Snippet #1890434

Her father had begrudgingly accepted her decision and Arwyn knew that it wasn’t her father that was in need of convincing. Her mother was another story. Arwyn’s ears rang from her mother’s constant sobbing. Unlike her father, her mother had come out with a blatant ‘no’ and Arwyn expected no different. She would have never been able to go if not for the compromise she had made with Elder Gravefoot and the rest of the council. But that was a different matter all together.

“Spirits of Eyphah…I do not know what I have done that has displeased you…” Her mother prayer seeped past the walls to her room. Arwyn winced and bit her tongue. It was no use comforting her mother. She seemed to have submerged into a completely alternate world. Arwyn knew the extent of an Elfin’s sorrow. Because of the sensitive nature Elfins had, no other creature took tragedy worse than theirs. She knew only time could heal her mother now. And Arwyn’s ensured safety.

The compromise consisted of three parts. Firstly, a warrior Elfin at all times would accompany Arwyn. Six other warriors had been nominated onto the scout team, however Arwyn only recognized one name: Keagerian Swallowfield. But then, everyone knew The Swallow. He was legendary for not only his battle tactics but for his line of blood. His great grandfather, Majory the Rider, had led the fifth Mill-Hollow battle against the Lycans—and claimed a quick, decisive victory. Arwyn had read all about the Mill-Hollow battles in the Chronicles. Majory the Rider had been one of her all-time heroes; she couldn’t believe she would be in the presence of his great grandson. Keagerian had to be past his 700th summer now and despite her insecurities about the expedition, Arwyn could not wait to meet him.

The second condition had been to simply observe the new creatures, never to interact with them. Her sole job was the find out what these new species wanted and what threat they would be to the Elves without them finding out they were being followed. She had 3 weeks for this expedition—no more and no less. The Blood Moon began on the fourth week. Arwyn remembered shivering at this piece of information.

The last condition was so forcefully emphasized, Arwyn was almost taken aback. She didn’t understand why this condition had been presented in the first place, yet there it stood, chaining her curiosity. The third condition had been to never, on no grounds ever seek out The Slender One.

After she had spoken her oath of Truth, she had respectfully inquired conditions of her own.

“I would like to appoint two others companions. They would not be for my protection but for comfort. I would not feel comfortable…or complete without my friends.”

“This is not a game Arwyn Oakstream. This is a serious operation that demands the choicest caution.”

“I understand your thoughts Elder Bearflood. But my other two friends have just as much right to be on this expedition as I do.”
“And who are these mysterious friends of yours?”

“Aislin,” Arwyn started.

“Marian Ash is passed her 300th summer. She is powerful and skilled in her art. Yes I will allow her leave.” Elder Gravefoot left no room for discussion.

“And Neurian,” Arwyn finished slowly, calling them by their proper names.

“Of the Whispering Willow?” A member of the Council hissed, “He’s not yet passed his 100th summer!”

“It would be…unwise to send such an inexperienced Elfin to this mission.” Another reinforced.

“I agree.”

“Aye.”

“But don’t you see?” Arwyn interrupted, “Little Wil—Neurian is in the same position as I am. He lost his brother a short while ago…yet he has been helpless to do anything about it. I am fortunate that I am at least able to help out our elfin brothers and sisters, but Neurian is unable to do so. I know Will. He’s mature and far beyond his years. I know he can do this.”

“I see where you’re coming from, sweet Oakstream. But do you believe it would be sage to bring a child along with your team? Would it not be burdensome not only to your teammates but also to Neurian himself? He has not yet mastered his craft, this all may be unhealthy exposure to such an innocent child.”

“The day Gywn died was the day I lost any illusion that things were going to get better. Will differs from the rest of the little’uns. That innocence has left him a while ago. Why not give Will the choice of coming with us?”

Elder Gravefoot sighed as he smiled in defeat. Arwyn Oakstream would not be moved.

“Gravefoot, you aren’t seriously considering her terms!”

“In truth, I am. Arwyn has a point. And young Neurian is not far from his 100th summer. Soon he will be able to attend the meetings. It is true that he has changed since his brother’s death. I do not believe bringing him along would harm the expedition.”

The argument had continued for sometime, but Arwyn came out of the meeting with a smile on her face.

Arwyn fidgeted on her bed. The Lights would fall soon. Tomorrow she would begin packing her things. They would be leaving in three days time. She couldn’t wait to tell Will and Ai the news.

Arwyn stood up and moved towards her window, sweeping her curtains aside. A soft wind caressed her face and her hair billowed outwards. It was a warm evening and the stars were just beginning to show. Arwyn looked across the village and for a second laid eyes in a figure in the distance.

A Lycan? A Vampire? Arwyn’s mind automatically thought in panic.

Then the figure loomed away, sinking away against the backdrop of the skyline.

Spirits of Eyphah, I beg your guidance and wisdom for this mission. Smile upon us.