concerned. Rayann, on the other hand, could probably get the large warrior to do just about anything within reason.

As Myth shouldered the pack and began walking along at a good pace with is longer legs, Tanjee found it rather easy to keep up with him despite the height difference. So if he thought to somehow loose her or make her fall behind he was going to be sadly mistaken. Besides, she could follow along easily in the trees if she had to.

Rayann watched the looks that traveled over Tanjee’s face and couldn’t help but be amused. While she smiled pleasantly outwardly, inside she was almost in a fit of laughter. Myth was right. This elf was going to try his patience indeed.



~Patience, my love, is a virtue. Or so I’ve been told. Besides, she doesn’t seem THAT bad. I mean, you put up with me when we first set out traveling together. And look how you survived that. Remember, what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger and you are one of the strongest men I know, Mythalas. I wouldn’t love you if you weren’t. Weak men just aren’t my cup of tea. Not that I’ve had a variety of beaus knocking down my door. I was just waiting for you to find me….that’s all.~

Tanjee’s voice interrupted the mental conversation Rayann and Myth were having.

”So how long have you both been traveling together? I mean, this does not appear to be your first outing. Not with the way you both keep in step with each other. Especially with you taking such long strides, Myth. Not that it is a bad thing. It is better to put as much distance behind you in the daylight as you can. Traveling at night can be quite treacherous. Do you not agree? But traveling with a student of Solinari does have benefits. At least it is not a Kender….”

Rayann looked at Tanjee then glanced at Myth.

~You’re right. This journey IS going to be…interesting.~

Kwinn awoke to a slight chill, the Sylvan trees grew thick and the morning sun was weak at this hour. The ranger walked his camp area, checking his snares for their bounty. Kwinn heard a rustling as he neared the second set of snares.

By the Gods...
Kwinn was looking at the fattest hare that ever lived in Krynn and it was caught in his trap. The animal kicked and jumped in an effort to free itself.

Easy now you fat thing...I shall name you breakfast! The ranger chuckled as he grabbed the animal and went about untying the snare. Kwinn's fingers were cold and stiff, the animal strong, it jerked from his hands and landed on it's feet and took off like a shot.

OH NO YOU DON'T! Kwinn shouted COME BACK LITTLE BREAKFAST!

The man raced after the animal, zigging and zagging throught the trees and scrub, Kwinn was right behind the thing shouting and hollering, his stomach growling.

The animal was a good distance ahead but the ranger was determined to eat, he pumped his legs harder in an effort to close the gap. Kwinn's sharp eyes never lost sight of the thing even as it crossed very near the paths of three other travelers, one in white robes.

Maybe it was pure hunger, maybe it was that he was not fully awake yet but Kwinn continued to chase little breakfast as he came very near the travelers still shouting and yelling.

Myth's eyebrow twitched slightly as the elf girl rambled and finally smiled. "Traveling is only as dangerous as you let it be. As long as you are adequately prepared and have a companion or two to help you along the way you should be fine sticking to the main roads." He glanced to the elf with a vicious smirk "Also one does not need to travel with a kender to have their ear talked off or find trouble. There are those among the other races of Krynn who make up for our lack of kender curiosity." In short she was being to loud asking to many questions. He could see the anger clouding her eyes and was about to open his mouth again when a sound caught his attentino. He held up his hand as the girl went to speak and fixed her with a look before looking at Rayann.

"Something comes this way my dear... though from the sounds of it I would wager I would say its a small chase..."

He said nothing else pushing away from the group and after several moments the crashing became audible to human ears and before long Myth looked upon the sight of a man determinedly chasing a rabbit. He listened as the man spoke as he chased the thing and a grin crossed his face as he watched the spectacle before him. Myth could tell he was human at the very least and judging by his dress the man clearly was accustomed to living off the land. It was obvious though that the man had decided to hunt for breakfast before he was completely awake.

Myth did not like the commotion the human was making because it would draw the attention of things Myth wanted nothing to do with. He reached back and slid a dagger from his leg and watched as the duo drew closer to him. With a snap of his wrist the blade buried itself into the rabbits head pinning it to the earth. Myth waited to see how long it would take the human to stop. He could only smile knowing he probably gave the two women a shock when he had drawn his blade.

Kwinn's lungs were on fire now, he had been chasing the animal at a full run for a few minutes, and only now in this moment did he finally take notice of the three travelers. Two were certainly elves Kwinn could not see the face of the person wearing the white robes but he was fairly sure it was a woman. One of the elves was a tall massive specimen, the tallest Kwinn had ever seen. In one fluid motion the tall red haired elf flicked his wrist...little breakfast was dead.

The ranger slowed his pace, stopped a few yards from the travelers. Only now was Kwinn aware that he was not wearing a shirt, that his hair was a mess and that he had left his weapons back at camp.

Kwinn spit into his hand and ran his fingers through his hair, he wiped his hand on his leggings and addressed the three strangers.

Out of a true respect for the elves Kwinn attempted to speak in elvish.
Kaerol vaeraelaer shos

Which of course translates into "Greetings respected birds...." The ranger smiled and bowed as he spoke the incorrect greeting, he looked over at the dead rabbit.

I am unsure if there is enough of little breakfast for four, perhaps we could stretch him out with some wild potatoes and turnips. The ranger shifted on his feet and looked at Rayann. He had never seen a priestess of the moon goddess before, the woman intrigued him.

Seeing that she was human, he addressed her.
Greetings priestess... The ranger nodded to Rayann and then looked back at the giant Elf.

Tanjee heard the commotion about the same time Myth did. Thankfully the diversion happened at just the right time for Tanjee was certain she would have said something that would have offended the tall, intimidating elf. And that was the LAST thing she wanted to happen.

As her keen eyes watched the shouting man chasing after the terrified rabbit she was thinking it reminded her of what humans must look like when they chase after greased pigs. While she’d never seen such a spectacle before, she’d heard stories of it and surely this was similar.

Of course when the dagger landed squarely in the rabbits head dropping it where it ran, Tanjee let out a small yelp of surprise. Where did it come from and how did it get there so quickly? Blinking, her green eyes looked to Rayann then to Myth. There was only one obvious answer to her unspoken question.

Swallowing hard, Tanjee knew the skills of the warrior were far greater than she had first suspected. While that unnerved her she didn’t know yet but one thing was for certain….she hoped she’d done right by asking to travel with them and not gotten herself into more than she could handle. Again.

Finally she looked to the strange, wild looking man and her nose caught the scent of something…unpleasant. Furrowing her fine brows and wrinkling her nose, she made a face that spoke volumes of how much she didn’t like what assaulted her nostrils. But when he greeted them with the strange greeting, the female elf finally found her tongue. Even as her eyes focused on the muscular, bared chest the Ranger sported.

”Lle holma….gaya. Mani nae lle umien?”(You smell….awful. What have you been doing?)

Remembering Rayann didn’t truly understand the Elven language all that well yet, Tanjee reverted to common. But as she studied the human more, after he attempted to render his unruly hair back into some sort of control, she narrowed her eyes making sure they looked at his face more.

”Wait a second…..you are that human I have heard the others talk about. Kwik….Kwan…..Kwak…oh Goddess…what is the name again?”

Looking over at Myth, she tried to explain who he was even as he stood before them and studied Rayann.

”He has lived in our woods for many years and has learned a great deal from the Elves. He is not Elfkin but I think he fancies himself to be as close to us as he can get.”



Rayann was immediately on the defensive when Myth warned about something headed their way. The human woman was extremely cautious after everything that had occurred between her and Myth. So when a sudden crashing sound with a shouting male voice filled her ears, she quickly wove a spell that could have, if nothing else, given Myth’s dagger the ability to destroy what ever it was coming towards them.

It was almost as though they were back training again. As soon as Rayann heard Myth’s words, she slipped easily into his mind and saw what he was planning on doing. For a split second, she felt a hint of fear slip through him but it wasn’t fear for himself she felt. It was fear for her. As Myth made his sudden plan of attack, Rayann was able to weave a spell that would aid his dagger for the plan Myth would use it for. But when she saw it was a fearful rabbit being chased by a rather boisterous human, she dropped the spell just as Myth flipped the dagger into the rabbit’s head.

As the Ranger spoke of sharing his breakfast after he tried to make himself presentable and Tanjee spoke of knowing about him, Rayann relaxed slightly. He didn’t seem like the sort of person that would be sent by the Dark Queen but she didn’t want to be fooled either.

As the Ranger addressed her, Rayann glanced to Myth then nodded to him in kind but didn’t say anything audibly to him. However, her voice was drifting into Myth’s mind.

~I sense no evil or deceit in him, mela. He seems to be as genuinely surprised at us as we are of him. And it seems Tanjee at least knows OF him and he is not a sudden appearance here. And it does appear as though he just woke from his nightly slumber. Unless he makes a habit of chasing after rabbits half naked. But since I see no marks on his skin, I would say he at least wears a shirt on a normal basis.~

When Myth glanced back at her, she gave him a sweet smile beneath the hood of her robe before her voice slipped softly into his mind again.

~It’s an honest observation. One Tanjee noticed as well….long before I did.~

With a slight nod of her head towards the female elf, Rayann drew Myth’s attention to the way Tanjee was trying not to openly stare at the bare torso of the Ranger.