Tel Ronyo-The Fox Clan.
Very little is known about the Clan of the Fox. Their numbers dwindle they live in the far east of the Anfauglir close to the cliffs of Uuranor. Their hair is red as the mountains and their spirits are also as fiery. The number of Fox Clan members is unknown for when they are seen by any outside of their clan they seem to just vanish in to the dunes. They bare a red tattoo that looks like a fox.

Tel Kua- The Dove Clan The closet neighbors those of The Ered Lithui will ever know they live on the Southern border, between the Forest and the Mountains. They are elegant,tall and regal. Their numbers flourish they hunt in the woods and travel over the mountains to the waters of the ocean. One of the few clans of elves that have light colored skin. It has been rumored that they are named the Dove Clan because they have wings, but this has never been proven, it is known that they bare a tattoo of wings done in silver.

Tel Atalan- The Down Fallen Clan. They live on the South eastern border close to the woods. Their homes are the sand dunes that rise in to the sky. A hardy people, short and stout their skin is tanned for the unyielding sun. They live off the plants that grow in the shade of the dunes, they dig for their water. They hunt the creatures that live in the dunes, and sometimes go as far as the river to fish when times are bare. It is said that they are called the down fallen because of their size, and also because the dune often fall upon them in the wind. Their can tattoo is a beetle done in gold what some may call a a scarab.

Tel Mithlin The Grey-Blue Clan. A clan of dark elves. Tall with long pale colored hair and eyes. They live on the bank of the Nisse they fish the waters and make their homes out of drift wood and mud. They are also craftsmen, they make spears and hooks from mined mithral deep in the earth. The forge fires and melt the metal and sell it to passing clan members. The tattoo of the Grey-Blue Clan is four shimmering scales done in blue,silver,purple and green.

The Mandu' Eldalie Clan dwell within the Tel Mandu' Taure. Their numbers are vast. Their people are different ranging from dark Elven to those with light skin. They are advanced hunters, their skill with a bow and arrow would make any rangers jaw drop. Some of them are even fabled to be Taur'amandil,druids. Though magical powers are not unknown and it would not be surprising if that rumor was true. They live in the trees and off the land, they welcome any in to the forest but one must not harm anything unless you intend to eat it or heal it your self or face the clan leader. The hunters of the clan bare a tattoo of an arrow, other members bare a tree done in green ink. And it is fabled that those members believed to be druids bare a tattoo of both the arrow and the tree as well as a trio of roses all mixed in to one tattoo.

Then Lastly there is The Ered Lithui Clan. We of the Ashen Mountains. We are a stead fast people. We live off the Mountain we grow out food and treck miles to the river or ocean for fresh fish. We are also crasftmen, we mine gems and metal from the earth everything from copper, gold to mithral from the ashen rocks. Most of the clan is dark skinned like the mountain its self, only a few are fair skinned, even fewer have dark hair. I was one of those few, born of light skin with dark hair and bright eyes. I was different from the rest of my clan and for those reasons I was singled out.

The sun rose in the East its warm glow had not yet touched the white sands of The Nim Litse.I rose before the sun had risen and started on my way back towards the Ashen Mountains. The Night had given me some time to think over what way I would travel. I first had to make my way back up and through the narrow passages in the mountains. The treck would be long and hard but I knew every rise and fall of the mountain. By mid day I was looking over the Anfauglir,and then the tress of Tel Mandu' Taure. I hoped to go to the Kua Clan first.

I walked down through the winding trials through the mount till the suns glow cast over the beach far behind me now. I dropped in tot he sands of the Anfauglir and headed towards the camp of the Kua Clan. I walked till I could see there tents rising from the sands. I took a moment to take a rest, eat and drink before walking any closer. I wouldn't be welcomed at first until I made my intent known.

The warriors were the first to notice me and they would lead me in towards the chief. Their spears were held high close to my neck. I did not put up any resistance as they led me to the center of their encampment. There before the fire it now only filled with the last eves embers sat their chief. His dark eyes cast to me. His skin was pale like mine his hair pale as well. As he stood he towered over me, his silver tone tumbled down over his broad shoulders. He looked me over and nodded to his warriors who lowered their spears. "Mani naa lle umien sinome? " His voice was deep and loomed over me. The common tongue of men is not commonly spoken among the tribes and very few know it.

"Amin sinome ten' lle tua. " I looked up to him, he gazed to me a moment, as if to see if I was telling the truth. He nodded softly and led me towards his tent. It si rare that one member from one clan would meet another under the circumstances, but we always tried to keep the peace with our closest neighbors. Battles happened in the past from time to time but less lately, otherwise I would have been met with more than spears to my neck.

Finally my gaze lifted to hers and I nodded. She smiled softly then I was escorted out. My quest would begin come day break. The first task did not seem too hard I had fished in the river before. I was given my own place to set up a hut or tent. I had no supplies for such a thing so I laid out some leaves and lay back on them using my pack as a pillow under my head and looked up through the trees at the stars glittering in the black sky.

Soon I fell in to a deep sleep. The coolness of the night wrapped its tendrils around me and I dreamed. I saw the shores of the Nisse,the deep blue waters rushing by teaming with fish. I saw myself with spear and net going after the blue ones I saw. I could recall in the dream that blue fish were rare and only came through when the water was very cold during the end of fall and before the full spring thaw.

She also recalled how large they were the blue toned fish were the largest and heaviest of all the fish within the Nisse. It would not be easy to catch six and bring them back to the clan. She would have to figure out how to keep them fresh as she crossed the desert.

Then the scene changed a deep forest filled her mind, filled with mist and calls of wolves. The ground was muddy and the scent was of rain. The tall trees loomed all around her as she looked for young elm trees. Saplings were all around here but none were elm. Elms were rare as well, only a few grew in the woods. She had to find four saplings and bring them back intact for transplanting she figured. Then she recalled that the elms saplings did not spring forth till after the rains were done which wasn't until mid-spring. How was she to find saplings for them so soon?

Then her sight was blinded by the sun dancing off the dune of the desert. The winds were harsh and blew sand across her form. She wore a long piece of cloth wrapped about her head covering her mouth and eyes the fabric was thin enough to see through but enough to keep the sand from her eyes. Her feet burned with every step even though she had boots on. The heat was intense, she walked looking in the shadow of every dune for Nieninque., most of the plants she had found were drying up, the water level had gone down so much that most of the desert dwelling clans had to go to the river for water or food. The sun was hot and blinding, the sands burned at her fingers as she climbed over the steady rolling of sand hills.

As the sun began to rise and filtered through the tress she was awakened by the sound of horns. She rubbed the sleep from her eyes and acquired her things as well as fresh food and water for the trip to the river. She tried to keep her dream in mind, these tasks were not easy and it seemed they might even be impossible. She wrapped her bow in buck skin and lay it across her back with her quiver, she sheathed her dagger and sword to her belt and left the clan camp and went towards the North end, the sun filtered in more with every step till the great desert stood before her.

Foot steps in the sand.

Two,four,six.

Then another set not as light as the footsteps of the Atalan Clan Members. Heavier, not like an elf at all. Aria sat there unable to move, she wondered if this was how she was going to die. The footsteps got closer. The shadows came closer. Three of the Atalan Clan Mmebers,heavily armed. They walked towards her and held their spears out. Aria closed her eyes.

"You must be hungry." A male voice washed over her ears, the tongue he spoke she heard but could not understand. She dare not open her eyes. Then she heard the shifting of the sand under the ends of those spears as they were lowered. Slowly emerald hues opened and looked up to see someone standing before her. A tall dark male figure. He knelt in to the sand to be eye level with her, his face was covered by thin cloth, only his eyes peered at her. Deep blue eyes that looked like the ocean in winter. Slowly he untied her, then offered her some food.

Aria blinked, looking from the man tot he food then tot he clan members. Their backs were turned to her. Slowly she took the food and examined wit with keen eye and smelled at it as well. Once she knew it was not poisoned she would eat it. He watched her intenly,his blue eyes swept over her fair face and dark hair.

"Diola lle." Looking to him a smile appeared on her face. He nodded softly. " Lle Creoso." He sat down in to the sands beside her and slowly unfastened the cloth away from his face. When he looked back she saw just how different he was. His face his a different look to it. His ears were not pointed, his hair was dusty and brown like the mud of the earth once dry. Yet she found him attractive.

He watched her as she looked at him, he knew she could tell he wasn't Elven. "I am a human, " He spoke in the common tongue of man first forgetting for a moment that she did not know it. "Amin edan." Aria blinked more to that, a human man living out here int he dunes with a clan of elves it was unheard of. Then slowly the three clan members who had their backs to them turned and walked to him and they spoke for several moments in the clan tongue before the three left with a bow to him. It couldn't be possible was he the clan leader? "Naa lle Tel' cora?" If he was the leader it would surprise her.

He smiled softly to her, "Uma." Aria sat back a bit more and just starred at him. " Lle Esta , Amin innas tir lle." Slowly she lowered her self back to the sand, he said he would watch over her. Perhaps she would not die after all. " Amin essa Thoren." He placed his hand upon his chest, and bowed his head to her. " Amin essa Aria, en' Ered Lithui ." She bowed her head softly, as she did he took her hand in his running his fingers against her skin and leaned down and kissed the top of her hand. That motion made Aria blush and pull back her hand.

The next few hours passed with easy,she told him of where she came from and why she was out in the dunes. He told ehr where he had come from and how he became the leader of Tel Atalan Clan. The hours of night slipped away and when day break came Aria woke to the warmth of the sun upon her skin. Thoren offered her his hand and she rose to her feet. He towered over her by four inches or more, he towered over the Clan members like a giant. He led her to his camp sight hidden within a dune near the eastern end of the forest. The dune had been hollowed out and a hut was built with mud and woods within it. It was a remarkable desgin,one that would keep the hut cool in day and warm at night.

He led her in to his hut, the door was heavily guarded by three men on each side. The inside was decored in buck and doe skin, bear rugs and fur chairs. He crossed to a table made of wood and pulled out a chair for her. Aria crossed to the chair uneasily. "You don't have to be afraid I won't hurt you." He smiled to her, and though she didn't understand him she trusted him enough to cross and sit in the offered chair.

He then went to work making her a plate of food, and gave her ice cold water to drink. He then sat down across from her. Aria ate and drank till she could no more. He watched her the whole time, the way she ate, the way her dark hair crossed her brow and fell along her cheek and brushed her pointed ear. The way her deep emerald eyes drew him in. The fairness of her skin, the form of her body. The weapons at her side, her strenght,the way her mere presence seemed to command respect. Yet her voice was so soft, her manor timid around him. He knew she was new to venturing on her own, he felt sad for her tale of loss of clanhood.

As she finished her eyes shifted up, she knew he had been watching her eat, looking over her like a wonderful prized buck. Her gaze locked with his. Those deep blue eyes, that washed a sense of clam over her. The curve of his strong jaw line, the tanness to his skin. His muddy brown hair, the way he carried himself. The clothing he wore one of a hunter, one of someone who liked to blend in with the surround. Yet his voice was soft to her eyes, if he spoke in common or in Elven.

After a few moments of starring at the other he would rise and offer his hand once more. She would slowly take it and he would lead her to a large room. Pads and pillows of fur and skin lay upon the floor. Fire light lit up the room. He pointed to the roll of thick fur . "Esta Sinome." She looked at him, wondering if it was a good idea to stay here. " Tul're amin innas yeste lle tie e' tel edan lammen." As I sat down I gazed back to him, he was going to teach her the laguage spoken by men come the morning light. He left the room and Aria lay back, laying her weapons beside her. She was deeply interested in learning the tongue of men.

The moon rose high over the sands, casting its white glow down upon the grains making them shimmer. The rest of the clan members sat around fires telling stories in their clan tongue. Aria sat in the sand just outside of Thoren's hut. He had gone to join his clan mates, she did not know their tongue so would sit alone watching the moon light dance off the sand.

The night seemed to slowly drag on, like the smoke rising in to the black sky from the many small camp fires. Aria sat listing to the talk among the clan members. She could hear Thoren's booming laugher burst through the darkened night. As the night drew close to its end. She would go inside and wash up. Though water seemed rather scarce to most, there was much water in the earth under the sands and Tel Atalan clan tapped in to it, for bathing and cooking purposes. The desert was not devoid of all moisture.


She brushed her fingers through her raven hair before she lay back against the pads of fur and skin that lined the floor. It was a softer experience than a simple bed roll, it was thick and lifted off the floor with many pads of fur and skin. She knew soon enough Thoren come in to wish her a goodnight. She felt bad for taking his room still, leaving him with no other place to sleep but the floor or chairs out in the main room. But he had instead on her having the bed. She was after all his guest. She left her weapons within arms reach, ready for anything, before laying back against the round furry pillow.


The rustling of the makeshift door of the room would obviously draw her attention as he entered. That simple door two wooden planks held together by stretches of sinew. He kept his foot falls light as he could as he crossed in to his own room. It had a different air about it, it smelt of her, her raven hair carried the scent of the wild upon it, a scent he lavished in having around. Soft blue hues danced about the room for a moment and then towards Aria. laying back against the pads of fur and skin that lay just slightly lifted off the slightly sandy floor boards. "Anything you need?" Over the past few weeks of being with her and training her he was pleased at the progress she had made and was also glad that he could speak in his human tongue to her almost all the time. A slight smile was plastered upon his lips as dark locks dangled down about his visage.


Her ears perked to t e sound of the door, and the sound of his footfalls across the room. Her deep emerald hues lifted and she gazed to him as he stood there in the center of his own room, looking to her. " Nae I am all right Thoren."For the past few weeks she had greatly enjoyed her time here, her lessons in the tongue of men as well as learning about him and in turn he knew much about herself and the varied ways of Tel Atalan Clan. With a soft flourish of a hand she tucked her raven locks behind her pointed ears.

He gave her a nod and then dropped his arms to his sides once more as he leaned into a bow and turned about on his heel. He made his way out to give her the privacy she deserved, he entered the main room now and glanced about for a moment wondering if tonight he would take to a chair or the floor. Not that it much mattered sitting up sleeping would give him a crick in the neck he would surely feel come morning and sleeping on the hard floor would do him no better. A hand rose to rub at his chin, the rough texture of his face making a slight scratching sound..."Hmm," he quietly hummed to himself as he made his way over to the far wall where he had spent the past few nights, he slowly slid onto the floor and sat cross-legged for a moment before bringing his eyes to a close as he sat in silent meditation for a brief moment. He thought out over his day, he had been helping dig in tot he earth to bring forth the hidden water. He had also gone out with the huntsmen to gather meat for the coming days. The food was all well preserved within a wooden hut, the salt of the sands kept the meat for a few days time.



She watched him go and lay back upon the roll of fur and skin. She brushed her hair over the pad of what seemed to be bear fur that she used a pillow and closed her eyes. She had slept well there for the past few weeks, she had felt him come in to the room the past few nights, but enjoyed feeling him there even while she slept. Sleep was quick to claim her this night. Hues falling closed quickly.


As the room grew ever more silent he knew it was time to try and get some rest, he bushed the fur and padded down a spot. His hands went to the bottom of his sand and sweat drenched shirt and he was quick to remove it and toss it aside, the past few days had seemed ever so increasingly hot out in the sands-The days of spring were quick to end in Tel Anfauglir. Soon the deep summer would claim over the sands and only at night would there be any coolness. It was good forture that the homes of the clan members were so well built to stay cool in the days and a nice tempter at night. The next few days would be spent harvesting the rest of the temperature would be taken from the shade of the dune and stored. The clan members would have to venture to the river or the woods for food soon. A soft yawn came as his eyes fluttered to a close once again and he tried his best to get comfortable upon the furs.

The night always passed slowly, the sound of the far off owls of the forest hooted throughout the night, the sounds of the night filled the cool air. As it got later the sands got colder. Aria began to toss and turn her closed eyes vied nightmarish visions from her past. She tossed more and suddenly awoke with a scream "Atar! Atara!" She blinked a few times looking around, a bead of sweat slid down her dark brow and she took a breath, closing her eyes tightly. She shivered as a rush of cold swept over her, the nightmare had felt all to real.

Sleep had not fallen upon Thoren as he laid upon the furs that kept his bare torso warm, his eyes were indeed closed but he felt something in the pit of his stomach that would not allow him to drift into his dreams. He felt as if he should check on Aria as he did nights before, but before he could decide when to go and check on her a scream filled his ears that came from him room. Like a bolt of lightening through the sky Thoren was up and nearly broke into the room, a hand tightly gripped the handle the hunting knife at his side as his soft blues quickly looked about the room,they settled on Aria and her unsettled form, he quickly went to her beside and sat upon the edge next to her. A hand rose as he slowly wiped away the beads of sweat that slid about her brow, he noticed her heavy breathing and said softly to her, "It's alright....I'm here...."


She leaned in to him and tears slid down her fair cheeks. It had been many years since she had such nightmares. She took a breath eyes closed, her head pressed in close to him her arms were around his shoulders. "Oh Thoren," She shook her head softly, and clung to him for comfort. Tears slid down her cheeks and down in to the gentle waves of her raven hair. She took a few breaths it had been nothing but a bad dream, but it had visibly shaken her.


He blinked for a moment as she came to embrace him, he felt her warm tears and soft breath against his bare chest. A shudder came over him as he wrapped his arms about her and pulled her closer to him, he did his best to comfort her. He asked her softly, "What happened?" A soft rub of her back could be felt as his strong hand gently ran back and forth. He was indeed worried about her and was a bit shocked to see her so unnerved and crying, it was a side of her he had not seen before...Almost catching him off-guard. He wished he could do more to help and comfort her.


A deep breath rose through her before she would pull back slightly to gaze to him, her emerald hues filled with a deep sadness. "A nightmare. From long ago. I have not had such a thing for a long time. I am sorry to have woken you." Aria tried to calm her nerves reminding her self that those visions no matter how real were just old memories long past.


"Don't be sorry...I was actually about to come check on you..." A warm smile passed over his lips as he gazed into her beautiful hues, again seemingly caught offguard once more. He slowly let his embrace of her loosen as he leaned back a bit, again his hand rose and was placed upon her warm cheek, he wiped away the streams left by the tears and softly said, "It was only a dream nightmare...I'm here, everything will be all right...What was this nightmare about?" He did not know if she would be so open as to tell him, after all what a person dreams about is something usually very coveted. But a nightmare was different from a dream.

Aria brushed her locks from her face, and smiled dimly to him. Having him there was a great deal of comfort. He did more to help than he knew. "My mother and my father. My father left when I was very young and did not return, I never knew how he died, it was a bloody scene I saw of his possible death. My mother...killed her self after he did not return. I saw her fling her self off a cliff face. I have
not dreamed such things for a long time now." She could still recall the day her mother left her with the rest of her clan. She had said , " My little dark one, be brave, be strong, a remember that I am always with you." Her mother did not return that day and some of the clan members found her body days later shattered and broken upon the backside of Ered Lithui. Aria had seen the bloody sight herself.


He cringed for a moment at hearing the gruesome fate and nightmare that plagued Aria, another soft brush of her cheek was given as she could feel his hand cup her cheek. He continued to speak softly to her, "I am sorry for both your loss and this horrible nightmare...Is there anything I can do to help? I don't mind sitting at your bedside until you fall sleep once again..." His blue pools gaze deeply into hers as his heart raced slightly as he awaited her response, he did not wish to make her uncomfortable-but it was these newfound feelings that seemed to tug at him at this time. He had hidden them as best he could from her, he knew elves were extremely intuitive, and could tell many things from a mere glance.


She leaned softly in to the hand that cupped her softly moist cheek. "Thank you, yes I would like the company, " She felt very safe with him there, but more than just safe. " Would ye stay even after I fell asleep? I feel very calm with you near." It was more than just clam she felt with him near, she felt safe. After all he could have turned her away long ago, or she could have been easily killed. It was not common for the clans to fight among each other, blood feuds though started easily, a wrong glance a wrong word tot he wrong person and you could loose your life. Thoren had treated her well, given her a place to stay, a clan to belong to.

He swallowed hard for a moment as the question seemed to ring in his ears. A slow nod caused his dark locks to tumble and bounce about, his lips parted as he managed to get out, "Aye, I wouldn't mind at all...I'm glad that I can make you feel calm while at your side..." He almost blurted out how she made HIM feel but he held back, he then suddenly realized his attire, or lack there of. He had forgotten he had taken his shirt off to get more comfortable. His torso was tan, from days in the sun of the desert. His muscle were taught and perfect, he was a strong formable man.

"I apologize for not having a tunic...It was rather soiled and sandy from the blistering desert sun this morn..." His strong chest and adjacent muscles seemed to flex and tense up, his arms bulged a bit as he felt slightly rude, it was not common for men of Elven decent to walk around shirtless around women. Though he knew that Tel Atalan's Clan men did so but they were far different from the men of Ered Lithui or Tel Mandu Taure'.


A soft smile graced her fair features. "Thank you." She had long ago noticed his attire, his shirt was gone, all ready her emerald hues swept over him in a flicker of movement. "It does not bother me, " She was dressed in a soft pair of tan leggings and a soft crisscrossed top of the same tone. Her arms were bare from the shoulder to hand. Her arms were lean and strong, curved with muscles from days work in the mountains and hunting. Her legs were the same long and well toned. She moved back and laid her head back against the furry pillow. Those hues studied him for a moment, every passing day she seemed to get to know him better, and also with every passing day new feelings welled within her.


Another nod was given at her words of thanks and he realized that it would be rather nice to be within the folds of his own bed for one night-the furs upon the floor were really working his back as of late. He stayed in his sitting position at the edge of the bed, he never took his eyes off her as he watched her get cozy against the pillows. He noticed her looking him over and it caused his brows to rise a bit, she had never looked at him quite like that before. He felt that it was lucky that the room was rather dark or else his evident embarrassment would be seen upon his features. He sat there slowly beside her.

For a moment their gaze locked before she turned to one side. She was curled up facing him laying upon her right side. Her hands were tucked up and under the soft furry pillow. Her legs were covered with the soft velvet of doe skin, yet her bare feet stuck out her toes wiggled as if enjoying the cool air of the night. Her face softened as she closed her eyes and relaxed with him there beside her.

His gaze locked with hers for that moment, then as she got comfy he smiled. He watched her turn on to her side and his roaming gaze noticed for a moment the curve of her breasts under the crisscrossing tan fabric of her shirt, abesent-mindly he followed the curve with his eyes to the V like neck line where her pale skin could be seen. He shook his head and closed his eyes. He could not believe he had allowed him self to stare at her so. He took a short shallow breath and lay slowly down beside her, careful to remain on his back and not face her. The furs and skins now smelt like her, the soft airy scent of flowers and pine. He closed his eyes inhaling the scent.

The trees of Tel Mandu Taure cast long shadows across the mossy ground, only flickers of light were cats across the ground, as if the trees took in all the sun light for themselves. Yet the moss,toadstools,and underbrsuh still trived. The great Yaara Orn stood as great guardians, over the vast forest. We moved to the South west along the outer rim of the woods. Heading for the vast hill known as thon gon amon. For the hill is covered with tall wild grasses, tall yet wiry pine trees and rocks of all shapes, from the jagged to smooth. As they entered the forest the mist of the morning seemed to get thicker, as it clung to the trees, and dripped off the vines. Dew formed on every smooth and rough surface, making the forest sparkle with life.


Aria shifted through the vines and underbrush in to the woods. The moss covered ground was slick with dew drops from the mist. Aria moved over the moss without a single folly of movement, she was perfectly balanced. Her boots seemed to glide effortlessly over the muddy earth.

Thoren on the other hand crunched in to the mossy ground and shook his head as he pulled his mud covered boots out of the ground belherow him. Arias emerald gaze shifted back to him, her brows were raised in an awkward motion. Then pressing two gloved fingers to her lips she spoke softly, " Dina." Thoren shrugged and stepped on to the root mass of one of the trees and wiped his boot clean of mossy mud. He smiled to her in an awkward fashion before she turned and headed on.

He knew he could never be as graceful or as agile as Aria was. No matter how hard he tried to make his steps light and easy twigs and dry leaves still shifted under his weight. Yet when Aria walked she seemed to glide over the very earth under her, barely leaving even a boot print in the muddy earth. Thoren watched in awe, he had lived for twelve years among Tel Atalan Clan and knew mch about the elves and their customs, but still he was awed by them. Tel Atalan were short and stout, rough and wild, desert warriors. Every clan was different, but ever in all hi s years had he seen a woman of elf or human kind like Aria. She was taler than most of her kin, He knew Tel Ered Lithui Clan had tall male members but it was rare to see a tall female. He knew that Tel Kua,Tel Mithlin, and Tel Mandu' Eldalie Clans had taller female members, but Aria was so striking.

The mist started to part as thon gon amon rose from the thick nest of Yaara Orn. The hill rose towards the sky, a beacon of wild grass and pine trees. The small herd of merka maama walked with ease down the steepest sides over and across the rocks. There were at least fifty members of the herd but Thoren and Aria were not here to hunt the merka maama. They trekked over the smaller part of the hill working their way past the boulders and through the tall grasses. The sun was rising higher. They moved to the South then again to the West along the hill side, they were heading for the small plot of open area hidden within the trees. A grassy knoll where merka aras could be found grazing. They fed on the tall wild grasses and pine cones that blew in. They nibbled on the fresh spring flowers, and ate the dying heads. The merka aras were a tough very wild deer. Their skins were used for many things within all the clans, every part of the animal was used even its cloven hooves.

The females were small, weighing about one hundred and fifty pounds, they were soft tan with a black tip on their tail, and small horns from their head. The males could be any where from one seventy at the lightest too over two hundred pounds at their height of breeding season which had just drawn to a close with the end of the spring thaw. The males horns were prized and used for many uses as well. Aria and Thoren were hunting young bucks or older females. Young bucks had not yet reached their chance to breed and older females were past the age of baring young.

A pair of bounding marka maama watched them from the cliff above as Aria and Thoren passed across the hill side to look over the vast wild grass. There stood over one hundred of the marka aras,unaware that Thoren and Aria were watching. They slowly unbound their bows from their skins and both lowered them selves behind tress, under brush even grass would suit them well. They could not be seen nor could they be heard for once one of the marka aras heard or saw them or even smelt them on an opposing wind the hunt would be a chase. Though Thoren was sure Aria could keep more than a good pace on them he knew he could not. Aria strung her bow, and Thoren followed suit. Arias keen eyes matched up to her target an older female at the back of the heard, and Thoren went for the young buck closet to the older female. Without a word Aria let her bow string snap, it made only a soft sound then t he arrow flew towards it target. Thoren let his arrow fly, his bow made a bit more sound but not enough to startle the deer.

The two arrows flew destine for their targets.

A cloud of dust rose in to the air as the rest of the marka aras bolted for the safety of the trees. Two lifeless bodies lay in the tall grass. Arias arrow had hit and killed the deer without any pain but Thorens buck trashed around a bit still. Aria jumped and ran to her kill. Thoren was quick to follow. He looked to the thrashing buck and began to pull his hunting knife out. Aria pressed her hand to his arm and shook her head, she then knelt at the bucks side and placed her hand upon its hide. "Lanta kaima," her words in the Elven tongue rose like a song birds song, and the bucks eyes closed and he gave up the fight. " Let him not feel any pain of a blade while he still lives, it would be a discretion of his life." She walked to her old doe and placed her hands upon her hide and whispered an elven blessing before placing her bow back and lifting the doe with ease. Thore lifted the buck up and then they started back to the camp.

Once at camp the other clan members were quick to skin the two deer and sperate the meet between familys,the hide would be dried in the mid day sun, the soft velvet horns of the buck would be used to make sheathes or hilts for hunter knives and daggers. The cloven hooves were ground up and would be used for medicine and other purposes. That night some of the doe meat would be roasted over a high fire for all to enjoy with fresh fruit and wild greens gathered from the dunes and forest.

Aria sat by the fire,Thoren had noted for the second time that she was very quiet when she ate while the others talked and shared the tales of their day she ate in pure silence often looking up to the stars. Tomorrow they would again head in to the forest to gather fruit and the last of the spring blossoms. But for now Thoren was content watching the goings on, his gaze drifted from his clan to Aria then back again. As he ate he throght about the night before and how he had awoken. A lump rolled in his stomach, he wondered if she would ask him to stay with her again tonight?

The morning light woke Aria. She shifted softly her hand pressed against Thoren's chest. She lifted her head and hands from him and gazed for a long moment at his sleeping form. Her Elven ears picked out the talking outside. She was quick to rise and dress, gathering her weapons and tying up her boots before she left the hut, leaving Thoren to sleep. Once outside she walked up to there five members of the clan stood arguing in their clan tongue, " Mani autien no'?" They looked at her a moment, then one stepped forward, " lye fara ten' eligre nae dram." Aria looked tot he three closely, kneeling down to one knee. she could see hey had been hurt, ones arm had a massive wound on it, and was now bandaged. The other two looked as if they had been hit by an arrow, one in the leg which had caused him to limp and the other got grazed by one across the cheek. Killing tactics for any hunter. " Manke?"

The leader of the hunting party pointed off towards the woods. Aria looked to the hut then to the three, " Iire lle heru kuile kwentra ho manke amin caela wanwa." Rising quickly to her feet Aria dashed off through the sand the way the clan member had pointed. They were lucky to be alive, but who would have done such a thing,hunters are not likely to hurt other members of other clans. Tel Eldalie Taure' are peaceful unless one hunts the sacred buck, which the Atalan members would have never done. No, it was someone else trying to kill them and Aria would find out who.


She moved in to the woods with great speed and grace, moving over the mud and moss with ease, and with hardly a sound. She soon came tot he grove of trees that still were in bloom, the blooms were pink, and soon to fall to the ground, it was odd to see so many trees unattended in the forest, the blooms were usually all harvested by this time. There beyond the grove she knelt using her keen sight to look for anyone, any sight of movement. She could see the blood from the three Atalan clan members who had been wounded. Aria was happy no women or children had been with them as they normally would have been. She didn't see anything, not a shadow of movement. he heard nothing, not even the sounds of birds, which she found very strange.


Thoren awoke and saw that Aria was gone. He shifted up quickly, her weapons were gone, he was quick to get dressed, grab his bow and hunting knives and bolt out the front door still pulling on his boots. He saw the three members from the hunting group talking, all three wounded. He rushed over to them. Tense moments passed as he asked them what had happened. One of the tree then mutters the words that chilled his bones. " Sereg'wethrin." He then looked towards the forest, quickly he asked about Aria, they told him where she a had gone, he moved quickly as he could away from the encampment running with all the speed he could muster towards the forest.


Aria shifted along the shadows low and slow, in to the grove of Yaara Orn. The light danced in from the canopy down across the pink blooms, she then saw one of the arrow head that must have been torn out of the one hit in the leg. She moved to it and lifted it up, she spun it between her fingers. It was large, heavy made of iron, it was fierce looking unlike any other arrow head she had seen. Far to heavy to hunt small game, and too jagged and rough to hunt dear. Something made to hunt much larger pray with no care if the meet got ruined. She looked around once more, dropping the arrow head to the ground. The air was thick with blood, but none of the members had been injured badly enough to have the scent linger that much.

Then she saw a booted foot. She shifted her hands back along her belt, then drew one of those throwing blades from her leather arm bracer. She moved closer to the booted foot and as she peered around the tree she saw the form of a girl no more than a child in the eyes of elves. She was dead, blood stained the green grass under her. She was a Eldalie clan member for sure, far to tall to be Tel Atalan, and too far to the South to be Tel Kua. Her hair was silver, and stained red with blood, she had three arrow shaft sticking out of her back. Aria held back the urge to vomit. Carefully she turned the girl over, her eyes were glazed over and wide open. Through her chest came the tree large arrow heads, they had torn her insides out and gone right through her heart and lungs.

Aria shivered softly, never had she seen anything so brutal. Who would shoot down a young girl? Aria noted that the girls hands were balled in to fists and in one she clasp the petals of the eligre. The pink petals were stained darker by the blood on her hands. Aria slid her fingers over the girls eye lids and closed her eyes. "Aman tel' Seldarine." The blessing was softly uttered before Aria shifted back to standing. Death was nothing new to her, but this seemed so wrong. The life of a child was priceless.

Thoren's lungs burned, he had gotten tot he edge of the forest, and took a long breath bending forward. He had to find Aria, he didn't want to call out her name less perhaps get her in trouble. He would have to use his best tracking abilities. The wind was quiet, so he hoped that in her rushing she might have left a foot print. He looked to the mud and moss around the outer trees looking for anything to lead him the right way. He spotted the soft imprint of her boot and rushed again going in the direction, he now knew she had gone to the grove of Yaara Orn that were in the late bloom. He recalled that he had asked his best hunters to go gather some flowers at dawn, without women or children, why he had done so he was unsure but now he was glad he had. He ran trying to be quick and silent.

Emerald hues looked around, whom ever had shot both the girl and the huntsmen was gone, for she didn't sense anyone or anything around. Then she shifted as she heard hurried footsteps coming towards her, she jumped back in to the underbrush and pulled her bow from her back and knocked an arrow back ready to fire. Thoren rushed in to the grove, looking around seeing the blood and smelling it, he saw the arrow head, his brow furrowed a bit. Aria saw Thoren and lightened her grip on her bow and arrow and knocked the arrow back in her quiver and rose to her feet. Thoren saw the shift of movement and was about to toss a knife when he paused seeing Aria. "Aria.." He breathed, " Your all right?"

Her dark brows rose softly, " yes..but look." She pointed to the young girl. Thoren covered his mouth as he saw the young girls body, shot down to death. He dared not breath. "Oh my God..." Aria nodded softly, " Who would do such a thing?" " Sereg'wethrin." He uttered the words slowly, even speaking that word made his blood run cold. " Assassins?" She shifted to his side quickly, " we must get out of here then, it is not safe." He agreed, and together they ran off back towards the camp. Once outside the forest Aria looked back, she didn't want to leave the young girls body there but there was nothing she could do.

The sky was filled with large clouds when dawn came. Not a ray of light could shine throught he thick clouds that covered the sky. The air was hot and humid,the clouds were a promise of summer rain. The clouds rolled with thuder and violent streaks of lingting danced beyween the clouds. The desert seemed to open its jaws for the coming rain. Tel Atalan savored the summer rains though they were very few and far apart,if they ever came at all. The collected rainw ater to wash clotrhing or to bathe in. If boiled over high heat it could be drinken but thatw as rarely done. The sky was grey,and dusty, the wind whipped at the ground as a loud thuder rolled over the emcampment. Ellya and Aria were sitting outside of Thorens hut. Thoren was amaking sure all the provisions were set aside for an attack from the assassins as well as if it should flood. Every now and again he'd glance towards the woods,he hoped Tel Mandu Eldalie clan was safe. They ruled over the forest, and to have assassins there hunting down innocent women and children was just to harsh for him to think of.

He let his gaze go back to the job at hand, the clan mebneres were busy at work putting out large pots to catch the fresh rian in. His eyes then linegered upon Aria.Her raven hair flew int he wind,a deep contrast to the grey and dust ridden sky. Next to her sat Ellya, the half elvish girl from Tel Ronyo clan. Thoren felt the poor girls pain, her mother was dead,and she would have been dead as well if he and Aria hadn't been there. For a moment when Aria looked down from the sky their gaze locked on. She offered him a soft smile.

Thoren smiled back before getting back to his work. Aria looked back to Ellya with that smile. Ellya had been looking around like a nervous deer. She looked tot he sky, watched the clan members work. Every so often she looked to the forest and seemed to shiver. Then she caught Aria's smile. "Thoren is very nice to allow me to stay here." Aria shifted her gaze fully upon Ellya then, " Aye he is very kind, Tel Atalan will protect you. Your are to go no where alone, if you can get no one to go with you must find me or Thoren." Ellya nodded, " I do not intend on leaving off any where on my own."

The clouds finally broke free with a wild torrent of rain. The clan members scrambled under the huts, and Thoren ran back towards his. Ellya smiled and ran slowly back towards the hut. Aria walked through the rain. The tree stood on Thorens hut porch watching the down pour. Lighting cracked through the sky and hit the sands with a loud pop. The rain lasted for hours through the mid afternoon. That time was spent within the hut, Aria read from one of the old scrolls Thoren had.. Ellya examined Thorens kitchen, and the rest of his hut with a deep interest.

Thorn sat legs crossed on the floor, watching the two now again, as he used a whetstone to sharpen his hunting knives. He offered to sharpen Aria's weapons but she refused. Ellya sat by Aria for a while reading over the scrolls that she had abandoned. Then after a while Thoren taught Ellya how to use that whetstone and sharpen a plain knife. " No matter how simple it may seem a good knife may save your life, you keep that one.." He smiled to her. Ellya grinned and tucked the knife in to her belt.

When the rain let up a littlest Ellya was able to go back to the hut she was staying at. Once she was safe. Aria lifted up her bow and slid it over her back. " I'm going hunting.." Thornes brows raised, " but its raining, and the assassins..." She lifted her hand to silence him, " I do not care if it is raining, and I am not hunting for food. I go to find these assassins before they find us. If they come here these people will be killed. I must try to do something before to many more die." He looked to her, and blinked a moment, thinking about what she had said. She had a very strong sense of honor and duty for someone who had been without a clan so long. She would be worthy of the warriors to the North. He slowly rose and grabbed his bow. " Then I shall go with you." He sheathed the two hunting knives then paused as he parted the skin curtain that hung to his right. He then pulled a long sheath from behind it as well as a long thick sword. He used the belt and strung the sheath across his back then looked at the sword. Old some tarnishing, but it was still very sharp.

Aria's brows rose, she had never seen him use a sword and did not even know he owned one. Hew looked it over from pommel to tip and felt the weight in his hands. " I have not used this since the moment I came here. This is a tool of death. It killed many men. I swore when I came here I would never use it, but this calls for it. " He glanced to that dagger at her side, then that thin rapier like blade. "I have never seen you use those, not even when hunting. You bow skill is nearly unmatched. But if we must will you be willing to use those?" Aria glanced to her fathers dagger and that elfin blade at her side. She slid her gloved hand over the hilt. Those arm blades shown in the dim light of the late day. Those gold gauntlet shown with a bronze like sheen. "I am a skilled warrior, but I choose not to use my dagger or sword unless I have no other option. But if it comes to that." She unsheathed the sword with a flicker of her wrist. " Then I will use everything I have to fight these assassins."

Thoren nodded and slowly sheathed his sword across his back. " Lets go then, the clan will be safe as long as we keep the assassins busy. Ellya will be protected,I assure you." Aria nodded, " Yes lets go." They moved from the hut and out on to the wet sands of Tel Anfauglir. Most of the clan members were still inside their huts. Aria looked around once, twice then moved out over the sands with all the speed her Elven legs could grant her. Thoren followed as quickly as he could behind her. They moved to the South. Aria reached the edge of the woods first. She took a breath and let Thoren catch up. Once he had, she looked to him. " We have no idea how many there are, there's at least five that we know of, but they could have more than that. Keep your ears open, and trust me." Thoren looked tot he woods then back to her, " I trust you already Aria, but I will keep my senses keen." With curt nod she skirted the woods around to where she had found Ellya's mother the day before. The body was gone, but the scent of blood was in the air. Then she hurried in to the woods.Thoren was on her heels, she was moving towards the grove where the hunters had been attacked and where she had found the body of the young girl.


When they reached the grove she led the way through the underbrush, and saw that the young girls body was also gone yet the scent of blood lingered. She looked to Thoren as she knelt in the underbrush. She was looking for clues, a foot print a scent of where these assassins had come from. " They headed to the North." " Back to Tel Ronyo and Uuranor." Aria nodded, " But not all of them, " she touched the wet earth, "There are at least ten of them three went back." Thoren looked around , " That leaves us seven. Seven highly trained elvish assassins. Two against seven I do not like those odds." Aria nodded, " The odds may not be in our favor but perhaps. Ye must trust me." She rose and moved to the East through the woods. Thoren followed.Aria moved with speed and grace leaving no sign that she had moved at all,notr a sound passed as she moved or breathed. Then she stopped, and knelt again behind a tree and when Thoren came up behind her she motioned him to do the very same. " Look," she whispered softly, and pointed around the tree. Thoren peered and saw a camp ground, large Yaara Orn leaves made in to small tents. "There are four of them there, where the other three are doesn't matter now. We an get in there and start to put an end to this." He nodded, "I agree." She shifted, " there are two in that tent and two in that one," she pointed to the tents.

"I'll take the one on the right." Aria nodded, "Then I shall take the left, you must use stealth as well as strength, if they scream or call out were may have trouble.Kill them swiftly." Thoren nodded, "I understand ." Aria moved quickly then to the tent on the left and Thoren went to the right. Aria moved slowly towards the side of the tent, and silently unsheathed her dagger and cut in to the tent. The two assassin were sleeping, she kept her dagger out and moved in a low crouch along side one of them. Aria did not wish to do this, but she had no choice. She used the dagger to slit the assassins neck. He died without a sound. The scent of blood rose to her nose and she shuddered as she moved to do the same to the other assassin. Once he was also dead she flicked off her dagger, cleaning it of blood then re-sheathed it. She slid out back in to the under brush and awaited Thoren.

Thoren had snuck in through the opening to the tent, and stabbed one of them in the heart. Yet the man had made a sound as he died. The other assassin awoke, but before he could scream Thoren used his sword to cleave the mans head off. He took a breath and shook his head. He took no joy in killing people, even ones who had killed two innocent women. Blood wasn't something he savored in. He left the tent and rejoined Aria in the under brush. "It is done." She nodded, "then let us leave, the three others will return soon, we must hide and await them." Thoren agreed they moved out along the under brush to the far eastern side of the forest, far enough away from the assassins camp, but also close enough to move in and make an attack.

Aria shifted uneasily as she sat down upon a root mass. Thoren knew she was shaken and he was none the better. He slowly sat beside her. "Aria.." She looked to him, her eyes held a deep sadness. " I do not relish in this, killing is not something I like to do, even for food." Thoren understood, "It doesn't get any easier,only harder. I have killed many men before, and the blood never washes off your hands. But this is the right thing to do Aria, to save others from being hurt, the other clans, innocents. " She nodded and leaned softly in to him. He let had arm go around her slender shoulder and her let her lean there.

The forest seemed less tense more at peace now that the assassins were all dead.It could not take away the fact that they had killed two innocent lives and perhaps even more that they did not know of. But now no one else would ahve to die for their sick game. Thoren walked behind Aria as she walked off to the west,he thought about what Carad had said. Thorens clan sister was trapped in that world some where within the Uuranor mountains. He tried to clear his mind,he knew soon enough he would have to find a way to go after his clan sister.


Aria looked over her shoulder at him througha veil of raven hair. The whole ordeal had shaken them both and she knew that they both needed to get a way from it all. She knew of just the place.They walked tot he west past the hills were manka maama bounded from bolder to bolder past the hunting grounds,towards the south east. Thoren looked around the trees seemed to lessen,becoming more pines and small elms,the Yaara Orn here were young and newly growing. He then shifted as he saw the trees encircling a small body of water. The sun gleamed off of it. He paused awe struck by the beauty of the place.

Aria looked over to him, "I think we both need some where to relax,and let what just happened pass our minds." Thoren looked to her then nodded. "Aria I... I need to tell you." He wanted t tell her so many things, he now knew that Carad had been the man to kill her father,rape her mother and also Carad had held his clan sister captive. Aria paused,shifting on the balss of her feet to walk back to him.She slid her hands down his arm slowly, while looking up in to his eyes. "Come rest with me,sit and we can talk of the things upon our minds." She took his hand in hers,her fingers smooth along his fingers as she grasp his hand. She led him along tot he edge of the small lake she sat crossing her booted feet under her,then she slid off her bow and quiver to lay beside her. Thoren shifted the eight of that heavy broadsword off his back and lay it down with his bow and quiver. He watched a s Aria slid off her botos and slid her feet in to the waters of the lake. He followed suit.

"Aria, I do not even know where to begin." He shifted his gaze to her. " I suppose the beginning would be best. That man that we killed was Carad'loki leader of the assassin group of Uuranor , rogues by all account they have been around a very long time praying on the weak. When I first came to these lands he and his men attacked Tel Atalan and took my clan sister. Carad told me he made her his wife and slave. " He took a breath shifting his feet through the luke warm waters. "He was also the man.. that..."

"That killed my father." Her emerald hues lifed to him, "I know, I could not forget that face,even if I tried. I ahve blocked it out for so long now. But I remembered, when my father disappeared three new men came back in to the camp, three men of his. They took my mother and me away. I know that if I had not excaped back then that I too would have been trapped like your clan sister. They took my mother, Carad did the most damage to her. Soon after she killed herself, I think somehow I have always knownt hat his path and mine would cross once more." Thoren nodded, "Tis why you said he didnt deserve a warriors death." Aria nodded, "Yes, Thoren we will rescure your clan sister,and make sure that there are no more assassins amoung the Fox clan so that Ellya may return to her home. " Thoren smiled softly, "If she lives she will not be the girl I remember. But it is a worth while venture. "


"Aria, how much did you hear when Carad and I were talking?" His gaze looked to the lake he saw her lovely reflection there in the pool of dark blue. "I heard everything." His heart skipped a beat,everything that meant she knew how he felt for her. He didn't lift his gaze,merely nodded softly. Yet Aria's gaze lifted and looked to him, her fingers slowly brushed along his cheek. She brushed her fingers under his chin and lifted his gaze to hers. "Come." Her smooth hand dropped and she walked towards the small lake and as she got tot he edge she slid her boots off and slid her feet in to the cool waters. He lingered there for a moment watching her walk off,he shook his head as he tried not to stare at her. He then slowly followed suit going to the lake edge and slipping off his boots and slipping his tired feet in to the pool of water. He could feel her gaze upon him, and when he looked she was watching him with those intese emerald eyes. He glupped as he felt his heart could leap from his chest, she had never looked at him like that before, or if she had he had missed it.

Aria's gaze did not falter, "Thoren.. what you told Carad were you telling the truth?" The question hung for a moment. "Yes.." He finally spoke, he was lost forever in her eyes, his lips longed to press to hers,those two soft rose petals. He longed to touch her in the way he had wanted to for so long,but he stayed his hand. Aria breathed and looked down in to the water,her heart fluttered with new feelings she could not voice. He loved her she knew that now, she had known it before though. She had sensed it,she wondered if he could sesne how deeply she had fallen for him.

Her emerald eyes were shut and she allowed her self to be swept up in the ehat of the kiss, the grass shifted under her ears and tickled her bare back but she paid it little mind. Her mind was focused on him,on the feelinf that rushed over her bodya nd through ever bit of her core.

A shiver of his own now rippled through his form as he felt her fingers leave a tingling trail up and over his shoulders and to his neck. His eyes were shut tight and his lips sealed with hers as the heat of the moment urged him further on, warm breaths escaped his nostrils as he took a moment to part their kiss but only to lead those lips of his across her jaw and down her neck ever so.. slightly, he stopped once more and trailed tender kisses back to her lips. She could feel his moist tiers aganist hers but now slightly parted as he contemplated using his tongue to taste her sweet lips and tongue as well...His hand still rested on her side he felt urges to go on but with-held himself for the time being. Thoren found it hard to resist his own wants,but he ddn't want to rush her.

A shiver raced her form as she felt his fingers upon her,she felt those warm breath and his lips over her jaw line and over her long sensitve neck. Her emerald hues flickere dopen and closed for a moment as she felt his lips touch hers again. She felt his hand on the bare skin of her side,and opened her eyes at last to gaze at him

He felt her eyes upon him and withdrew only slightly, his lips still dangerously close to hers..His eyes fluttered open as he parted their kiss and he gazed back into her beautiful pools, he didn't say a word.Simply looked deep into her lovely green hues.The hand that once rested upon her warm flesh now rose, gently trailing fingers along her side and up further towards her neck until finally resting upon her cheek, she could feel his warm hand cup her face ever so gently as he then pulled her into another kiss.His heart raced, his stomach fluttered with emotions, and his cheeks even now burned with a slight flush,from the heat of the moment but he continued on. He did not want this moment to end.

Her breath rose slowly as he gazed down at her, she then felt his warm hand cup her flushed cheek.Never had she let her self become so swept up n anything. She looked deeply in to his eyes while their gazes held, she studied his blue hues,looking up in tot hemw a slike looking up in to the morning sky,filled with light and wonder.Then at last she returned that kiss once more,enjoying the taste and feel of his lips on hers.



Again his eyes fell closed as he embraced her again, he slowly allowed his hand to slide back down her form lightly teasing her but doing his best to be respectful, he knew that if they continued on at the pace they were going that he would surely be fully engulfed by the moment and would not be able to hold back.He didn't want to hold back. He wanted her to feel the feelings that welled up inside of him and so he pressed on, his hand once more at her side as he allowed light traces of his fingertips over her exposed skin.He decided to be slightly more daring as his parted lips brought forth a little lash of his tongue, he allowed it to lightly press aganist her lips seeing if she welcomed these new experiences.

She shivered and inhaled deeply through her nose as she felt his hand race back down her side.So swept up in the kiss and this new hightened feeling that she didnt want it to end.She felt his tounge brush aganst ehr lips then slip along hers.For a moment she wasn't sure what to do.

He continued on, his tongue finding its way past her soft lips and into her mouth- there she could feel it lightly grazing hers in a playful tease. His hand teased as well as she could feel him slip under the bottom of her slightly raised top and push it up even more not too far.He just wnated to see if she welcomed his touch or if she recoiled.She could feel his warm touch rushing over her. His hands tendely stroked along her side up, and up over ehr flat stomach, then down over the curve of her hip.


The feeling of his hands racing up her sides gave her goose bumps. She felt his tounge brush hers and as if on instint lashed back at his with hers. Her fingers moved over the back of his neck up through his dark hair and then back down over his upper back.Her body seemed to flush with new found warmth.


Again a shiver seems to rush through him like a bolt of lightening at the sudden lash of her tongue back at his, he enjoyed it ever so much. He so much wanted to feel more of her touch as her fingers brushed through his dark locks some, he yearned it so. He ahd yearned for her soft touch for so long now.His hand felt the tingling of her flesh and it caused a slight smirk to form on the lips that were locked so tightly with hers.Thoren continued to give her those light touches until she felt him stop, his hand rested upon her stomach now, palm down. From there he ever so slowly began to slide it up her form, he then came to rest his hand in the middle of those hidden mounds, lightly rubbing up and down between them- those soft caresses hoping to excite her even moreso. He was being bold, and hoped that she would not withdraw.

She felt the rush he got from her touch and let her fingers dance as far as they could down his spine then back up. She held back those giggles as the blades of grass tickled at her elven ears. A deep inhale was taken when she felt his ahnd move up under the cloth of her shirt and between her pounding breasts that rose and fell with a heavy breath. Her body shivered, and part of ehr wanted to pulla way, but a stronger part wanted to enjoy this feeling.


Again another shiver ripped through his form as her light touch alone his spine felt ever so playful. It seemed as if almost a sigh passed through his nostrils now as he was completely lost in their passionate embrace. The feeling of their tongues continually thrashing against one another, the heavy heaving of her breasts, her touch finding it's way over his form.It was almost too much for him to handle, but he wanted more.Thoren was in love with her, she knew as did he, this was not a want of lust, but of love and he again, hoped that somewhere deep with Aria she felt the same.

Arias hands shifted along his spine and pulled softly on the edge of his shirt thill her fingers brushed his sides,her lips locked with his her tongue in that thrashing embrace with his, now her fingers with their light touch graced his skin.She knew that this heated moment was not one of mere lust,but of something more,she knew how her felt for her,she too had fallen deeply for him.

Her touch was like an oasis in the sweltering desert, he felt like he was burning up, but assumed it was just from their moment of passion. He then slid his tongue back into his mouth and after pressing slightly into their kiss, broke it for a brief moment. He then made quick work to remove the shirt that hindered him from really feeling her aganist him, he wanted so badly to feel her flesh aganist his, to hold her.His fingers had curled about the bottom of his top and quickly pulled it up and over his head and with a quick toss to the grass beside them he was back to cradling her in his arms.

She let her fingers shift over his bare skin as she opened her eyes and took a breath in that moment. She didn't speak merely watched him pull off his shirt and go back to holding her close, her form shifted softly under his,that shirt of hers shifting higher along her lean torso.Her fingers moved over his shoulder,and down over his uppper back,gracefully.

His bare chest was now exposed, his strong arms holding her closer, his ripped chest heaved with the heavy breaths that escaped from his nostrils. He took a moment to gaze down upon her but only for a moment as he found himself meeting her lips once again, this time in lighter touch of kisses. His hand slid about until finding the bottom of the hiked up shirt. He then curled his fingers about that and started to slip it slowly up some more, carefully raising it above her chest allowing her breasts to be exposed now, although he was still kissing her tenderly he very much wished to see her beautiful nude form beside him these thoughts raced though his mind and caused his breath to quicken. As he continued to raise her shirt he found himself stopping the kisses for a moment so that he may finally remove her top and set it aside.

She brethed in deeply as she felt the cool grass against her fully bare back.That kiss was parted and her cheeks were flushed red.Long and lean,yet with a nicely able bossom. She took a breath, her raven hair tocuhed her bare shoudelers but did not hide that tattoo on her left shoulder. Her dark eyes seemed brigher as she looked up to him.She had never let ehr self be so swept waway by anyone,nor had she ever been so passionate.


His dark pools took her in bare form, beautiful indeed he thought to himself. He then found his gaze locking onto hers as he could see her eyes brighten a bit, this again made his stomach and heart flutter. He kept himself over her for a moment as he wanted to fully appricate her, he found himself eager to touch her and he did, his hand started b .gently brushing a few stray raven locks side from her brow and then down past her cheek as the back of his fingers caressed her softly flushed cheek. Then down her neck did his fingertips dance a playful trail. She could almost feel his warm breath over her bare breasts as he began to lower himself once again upon her, although his time their lips did not meet in fact his lips would come to press up again her collar bone.

She held his gaze for a long moment watching him as he took her in. She closed her eyes as she felt his hand move,his fingers tips over her exposed form.As his breath was felt across her expored breasts her heart fluttered, and stomach tied in knots,yet she enjoyed the feeling of his warm lips on her collar bone.



He swallowed hard for a moment as he slowly slid his hand over her right breast, fingers slid one by one over her nipple and finally came to take it fully in the palm of his hand. He gave it a very light squeeze as she could feel his lips leaving a moist trail from the base of her neck downwards.He leaned over a bit and gave soft kisses to the tops of her breasts. His tongue peeked out every so often to leave a playful trail along her flesh. He then found his tongue at the areola of her left breast, his tongue traced around it very slowly as he had a sudden thought and began to wonder if he was moving too fast. He knew Aria had never been alone with a man and never had been touched in such away, and for that moment he withdrew sliglty.

She shivered,never before had she ever done anything so,bold,daring or passionate with a man. She loved the feeling of his hand as it graced her exposed breast and nipple. Her head tilted a bit as his lips moved from her neck downwards,a light gasp left her rosy lips.Then another gasp left her lips as she felt his lips move lower,her body shivered and her hands rustled through his hair with delight. She was deeply enjoying this new feeling that raced over her form.


A grin spread over his lips as he felt hands brush his hair, it became even bigger as he heard her soft gasps.He continued on now allowing his grinning lips to slowly take the nipple into his mouth, he gave it a tender suckle and while doing so also gave another knead to her other breast. After the light squeeze his hand slowly began to lower, giving light touches as his fingers danced down along her skin to the topmost fabric of her bottoms, she could feel his fingers playfully tugging at them, hinting at what he wanted.He wanted so badly to run his hands over her form,he wanted to show her just how much he loved her.

She shifted slowly feeling his lips and mouth upon her breast, and nipple. She tooka deep breath eyes flickering open and closed, she felt him tug at her bottoms, and he would feel her fingers tug at his. Seems they wanted the same thing.In the heat of the moment her fingers had danced down his back and then back up after that light tug,cuaght up in the momment. Raven hair was sprawled out over the green grass making a wonderful contrast of green to black.

His chest heaved even moreso now that he felt her hips pressing up aganist him. A breif part of their kiss lead to a quiet moan as his hidden member hardened even moreso, the buldge throbbed once again as she could feel it as his hips swayed into hers.


That kiss lingered for a long moment and her hands moved down his back swiftly. She had never been with a man before.Nevere been so itimate with anyone. But now she longerd for it, to feel what love was. Her lips moved from his and pressed in to his cheek then down along his neck.


Thoren could barely keep himself from her, his fingers ppressed in to the earth on either side of her.And his hips pressed towards hers he didnt want to rush her in to anything.But he deeply desired her. He shivered at those kisses along his neck. Then he felt her long deft fngers at his waistline.

Her fingers had worked down to his waist and she had worked them around to unclasp his belt and work on those ties, or buttons that hled his pants on. She felt the ties and one button and started work on the ties, they came undone quickly.Her Elevn fingers seemingly working magic on the knots there. The button was quickly delt with and then her fingers moved to give a tug to his pants.

He shifted as he felt her tug at his pants,those apnts were shifted down by her long fingers then he kicked them off.Then he slwoly settled back in hovering above her. His eyes looked her form over and one hand caressed her side. "Aria.." He whispered her name.

Pulling her hands back up his abre back she leaned back from his neck and looked up in to his eyes. She had no need to look at his form as it lay propped over her own she could feel everything, his skin touched hers,His legs slid past hers and most of all she could feel that once hidden part slide over the inside of her exposed thigh. Her body shifted, her hands moved up along his abre back and she pressed up in clsoer to him. "Yes Thoren." Bright emerlad hues looked back to his dark blue eyes.

He breathed in deeply feeling her breasts press in to his chest and ehr long legs slide along past his legs,Her also felt that warmth there between her parted thighs. He gazed down to her, he loved her. He wanted to show her how much he wanted her and adored her. " I deeply desire you." His gaze never left hers.

Bright hues looked up to him, she deeply desired him as well as she ahd nevere desired anyone, she felt something ,something deep within her bodya feeling she had never felt. Her fingers inched up the back of his neck and through his hair. " karn mela a' amin." She whispered up in to his ear, before pressing in to him.

He shivered at her voice, and bit down on his lwoer lip at the words she uttered in elvish. He wnated to make love to her,and she had justed asked him to do so. He was nervous,but he did desire her. His fingers moved up her left side over ehr exposed form to the side of her cheek which he cupped gently. " Are you sure?" He didnt want to rush her, he wanted her to be as sure as he was.

"Uma." She gazed to him and leaned in to that touch upon her cheek. He took a breath,and leaned down and kissed her deeply. His form shifted up and over hers. And gently and slowly he slid in to her. That ksis was deepened slowly as his hips shifted in to hers. There in the dark in the wild open grasses he made love to her. Every moment was enjoyed deeply by them both.

The day had been new when they started and when the fiery red cliffs of Uuranor were seen and the camp sight of Tel Ronyo clan were seen from their vantage point upon the tall sand dunes it was midday. The camp was quiet, far too quiet for midday. No smoke rose from the fire pit, no voices were heard. It looked as if the camp was deserted, or worse.

"This doesn't seem right." Thoren looked to Aria, and his hand slowly started to move to his sheathed sword that lay across his back. Aria shifted along the sand dune, Elven eyes could see more than he could. Not only did it not seem right, it didn't look right. "Get down." She grabbed Thorens arm and tugged him down against the dune.Thoren went down with her laying flat against that dune. "What.." He began to say but she pressed her fingers to his lips. Her nimble fingers moved to her bow and she pulled back one arrow. Emerald eyes looked towards the camp as if to say 'watch.' She let the arrow fly and it cut through a thin line that Thoren had not seen and then a huge trap was sprung the ground falling inward to spikes. "A trap," She muttered, and looked around for any signs of movement. There were none, but that didn't mean that they weren't being watched.

"That could have been." Thoren gasp lightly and looked to her. "Aria..?" He saw the look she had on her face. "Were not alone." She looked up away from the camp in to the cliffs, she saw movement. Thoren followed her gaze. "How many." She shook her head, " at least a dozen..." She blinked ," your clan sister, what does she look like?" Thoren took a moment, " she's a taller Tel Atalan woman, when I last saw her I was young as was she, back then she had short dark hair and her skin wasn't yet that tan from the sun."

Aria nodded, " she's alive, barely." He looked up to where she was gazing but could only see shadows moving. "They haven't seen us yet, we need to move down in to the shadow of the dune and wait till night fall." Thoren nodded and let her lead the way. Aria slid down the backside of the warm sandy dune in to its shadow and he followed. "I don't think we can attack them." Aria nodded, "Not what I had planned, but it may come to that. If we can sneak in we may be able to get her out of there, but that's if she wants to go with us." He nodded, " so we wait till night fall?" Aria nodded, "Yes, I am glad we brought food and water its going to be a long day."


The day went by slowly they moved with the shadow of the dune as the hours moved on. Sharing stories with each other as well as a few intimate moments. Before long the chill set upon the sand, and the moon rose up and cast its glow upon the land. Aria slowly rose and dusted the sand from her back side and started out from the shadow of the dune. Thoren stopped her for a moment. "Wait.. if something should happen." Aria pressed her fingers to his lips. "Thoren, everything shall be fine." He smiled to her softly and pulled her in for a soft kiss. Then they headed down in to Tel Ronyo camp past the sprung trap careful to watch for others. Fires sparked within the fiery red cliffs of Tel Uuranor.

Aria moved up the jagged pathway with Thoren behind her she avoided being seen.Uuranor was a lot like home but much more ragged. She shifted along the jagged edges and looked over at Thoren he was rather good at this too, an impressive man. She peered around the corner, there were three different men making patrols, she saw two of them the other walked the path above them. Once the other two disappeared from sight Aria moved and motioned Thoren to follow. She headed in tot he first cave and stayed in the shadows with Thoren beside her. The cave was dark and free of a camp fire. He was amazed of how Aria had known how to navigate this place so well.

She waited a few moments then moved again, quickly with the speed only she could have. Thoren followed he could hear the wild nisse running far below them. He was then pulled in to a more well lit cave. At the back of the cave Aria could hear voices. She tugged Thoren along and peered around to see a woman in a cage and then another beside her in a different cage. Aria knew the one to be Thorens clan sister the other was beyond even Arias help, the woman was bloody and nude. Aria slunk in slowly and Thoren followed.

Melyanna's eyes welled with tears and Aria held her fingers to her own lips and went to work trying to break the lock that held the cell doors shut. Thoren brushed his clan sisters hands with his own. Aria finally got the lock to break and watched as the two embraced. Aria then looked down the way they had come. "We need to get out of here now."

Thoren nodded and looked to Melyanna. "Can you walk?" She nodded. Aria had noticed the woman handout yet spoken, and began to worry that it may be a trap. "There's a back way out of here." Finally she spoke Arias brows rose. "No, this way." She led the way and peeked to see no one was there, then at the back of the cave they were leaving Aria heard the three men shouting. " I knew it" Aria muttered, Thoren looked to her. "A trap?" Aria simply nodded.

Melyanna shifted away from Thoren and smirked, "Carad is dead, long live his queen. Its so nice to see you brother." She looked to Aria, " you smell of him, it is so rare to see a elvish woman with a human man." Thoren shook his head, "No... we came to save you."

"Save me from what?" Melyanna was walking them back towards the edge of the cliff side. Aria grabbed Thoren by the shoulders before he stepped to far. Arrows whistled past them and Aria looked down the river ragged below them. Then they were surrounded only one way to go. Thoren looked to her and they took each others hand and jumped.

Down river his body draped over jagged rocks Thoren lay. He coughed and then noticed Aria was not in his arms as he was laying on his stomach. He winced, feeling the many small cuts upon his arms and back. "Aria.." He breathed tasting blood and salt on his lips. He lifted him self up and pulled his body across to the sand. He could not see her any where. Up stream or down, he could not see anything but the wilds of the North plains, the forest to the South did not look like Tel Mandu Taure.The Uuranor cliffs were but a misty red spot in the West. His sword had been washed up to the beach, he used it to lift to his feet. "Oh gods,Aria." He glanced to his cuts and bruises. He saw nothing to show him that Aria had been washed as far as he had. She must be upstream but how far?


Aria pulled herself to her feet and brushed her fingers through her raven locks. The river went on down stream for miles.Thoren could be anywhere. She gazed to her fingers slightly bloody. She had been lucky her weapons had been spared, her bow would need a bit of work but it was at least in one piece. The wild plains spread off to the North and the sandy shore banks spread to the East for miles. Aria wasn't sure if at the moment she could walk in search for Thoren. Her body was sore. And as she shifted her hands over her arm she found where the blood had come from. There was an arrow sticking out of her arm, at least the tip and a bit of the wooden shaft. She winced and grabbed it and pulled hard. The arrow tip was pulled out and she bit her bottom lip. She used a piece of torn shirt fabric to wrap over her arm. She sat in the sand then, ringing out her clothes and draining the water from her boots. The Uuranor assassins hadn't given chase. She was happy for that, but now wondered how she and Thoren would get back home. They would have to travel through the woods. Which at the moment were on the other side of the wild Nisse. "Thoren..."


Thoren looked to the sky, there were at least four hours of day light left, he figured he could make a bit of head way going back to the West. So he used that sword as a walking stave digging the tip in to the sand as he walked. His legs were sore and his body worn but he had to try to find Aria. He hoped that she had not been washed to the East, for he was sure that even with her skills and Elven healing that her body would have been racked by the rocks. He gritted his teeth as he walked.

Aria sat there looking off to the North. It was a vast land, she had never seen it. She begun to wonder what lie beyond. She had known the world beyond Ered Lithui, the wild hot sands of Tel Anfauglir, the deep shade of Tel Mandu Taure. She had met with Tel Kua, Tel Atalan, and The Mandu' Eldalie Clan. She had now survived an attack by The Uuranor Assasins. Tel Ronyo clan was gone all but Ellya. Aria knew what the young girl would go through it was hard knowing you were alone in the world. Aria was alone, even though her clan members still lived. Then Aria thought of Thoren, he had lost his clan sister, she had been taken by Carad years ago and now was the leader of the assassins. Aria looked down stream and sighed, she had to get to her feet she had to start to the East.

The sun rose in to a red toned sky. Aria woke to her smoking fire. She lifted her head from the sand and shook free the grains. Emerald hues cast to the red sky. "A Ruin Menel ie' anoron. A day of blood lies ahead." She shifted her boots off again and sank her feet in to the slowly warming sands.The breeze was light upon her skin. She tooka sip of water from that water skin that hung at her side and looke dover her bow, the wood would need work at some point but for now she knew it would have to wait. Her eyes cast to the West.

Thoren woke when he felt something brush along his bare feet. His gaze opened to see a small red fox sitting at his feet going after the fish in the river. He smiled and sat up a bit. "Why hello." This to the fox who turned and looked at him a large fish hanging from its mouth. "A nice catch there," The fox looked to Thoren and then trotted off with its breakfast. Thoren chuckled and looked in to the river, many small fish swam by under his gaze but none as large as the fox had caught. He smirked a bit mroe and rose to his feet after putting his boots on. The sky was golden now with the sun rise. He looked to the East and hoped that today he might find a sign of Aria.

Aria tied her boots to her belt and rose to her feet. It was time to ehad off down the sandy shore to the West.She hoped that today she would be able to find Thoren.She started off down the bank, the sand felt nice as it slid between her bare toes. The grains slid through and over her fair feet, they were warm and tickled as they slid between each toe.

As the sun rose to its hight in the noon sky Aria slid ehr feet across the grass just beyond the sandy banks. She had covered at least two miles in a few hours and still not a sign of Thoren.She was all ready weary and the day was getting hot. Aria cast her gaze over the wild grass plains and there was a tree not too far off. It looked like the perfect palce to relax in the heat.She slid ehr boots on after shaking the sand from the bottoms of her feet. Then she walked tot hat tree. It was an oak tree, oaks didnt grow any where in her homelands she imagained they must be very prevenalt outside of them. She then sat below the tree in its shade.

She wasnt alone under that tree, she saw a white wiggling tail. Well a tip of a tail. She peered around the tree trunk and saw a small red fox, it was munching upon a large fish. She smirked softly, watching the fox. It soon noticed her and protected its fish. "Nae to worry little ronyo I will not take your fish. I have my own food." She drew an apple from her bag and held it out to show the fox. It seemed pleased and went back to eating.

Aria leaned on that tree and took a few bites of apple. The waters of the river shimmered in the distance, the sun glowed high above and no shadows were cast.The fox poked its head around and sniffed up at Aria. She laughed lightly, " are ye still hungry little fox?" She dug in her pack and held out some dried meat to the fox. It sniffed at her hand and the dried meat and snapped it up. Aria grinned softly. The fox then looked up at her. Aria laughed "I have no more food for ye, I must save some for myself."She reached out her hand and stroked its soft nose. "Perhaps you might help me,I could fall you a small dear." The fox sat and gazed to her,listening. "I am looking for someone, he and I were washed down stream and I was washed up and have not been able to find him, have you seena man, a human man?" The fox rose to its feet and started to trot towards the shroes of the Nisse. Aria rose and followed.

The sun rose and cast it warm glow over the shores of the Nisse. Aria lay there her head upon the green grass of the wild plains. Her feet still bare stuck in to the sands which now warmed. The day was new and life sprung forth from the shade of the trees tot he north and south. Aria lifted her head up and gave out a good stretch as she rose to her feet. She looked to the West then back the way she had walked, the Uuranor had become less noticable.Aria was still surprised they had not been followed. But then she was surprised that they had survived, the fall and the rushing waters of the wild Nisse. Her fire had gone out in the middle of the night so all she had to do was move onward down the banks.

Thoren lay in the sands still sleeping dreaming about Aria. He could see the wild plains that lie to the north of him now in his dream. He saw Aria standing in them in a flowing white gown. He had never seen Aria in a dress before, her ebony hair against her pale skin and that white dress. She looked like a goddess. Her arms were outstretched to him and he went towards her and felt her breath upon his face. Waking with a sudden flush Thoren looked around the wind graced his face with a soft elegant touch. He sighed, wishing he could turn his gaze to the east and see Aria there. But he saw nothing but sand and water. He soon rose and started out again along the shore line towards the East.

The midday sun beat down upon the sands and Aria moved over in to the short grasses of the wild plains. Trees dotted and misty int he far distance Aria looked for one that might be closer to gain some shade but there were none nothing but grass. Then a rock rose in to her sight, it was a large bolder. I would be of good sue its shadow cast would be her shade for a while and then she would use it to gaze to the West. Higher ground.Thoren sweat in the mid day heat the world wafted with waves of heat from the sun. He then saw something, a bolder an outcropping of them, shade at last. He slid on tot he grass from the hot sands and towards the far shade of the bolder. He sat there and took a long drink of water.

On the other far side of the outcropping of boulders Aria sat, shaded by underbrush and the shadow of the bolder. "Oh Thoren..where are ye?" She breathed before taking a drink of water. On the other side of the bolder Thorens eyes were closed and he heard her, but thought it was just his weary mind playing tricks on him. There was but four inches between them their backs rested tot he same bolder on different sides.

The mid day sun soon passed. Thoren rose and started to climb up over to gain the higher ground. On the other side Aria was doing the same. At first when she saw the misty figure she went to draw her dagger thinking it might be a Uuranor assassin then she focused her eyes. It was Thoren.Thoren saw her, and rubbed his eyes, thinking the heat had at last gotten to him. Then as she came closer he nearly dropped his sword that he had been using to propel himself onward. "Aria..." He breathed and went for her. In the center of the bolder they embraced tightly.

"Thoren.." She breathed against him, her arms tightly around him. He lifted her up and held her close. "Oh Aria your alright." She nodded and sighed with content. He slowly lowered her,"I am so sorry, I let you go. Are you okay?" She smiled and leaned up and kissed him deeply. Thoren shifted a bit leaning down to lift her in to that kiss. Aria smiled as she withdrew. "I am fine, are ye okay?" He nodded, " I am now."

They reached the southern bank after making their way through the waters very slowly.Thoren had nearly lost his footing twice, but at last they sat on the South bank and looked towards those trees. "That doesn't look like Tel Mandu Taure." Aria shook off her boots and stated that fact lightly. Thoren flopped down in tot he sand and nodded. "No it doesn't but some where to the East lies Tel Mandu ' Taure. " He shifted his gaze up to her she sat in the sand, in that mid day light she seemed to glow. He slowly sat up and kissed her cheek, "Lets eat, then..." Aria shook her head, "No here" She handed him the rest of her rations. "Take these, I'll catch some fish for you, then I'm going to go." She moved from the sands to the bank of the Nisse.

Thoren raised a brow to that. She was acting so oddly. He looked to that cloth that lie before him, it held a few apples, and smoked dried meats. He then turned his gaze to watch her catching a few fish. He made sure to take account of how she did it, he might have to do the very same. "Aria..." He looked up to her as she lay the fish out upon a stone. "Thoren, you were right, we can waist no time. I can make it back faster." He placed his hand upon her shoulder, "At least eat with me..?" He flashed her a dashing smile. Aria surrendered to that smile of his. Thoren made a fire and they roasted the fish.

Aria picked the bones clean, before she slid her bow over her shoulder. "I should head out before I lose anymore day light." Thoren rose slowly, "Aria.." She shook her head softly, "Thoren anything ye say will sound like good-bye, and this isn't good-bye, but I must go. I suggest ye wait till dawn to go through the woods, if ye can make it to the edge of the woods before dark that would be wise." She leaned up and kissed his cheek, and turned and started off. Thoren stood there for a long moment pressing his hand to his cheek, watching her go off to the South. Soon she was nothing but a misty shadow. Then she disappeared from his sight. He sat back down before that fire and gazed to the slowly dying day light. "I hope I haven't sent her off...to her.." He shook his head, he would not think such things.

Aria moved quickly walking to running, towards the woods as fast as her Elven legs could take her. The day was coming to a close and she knew she would have to travel through the woods at night, no food, a just enough water to last her a few days. Thankfully it was colder in the woods and she wouldn't need to drink as much as she had out in the sun.

She looked back over her shoulder through a veil of raven hair. She couldn't see Thoren anymore but she could see that flickering fire out on the banks. Her heart sank a bit, before she turned to head in to the woods.

Leaves moved, crunched under Thorens boots. He shook his head, the night at the foot of the woods had been lonely without Aria by his side. But it was sunrise now and he made his way in tot hose woods, so oddly dark even at this early hour. Nothing seemed to move. It was so odd. Not a song birds morning call or the slinking of dear through the glittering sun light. Nothing. He tried to find any sign of Aria, but that was nearly impossible, she left not a sign behind. He knew that she had to have passed this way. He gazed off east ward towards the rising sun, the fire in the East. He yawned lightly as he continued on through the woods.

The oak,pine,plum and apple trees so darkly toned. None of the fruit trees with even a flower or old fruit. So different from Tel Mandu' Taure. There in that elvish woodland, there was always fruit and the trees were older, and the young trees always were so vibrant with color. Here the trees were young and dangerous looking.

Thoren had to stop many times to rest. His legs weary he leaned up against a tree and closed his eyes. The woods smelt of burnt pine. As if a fire had been set to the forest itself. With his eyes closed he was swept away to laying in the sun with Aria, taking in her lovely scent. Crushed pine mixed with wild wind and just the scent of her raven hair like fresh pink eligre flowers.

A scent that he relished in. He smiled as he sat there thinking about her, the curve of her hips, the way her hair flowed over her bare back, the black on pale skin. Such a beautiful contrast. He shook his head and opened his eyes. He hoped she had gotten in to Tel Mandu' Taure. He hoped she was close to getting back to the clan.

He rose and continued on his slow treck through the woods, at last he saw movement in front of him, but his brows rose as he saw it was not wolf or dear. It was a woman. Not an elvish woman. She was tall, long brown hair, she wore something he could have seen women he remembered from his old town wearing, something a warrior would wear, something like Aria wore. She had a bow on her back and she was working on cutting up a fallen dear. He had not seen a human woman in so long, most women here were elves or half-elves. It was so rare to see a woman.

Her gaze shifted up to him. She had fierce eyes, bright and glittering and purple in color. Thoren blinked and felt like he had been frozen to his spot. " Quel re" he managed to get out. The woman rose with that stack of chopped meat slung over her shoulder in a sack. She looked at him, like a wolf sizing up its soon to be meal. Her eyes got more and more fierce. "Your not Elven, your human." Thoren gazed to her, "So are you." She stepped back slowly, looking him over. Thoren still felt frozen in that spot.

"But you've been here a while," her gaze looked back up in to his, "and you've been close to elves, rather close." Those purple hues glowed as she stepped closer to him. "You must be quiet the man to be able to lay beside an elf." Thoren blinked, how was this woman able to tell all this?

The hunt at its best. With her bow string broken Aria knew she would have to use her other skills for hunting. Emerald hues focused upon the underbrush before her looking for movement. Then she moved dagger drawn and caught the small rabbit. It twicthe din her hands till she soothed it with a touch of elven grace. She made sure it would feel no pain, before killing it.

She sighed as she cut the rabbit in to pieces, then the fire wood would be gathered and the rabbit meat cookied over a hot fire. It was a meal with only what she could find in the Mor Taure. Rabbit, some greens and what looked like yave. It was small and red and it didnt look posionous. All the food was cleaned and cooked and then slwoly eatten. Aria shifted ehr gaze to the East,smoke rose far to the east through the forest. For a moment she didn't take a bite, then she knew if she was to find out what the smoke was from she would have to eat.

Even with elven eyes she could not see Tel Mandu' Taure, the trees still dark and too young. Now she began to understand just how far down stream she and Thoren had gone. Her heart sank, she wondered how Thoren was fairing. She knew he was at least a day behind her still. These woods could be dangerous, but she knew he could handle himself. Finally she finished her food and put out the fire before moving on. If Thoren past this way she hoped he would see that she had been there by the small ring of stones upon the ground.

The mid day sun glittered high above the canopy and made the dark woods sparkle with life. All seemed quiet at mid day, hunter and hunted both resting as the heat swelled outside the woods. But Aria had no time to take in rest. She had to keep walking,keeping heading back. Somehting snapped, cracked under her boots. She gazed down, the earth was bare under them,emerald hues shifted up just intime to see something hit her. Then blackness followed.

She felt the earth cold and wet under her, as her eyes blinked open she lay at the foot of a huge Yaara Orn. She sat up and found that her hands were bound behind her. Her weapons lay upon the soil before her, then she saw a pair of boots,eyes shifted up and she staired up to see long silver hair. It was a male elf, tall with a bow across his back, he wore green and brown,his skin was slightly tanned but Aria could tell he was of Tel Mandu Eldalie Clan. "Aaye" Aria spoke softly,she could taste blood upon her lips and in her mouth.


The male elf turned and looked down upon her, his eyes were icy blue and he was the most handsome elf Aria had ever seen, his face, the way his muscles moved under his green tunic.His silver hair moved witha mystic wind. He slowly knelt down towards her and gazed in to her eyes, " Ered Lithui?" Aria blinked his voice smooth and deep.

"Uma." He then reahced behind her and unbound her hands. "Lle anta yulna en alu?" Aria nodded softly and he offered her a well fasioned drinking gorde. Aria gratefully tooka long drink swishing the blood from her mouth. "Lle quena i'lambe tel' edan? " He still gazed to her as he took his water gorde back. "Yes, I speak the human tongue."

He nodded softly, " you may take your weapons back, please forgive me. You looked like someone else in the shaodws of the wood." Aria nodded softly and took back her weapons, bow,sword and dagger last.

He then handed her a piece of cloth. Aria took it and used it to dab her lips free of blood. " I am Kegan Helkaer,of Tel Mandu'Eldalie Clan." He offered he his hand then. Aria smiled and took his hand and rose to her feet,he was many inches taller than her,even at her height. "I am Aria Valya,formerlly of Tel Ered Lithui ,I am now an unoffical member of Tel Atalan." He rose her hand to his lips and kissed her bare knuckles. That action amde Aria blush. "I placed your gloves and armed gauntlets over by my camp. " His icy hues shifted to look over his shoulder. Aria followed his gaze and small the well laid out camp. "Allow me to offer you some where to stay,for how ever long you need. I hope I did not hurt you." Aria shook her head, "I've had worse,thank you. I would be honored to stay with you, but I must get back to Tel Atalan."

His icy blue eyes swept back to her, "perhaps you should sit down,for a moment." Aria gazed up to him, she heard that tone in his voice. "What has happened?" He slwoly took her hand and led her twoards his camp. "You head back to fight for a clan that has fled, Uuranor has attacked every clan save for Tel Ered Lithui and Tel Mandu' Eldalie. Many clans have lost every member but one or two. It is the.."

"Assassins of Uuranor." she cut him off and he nodded, " How did you know?" Aria sowly sat down and shifted her hands through her hair, she was too late. "Tis a long tale." Kegan slowly sat down beside her, " I have the time."

" I have the time."

Aria looked to the east then to the west, if Tel Atalan was gone truly gone under siege all ready then she could do nothing but sit and sigh. "A few days backThe Clan leader of Tel Atalan and myself set out to free his clan sister fromt he grip og Uuranor. He and I killed Carad a few days before that,after saving a girl named Ellya from his grasp. With Carad dead we figured we could set out to save Thoren's clan sister." Kegans brows rose, "Thoren, the human man whom was once the clan leader of Tel Atalan?" Aria nodded, " Yes, his sister,by clan blood only was taken by Carad,Carad had admitted to it. We went lookign for ehr, and found it was a trap."

"Melyanna, is Thoren's clan sister isn't she?" His gaze resting upon Aria as he spoke. "Yes, she is the one laying this battle,and we started it."

Kegan nodded, "I see,well somethings are meant to happen."

Aria nodded softly, " Why are you all the way out here so far from any clan home?"

He smiled lightly, "Forgive me, I should have told you. I am the hunter, Tel Taur'ohtar , Tel Taur'Amandil of Tel Mandu' Eldalie. " Aria blinked, " Your the hunter, but I thought that was just a story Tel Coria Morambath is not real." kegan offered her a genuine smile, "Aria, The purple panther is real,very real. We had capture her long ago, tried to tame her, but such wild things can not be tamed. They can act tamed but their hearts remain wild, it would be like taming you or I.She is very real."

Aria blinked, " She? it is a female?"

Kegan nodded, "Yes, magicly bound, she can shift form to take on the form of elf,human or anthing she dares wish.She broke free, a few days back.I ahve been hunting her,when I hit you I thought you might be her. But thenwhen I watched you resting,I knew you were not.I gazed in to your eyes and saw that you were who you are. Morwen Crebain." That caught Aria by shock, she had not been called that since her days in the ashen moutnains. "You know who I am?" Kegan nodded," Yes daguhter of the great chief of Ered Lithui. Everyone was striken when we heard that he had been killed by Carad'loki. But then for the monster to take your mother. I am sorry."

Aria nodded, " Carad is dead now, but Tel Uuranor Assassins,live on." Kegan sighed as he looked east ward. "They will not take down either of our clans. It may not be too late, many escaped,fled to the forest and the mountains, the old alliances are being reborn. I heard that a girl,with red hair led many of the women and children away from Tel Atalan." "Ellya.." Aria breathed, " there may be hope then,I should go to the clan chief of Mandu' Eldalie" Kegans gaze shifted to the sky at that, " You will not find him, he is dead." Aria sighed then, " but then who is leader, if the chief is dead?"

Kegan gazed back to her, " I am." That got her to blink, " your father was clan leader?" He nodded, "a man of legend, my mother is temporarily running clan rule till I return. I must find.." He looked to the west and flintched. Aria heard it too the cry of someone in the dark of night. "I must find Kyna before it is too late." "Kyna, is that her name? "

He nodded, " Kyna Tel Coria Morambath, if she finds a mate, then it will be to late." Aria's heart stopped for a moment, "Thoren... he was..oh god..." Kegans brows rose more to her, "Aria?" "Thoren, he sent me ahead of him to get to Tel Atalan he was at least a day behind me if not more, if Kyna has found him."

Kegan closed his eyes, " San' Seldarine tua ho." Aria looked then to the firelight and closed her eyes tightly. Kegan watched her as a sinlge tear rolled down her flawless soft cheek.His hand rose and caught the tear,fongers trailing up her cheek brushing away her sadness.

"You love him." Aria nodded, "I learned to speak the tongue of men from him,I learned to live again,to love and how to express love,in the ways elves do not." Kegan gazed to her, "He may be alive, but he will not be the man you loved,if and when we find them." Raven brows rose to that, "You wish for me to come with you?" Kegan nodded, " yes, your a good hunter, and we would make a good team. I would enjoy the company." Aria gazed to him, his icy blue eyes willed with a warmth she had never seen before,save for when she used to stare in to Thoren's eyes. "I shall come with you."

Kegan smiled and with drew. "I noted you bow needed some work, I would be glad to oblidge." Aria nodded and shifted the bow from her back and held it out to him. His eyes stayed on her for a long moment before shifting to the bow,hand made, surely by her hand.It needed some work but he was happy to do it. He left the fire side for a long while working on her bow, he even wove a bit of magic in to it, though it had some already. He then returned the bow to her. "It shall last a good long while now." Aria took it and slid it back over her back.

Aria gazed to him, his icy blue eyes willed with a warmth she had never seen before,save for when she used to stare in to Thoren's eyes. "I shall come with you."

Kegan smiled,he was happy to have her company. He packed up his camp,snuffing the fire and rolling up that bed roll of fur. Before he sheatehd a hunting knife to his side and stood there looking over that camp sight, now bare.Kegan then turned watching Aia as she checked her blades and examined her bow witha keen gaze. He note the clan tattooon her lower back as she moved.He had never met an Ered Lithui like her before. He moved to join her at the edge of his once camp ground. He followed her gaze westward. "Aria, shall we?" Her gaze shifted to him. "Uma." Kegan nodded and led the way badk westward.

Aria followed, she had run all that way for nothing, and now she was off in search of something she once thought to be a myth. But it was real and that real thing had Thoren. Aria knew it in her heart,she knew somehow that they would be too late. "Kegan," she borke the silance as they moved quickly through the Trees back towards Mor Taure. "If were too late..what happens next?"

He paused and turned looking back at her. "If Kyna has made him her mate, no magic in this world cna break him from her spell.If they have.." He would not say it,he just gazed to her, " then there is nothing I or you can do. I can not capture her if she had mated,she will be let alone to be wild.With her mate. But if they come back in to Tel Mandu' Taure I will have to kill them both."

Aria nodded, she understood. She fell quiet and followed on behind him.They traveled till night fall. Eerie howls filled the night air. Aria stayed very close to the fire light,while Kegan made sure they ahd a safe camp spot. He came back at sat at her side,he slowly wrapped a fur blanket over her shoulders and held his hands over the fire. "We will be safe inside this camp sight, I have placed a protection over it. " She nodded but said nothing. His eyes moved over to her, and he slid closer. "Aria..?"

She blinked looking tot he fire,trying to hold back her tears, she knew those howls were not the ones of wolves they were other sorts of howls. But no matter how strong she was, she could not bare it. Tears slid down her cheeks. Kegan looked to her,he knew as well as she did what the howls were from. "We don't have to push on,this is.. very hard I know. But theres no way to tell that its Thoren whom she caught." She nodded and lay her head upon his shoulder. He shifted his hands up through her hair and did his very best to comfort her.

Her hair smelt of eligre flowers and crushed pine, her essense was like the Yaara Orn.Her body like that off some goddess.Long and lithe,swift and strong. A powerful grace that she held, when she spoke when she moved. Kegan couldnt deny that he was awe struck by her.He felt her tears slide over his neck as she lay her head closer in to him. He held her there,he knew how hard this must be. Soon she pulled slowly away and gazed to him with sad eyes. "I am sorry." He shook his head and his fingers graced her cheek brushing away her sadness, "be not sorry. "
She let her head rest upon his shoulder again.He sat there with in in the din quiet of the night.



A rustle of leaves woke her to a start and the sun light danced across her face. Her head rested upon Kegans chest,she had no memory of falling alseep.Kegans icy blue hues opened and he smiled softly to her. "Quel amrun." Aria sat up slowly running her fingers through her hair. A soft blush played across her fair features. Kegan noticed but didn't stare. He rose slowly. "I'll find us something to eat." He moved off slowly.Aroa watched him go,how he held himself, how he walked the way he looked back at her.

He came back with a shirt full of freshly fallen fruit and a caught bird.He would roast the bird , Aria tended to the cutting of the fruit. On stone plates they ate their morning meal,with swigs of fresh water taken. Kegan watched her as she ate,slowly savoring every bite, she savored the fresh apples and plums licking off her fingers. He looked down to his nearly empty plate, he slowly held out a piece of plum to her.

She could have taken it with her fingers but she took it with her teeth. Something oddly bold of her. She then licked at her lips before going to draw a sip of water. Kegan snuffed out the fire and slid his shirt back on. Aria watched him from the conrer of her gaze, the light played inward off his skulpetd chest,over his well toned arms and through his silver hair that glittered in the light. When he gazed towards her she looked away.

They move don fromt he camp sight still heading westward through the trees. "There is a small lake in Mor Taure, it is fresh water, I am thinking that is where we might find her." They moved through the woods for hours tracking prints days old in the underbrush. Then Aria caught sight of a print she knew.She breathed in deeply, Thorens boot's prints ended where she stood. " He was here." Kegan looked back to her, "so was Kyna...Not a day ago..the lake isnt far,lets hope they are there."

Two hours later Aria sat down by the lake side dipping her bare feet inward. Kegan sat ebside her, "they were never here, not a sign. Kyna must have used her magics...they could be anywhere."

"We heard them last night."

"I think they doubled back towards Tel Mandu Taure. Kyna will avoid it if she can,she will take whom ever she has captured deep in to the south." He sighed shifting his ahnds through his hair.

"The path ends here?" Aria sighed. "We can head to the east from the lake, see if we come across anything by tomorrow,if not. Then ..."

Aria nodded, "Kegan.. how much do you know about humans."

He slid his boots off and slid his feet in to the water, "much more than most elves,well perhaps not more than you. But I know how to speak witht hem,work with them,how they show they care for one another. I know how they can be, long ago when I was very young my mother was also taken, far in tot he north by a group of men. Human men." Aria blinked, "I am sorry." Kegan nodded, "I followed them,I learned to speak with them,I worked beside them.I watched how they loved and worked. I rescued my mother and we came back, she died last year." Aria placed her hand yupon his shoulder,he smiled to the gesture.

"Thoren taught me much about his kind, and how he came to be here. How to speak like them,how to show affection,in ways I have never seen the elves of the clans do."

"yes, well,we show affection in a different way. But not every clan is the same."Aria nodded and gazed over to him then back over the lake. Kegan gazed to her, "Aria..?"

"Uma?" He slid his hand slowly through her hair and leaned in and kissed her cheek. Her cheek flushed virbant red. He pulled back and rose to his feet pulling his boots on. Aria sat there for a long moment before following suit.

By mid day the following day Kegan helped Aria clean up their camp before moving off north east. The trail of Kyna and Thoren left behind. Wild things would remain as such. Kegan tossed oon a clean blue tunic but did not lace it up, he left it open so the bandages could breathe. Aria walked at his right. They walked,neiter leading nor following just traveling together. His gaze would often shift to her. He marveled at her beauty, her grace and her power. Not only physical power but that aura of magic that surrounded her.

She caught his gaze, her emerald hues looking up and over to him as they walked. "I met the woman who must be your mother, the clan leader of Tel Mandu' Eldalie." Kegans brows rose to that. "I met heer many months ago. I had left Tel Ered Lithui,been cast out because I was born different. I went in search of a clan that would have me I started with Tel Kua, but the clan chief wished for me to marry his son to join the clan. I refused and went on to see if the Tel Mandu' Eldalie would have me. I was met by the many hunters, with their bows. They led me in to speak with her. Her small yet glorious home under the Yaara Orn tree. Her dark skin her light hair her eyes of icy blue. "

Kegan smiled, "That would be my mother."
Aria smiled, "she set me out on a quest but I never finished it." Kegan smirked to that, " if you had finished it you would have been asked the very same thing that the Tel Kua Clan chief asked you, she would have asked you to wed with me. The eldest of her sons. " Aria looked over to him, then away. At the time she had been asked to do the quest she might have said no to that, but now she gave it some thought. "The quest was very hard, but not impossible. But then I met Thoren and became a member in arms among Tel Atalan."

Kegan smiled lightly, "Aria, do you have any siblings?" Gazing back to him she shook her head, "None that I know of." "I have three younger brothers. Karnil,who looks of more my mother, his skin dark like a drow and his hair white as snow, but he bares my fathers jade gaze. Tyaro who bare my fathers dark hair and light toned skin, but a blue-green gaze. And the youngest Alderon whos hair is gray and skin is tan like my own, his eyes are icy blue as well. You will come to meet them all once we are back." Aria smiled to that, family was nice she greatly missed hers.

"I saw one young man when I met with her sounds to me the youngest. " Kegan nodded, " Karnil had set out for the Nisse, and Tyaro was trying to woo a lovely woman, so both of them were likely gone. My mother is very persistent about us getting wed to good women. Preferably ones from outside the clan, but Tyaro is her favorite at the moment his dear love is one of the daughters of the high ranking members of Tel Kua. She is quite lovely, which makes my mother happy. I had thought that perhaps Karnil trip tot he Nisse was to find a woman of Tel Mithlin. Perhaps by now he has returned home with her. I have not been home in a very long time." Aria nodded, "Nor have I."

They walked on through the midday sun until the sun glittered through the trees once more. Arias ears perked to softly running water. Kegan smiled lightly, " there's a small cave near by that has these hot springs in it, when I first was alone in these woods so far from home I found myself there often nursing wounds. " He slowly took her by the hand, "Come I shall show you."

He led her Eastward till she saw the trees rise in tot he sky and the small rocky area appeared, it was a small hill side rocky and dangerous looking but she then saw the cave. Kegan smiled still pulling her along till they stood at the mouth of the cave. "There are crystals in here that the elders use, but not many have ever found the hot springs. It is my secret. For one must be brave to venture inward."Aria gazed in, the cave glittered with crystals of every color. She stepped inward a bit and let her eyes adjust to the darkness before walking further in. Kegan smirked and followed her. "You do not fear the dark?" Aria shook her head, "You will come to find that I fear very little."

He walked beside her summoning a flickering flame to his palm so they could see. They walked on deep in to the cave till Aria felt how humid the air had gotten. Light trickled in from cracks high above them and Kegan walked over to one of the smaller hot pools. "My first night tracking Kyna I twisted my ankle and found my self here at this very pool soaking the pain away." He gazed down to his wrapped torso. His fingers slowly pulled at the wrappings till they fell down, he gazed tot he wound, the blood was dry and it was very sore. "I could sue a good soak now." Aria gazed to him. "It would do you good." He slowly shifted out of his shirt and shifted along back towards one of the bigger pools of hot water. His boots and shirt were left at the water side and he dipped his toes in. Aria watched him from a far. "Come on, at least dip your feet in." He called to her. Aria blushed and moved back and sat down taking her boots off to slip her feet in.It did feel very good.

Kegan rose slowly and took his belt off, he lay his hunting knife on the tops of his boots and then turned lowering his pants. Aria looked down and away,her cheeks virbant red. He slid in to the water with a long sigh. Aria looked up and over to him. "Better?" He nodded, "its very nice.Could I perswayed you to come in with me?" Aria blushed more and shook her head. Kegan nodded ,he didnt want to rush her,he also hoped she didn't feel odd about them being alone like this.

Kegan relaxed in to the waters and Aria sat there at the side of the pool her feet dangling inward.

Kegan opened his eyes, expecting to wake from some wonderful dream.But as his eyes opened he saw Aria there with him in that heated pool. Her face flush with blush, her body inches from his own. Again he licked his lips and his fingers slid over her shoulders then up the sides of her neck and through her wet raven hair. His gaze stared in to her own. Those emerald hues, like a wild wood with their own hidden mysteries and magic. He felt her soft hands upon his shoulders, he wanted to pull her closer, but would not rush things. Such things were to be taken slowly.

"Kegan..." Her voice rose to his ears, soft barely audible. "Yes,Aria?" She starred up in to his eyes and he returned the gaze. Aria knew that she had felt something when he kissed her, she felt it since the moment they had met. That chance meeting, something clicked. It wasn't just lust or a lonely wanting it was more than that. Aria had fallen for Thoren quickly and lost him just as fast. She let her fingers trail through his silver hair, and inched closer. Kegan watched her closely shifting his hands across her upper back as she moved closer.

He loved this being with her, it didn't matter where they were or what they were doing he felt at ease and he felt that spark between them. Her cheeks flushed still to that vibrant red she moved in closer till there was no space between them. Kegan took a breath as he felt her body press to his, he looked down to her, and tried to hide how much he liked feeling her so close, her soft skin pressing to met his chest. He felt the slow rise of her breasts as she breathed. His hands shifted down to the middle of her back. "Aria...?" She blinked softly, "will ye just hold me?" Her head settled down to his shoulder. He nodded softly and slid his hand back through her hair.

They sat there in the springs for sometime till they both slipped out. Aria though blushing hid nothing from him as she dried off and got dressed. Kegan still trying to be a gentlemen looked away, trying so hard not to look back at her changing form. Kegan took a few deep breaths as he changed and walked back out to gather up their things. Aria followed slowly behind.

It felt like one big dream, everything that had happened. Aria knew that is wasn't, and she knew she didn't wish for any of it to be so. Things were meant to happen this way. She cast a long gaze to Began, and he looked back at her. He slid his bow over his back and walked over to her, "I hope I.." She pressed her fingers to his lips. "You did nothing wrong by kissing me, and no it wasn't too fast." He blinked softly and nodded, before kissing those fingers. "Shall we?" He held out his hand to her. Aria nodded taking his hand and they made their way out of the cave.

They would find them selves sitting before a brightly glowing fire talking of many things learning about eachother. Ellya aked many times about Thiren but Aria would tell her later in a private talk. Soon Karnil and Ty came and took Hera and Sekara with them and then Aria shifted closer to Ellya. "Thoren is gone Ellya. I am sorry."

Ellya blinked, " What happened to him?" How could Aria tell her what had happened with Kyna, As she was not sure she could really explain. "He was killed by Tel Coria Morambath," came Keagns voice . Aria smiled softly. Ellya looked back to Kegan then again to Aria. "Oh.. Aria" Ellya flung her arms around Aria. "I am sorry I know how much you cared for him." Aria nodded softly and smoothed her hand through Ellya's hair. "I did, but one can not live in the past." But could Aria live by those words?

Ellya nodded and brushed the tears from her eyes. Alderon walked over and took her close,they soon made their way off leaving Kegan and Aria by the fire side. "Ellya said that there will be an allaince between the clans, now that Uuranor has risen up." Kegan nodded, " yes,it seems as so. This battle falls to us all not just one clan." Aria nodded, "so tell me more about this hunt?"

"Its a ritual every year the eldest of the young men in this clan go out and hunt for dear, and when they return their is a very large feast , this year it will be we four brothers and four others from the other families here. But with my mother dying one of us must take over as clan leader, whom ever of us four snags the prized buck will become the clan leader, tis one of the reasons each of my brothers had chosen a suitible wife. For whom ever gets the prized buck will la with that one whom they have chosen ,and rise to become clan leader."

Aria blinked softly, " Your mother said something to me.." Kegan looked over " she told me her name, not her clan name but her real name, and she said that she can see that you love me." Kegans cheeks flushed a bit. " she likes you,and she is right." Aria gazed back to him now,her cheeks then flushed with a soft blush.

Kegan moved over and knelt beside her. "I know we do not know each other very well,but I feel as if I have been waiting for you my whole life. And when we kiss." He whispered now, "my heart takes flight, if I compete in the hunt there is no doubt that I will win. But I do not wish to rush anything between us." He clasp her hands in his. Aria took a long moment and a few deep breaths, her heart was not yet healed from all that had happened with Thoren. "I am not sure I would make a fitting wife." He gazed up in to her eyes,, one hand rose from hers and graced her cheek. " We would not have to marry right away." She gazed down to him, she did care for him,she knew that.

But could her heart with stand another love. His icy blue gaze seemed warm to her,filled with things his lips could never express. " Quel' fara." Would be all she would say. Kegan smiled and rose and kissed her cheek.

"The prized buck will be caught by him and he will bring it back the celebration will begin and he will lay with the woman he loves. You are still here Morwen Crebain, have you chosen?"
"Uma." Aria answered in elvish.

" Mani cael amin dethol?"

"Amin innas dartha." Aria had chosen to stay, and she had sealed it with those words.

Alasse' smiled softly. "I am glad you have decied to stay. " The two women with her smiled to Aria as well, before crossing inward with Alasse' "Please sit Aria." Aria slowly sat there at the edge of that bed and the two women with Alasse lowered the elder woman to sit beside her. "You are taking part in this clans tradtion, and when Kegan wins tonight he will return here. I know you are no virgin,but I think you will come to find being with him is far different from being with that one you lost. " While Alasse spoke the two other women were busy making a tattoo upon Aria's right arm, it was a trio of roses ina crile,so far one rose was already done,one of red. Aria didn't even wince at the pressure to her arm as they marked her up. "Every woman that goes through the hunt gets one of these, your friend Ellya is next and I would like your help with her." Aria nodded, " as you wish."

Soon they were done and Aria gazed to the tatto through the redness and touch of blood it was very well done, that trio of roses int hat perfect cirlce one red,one violet and one black. Ellya was then led in by two other elvish women and Aria patted the place beisde her. "It will only hurt for a moment Ellya."

Ellya closed her eyes and bit down upon her lower lip.Alasse wathed on as Ellya was given the smae tattoo on her back. Soon Alasse was led out by the other women and Aria and Ellya were left alone. " You have been given the best under grownd bed, Alasse truuly believes Kegan will win." Aria's brows rose slightly, "Kegan is a very good hunter he has been out hunting Coria Morambath for years now.And this room is lavish,I know." Ellya smiled softly, " You've decied to stay." Aria nodded, " all those I care for are here."

Ellya nodded and rose from the bedside, " I should go get ready, and you should too." Aria nodded softly. Ellya left the undertree home and Aria watched ehr go before tunring back to look over the room,slowly she began to get ready hanging up her bow,quiver, and shetahed sword with ehr belt and dagger. It had been a long time since she went without it. Emerald hues looked over the pale dress she was to wear,that would wait till a little later.

She stayed there for hours looking over her fathers dagger as it hung off her belt against the side of the tree wall. Then a horn sounded threough the crisp night air. She poked her head out long enough to watch the men go off in to the full moon light,swords,daggers and bows ready. Kegan was easy to pick out before he disappeared in to the night , now all Aria had to do was wait. She changed in to that pale see through dress and slipped under the pelts of fur that lined the bed. Could she live by what she had said, by this choice she had made? Time would tell.

The day was slow the meat caught was cooked and those whom had hunted rested with their arms around those they loved. Alasse rested as well she knew that she would not long last through the next two days. But she knew that kegan would make a good clan leader, and with Aria by his side they would rise to bring an allaince between the clans and throw down Uuranor.

The fires dimed a bit as the mid day sun sprakled in hrough the canopy, then rose higher again as music started to fill the woods and the moon started to rise. Aria was awake Kegan lie beside her also awake,they aha been just laying there his hand slowly traced that tattoo upon her fair colored arm. "You will stay then?" Aria nodded, " all those I care for are here." Kegan nodded, "And Thoren?" Aria still felt a tinge of pain in het heart at his name, "Thoren is gone." "But you loved him, you still love him." Aria nodded, "I had never known of love or passion till I met him, and now that he is gone,I wonder if any of it is for me." Kegan slid his hand through her hair and down the side of her neck very softly. "You are a strong woman, and ye deserve the very best. I know you loved Thoren, and I know what you must have shared." He paused a long moment, his hands sliding down her arms as she lay there in his. " I have never known love,or passion. I never knew what ti was to desrie someone till I met you.Desire and passion are not things well taught in the clans. Love is sometimes forsaken for the clan as well. " Aria nodded, "I know that my father loved my mother and she him,it was more than just a marriage for the clans sake. And when they were together and then i was born, was the first time I knew what love was, but love of family and love of a man is different. "Kegan nodded to that, "That day int he cave when i held you in my arms un the spring, and that day we kissed.I have never felt so.. right in all my years. " He turned to his side and held her close looking in to her lovely emerald gaze. His hand moving over her soft bare shoulder.

Aria gazed back in to his icy blue gaze and saw more magic,mystery and love in his eyes than she had ever known before. "Kegan.." He pressed his fingers to her lips. Then four maidens brought in a plate of roasted meat to them. Kegan shifted up once they left and crossed to those cups of wine he brought Aria back one and sat beside her. Aria clasp that cup close for a moment watching him take a long sip and following suit. That platter of meat had vegetables and Eligre fruit upon it. Aria couldnt remember the last time she had seen such a platter of food. Together they ate. Kegan fed her bites of fruit and meat and she did the same for him, and as the moon rose higher soft music floated through the encampment. The platter was taken out as moon light danced in to the room. Aria shifted under that pelt of fur, letting it fall. Kegan shifted his gaze over her as she stood before him now. The moon light danced through the pale thin dress and he could see her form under it. "Aria..."

It was she that now pressed her fingers to his lips. "Kegan, I know what is expected of us." She shifted her fingers away.Kegan rose slowly, "Aria.." His hands shifted through her hair, "I would not rush you for the world." Aria gazed up to him and then slowly pushed the soft straps of that dress off her shoulders and stood before him. Kegan didn't look away, he took in her form as she presented herself to him,she was beautiful, but he knew that already. His fingers slid slowly over her shoulders and down her arms. "Is this what you want?" Aria nodded, her fingers rose and trailed down his chest. He thrilled at her soft touch and drew her in close and lifted her up with ease before spinning her down to the bed and laying over her. "I do love you Aria." "I know,I see it when you look at me." Her fingers trailed over his back behind his neck.

Kegan leaned down and kissed along her neck,and over her soft shoulder,parting those raven locks as he moved. He wanted to savor every moment. Aria's emerald hues flickered closed. Kegans hands slid down over her body, following the soft curve of her amble breasts,the soft line of her toned stomach,the curve of her hips and the smooth lines of her legs. He felt her hands upon his arms,shoulders and chest and then lower as her nimble fingers untied the tie that held his leather hunting pants closed.He shifted out of them and came to lay beside her,pullinh that fur pelt over them both slowly.

Arias gaze looked him over as he shifted out of his pants and came to lay beside her.Shifting in closer to him as he pulled that pelt of fur over them so her body would be tightly pressed to his. Kgean slid his hands down her back and Aria could swear she felt soft tingles of magic. "I have never done this, I have never felt so..." Aria gazed to him,and slid her hands down his back, "your touch says otherwise, it is as if you know exactly how and where to touch me." A soft smile crossed his lips as his fingers again trailed over her lovely form,slowly he shifted so she would be laying under him. His icy blue gaze looked down to her deeply in to those emerald hues. He then kissed her softly. Aria felt his gaze and then felt his kiss,her hands shifted up through is hair as he kissed her, her body pressed up in to his and magic rose between them as he slid in to her.

The morning light flitered in and Kegan woke to the sound of his brothers voice. " Toror' " Ty called in softly. Kegan gazed to his brother and slid slowly out of bed and got dressed. He slid out of the under tree home. "What is it?" Ty looked over to the assembly that stood before their mothers dwelling. " She has gone to join Atar." Kegan sighed softly and nodded before turning to go in and wake Aria. He kissed her brow and whsipered in to her ear. Aria opened her eyes and gazed to him with a smile then that smile faded, " whats wrong?" He looked to her sorrow filled his eyes, " My mother, has passed on." Aria sat up and wrapped her arms around him and kissed his cheek. " I am so sorry."

Once she was dressed Kegana nd Aria met with Ty and Sekara ,Kanril and Hera, and Alderon and Ellya. The brothers embraced for a long moment and Aria shared a long gaze to each of the women who stood there. The procession lasted all day and at last Alasse's body was laid to rest. When they returned to the clan encmapment Kegan was made the clan leader offically. There was a celebration for him,one that wa slight and full of soft music.

Kegan stood up before the clan then with a smile. "Our mother had a dream, to untie the clans to bring an allaince so that together we can fight back the darkness that spreads from Uuranor. Amoung us there are Tel Atalan,Tel Kua, Tel Mithlin, Tel Ered Lithui and One of old Tel Royno. Let us come together to fight the coming battles, let the word be soread that we will not go silently in to the night. Raise your bows and swords, and be as one in this fight."

A emmence cheer rang out and the lot of elves before him raised their wepaons in to the air. There would be an allaince,and not one person would be left out. The men and women would work and fight together. Kegan stepped down and moved to Aria,his hands clasp hers and then he leaned down and kissed her deeply right there in front of everyone. As he drew away he smiled ," together we will fight and win and the clans will be as one."

Aria smiled and blushed as she felt so many eyes upon her. Kegan took her hands in his and slowly led her away. Preperations had to be made,arrows made, swords shapened. But they wouldnt head out for many hours. "We will get the drop on them, and once this fight is done." He kneeled before her. " I would like to be with you.Once this fight is done and we come back here would you be with me, join with me?" Aria blinked and looked down to him, and slowly kenlt down to him, "Yes."
Kegan rose lifting her up in to his atrong arms and kissed her softly.

Would the alliance work, would the clans come together to fight Uuranor? Could they work as one? The word was sent out through the woods and to the ashen peeks of Ered Lithui. By the time the moon rose they got their answer the be warriors were sent in to the forest and camped out on the outskirts of the encampment. Aria was surpised to see such a number of Ered Lithui, some even gazed to her, some of them she could recall. The forest was filled with warriors,hunters, and those who could weave magic and by dawn they would head out to face Tel Uuranor, The members of Tel Royno who had been amde to follow oders and the assassins that Carad had taught. If they came together as one could they win?

The moon rose and the warriors were ready. Aria stepped out and sheathed her sword to her side along side her dagger, her quiver and bow across her back, she was glad in blackend hunters pants and boots, and a long sleeved green top that criss crossed left to right and tied just above her right hip. Her long raven hair was back.She was a sight to see.
Kegan was leading one group that included Aria,Karnil and Alderon another that included Hera and Ellya.

Ty led the last group with Sekara by his side. Aria had never seen the women in their battle wear. Hera was a dangerous looking sight to see, Sekara looked like she had done this sort of thing many times before and Ellya looked all too young for this fray. But Aria knew her strength in battle.

They moved slwoly through the woodds as the silver moon rose it was just a sliver of a moon thin and long like a curved bow. The North edge of the woods was reached and they all looked out upon the dunes. The fires of the camped Uuranor Assassins lit up the golden sands.Aria could see what had been left of Tel Atalan's clan homes. There were catives in cages, most beasten and bloody and so close to death. Kegan motioned for the archers to ready their bows. All orders were given by hand signals and calls of wild birds that would not rouse suspision. Aria pulled back her bow, at her side Ty pulled his back, beside him Kegan drew his back, everyone was packed with a bow and at least a short sword. They had come for a fight. The arrows were let go and flew in to the night and in the camp Uuranor Assassins fell. Then the call rang out, "Lye nu dram!"

From the huts by the dunes raced armed warriors. Kegan nodded and all at once they all rushed out to meet them, and from the East came the call of Ered Lithui.They shifted through the woods and rushed in. The Uuranor would be caught off guard.

Swords sung with blood and arrows flew to their targets.The fray clahsed on for an hour under the moon lit sky with only a few of the allys getting wounded but in the end Melyanna escapped with a dozen of her men back towards the cliffs of Uuranor but she did not go alone. In the din of the fight Melyanna grabbed Ellya and took her as a captive.

Melyanna held a dagger's pont to Ellya's neck. " You want her alive Aria! Then show your self!" Aria looked to Kegan, then to Alderon. "Come from behind, I will get Ellya out of danger." Her eyes then cast to Kegan, " when i give you the word fire on her." Kegan shook his head, " you go in there and she'll kill you." "Not if I kill her first, but should I fail, and she get the upper hand fire on her." Aria oved from behind the dude and walked out to meet Melyanna. "Let her go its me you want." Standing strong,ready for a fight,looking dark and dangerous.

"But she's so helpless." Mely's grip tighted around Ellya. "Let her go and you and me can have it out." Aria shifted the wind blew over her, errie. Mely smiled to that. "Deal." She let Ellya go. Aria cast her gaze to Ellya," Rima ten'ta!" Ellya slid to eher feet and ran towards Alderon who motioned to her from behind one of the dunes. Aria looked to Mely then.

Mely smiled, " How is my brother?" "Dead." Aria replyed simply, "Killed fighting Tel Coria Morambath." Mely looked on with shock. "You lie." Aria gazed on with out looking away, "I do not. He died a few days after we were cast over the falls.Killed, I found her feasting on his body, she nearly killed me as well." Emerald hues never wavored for a moment, Aria ahd to believe that lie if Mely was to believe her.. Mely let a wave of sorrow grip her, " you will be happy to join him then." Aria shifted her hand to that swords hilt. Her gaze shifted back towards Kegan and the others before she rushed in.

Mely was well trained by Carad but she was slower and slobbier than he ever was her bows with fists landed short her blows with sword were not fluid and often too slow. Aria was knocked back on her back only once, it was planned that way. "Sii!" She cried and arrows flew throught he sky and went through Mely's body. Aria rose and watched her fall to the ground.

Aria looked back over them all. Ellya came and hugged Aria tightly. "It is over now my dear." Ellya sobbed softly as Alderon wisked her off. Kegan came up to Aria and smiled, " are you hurt?" Aria shook her head, "lets go home." So home they would go.

Kegan returned the next day and crossed the Nisse with his brothers and their wives. They combed the whole of the Wild open plains to the north but found no sign of Aria. They did not go beyond the water fall. Kegan knelt at the waters edge and looked down at his hand where that woven ring of soft pure mithral lay still. Until he had proof she was dead he would not believe it. "Aria!" He cried over the falls. His voice echoing in to the din beyond. He would never give up if it took the rest of his life he would find her, he knew some how that she was not dead.



In the golden plains far beyond the rushing water fall Aria lay her body bloody and broken,the child she would have born now gone from her womb. Her bow on her back, the string broken,the sword at her side lay outward that dagger there as well. Her ankle twisted askew. That woven ring of pure mirthal upon her hand. Blood upon her lips, her eyes took in the sight of the wild open plains, golden plains for a moment she thought she was dead and lay in the beyond.But her body hurt to much for it to be the after life eher eyes closed and her hand closed balling in to a fist along the dark soil.

-so begins a brave new world