Chapter 19
The sun was setting fast in the late afternoon sky as Reylana neared the area where the Sycamore Clan was last known to dwell. She could sense that a pair of eyes had spotted her, and she scanned the treetops looking for her kinsman. Movement stirred among the dried leaves, and an elf dropped quickly to the ground.
“Welcome, friend,” he said as he approached. His head was shaved bald except for a thin strip down the center that grew long enough to tie back into a ponytail.
“Sycamore Clan, I’m hoping,” Reylana said, her weariness apparent in her voice. She had traveled for days without stopping, and her shoulder still ached from the blow she received in her last battle.
“That’s right,” he replied, a broad smile spreading over his face. “I’m Nat. What brings one so lovely as you our direction? You’re Oak Leaf, right?”
“I am,” she began. “My name is Reylana. My village was recently destroyed by the Na’zoran army, and I’ve come seeking aid.”
“I’ve heard rumors about the war, but so far it hasn’t reached our village. We’re better protected being farther away from their borders. I’ll take you to our Overseer. I’m sure everyone will want to hear what you have to say.”
“I hope so,” she said, following the elf to his village. As she approached, she could hear the sounds of laughter and children playing. Nat had spoken true. This village had yet to be touched by the war. Reylana’s heart fluttered at the sight of their perfect little village. Dozens of huts stood proudly among the trees, and a large festival area still bore the signs of a recent celebration. This was the home she had longed for since her own village had been reduced to ashes.
Nat led the way to the Overseer’s hut. Stepping inside, he introduced her to the muscular elf who provided leadership for the Sycamore Clan. Though his hair was beginning to gray, his body was still in good shape. “Overseer, this is Reylana of the Oak Leaf Clan,” Nat said. “She’s come to discuss the war with us.”
“Welcome, Reylana,” he said. “I hope you have come alone by choice. Does the Oak Leaf Clan still survive?”
“They do,” she replied. “We are scattered, though. Those who cannot fight are crossing the river to safety. The warriors have journeyed north to continue the raids.”
“So the rumors are true then,” he commented, looking down at the ground. “I feared as much, but so far our clan has avoided any attacks. Tell me, is there any news of the other clans?”
“As far as I know the Silver Birch Clan is worse off than we are. They were driven from their homes and scattered throughout the Wildlands. My brother is hoping to locate them and bring them into our own group. I have no news of the other clans. A few elves from my clan were heading out in hopes of finding them.”
“I hope they are successful,” he replied.
“Me too. I’ve come to you hoping that you still have a rune carver among your ranks.”
“We do, but he is getting on in years. His apprentice is learning, but he isn’t progressing as quickly as his master would like.”
“We are in desperate need of runed weapons,” she said, the urgency apparent in her voice. “They are our only hope of defeating the Na’zorans or of standing a chance against their mages.”
“Though we haven’t encountered their armies yet, I have no doubts as to the value of such weapons. So far, we have only used them for hunting.”
“They are badly needed in war. I don’t know if any other rune carvers still live.”
He paused to think for a moment. “We will call a meeting of the clan tomorrow to discuss the matter. Nat can show you where to find dinner and a bed.”
“Thank you, Overseer,” she said with a nod of respect.
Nat and Reylana exited the Overseer’s hut. At the center of the village, a large cooking fire was just being lit.
“That’s where you’ll find dinner,” Nat said. “The hunters brought back elk today. There’s plenty for everyone.”
Reylana nodded, her stomach beginning to rumble. She hadn’t tasted meat in quite a while, and freshly roasted elk sounded wonderful.
“My hut is the one between those two trees,” Nat said, pointing. “My mate and I stay there. There’s room for one more, and we have blankets to spare.”
“Thank you,” she replied, still thinking about the food.
“I better get back to my watch,” Nat said. “I’ll see you later.” He turned and walked back into the forest.
Reylana joined the elves who were gathering around to cook the elk. Even with one bad arm, she was still able to help with some light cooking. She was greeted warmly by the others and helped herself to a mug of ale. As one woman cut chunks of meat and skewered them, Reylana placed them over the fire and turned them as necessary.