War Of The Wildlands(51)
“Greetings,” she replied flatly. She turned to Reylin and asked, “Are we continuing north?”
“The Mountain Clan’s village is not far from here. We have all been invited.”
“What of the humans?” Essa asked.
“Humans?” Sal echoed.
“We have two human hostages. They are bound and shouldn’t cause any trouble.” Reylin pointed to the two women.
“I see,” Sal replied. “I can’t see any problem with them, but the Overseer has the final say. Let’s get going.” He led the group through the forest to a vast evergreen valley. The mountain breeze brought fresh, cool air to their lungs and renewed their spirits. This was a land untouched by war, where the streams ran with pure, clean water, and the earth was unspoiled.
In the distance, the Wrathful Mountains stood proudly, ever reaching beyond the clouds. Lisalla paused briefly to admire the scene but was soon shoved by an impatient sword maiden. She resumed her march, all the while admiring the mountains and the beauty of the valley before her. She had spent her entire life only a few days away from this place, yet she had never had the pleasure of visiting it. Her heart filled with hope as she admired the magnificent landscape.
As they entered the village, many of the Mountain Clan elves stopped what they were doing to stare at the horde. Never before had there been such a gathering of elves in their land. Sal led Reylin and Essa straight to the Overseer’s hut, where a surprisingly young Overseer waited inside.
“Overseer,” Sal began. “These are the warriors of the Oak Leaf Clan. They have come seeking our aid in battle.”
“Have they indeed?” he replied, standing. His pale eyes looked from Essa to Reylin as he spoke. “There has been no news of war near our borders, but we mainly keep to ourselves. If it hasn’t come directly to our village, we would have no knowledge of it.”
“We have with us all of the warriors that remain of the Oak Leaf, Silver Birch, and Mulberry Clans. We have joined forces to fight the Kingdom of Na’zora. They have invaded our lands and slaughtered our people.”
“Where is Na’zora?” the Overseer asked.
“It lies south of Ra’jhou and stretches to the east coast.”
“Why have they declared war on our people?” The Overseer seemed genuinely concerned. A war against any Woodland Elf clan was a war against his own.
“Their king has decided to extend his borders. We were in the way.”
“Have you come seeking refuge or allies?”
“Perhaps both,” Reylin responded. “Some of our warriors are past their prime, and others have been injured. Not all of them will be able to continue fighting. It is my hope to join all of the elven clans together into a single force.”
“That would seem to be the most effective way to fight,” the Overseer replied. I will call a meeting of my people to discuss the matter. We have not been involved in a war for many generations, but I feel certain my people will wish to join your cause.”
“Thank you,” Reylin said. He turned to leave the hut, followed by Essa.
“That was easier than I expected,” Essa remarked.
“I’ve never met any member of the Mountain Clan before today, but I was always told that they were honorable elves. I think they just proved that rumor to be true.”
The elves began to mingle with their mountain kin, and the mood became less somber. For a short time at least, they were welcomed into a thriving village that reminded them of the homes they had lost. Untouched by the hand of war, the elves flourished among the mountains.
At the base of a small evergreen, Lisalla and Danna had been secured with ropes while the elves enjoyed the hospitality of their kin. No one saw the women as a threat, and they were left completely unguarded. Reylin approached the women as they sat motionless in the sunlight.
“These bonds are too tight,” Lisalla said as he approached. “I would be more comfortable if you could loosen them just a bit.”
“So you can kick my teeth in while I’m bent over?” Reylin laughed as he spoke and made no move to loosen the leather straps on her wrists.
“You may bind my feet first if you like,” Lisalla suggested. “I only ask for a small comfort, not to be set free.”
“You have resigned yourself to remain my prisoner then?”
“Not in the slightest,” she replied. “Eventually you will either free me or kill me. I am of no use except as a bargaining chip in this war. Once I’ve served my purpose, you will be rid of me in one way or the other.”
“You’re smarter than you look,” Reylin replied, kneeling next to her. He removed the leather strap that bound her hands and tossed it to the ground. He remained in close proximity, which made Lisalla feel uneasy. She did not know his intentions, and she wished he would move farther away from her.