Reoc snapped the rabbit's neck, killing it instantly. He retrieved the arrow from it's right leg, wiping it off on a dirty rag he used for such things. He placed the rabbit into his belt pouch and stood, stretching. he grasped his hands together and raised them above his head as far as possible before letting go and looking at the ground. He could see the faint outlines of his footprints as clearly as he could see his hand in front of him, tracing his route back into the village.

Upon arrival, Reoc's eyes met a gruesome sight. villagers were either hiding in their houses, or they were one of the three wounded on the ground. Two guards had a makeshift stretcher made of two spears and a blanket, loading up one of the men, whose hair was matted with blood. The other guards sought to restore order. One guard turned his head to see Reoc arrive. He waved him over, an urgent look on his face.

Reoc sat on an upturned barrel and listened to the guard. "Ranger, during your absence, we have experienced a raid on the village of Norwood. We are in desperate need of help, as the bandits may come back." Up untill that point, Reoc had been staring at the two guards lifting a second man, whose arm looked like it had a new joint. His gaze snapped to the iron-clad guard in front of him. "Bandits? How many were there?" He asked urgently.

"We counted a dozen, but that cannot be their full force. they were all wearing the same chain mail tunics and leather coifs. they seemed too well-organized for there to be only a dozen. We have one dead, but he is already at the healer's home." He said, seeming to calm down as he spoke. Reoc didn't feel like calming down. "Well? Are you sending messangers? We need as many people willing to fight as we possibly can." reoc glanced at the barred windows and saw various tools.

Reoc sparked an idea. "I will go to the tavern and find any who wish to go with me to find and eliminate this threat." The ranger said solemnly. The guard nodded and ran to gather idle guards, to begin defending the town. One guard came to accompany him to the tavern.

The tavern was as rowdy as ever. As cheery as it seemed, there was a hidden sadness there. The guard shouted to the Huge crowd. "Hey! Quiet down!" He yelled at the top of his lungs, banging the butt of his spear on the wooden floor.

Amazingly enough, the crowd stilled. "Thank you." Was the guards reply to the halting. "We have just been raided by a group of bandits as many of you well-know." He started to continue, but the crowd began roaring again. "Shut up! thank you. Now, we need a group of experienced adventurers, for we are to march to to the marshes in a day to fight back. we need no braggarts, or peasants. We need people with experience. Do any of you fit that description?" He finished on a commanding tone.

Hymwen Darkstar, a wood elf ranger also. Who went around Imythess, helping save gryphons and others when she could, though, not always doing so well, since she once had a tremendous fear of fighting, but slowly she got over it, but had a problem of always getting angry while fighting others, and usually get wounded, but that always got her in a angrier mood. Sometimes though, she can fight fine without fear or anger. The reason why she was afraid of fighting was because of a dragon, she let her friends down, and they all ended up dead. It was a sad time for her, and her family, and everyone in that village, but now, the dragon was gone, leaving them alone, and everyone was cheerful once more, but the death of their daughters and sons still lingered. This was in Fakaver village though, far, faraway from the land of Imythess.

Now, Hymwen was here, in Imythess, running around on errands to earn gold for traveling, she was mainly found in Balefire, or Kellen, in the City of Lanterns she would be taking ingredients to wizards and others, and in Kellen, she would be helping save gryphons from bandits. Why she was in Norwood, was merely to get away from cities, and the village, and be where she is calm, the forest.

In a forest, she is always calm, and enjoys everything of the nature about her.

But as she wandered, she came towards the village, noticing something was going on, she ran over, and saw wounded people. It was sad. She walked to a wounded man, a sad look in her gray eyes. She looked up, when she heard something going on in the tavern, and walked over there, to see what was happening now.

"Shut up! thank you. Now, we need a group of experienced adventurers, for we are to march to to the marshes in a day to fight back. we need no braggarts, or peasants. We need people with experience. Do any of you fit that description?"

After a moment or two, Hymwen walked into the tavern, behind the guard, and the other elf ranger.

"I'll Come." She said, her hand resting on the hilt of the shimmering Neversleep.

Reoc spun to face the speaker, only to find another wood elf. It appeared that she, also, was a ranger. One deceptively delicate hand rested on a shimmering sword, of which Reoc expected to be enchanted. 'I'll come.' She spoke, the first to come forward.

The iron-clad guard nodded in her direction, and turned to the crowd. 'Does anyone else have the courage to stand up and fight these woodland bandits? Does nobody else have the heart?' The man barked to the crowd, Making hand gestures, pointing his sword at random people in the audience. He gave off an intimidating aura.

Turning his attention to The ranger, He smiled. The guard continued his barking, but Reoc payed no more attention. He bowed his head, one hand twisted to his chest. He always had a soft spot for women. "I cannot thank you enough for volunteering. I was beginning to worry none would accept, and I would have to fight alone. But where are my manners? My name is Reoc, Norwood Ranger. I don't believe i've caught your name..." He said curteously, bowing once more.

He looked the Elf over, to get an overall summary of her. She sported a wicked-looking sword, the one he had previously noticed, and a short bow, much similar to his own. She wore a light armor, not too surprising for a ranger. Her whole build, though showed that her arms were more used to wielding a blade. He may be wrong, though.

Hymwen watched the guard a moment, then looked at the elf ranger, and returned a smile. She was wondering how all this would turn out, with only two, that was a small amount, more needed to join, but all seemed afraid. She looked over the people in the tavern, an almost disgusted look in her eyes, mainly because no more were stepping up, then the guard starting talking to them. He seemed a bit intimidating. She looked back at the other ranger who started to speak to her.

"I guess you were lucky I was coming through Norwood." She said, smiling.

"But where are my manners? My name is Reoc, Norwood Ranger. I don't believe i've caught your name..."

She bowed slightly. "Pleasure to meet you Reoc of Norwood. I am Hymwen Darkstar, ranger from Fakaver, probably never heard of that place, its no where near Imythess." She said, standing straight. She missed home, her family. Once more, she would wonder how they are fairing right now. Oh well, she would find out soon enough, she had sent Jester to the village with a letter a couple days ago, he should be back soon. She looked back at the people the knight was speaking to.

"I wonder, will any join, or just hide in their homes, hoping the bandits don't come back..." She said quietly, almost to herself. She sighed, then walked forward.

"What are you all doing? Sitting there, having a good time, while your village needs you, instead, you sit there in silence, afraid. Afraid that if you go, you won't come back. I was once like you, always afraid, I was afraid of fighting, of a sword. Once my village was attacked by a dragon, burning, and killing, all my friends died there, and I was terrified, hoping it wouldn't come back, but it did, and I had to find the courage to take up my sword and fight it. That day, my village won, we mortally wounded the dragon, and it left, never harming us again. Your village will never be safe unless you help me and Reoc defeat these bandits. Do you think only two can fight a band of those who attacked your village. Obviously not, if they managed to attack you and kill many. What if we don't succeed? Would you fall to their will, give them whatever they want, since you seem unable to fight." She spoke, voice strong, and quite confident.

"There are a lot of bandits out there, and unless you don't step up and fight, you will all perish. Stop hiding in your homes, wishing them to go, and fight. Whoever is a warrior, step up now and take your responsibility to this village." She said all that in a commanding tone. To her, she found it terrible how none of them wanted to fight for their village. Yeah, the guard didn't want peasants and such, but there atleast have to be some warriors in that crowd.

Eynalis liked the village and norwood forests too. He is an undead, but an elven legacy is in him. But saving the village was not in his plans right now - he can go and have fun with the orcs here instead. He was sitting in a dark corner, hoping that being an undead won't make any problems. But problems can't be avoided - bandits are attacking.

Whoever is a warrior, step up now and take your responsibility to this village.
He heard a woman saying, with a lot of anger in her voice.

I am no warrior, but I can still help. I can, but I see no sense in doing this. Not enough for me. He said.

How pathetic they are, these elves. Eynalis thought to himself. Like me, before I died. Protect the forest is all in their lives. No passions, no power. This is what young elves are - and then they have two choices. The first - to keep this idiotic life, and the second...To become what I became, Powerful.
So the village will burn? Who cares?! Eynalis didn't. Destruction was fun to watch.
But if these rangers care about this village that much - Eynalis will get somthing precius. Money, or an item. Anything will be good for him.

Reoc was surprised to hear her speak. He had not expected such strong words coming from her. She had spoken words of her past, words no doubt carrying old scars. He felt sympathy for the woman. That feeling was washed away as she continued her speech. Even with these word of encouragement, none stood.

Reoc was prepared to end the conference when a figure stood. it took several seconds for reoc to recognize the shape. Even with it's obvious elven heritage the thing was undead. And there were no perversion of nature worse than the raised dead, in reocs opinion. He visibly shuddered as the creature spoke.

'I am no warrior, but I can still help. I can, but I see no sense in doing this. Not enough for me.'

The elven ranger was both infuriated and disgusted. The undead obviously craved chaos, and battle would suit it's purposes perfectly. As much as he despised the beast, and himself for doing this, reoc spoke. "Undead or not, we need all of the help we can get. If you wish to assist us, say so now." He spoke quickly to the sorceror.

The guard was also disgusted by the undead, but not nearly as much as it disturbed the elf. In his eyes, the sorceror could be a powerful ally, but an equally powerful enemy. in any case, he would have to be watched.

Lets just say that you need me more then I need you. So to make it equal, I want something in return. An item maybe? A spell, or money? Or just give me a good reason to do this so cheaply.
Dont push your luck Something said inside of him. It was allmost sure that they won't give him anything, unless they are really despert. Or maybe they are?
He enjoyed the disgusted face of the elven ranger, allmost the same face that Eynalis had when he saw himself as an undead.
Oh, and you should decide soon. Who knows when they are coming. Maybe they are knocking your wife's door right now? In that case, my help is a must.
Maybe that would help? Nah, no chance. But it is still fun to try.
Its going to be a pitty to see that village on fire, but Eynalis didn't really care about the pathetic elves living here. But Reoc did.

Reoc's lip curled in disgust. "Don't push your luck. I need not give you anything, the only thing i can promise you is the possessions of the ones you kill." he replied to the undead. Stepping nearer to the sorceror, he bent low and whispered into his ear. "You are lucky, creature. Had we met elsewhere, you would most assuredly be dead." he spat out in a venemous tone. Stepping back to his spot, he leaned on a table.

He turned back to the crowd of men and elves who had all found a way to hide from reoc's incriminating speech. some looked in another direction, even more hid in a foaming mug. Upon the realization that he had gotten all he could out of this place, he stood straight.

"I see amongst you old friends, growing old as we travel our path. many of you have become farmers, or small-time hunters. it saddens me. For those of you who have volunteered today, we will meet at sunrise by the west gate." He finished in a serious tone. turning to Hymwen, he cracked a smile and bowed. "I trust i will be seeing you tomorrow, then?" he said trustfully.

Hymwen took a couple steps back, looking down at the ground, then looked up at the undead who came up, volunteering to go along, and she looked at him, quite disgusted by the creature, but there was no sign of it on the womans face. She wasn't one to judge the creature, disgusting or not, even if it was from the abyss. He must have been once human, or elf. She wasn't expecting a undead creature to come though, but like the ranger Reoc said, they needed the help, even if it was an undead.

She decided to stay quiet, let the other ranger handle it, since she didn't quite know what to say now, after her little speech thing, she believed her doing enough for trying to encourage others to join, one step up, it wasn't enough she felt, but it will have to do, if none others help.

Her hand fell from the blade, resting on her hip now. She would have to call Frolba, he would be handy to have, her horse was used to battles, he was helpful. Reoc spoke to the undead, and she wondered what he said. He said they will meet at sunrise. That would be nice, she needed a bit of time to get things around. He then turned to her.

"I trust i will be seeing you tomorrow, then?"

Hymwen returned the smile. "Yes, you can count me on being there. No way I will ever step down." She said. She may have wanted to run away, when she was younger, when she was afraid of fighting, but now, she felt she had a duty to save those from evils, like bandits, and save animals, like gryphons.

Eynalis understood he can't get anything from them. Why whould the elves pay for help in battle? To help their woods? They rather bury it then pay a gold coin, or atleast this is how things looked.
You know what? I have a better idea. I will help you, but you will help me in return. Nothing that should be hard for an elf, or an elf won't be happy to do. I just want the bodies of orcs. I will help you save your pittiful forest, and you will hunt some orcs for me. Do we have a deal?

He knew that the elves can't say no - to most elves slaying orcs is like playing a game, its fun. The death of their worst enemies, is what makes most elves joy. Atleast it made his father when he was still alive. His father! How could he forget? He could animate his father! The mighty elven warrior is the perfact ally he needs. But Eynalis was not powerful enough. Maybe this battle will make him stronger?

As much as Reoc was repulsed by the sorceror, he needed his help. Even if that meant working with him. "I will only kill orcs for the duration of our hunt. If need be, i willkill a max of ten. no more." He said, feeling sickened by the prospect of killing for the beast. In his eyes, the undead were a perversion of nature, and by no means above orcs. Turning back to Hymwen, he bowed once more. "very well. i will see you in the morning." he strode out the door, pulling his hood up. the guard followed.

"Reoc, i am Tanur. I was ordered to assist you finding any adventurers willing to follow, and to go with you on your hunt, with your approval, of course." the guard said unsurely, walking by Reoc's side.

Reoc grinned. "Of course i will accept. Hymwen is a great help, surely assisting in keeping my sanity while travelling with the sorceror. Your help would be greatly accepted" Reoc entered the guard house for a bunk.

Then so be it. Ten orcs, and not even a finger less. So, where shall I meet you tomarrow?
Well, less work for him about slaying orcs. But, he wanderd why does Vernon need so many orcs? Never mind, He just hoped he was not too late. Vernon's wrath will be his end. Eynalis was prepard to strike at the bandits right away, and didn't knew what was keeping them from doing so. Maybe more backup?
No metter. He had to wait. Not that he mind, what is a day for one who allready filled his life, and now he is having his afterlife? What is a day, for those who know that power comes with time? And yes, this fight should grant him some powers.

Vernon had happened to be withing the Tavern when Reoc burst through with tales of bandits. Vernon had noticed these bandits before and was quite pleased that they had taken due care not to cross into his Marsh. Reoc's plan however was to cross through the marsh. Didn't he hold all of the elves in respectful fear of his Marsh? Apparently not all. Vernon knew he would have to set this elf right, but a pity there was only so much that could be done with a day's time. He couldn't set up much of a trap and he couldn't ready the bandits for an ambush within his marsh. Vernon slowly drank from his mug of alcohol as he listened to Reoc and some other elf try to Rally more support to stoping the bandits. He turned his gaze to a wanted poster with a sketch of his face, obviously not the face of the form he was in at the time. Vernon had taken on the form of a green-haired human, and was fairly well dressed like a ranger. He had also removed his tale-tale odor which left nothing for the elves to identify him as Vernon.

Vernon was quite surprised to see Eynalis at the tavern as well. He apparently fit in better with the elven society than he had imagined. Prehaps he had given elven noses too much credit when trying to compare their feeble noses to his own. Vernon wasn't surprised at the undead's request for dead orcs as it was indeed the task Vernon had placed on Eynalis. Vernon hadn't revealed himself to the undead, yet but did not intend to do so until it was time to teach the foolish elves a new lesson in why they should fear the Master of the marsh. Ultimately it had taken Vernon too long to complete his plan of action and Reoc and the guard had already left. Vernon put down his mug and hurried after the elf hoping to catch him before he went off and retired for the night. He cuaght sight of the elf heading into the guard house. "Hold, Reoc. I too shall be joining you on tomorrow's Sunrise at the west gate. I may be no elf, but I am an able ranger and this land is my home too. I shall not see it defiled by bandits," Vernon called out as he approached.

Reoc stopped and spun around on the spot. 'Hold, Reoc. I too shall be joining you on tomorrow's Sunrise at the west gate. I may be no elf, but I am an able ranger and this land is my home too. I shall not see it defiled by bandits' A green-haired ranger called out to him. Tanur seized the hilt of his sword, but reoc waved him away. He cocked his head and replied to the still-approaching ranger. "I will be glad to recieve your help, fellow ranger. You say that this is your home as well? I've never seen you before around these parts. What was your name?" he asked curiously. He grew up in this area all his life and kept track of the comings and goings of people. This particular face didn't seem to strike a chord.

Meanwhile, Tanur had ignored reoc's request and still had his hand firm on the longsword. it was out just enough for a quick draw, if need be. Reoc was his new charge, after all, and he was prepared to protect this man with his life.

"It is rare for me to visit these elven parts, so I am not surprised you have not seen my face around here before. With the way your freind eyes an unarmed human trying to talk to you I am sure understand why that might be," Vernon replied as he slowed to a stoped and gestured at Tanur. The elf seemed a bit too eager to get use out of his blade, after all Vernon did say he was coming to help. He fairly sure he wouldn't be treated as such if he had chosen an elven form.

"Norwood forest is my home and if bandits are attacking elven villiages, who knows what other attrocities they are commiting in this forest. As for my name, I am Asaric Calaso, but you may call me Asaric," Vernon explained with a few simple lies. Telling his real name would be quite the turn off for the elves and telling the name he used most would certainly have all the elves in the village after him. Now all that was left was to ascertain that the party did not pass through the marsh. If he pulled that off easily enough maybe he could give a hand in driving off the bandits.

When Reoc left, she glanced at the people once more, after a moment, she sighed, and walked out of the tavern. Once outside, she watched a woman care for a man who had a wound. She, herself hated bandits, they annoyed her. She turned on her heel, and made her way towards the Norwood lake, where Frolba should be, if not, then she wouldn't know where to find that horse, who had most of her equipment.

She hated the idea of killing orcs, yeah, she didn't really like them, but she had no reason to hate them, they haven't ever attacked her before, and she has never done anything to harm them, and now she was to help cut down ten for a undead creature that shouldn't even be walking the land. Was it so hard for the gods to keep the dead, and not send them out to wreck havoc?

Her hand clenched and unclenched her hand around the hilt of Neversleep. She glanced back, and noticed a human ranger was talking to Reoc, about what, she couldn't hear, she was far off. She stopped and watched a moment, before shaking her head, and continuing to walk towards the lake. She wondered how far away the lake was from the village, she assumed not far.

Some bandits are going to eat some dust Eynalis thought. But there is something about this human that seems familiar - the way of speech, maybe? No, I'm worrying to much about nothing. It's just a human. Eynalis did though he know that person, but he didn't know from where. Maybe his mind is playing tricks on him. Never mind, who this person is he will figure out later.
So, Asaric, I'm glad to hear you are here to fight the bandits aswell. It's going to be a shame to see the pathetic elven villages on flame. Eynalis didn't knew if he said that because he want, because he wanted to annoy Reoc, or it's because the damned necromancer that dares to call himself master makes him. As free as he is, the one who animated him still has some powers over him, and can control Eynalis. This, is something Eynalis didn't liked.

Reoc relaxed as this Asaric character gave his reasons to his questions. They all checked out, and Reoc trusted him even more after the bandit speech. Tanur relaxed as well, allowing his hand to slide off the pommel of his sword. He sighed and let his shoulders droop, but ready to spring into action at any moment. Reoc smiled tiredly and raised a hand in farewell. "I am glad to see we share the same sentiments, fellow ranger. If you will excuse me, it's been a long, tiresome day for me. We will meet outside the west gate. Farewell, Asaric." he waved and turned, stepping into the guardhouse and following Tanur to an empty bed. Reoc fell into it, asleep before his head hit the pillow.

Tanur glanced around, making sure no suspicious characters were about, and walked out of the room, nodding to the hallway guards. Striding down the hall and around the corner, he entered his room and fell asleep.

Vernon was amused at how easily and quickly Reoc and Tanur were duped. It was a reply anyone in the world could give yet it seem to give Reoc comfort. Vernon was, however, annoyed at not having any time to question Reoc about his plans. Blast! What rotten luck? ...prehaps rotten was not a good term for it as rotten was indeed quite good in Vernon's book. Vaernon would have to wait till tomorrow. He had only a mild clue of where the bandits where and he had no way of contacting the bandits and assure himself of the elven group's path. That left the question of what he was going to do while he waited. Maybe he would simply go to sleep at the inn. He'd didn't need any more elven flesh to snack on thanks to Eynalis' efforts and it would be better to not leave the opening for suspcion to fall on him.

"Farewell, Reoc," Vernon replied as he waved back to Reoc, hiding his annoyance with the elf.

"It is high time I too retire for the night, Try to stay out of trouble till tomorrow, Undead," Vernon said to Eynalis before heading back to the Tavern. As far as Vernon recalled Eynalis had not offered his name and non of the elves had apperently gotten past their disgust and asked the creature his name.

"It is high time I too retire for the night, Try to stay out of trouble till tomorrow, Undead,"

Eynalis did not understand of the undead was there to offend, or to say who is he speaking too. But volenteering and risking your life for nothing makes you a nice person, so he was doubt that it was there to offend.

Good night, Asaric.
Well, here comes another long boring night for Eynalis. He had to stay on the watch. He wanted to sleep, but he was'nt tired - undead never sleep. He stepped outside, looking around at the small village. It looks so... defenseless. They will need all the help they could get if 200 raiders wil come. And all the help may just not be enough. Was I right by joining? Killing orcs is much easier then large groups of humans. I hope it won't be my last battle. But it was too late now. Why? Something told him to do this. Something stronger then him. The necromancer that raised him. Yes, it's all make sense now. This battle will bring a lot of destraction. Even if Eynalis will fall, He will take a good amout of these bandits. Eynalis was a price the necromancer could pay - another dead elf is not a problem for him to get. And less bandits are less bandits he will have to destroy later, when he will want to take over the world. But Eynalis had to stop this, he hated the necromancer. But he did what the necromancer want, he had no other choice. But when the necromancer will be weakend, Eynalis will strike, and will be free - the same proud elf he used to be. But that's just a dream for him - the elven part is trapped in a cell deep in his heart, surrounded bu darkness and evilness the necromancer demands and he obeys. The necromancer is the chain between Eynalis and Evil Eynalis. When it is broken, Eynalis's mind, personality, will, and body will be his own. Not the necromancer. Maybe...Reoc could help?

Reoc awoke groggily to Tanur knocking on the door. "Reoc? Are you awake? It's time to leave." He called throught he chained door. Reoc groaned and strapped on his bow and pinned his cloak on. Reoc opened the door, stooped over in the hallway, and pulled his boots on. Walking outside, he saw it was morning. He saw Tanur by the guardhouse door, armed and ready." I'm ready, Tanur." He said, and began his walk to the west gate.

He sat down in a chair right outside town and ate bread and a slice of cheese. He was prepared to leave at any moment, just waiting on the others. Licking his fingers clean, he grabbed his bow and began placing arrows into the target set up for bored watchtower guards.

Hymwen rode astride Frolba. The sound of hooves on the ground making quiet thuds as he walked. The wood-elf hid a yawn behind her hand. She never liked waking up early, she never has, ever since she was a child she hated it. But now, life here in Imythess, she was always waking up early. Jester, the eagle, had come back late at night, and was now flying overhead, following Hymwen and Frolba to the west gate. Hymwen directed the horse on the road, riding into the town, then she noticed Reoc, and smiled at the other wood-elf ranger. She rode over, stopping a ways off.

"Good morning, Reoc." She said calmly, and Jester flew down to a low branch of a nearby tree, watching his master. She shifted slightly in the saddle, and looked down the way into the small village, most of the buildings in the treetops, though, a few on the ground. She wondered where the others are. She didn't like the undead, she wished it wouldn't go, she didn't want to kill orcs, they have done nothing to anger her, why should she kill them, for a disgusting creature? Sighing, she shook her head a moment, brown hair falling over her face, but she moved it behind a ear. She then remembered the human ranger who seemed to join, she had still yet to meet him.

Hymwen, waited calmly, and so did her horse, who had started to graze once she loosened the reins a little.

Eynalis was sitting on a bench all night long. When the sun raised, he came back to that inn, but no one woke up. He sat down in a dark corner, waiting for everyone. He saw Reoc and Tanur coming down, but ignored them. They were nothing special that needs to be treated. Then, Hymwen came down, too. They talked a little, nothing that mind Eynalis. He waited to Asaric. It is a wonder for him that no one wakes him up. He hoped that the bandits will come, and fast. Over here, with all the citizens and guards, it will be an easier battle. Any man that can strike - even with his bare feasts - is worthy in a battle. He wanted to order some wine, but he could not feel the taste - he is an undead. He feels nothing. But then, bordom won - he could wait no longer.
I though you will use the night to slay the orcs while they are asleep, Reoc. But I guess I was a fool by trusting you, elf. You elves sleep less then any other living being, and still - you rather stay in bed then doing what you must. You owe me ten orcs, And as it looks right now, you will die before you get them. Eynalis loved aurgoments, or any other thing that makes other people suffer. But he hated this part of him - he was forced to act like this because of his master. How can he be such a fool?! He can sand Reoc to slay his master! But I guess that ten orcs are to much for your bow to handle. Very well. I will let you have another option - kill an old necromancer instead. What do you choose, reoc? But reoc cannot defeat the necromancer all by himself - Eynalis still needed someone else to help him. But he will find someone - he must.

Vernon enjoyed a hardy, yet bland breakfast. While he while he ate less of hisfavored rotten foods to keep his breath being appaulling, he had no intention of having a light breakfast. If there was one normal thing that Vernon liked it was food, though he favored foods that were natrurally unfavorable to all but vermin. After eating his unsual breakfast conisting of copious amount of cheese, Vernon found it was about time to be heading over to the west gate and deal with the bothersome elves.

Vernon saw the four of them there waiting on him. Vernon came in time to hear Eynals push his luck once again. The undead should stop that practice, it was bound to get him dead, or redead, or what ever the term was for destroyed undead. He was how ever surprised to hear of him wanting his necromancer dead. The necromancer didn't seem to care much about the creature from the way he vanished after animating Eynalis, though maybe that was why he wanted the necromancer dead. At least Eynalis had been smart enough to try and get him to kill the necromancer for him, favors weren't a thing Vernon did.

"Mornin' all. There is a possibility that there are orcs mixed within the ranks of the bandits, of course there is an equal possibility that they have no Orcs among them. But more importantly what route are we taking to meet these bandits?" Vernon said as he approached. Now he would find out if the elf truly foolishly planned to trek through his marsh.

I don't think we should be going at the same rout as they did...When we get back we might see the village on fire. Beside, I think iit will be quicker if we take our own, faster path to the bandits camp. I used to be a ranger of these woods when I was still alive - a bit more then a few months ago. I still know a way. But there was something else that troubled Eynalis - only Asaric, Reoc, Hymwen, Tanur and Eynalis were going to the fight. Will they survive the bandits camp? They needed more help. When thinking back into it, the five of us are not enough. Tanur, go and get all the help you can get from the village's guards and millitia. Make sure that some defenders will stay here aswell. I think we should take the path through the swamps, but...There's a horror that won't let you pass... By the word horror, he ment to Vernon. If only Eynalis know who Asaric is... He won't even dare of thinking about walking though the swamps. But maybe if we can get more help, we can kill that freak ratman that calls the swamps his home, and the swamps calls him lord. But we will take some losses, heavy losses. Shall we take that risk and loss just to cut some time? I say yes, If we are to save that village. Eynalis wasn't really sure if the swamps are a shortcut, but he didn't care. He didn't like the idea of being enslaved by Vernon, and now he got help to defeat that ratlord.

Reoc Listened to Asaric's query, nodding at the mention of orcs. He stated his second question, about the route to their target. He was unsure, he realized where to start. Upon seeing this, tanur took over. "During our rest, the guard has sent out it's finest trackers, to find a trail for our assistance. They have discovered a set of footprints, set deep in the ground by the weight of boots. They should not be hard to track. Second is where they lead to. They appear to go around the swamp carefully, as if avoiding it." He finished his announcement.

Reoc took in this new information greatfully. Tanur had saved him from looking like a total idiot. He owed him one. Taking the attention of his rag-tag band, he decided their course. "If the band goes around the swamp, then they must fear whatever is within. If they have an enemy in the swamps, then we may find an ally. However, your statement is noted. I do not see reason to take such losses, but i cannot deny the possibility of a shortcut, and we may find an ally in these swamps."

"I will not participate, but i wish a vote. the options are to go through the swamps and risk losses, or go around and risk another attack on the village. Voice your vote now." He said, stepping back and watching the others for their reactions.

A vote? Very well then. Eynalis needed a vote in his mind. A part of him wanted to get in the swamp, and slay that ratlord as long as he had allies with him. Another part of him wanted to avoid combat with Vernon. Maybe his friends will abandon him and he will have to feel Vernon's wrath? But Eynalis had to take that chance - he could not live as an assasin for Vernon - in a metter of time one of his targets or Vernon himself will kill him.

I suggest we will take the path though the swamp, Reoc. Maybe they gather more bandits from other camps daily. We will have to slay the threat while its small before it grows. And beside of that, we will have to get there before they will launch another assult, to make sure the village won't be raided while we are raiding. We will have to take whatever path or shortcut needed to get our goal.

How foolish can he be?! As far as he rememberd, Vernon said something about a guy following him. Mitz, or something like that was his name. That means, Vernon sees all. If the vote will say not to get though the swamp, Eynalis is doomed. He just had to hope no one will vote to stay away from that swamp.

She watched all the others appeared, still on her horse. She watched the undead closely, still not trusting him, and she had a doubt she ever would. She then looked at the human ranger, whom she had not yet met, but she didn't introduce herself, because they were discussing of which way they should go. She stayed silent, till Reoc said they should vote. Hymwen knew already which way she wanted to go, she wanted to avoid the swamp. If there was a danger in there that was great, like the undead said, then way would they want to risk dying before they even get to the bandits camp?

She stayed silent a moment longer, listening to the undeads voice, and she frowned. He wanted to go in there, badly it seemed, but way? She looked over at Reoc.

"I think we should avoid the swamp. If there is a danger in there, then why would we want to risk dying before we even reach the bandit camp? And if the bandits avoid, then we could stop them from attacking again if we take the way they did, they would most likely go the same way they left." Even if the others agreed to go through the swamp, she would go, but wouldn't like that idea.

The idea of going through the swamp made her more curious as to why the undead wanted to go there. She would have to watch him closely.

The back-stabbing undead at least gave him a good introduction. Still, there seemed to be no logic aiding the undead. Their numbers wer few and their skill was far from legendary. Vernon hid his annoyance and anger with the traitorous and silently listened to the undead make his claim and vote. Vernon was not surprised at all when the female elf voted against the idea, and of course afterwards it was Asaric's turn to make his vote.

"She's right. The marsh's terrain alone will slow us down enough to counter any shortcut. Additionally our numbers are already few enough we need not lose what few people we have to fight of the self-proclaimed master of the marsh. The foul beast is wanted not only here but, all the way in Taras as well. Many have tried to capture or kill him and those that returned from their attempt were left in no condition to try again. There is no way we can best him and be a threat to the bandits. As for finding an ally, It's highly doubtful be could catch a bargain with that foul rat and it even more doubtful that he can be trusted," Vernon explained with surprising truthfulness. He certainly did have enough people hunting him, just not enough competent souls cpable of dealing with the master of the marsh.

"I am quite curious why you want to go to the marsh so baddly, Is that horror that lives there the Necromancer you were trying to get Reoc into killing for you?....Or are you trying to snare us into some kind of trap?" Vernon asked as he looked to the undead. He'd teach Eynalis to hold his tongue soon enough.

Eynalis understood that Hywmen doesn't trust him, and he could allmost not blame her. Undead are known for their darkness, cruelty and evilness. But, some of them are not like that - all they want is to crush their master to break free. Mostly, this type of guys only mind about themselves and the task, what makes them, well, mean. But Asaric has gone to far. She atleast tries to hide her hate for him, but he shows it brutaly, without even thinking of the results. Who does he think he is? He must be somekind of a paladin if he is such a fool - only paladins show no care or worries about evil - only paladins and fools.
Just for all of you to know, I was not born like an undead - I used to be an elf. I have the same mind and soul like you rangers have. And as for you, Asaric, I would watch it if I was you. You are starting to get on my nerves. How dare you think that I want to betray you!! Give me one good reason to kill those that are going to help me later. But I guess I have spent enough time trying to help those who don't want my help. And know, that necromancer... well, he had a small hut there when he was just an adept - hundreds of years ago. Now... He lives in a place that the marsh is a safe garden near to. And trust me, he is far more dangerous that this sewer rat that lives in the marsh is.
Something made Asaric against Eynalis. Why does he want to show everyone that Eynalis is a traitor? Two reasons are possible - the first, he just hates undeads. The second - he is afraid of the marsh.
In what is it for you, human, trying to avoid that swamp so badly? Afriad of a little rat? Just don't go to your mom saying that a rat scared you to the bone!
Eynalis laughed. A short, evil, cold, mocking laugh.

A coldness fell over Reoc as Eynalis mocked the ranger. They had not begun their mission yet, and the two were quarreling. it was crawling on Reoc's nerves. "Enough. The votes is two-to-one, taking the long way around. We will have to take our chances with getting there in time to eliminate this threat before the bandits attack. Tanur will send for two more soldiers, and we will be off on our way." Reoc was content for now, looking to Hymwen for comfort. this human made him suspicious, as if travelling with an undead sorceror were not bad enough.

Tanur returned with two soldiers, armed with leathers and spears. Reoc retrieved his belongings, packed up, and began walking down the cobblestones, letting Tanur spot the tracks from here. There was little dust on the roads, and the recent raid had only set lightly. For now, they merely followed The guard and hoped he was not wrong.

After some hour, the path became less and less maintained, the cobbled pattern broken by wild plants and poor upkeep. The path seemed to hold out for a few more yards, then give out to a dirt road. A stream was close by, and the ground moist. The bootprints of their query became easier to read, now even Reoc could see them.

She stared at the human for a long moment, when he started speaking about if the undead had a trap for them. She watched them for a long moment, then up in the trees. Yes, she believed that the undead may get them into a trap, but then, she didn't know. She didn't like the human, though, for what reason, she doesn't quite know. She heard the undead reply, and it made her grimace. When Reoc spoke, she smiled slightly. At least he had more sense then the others. She felt him looking at her, and she looked down at him, and smiled warmly for a moment, but it was soon gone, and she glanced at Tanur with the two soldiers.

Once Reoc started down the road, she knew it was time to go. She made a hand gesture to the others, motioning for the others to follow Reoc. Then, she followed behind, with Frolba. She glanced at Jester, then said in elvish; "Tira ten' rashwe." She whispered to the eagle, her cocked its head at her, then took to the air, flying above the trees soon, but it followed the group.

As they went on for an hour, she said nothing, after the hour, she slid from the horses back, and landed lightly on the ground, took the horse's bridle off, and put it in its saddle bag, then, Frolba ran off onto the side of the road, and started to graze. Hymwen had to let her horse rest sometimes, though, she knew it would follow them, and come to Hymwen in another hour. She followed in the rear of the group, still staying quiet.

She stared down at the bootprints, knowing that they belonged to the bandits, it seemed like they were anyway. She saw many signs of them being bandits. "Well... this should be fun..." She mumbled to herself, and rested her hand on Neversleep. Her sword would be handy in the bandits camp, since with the sword, it was able to makes those in a 10 foot 10 radius, any in that radius, would go to sleep. She remembered how she aqiured, in the ruins, in a unknown chamber. The sword could have been there for years, but it never rusted.

She looked up, staring at the undead a moment, then the human, still a bit curious about them both. Sighing, she shook her head, and looked down at the footprints again.

Eynalis walked with the others on the road. He knew that he will be hated, all because he managed to defeat death - their worst fear. This made them afraid of him, gave them hatred for him. But death did change Eynalis's point of view. It turned him more... Free. More... Evil. But the short time he was as an undead changed him again. He now only uses darkness as a source of power, nothing more. He is not a good person indeed, but he is not completly evil. The problem is, that his master is evil. They walked for a good amout of time, and Eynalis lost the sence of time. Then, he senced something. As a necromancer, he can smell death. Wait! we are not alone here. We are watched. Undead! defend yourselves!! Then, two undead ogres came. They each was about 2.5 meters long, strong and rotting, with a huge, two handed morning star. Eynalis started to cast a spell, but the undead wern't charging. They were walking slowly, and then stopped. Hello Eynalis. Master be sending us. We be helping you. one of them sayed. But, this only worried Eynalis. Eynalis knew that they are him to watch him. Maybe his master knows about the betreyal plan of Eynalis? Or maybe the master knows about the danger there? That's not a good sign. Ah, it is so good to see you ogres here. Eynalis lied. We have a long travel ahead of us. Let us continue. But there is something that scared Eynalis the most - now the elves and human are allmost sure that this is a trap. Eynalis just hoped not.

Vernon was quite insulted that the undead would dare think some necromancer was possibly greater than Pestilence. His anger came in time to seem as though it stemmed from the undead essentially calling him a coward. While, Vernon could not hide his anger, he didn't put his anger to use. He'd get his payback at the traitorous undead later. Vernon composed himself Reoc spoke.

Vernon was amused at the reinforcements that met them. Seven vs a large amount of bandits. Sounded like a massacre to him. But, heh. His life wasn't on the line. He could always make his escape while the group got themselves slaughtered or just turn the tables and later turn on the exausted winning forces. The later sounded better as he needed to teach the foul undead a lesson, badly.

Vernon kept his distance from Eynalis while they walked, almost wishing he could ignore the tasty aroma that came from his decaying flesh. He had to make this entire trip while dealing with that smell and no truly tasty treats to snack on. Perhaps this wasn't such a good idea.

A new scent teased Vernon's nose. Undead ogre and likely more than one. Vernon noticed well before Eynalis, but kept his mouth shut on the matter as the monitored how fast the creatures were moving towards them and how far away they were. Vernon readied his crossbow mentioned the two undead. He was really quite annoyed at the fact that the undead were actually joining them and you make his own traitorous act at the end rather more difficult.

"Just great," Vernon said sarcatically. "Last thing we need is more undead in our ranks, but I guess it's an offer we can't refuse with these numbers," Vernon grumbled.

"Last thing we need is more undead in our ranks"

Oh no, ogres have no mind for being annoyed by any creature, and from a small human? I just hope that death made their anger more controlable. What Asaric said, would probely make the ogres mad. That's the ogres nature - stupid brutes. Eynalis's fear was right - one of the ogres found this sentance as an insult.
You not be mocking me! Me be crush stupid human!
The ogre said while charging. Calm down, and caontrol yourself, ogre! You will doom us all!! Eynalis yelled, but the enraged ogre could not hear. He rushed over Vernon, with his morning star raised and ready for action.

Woosh!

The ogre blocked Eynalis's sight. He heard a crush, a clash. Eynalis feared. He hoped That Asaric was not hitted, this will make everyone hate him, and he won't be surprised if they will try to kill him. The ogre yelled, as they allways do. Eynalis hoped it was from anger, and not happinnes. What for the name of hell are you doing! Stop at this moment, or I'll make you! The ogre turned around to look at Eynalis.
Me sorry, me not want to be making you be angry... the undead ogre said. Eynalis could see that the morning star was not filled with blood - it had a lot of mud and dirt on it. The ogre missed, or Asaric dodged. If Eynalis could have known who Asaric is, He was sorry that the morningstar landed on the ground on not in Vernon's face.