Arvellon turns instantaneously upon discerning the near silent opening of the cottage door and narrows his eyes as he watches Amethyst descend the steps, noting the bow and quiver strapped tightly to her spine.
"Vedui, Lady Amethyst," he murmurs in a slightly impatient tone.
Amethyst braces herself and conjures a tight smile upon her face before answering softly, "Vedui Arvellon. Have you been here all night?"
The solemn Elf gives no answer and she passes him with a slight nod of the head, but after just a few paces she hears him sigh and his next question takes her by surprise... "Manke naa lye autien (Where are we going), my Lady?"
She raises her eyebrows and a genuine smile flashes across her features. "So I will not require another lecture about staying safely at home today?"
Arvellon approaches Amethyst and towers over her, but his tone is even as he replies, "No, my Lady, I know you are used to visiting the farming folk beyond Cheshire after Market Day. I will accompany you as you attend to your chores and make certain we are back at the Cottage well before dusk."
Amethyst McMahon inclines her head in thanks, thinking it best not to reply and perhaps incur another lecture or change of heart from the aloof Elf. Arvellon was one of Jaek's most trusted aides and a renowned Ranger. She knew he must be frustrated at having to spend each day guarding the Cottage and ensuring her safety, while his brethren were hunting Drow... even if he had been personally asked by the Master Druid to remain at her side during his absence.
They walk in silence towards Cheshire, cross Remembrance Bridge and move swiftly among the trees until they reach the first farmhouse, just beyond the walls of the town.
Here Amethyst began her weekly visit with the farmers and their families from these parts, hearing their concerns and assuring herself as to their health and happiness....
* * * * * * * * *
Amethyst McMahon waves farewell to Sarah, widowed a year now, but surprisingly positive in her outlook and joyous at the further success of her farm. The past year had seen her take on hired help for the heavy farmwork, but the rest was her doing these days and she seemed content with the progress. Her only worry had been the gossip about Drow sightings each night around the town and forest and Amethyst had been able to say very little to reassure the young woman. The danger was hanging about the Lands like a dense fog in winter time...
Arvellon looks around in agitation as Amethyst says her goodbyes and as she joins him on the path leading away from the town, he speeds his pace, his gaze constantly screening the area around them.
Amethyst begins to jog to keep up with the Ranger and addresses him apologetically, "I apologise for taking so long, but there was much to discuss and many fears to calm today."
Arvellon replies frostily, "The sun has set, my Lady. You know that the Lands are no longer safe, especially after darkness has fallen. We must return you to your home immediately," and he hastily climbs the stairs leading to the bridge, constantly scanning the river and path ahead.
As they reach the other bank and the path leading to Druid Cottage, Arvellon suddenly halts, turning abruptly to Amethyst, his voice low and even. "There are Drow about, Amethyst. An armed male is ahead of us on this path, there may be others among the trees. Remain close behind me and draw your bow. Do not make a sound."
Amethyst flinches at the Elves words, her eyes darting into the shadows ahead as she reaches for her bow, trying to make as little noise as possible. She marvels at the detached attitude of her companion as her own heart begins to race.
Arvellon motions for Amethyst to stay close behind him as they use the trees and scrub for cover, slowing following the lone Drow as he moves without apparent haste along the path ahead.
The Elf murmurs softly to Amethyst, "I believe the Drow is alone, but we need not take any chances. There may be others behind us or among the trees. The Cottage lies directly before us. We shall continue to follow and see if the Cottage is his target."
Amethyst holds her breath and nods, remaining close to Arvellon as they shadow the Drow. She looks down at the bow at her side, tapping against her skirt as her hands beginning to shake. Fear of calling attention to their presence leaves her mute.
After only a short while, the Drow's intentions become clear. The Cottage seems to be his destination as there is little else situated this far into the forest under Calenhad.
Amethyst examines their position, but just as she opens her mouth to point out a possible course of action, Arvellon swiftly pulls her behind a large oak.
Her eyes dart towards the Drow and she gasps as searching eyes cross directly to their location, his hand unsheathing his blade.
"Rima (Run)!", Arvellon hisses through clenched teeth, pushing Amethyst back towards the path they had just covered. His focus is solely on the solitary Drow, slowly creeping towards the ancient tree protecting the Elven Ranger.
Amethyst watches the scene enfold, her heartbeat loud within her ears and she hesitates only a moment before spinning about and rushing across the pathway, placing herself directly within range of the Drow's flying blade. She hears Arvellon's shout, but the commotion behind her is soon drowned out as she reaches for the rope and begins pulling frantically to set the alarm bell ringing across the Lands...
To be continued...
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