Welcome to the wolf's domain

“Don't let them take me..... Don't let them take me....” Hymn mumbled in his sleep. “Please Ignite.... Please don't let them.... Please... IGNITE!” Ignite woke up with a start, looking over toward Hymn, “Hymn? Are you alright? …. Hymn?” When the other elf did not answer, Ignite made his way over to him and lightly shook him. Hymn screamed and woke up, “PLEASE!” He looked at Ignite, “O-oh.... It was a dream...” “What was it about? You kept screaming.” Ignite said. Hymn looked away, “I don't want to talk about it.”

Ignite sighed, “Well... It's morning so we better start moving. The sooner we clear out of Oren Forest, the better.” Hymn gave a small nod and silently gathered his stuff. Ignite felt worried, but Hymn wouldn't tell him anything. Hymn wouldn't admit it, but he had a bad feeling, and he was scared. Ignite strapped his sword to his back and put out the fire. “Alright, let's get going. We can eat while we're walking.” He said, holding out a kirit fruit. Hymn took it and ate while following Ignite.

“Marshmallow, I'm honestly worried. Something’s wrong and I know it, why won't you tell me?” “Because it's stupid.” “It's not if you're this worked up about it.” “... It's just a stupid nightmare, don't worry about it.” Hymn mumbled, biting into the fruit. Ignite glanced back at him, but didn't say another word.  They walked in silence for quite a while, then Hymn quickly walked in front of Ignite, holding out his hand for him to stop.

“I smell fire... And it's not you.” He said. Ignite sniffed the air, “Ah... Must be a camp close by. We should stay quiet, and keep our distance.” “Give me a minute.” Hymn said before scaling a tree. Ignite watched and waited. Hymn jumped to a few other trees before he came down and walked back over to Ignite, “I can't see any camps, or smoke for that matter.” he informed.

“That's strange... Well, we'll keep quiet and keep an eye out.” Ignite said, and Hymn nodded in agreement. They began to walk again, the smell of fire was sickening. “It smells like a chemical fire...” Hymn said. The sinking feeling he had just kept getting worse. “Maybe it's a smell that a plant is emitting.” Ignite wondered. “That could be why you didn't see smoke.” Hymn shrugged, he didn't think so.

As they continued to walk, the smell got stronger and stronger. For Hymn. For Ignite, it got more and more faint. “Ignite... I don't feel too well...” Hymn mumbled. Ignite stopped and looked at him, “What's wrong?” “The smell is too sickening... It's too strong.” “You can still smell it? I can't smell it at all anymore. I'm sure Kokori elves don't have a stronger sense of smell than common elves, right?” Hymn shook his head, “No...”

He walked over to a tree and leaned against it. Ignite's ears drooped slightly as Hymn began to vomit. “Are you.... Allergic to kirit fruit?” He hesitantly asked. Hymn shook his head slightly, “No, only okurri fr-” he threw up again before he finished his sentence. “Y-you're certain?” Ignite asked, worried. “YES. I've eaten kirit fruit without this happening before...” Hymn said, as he slumped against the tree. Ignite quickly walked over and helped him stand, “We'll find a place to rest, until you feel better.” Normally, Hymn would protest, but he felt so weak he only leaned on Ignite and nodded.

He didn't even say anything when Ignite picked him up. Ignite carried him to a place he thought looked comfortable but also secluded. He set Hymn down on a soft patch of moss, leaning him against a large boulder. “You should drink some water.” Hymn nodded and pulled a bottle from his bag and drank a little.  “Ughh... I feel so sick...”

Ignite sat across from him and leaned against a tree, “Can you still smell that scent?” Hymn nodded, “Yes... But it's not as strong anymore.” “Well, that's good. We both had a rude awakening this morning. It won't hurt to rest a bit more before continuing.” Ignite said. Hymn nodded, closing his eyes. Ignite sighed, staring at him. After a few minutes, he too dosed off.

He was, again, woken by the sound of Hymn's screams. “Another nightmare?” Ignite murmured, opening his eyes. “Hymn it's-” As he focused, he realized Hymn wasn't where he'd out him. Ignite stood and looked around, “HYMN?! HYMN!” “IGNITE HELP! THEY FOUND ME!” Hymn responded. Ignite unsheathed his sword and followed the sound of Hymn's voice. He came into a clearing and saw Hymn being carried away by a taller elf.

Hymn was trying to get out of the elf's grip, but he couldn't. Ignite grit and he pulled out a knife, throwing it at the kidnapper. It hit them in the neck and they dropped Hymn. Hymn quickly scrambled to his feet and he ran to Ignite. “We need to go! He's from Eryvale! I-I-I don't know how they found me, but... But that smell, they caused it. They did it! It's a smell that makes us Kokori elves sick! I thought they'd given up trying to find me!”

Ignite looked confused, “I thought the elves of Eryvale were all Kokori elves?” Hymn shook his head, “No, Eryvale is a mix of Kokori elves and Ekrosh elves. Please Ignite, we need to leave before more come!” He said, tugging on Ignite's shirt. Ignite could see the fear in his eyes. He nodded, but it was too late. Several more Ekrosh elves dropped down from the trees, surrounding the two.

Ignite grit and held up his sword, ready to fight. “You are nothing but a coward, Hymn Elakhen of Eryvale. A coward, a thief. A criminal. Don't think the elders have forgotten about you, and the harp.” One of the Ekrosh elves said. Ignite growled, “SHUT UP! You know nothing about Hymn! You're just following orders from stupid old people that claim they're wiser than everyone!”

The Ekrosh elf tilted her head, “I've heard of you. Helping this criminal escape his fate. But we have no business with you. Stay out of this. Give him to us unless you want to die.” “Please don't, Ignite...” Hymn begged. “Don't worry Hymn, I'm not going to let them take you.” Ignite said. “Go ahead and try to get past me!” He shouted. The Ekrosh elf nodded, “Very well. Kohra, Meira.” Two others nodded and ran toward Ignite, one in front and one behind.  

Ignite held his ground. Hymn wanted to hide, but instead he opened his potion bag and took one out. He threw it at Meira, the elf coming from behind. She took her sword and smashed the bottle before it hit her. But Hymn hoped for that. The liquid splashed onto Meira and she instantly dropped her sword, “What the?! I can't use my arms!” “You're a fool for breaking the bottle!” Hymn claimed.

Kohra and Ignite clashed swords while the leader continued to bark orders. “Johtir, Rehm!” Jotir and Rehm ran at Hymn and Ignite from the side. Hymn fumbled to get more potions. He threw another one at Johtir, but he dodge. It broke on Rehm instead. “Agh! I can't see! I can't-” Rehm tripped over a stone and impaled himself on his own dagger.  

Ignite continued to fight Kohra, making sure to not leave Hymn's side. Hymn reach into his bag and pulled out what looked to be a short stick and pointed it Johtir. Johtir smirked, “What is that? I thought you were smarter, Hymn of Eryvale, a stick does nothing against a sword.” He claimed, drawing near. Hymn's eyes dulled, “Veh'tyhr.” the 'stick' extended, impaling Johtir. “It's a magical staff, handmade by a powerful sorcerer.” Hymn said as Johtir's eyes widened, dropping his sword.

He grit, grabbing the staff, “An Ekrosh elf doesn't go down so easily.” He claimed, pulling the staff out. He tugged on it, causing Hymn to move with it. Hymn tried to pull it back, but Johtir was much stronger than him and continued to pull the small elf toward himself. Hymn panicked and let go of the staff, backing up toward Ignite.

“Kohra, Johtir, quite slacking and GET HIM.” The leader ordered. Kohra nodded,  knocking Ignite's sword from his hands. Hymn noticed and tried to get another potion, but his hands were shaking so bad he dropped it. He gasped as the bottle broke. “Ignite move!” He said, jumping away from the bottle. Ignite had no time to react as a pale blue mist covered the ground area around Ignite, Kohra, and Johtir. Kohra was about to impale Ignite with her sword, but as the mist touched her, she froze.

“Wh-what is this?!” She growled. Johtir had also stopped in his tracks. Hymn backed away in horror, realized Ignite had also been paralyzed. “It's a.... Paralyzing potion.” Ignite said, staring Hymn. “I-I didn't mean to drop it, you weren't supposed to-” Hymn's heartbeat sped up as he was grabbed. “Ignite...?” He said with a worried expression.

The leader chuckled, lifting Hymn off the ground, “Amir, Cain, Myhr, get the others. We've got what we came for. That other one can't do anything.” Three other Ekrosh elves nodded and retrieved Johtir, Kohra, and Meira. They left Rehm, as he was already dead. The leader used magic to bind Hymn's hands and legs, then threw him over her shoulder. She turned and began to walk away.

"Papa! Papa! Look, I did it!" Tehyr beamed, holding his small flower bracelet up to show his father. Latas smiled, "Good job. It looks very wonderful." "Do you think it will fit Mamma's wrist?" "I don't know. Suma? Could you come here? Tehyr wants to give you something." Latas called. Suma came into the den, "How are my two lovely boys doing?" Latas smiled and Tehyr giggled. "I made this for you! Will it fit?" He gave the bracelet to Suma. "Well, let's see." Suma said, and proceeded to slip the bracelet onto his wrist. "It's a perfect fit!" He said, picking Tehyr up and hugging him. "Thank-you so much for this gift." Tehyr's scales turned pink with happiness, "You're welcome!"

Suma kissed him on the forehead and set him back down. “I'll be going out to hunt soon, what do you want?” “Anything is fine.” Latas replied. “I wanna! Umm... I want to eat a daimhyn!” Tehyr said with a grin. Latas raised a brow at him, then looked at Suma, “Think you can catch one?” Suma nodded, “For Tehyr, I'd catch anything.” He said with a smile.

“Alright. Do you want me to go with you, or...?” “Oh, Irem will be coming with me, you stay here with Tehyr.” Suma said. Latas nodded, knowing some of the other nagas in their region didn't take kindly to their son. And it was normal for a child to be taken if left unattended for a long period of time, and both Suma and Latas wouldn't be able to bear the loss of Tehyr.

“I'll tell you when I'm going to hunt, but for now I'll be outside working with the vines.” Suma informed. “What are you making this time, Mamma?” Tehyr asked. Suma pat his head, “It's a surprise! You stay with Papa for now. Latas, maybe you can taken him down to the stream?” Latas nodded and picked Tehyr up, heading out the den.

“Papa? Do you know what Mamma's making?” “No, he hasn't told me either. It must be special.” He answered with a smile. He took Tehyr down to the stream and set him by the water, then coiled up next to him. Tehyr did hesitate to get into the stream. It wasn't strong enough to pull him with the current, but Latas still kept a careful eye on him.

After a while, Suma approached them with Irem. “We'll be going hunting now, could you take Tehyr back to the den?” He asked to Latas. Tehyr pouted, “But Mamma...” Latas nodded and picked Tehyr up, “C'mon, we'll make some more flower accessories for Mamma while we're waiting for dinner.” “Okay...” Tehyr agreed, wrapping himself around his father. Latas gave Suma a good luck kiss and took Tehyr back to their den.

“What's Mamma's favorite flower?” Tehyr asked as he was set down. “Hmmm... He always says that he likes any of the flowers I bring for him. But between you and I, I think he likes callia flowers the most. These purple ones here.” He said, giving Tehyr a handful of the callia flowers. “How about you make Mamma a crown to go with his bracelet?” Tehyr nodded with a smile, “Okay!” All of a sudden, there was a loud sound outside, and then hollering.

Tehyr looked at Latas with fright as his scales turned red. Latas pulled Tehyr to himself, “Shhh, it's okay. It's probably nothing.” He said, only his scales were a darkish purple, which meant panic. He started moving to the back of the den when Irem came in in a rush, “LATAS!” He turned around, “Irem? Where's Suma?!” “He's fine, we're being attacked. We need your help.” “Attacked? By what? Dragons? Laistryns? Coatls? Please don't say coatls....” Irem's face soured, her scales were the same color as Latas's.

“No, it's the hunters.” Latas's eyes widened, “What?!” “We need your strength! Suma is busy with some of the others, trying to chase them off. I'll stay here with Tehyr, you need to GO.” Latas nodded and let go of his son. Tehyr hugged onto him, “No Papa! I don't want you to go, I'm scared!” Latas pat his head and looked him in the eyes, “I know. But I have to go help your Mamma. You need to be brave, Tehyr. I'll be right back, okay? Irem will stay with you.” Tehyr sniffled but he nodded. “Promise?” “Promise.” With that said, Tehyr let Latas go and he left the den. Irem didn't hesitate to scoop Tehyr up into her arms.

“Don't worry Tehyr, I will protect you, I'll keep you safe.” She said, beginning to dig a hole in a soft patch of dirt. “What are you doing?” Tehyr asked. “I'm going to make sure no one will find you. Do you want to help??” Tehyr nodded, and Irem let him go. They both started digging and digging. Irem was sure to stay alert to her surroundings. If she heard anything, she'd stop and look around. Eventually, she stopped digging entirely. She picked Tehyr back up then put him in the hole. She retrieved a ton of large leaves and started to place them all over the den, so when she place some over Tehyr's hiding spot, it wouldn't be obvious.

“Tehyr, please.... Promise me you will not make a single sound.” “Why? Where are you going?” “I need to help your parents.” “But Papa said-” “TEHYR.” Tehyr stopped talking. Irem sighed and kissed the top of his head, “I love you. And so do your parents. Lie here until we come back. Everything will be just fine.” Tehyr said nothing as she covered his hiding place with leaves and left the den.

He laid there, waiting. He waited to hear his father, mother, Irem, anyone he knew. He heard someone come into the den, but they didn't smell like anyone he'd seen before. The smell was foul, evil even. He kept still, and quiet until he heard them leave. He eventually fell asleep. When he woke up, he didn't hear anything. There was a bright light coming through the leaves. Morning? He thought.

Despite what Irem told him, he slowly came out of his hiding hole. The den was trashed, the air was still. Everything was silent. He was about to call out for his parents when a strong scent hit him. Blood. He knew the smell of blood, but more than that; he knew the smell of Naga blood. His scales turned red again as he crept out of the den. There was no one in sight. There was no trace of the Hunters. He went down to the stream, the area around it was tinged in red.

“I can see the village from here, Ignite, we're close!” Hymn informed, looking down from a tree. Ignite nodded, “Great, we can rest up when we get there, come on down.” Hymn hopped out of the tree, landing next to Ignite. He winced when he hit the ground. “What? What happened?” Ignite asked. Hymn looked at his foot, “I landed on a pebble...” “Oh. See, I tell you all the time to wear boots or something! Is it bleeding?” Hymn put his foot back on the ground, “No.” He lied.

Ignite's ears lowered slightly, “It is, isn't it.” “I said no.” “What you say and what's the truth are sometimes far apart from each other. Fine, I'll carry you to the village and we can restock on bandages.” Hymn frowned, “I don't want to be carried.” “It's not a choice at this point.” Ignite replied. “What?” Without hesitation, Ignite scooped Hymn into his arms and began to walk. “HEY!! Hey, woah put me down! IGNITE!” Ignite ignored Hymn.

Hymn huffed, crossing his arms. “This is embarrassing. At least carry me on your back. And let me put my mask on.” Ignite briefly looked at him, “Promise you won't run down the hill as soon as I let you go?” “.... I'm known not to keep promises.” “Okay then.” Ignite continued walking. “OKAY. I swear I won't run ahead.” Ignite grinned and set Hymn down. Hymn unhooked his mask from his bag and put it on his face, then climbed up onto Ignite's back.

“Wow, you actually didn't run.” Ignite remarked. Hymn huffed again as Ignite headed for the village. Approaching the village entrance, they noticed two guards standing, alert. “Let's find a different village.” Hymn suggested, but Ignite denied, “No. We need to restock our supplies, get bandages for your foot, and I'm exhausted. I want to sleep on a comfy bed tonight, not the ground or a tree.” He walked up to the guards and they stopped him, “Halt, who are you? Your intentions in this village?”

Hymn quickly wrote a note and held it in front of Ignite's face. What did they say? What language? That's not Elvish. Ignite moved the note, “They're speaking speaking Kovesh.” Ignite replied before speaking to the guards in their language. “We're travelers. We happened to spot this village from afar and planned to restock our supplies, get a good night's sleep, and a bite to eat. We'd love to stay here for a few nights.” The guards looked at each other, then back at Ignite, “A Kovesh speaker... Alright. But if you pull your weapons out on anyone, you'll be thrown out.”

Ignite nodded understandingly and they let him past. The first noticeable thing was the large palace near the back of the village. “I hate not being able to understand what anyone says.” Hymn mumbled. Ignite chuckled, “Well, I've told you to study languages with me, but you're too fixed on your potions and that harp.” “The MAGICAL harp of Quod Aurea Solis, might I remind you.” “Yea yea yea. Let's get bandages for your foot.”

He carried Hymn over to a shop that sold medicines. “Excuse me, do you sell bandages here?” Ignite asked the salesperson. She nodded and pointed, “We do, right over there.” Ignite smiled and nodded a thank-you, then went to the bandages. “Cloth cloth cloth.....” He mumbled, looking at the different types. Hymn poked him, then whispered, “What if we don't have the right currency...?” “Don't worry, almost anyone accepts gold coins. And that we have a lot of. Ah! Cloth bandages!” He grabbed the bandages and handed them to Hymn, “Hold these.”

Hymn did so and Ignite looked at the different medicines. He took a few of them and made Hymn hold those too. He went back to the salesperson and Hymn put them on the counter. “Is that all?” The salesperson asked. Ignite nodded. “Usually, it would come to fifty korosh. But you don't have any korosh, do you?” Ignite shook his head no. “Okay, that comes to two hundred and twenty-three gold coins.” Ignite nodded and paid the salesperson. “Thank-you for the business. I hope to see you again.” She said and Ignite left the shop with the items.

He spotted a bench and set Hymn down on it. “Alright, don't kick me in the face.” He said as he took a pasty medicine and put it on Hymn's wound. “Was that supposed to sting?” Hymn asked. “No, you just kick me all the time.” Ignite replied, wrapping a bandage around Hymn's foot. “There, all done.” He said after tying it. “Great. Now I don't have to be carried. Now let's find a tavern or something.”

“Hello there.” A voice was heard as a man approached them. Ignite stood, “Hello.” “Oh, you speak  Kovesh?” Ignite nodded, “Yes. Well, I do, but not my friend. I'm Ignite, and this is Hymn, like a song.” The man nodded, “I see. Your friend is quite shy, isn't she.” “Oh, yea. But he's a guy.” Ignite corrected. “Ah, I'm sorry...” The man bent down, toward Hymn, who grabbed Ignite's shirt. “How old is he?” “Nine hundred ninety-seven years old.” Ignite replied plainly. “What?!” The man looked at him. “Nine hundred?!” Ignite laughed, “Yup. He's just short because he's a Kokori elf. I'm a common elf, I'm actually two years younger than him.”

The man stared at him in disbelief. Hymn frowned behind his mask, he had no idea what they were saying. But considering the man bent down toward him, he figured it was about his height and age. The man straightened up, “I see. Well, my name is Sother.” “It's very nice to meet you.” Ignite grinned. “Oh, the pleasure's all mine! It's always nice when handsome traveler's come here.” Sother said. The tips of Ignite's ears turned pink, “Pardon?”

Sother smiled kindly, “With those ears, I'm sure you heard me. Please, I welcome you to dine in my home.” “Oh, uhh.... I don't know...” Ignite rubbed his neck. Hymn tugged on his shirt, making him look down. The Kokori elf proceeded to sign 'I'm hungry hurry up'. “Um.... Okay, we'll accept.” Ignite said, looking back at Sother. Sother grinned, “Great! My home is this way!” He pointed to the palace. Ignite's ears drooped slightly as his eyes widened, “The... Palace?” Sother nodded, “Yes. Oh, don't worry, I'm not one of the servants or guards or anything. The head of the village is my mother.” Ignite swallowed hard, “I see.”

“Come on, it's close to dinner time.” Sother began to walk toward the palace. Ignite looked at Hymn, “He's like, the prince of this village. He's invited us to eat at the palace.” Unseen behind his mask, Hymn's eyes widened and he gasped. Then he started following after Sother. “Hymn!” Ignite followed as well.

As Sother lead them into the palace, many guards stared. Ignite heard a few murmuring behind them. “I see he brought another one to sleep with...” “Shhh, he'll hear you.” “You know it's true. He's going to try to bed with him. You saw the smile, same as I.” “Shut up.” “Who do you think the other one is? The small one?” “How should I know?” Either Sother hadn't heard them or he was ignoring them, as he didn't retaliate. However, Ignite frowned and was having second thoughts about coming to the palace.

One of the servants drew near as they were walking. “Sir, dinner is ready.” “Splendid! Please set two more places for our guests.” Sother replied. The servant bowed, “Certainly.” then walked away. Sother smiled at Ignite, “I can't wait for you to meet my mother. She's a very kind woman, and I'm quite sure she'll like your little friend. The dining area is this way.” “I'm sure she is...” Ignite replied, continuing to follow him.

Once seated at the table, the food was brought out. What was a simple dinner to Sother looked like a feast to Ignite and Hymn. Hymn's eyes sparkled behind his mask as he looked at all the food. “We will wait for my mother before with dine.” Sother informed. “While we are waiting, how about you tell me a bit more about yourself, Ignite?” Ignite's attention focused back to Sother, “Uh.... Well... I'm quite good at making medicines, and I'm very skillful with a sword. Broadsword.”

Sother nodded, “I see. What else? Where did you get your jewelry?” “Oh, I received my necklace and earring from my home village. It helps channel my magic.” “Magic? How interesting. Would-” Sother noticed Hymn piling his plate with food and stopped talking. Ignite was confused at first, then noticed his gaze. “Hymn! We have to wait for his mother!” He spoke in Elvish. Hymn looked at him and his ears drooped as he set his plate down. He quickly signed 'Sorry', then looked at his lap.

“What does that mean? When he moves his hands like that?”  Sother asked. “Oh, it's a language. He doesn't speak.” Ignite answered. “Oh? He is a mute?” “Ummm.....” Ignite looked at Hymn, then back at Sother. As he was about to answer, the large door opened and a tall woman walked in. “Ah, I see you've brought guests, Sother.” “Yes Mother. They're travelers, and they are very friendly. That is Ignite, and that is Hymn. Like a song apparently.” “I see. Why does that one wear a mask?” “I'm not sure...” Sother answered, looking toward Ignite. “Hm? Oh... I'm not quite sure either.” Ignite said, then looked at Hymn, “Take your mask off.”

Hymn had to do so to eat anyways, so he did as told, hooking it back to his bag and then shaking his head so his bangs fell into the right place. Sother's mother gasped and covered her mouth, “Oh my! Those eyes are absolutely stunning! And you, you speak Kovesh!” Ignite nodded and Hymn raised a brow. He signed 'Thank-you'. “He says thank-you.” Ignite translated. “He's simply adorable.” The woman said, sitting.

“Ah, how rude of me not to introduce myself. My name is Kahvera, I am the head of this village. What brings you here, might I ask?” “To the palace? Your son. We came to the village to restock our supplies, and rest up for a few days.” Ignite answered. “Ah, I see. Yes, my son certainly has a way with bringing others home. I hope you enjoy your stay.” Ignite smiled and nodded slightly. “Well, let us eat!” Sother said. Hymn grinned and quickly started eating what he'd put on his plate.

After the meal, Ignite thanked both Sother and Kahvera for their kindness. “Why don't you stay and spend the night as well?” Sother suggested. “The beds here are far more comfortable that the beds at the taverns, and you're welcome to stay as long as you would like.” “Thank-you, but I'm afraid we must decline.” Ignite replied, with a small bow. “You are very kind.” “Are you sure?” Sother questioned. “You could sleep in my chambers.” “Quite certain.” Ignite said quickly, glad that Hymn couldn't understand. They were strangers, and Hymn would not have taken kindly to that offer.

Sother sighed and nodded understandingly, “Alright then. I hope to see you tomorrow perhaps.” Ignite slightly smiled, then followed Hymn out of the palace. “That food was so goooood... Whatever they are, they know how to feast!” Hymn said, once out of the courtyard. “Kohveers certainly do.” Ignite agreed. “Kohveers, eh... Let's hurry up and find a tavern or something, I'm tired.” Ignite chuckled, “Alright, whatever you say Marshmelody.”

They found a place to spend the night. Ignite had a peaceful night's sleep, but Hymn did not. Both were woken by loud knocking on the door. Hymn put a pillow over his head, whilst Ignite frowned. “Do you mind?! There are people trying to sleep in here!” “I'm sorry, but this is urgent!” a familiar voice replied. Ignite sat up, “Sother?” “Yes!” Hymn groaned, but Ignite stood and opened the door. “What's wrong?” “I'm so sorry to disturb your rest, but it's about my mother. Her ring was stolen last night.”

Ignite raised a brow, “Ring...?” Sother nodded, “Well, it would not be so urgent if it were one of her regular rings. But the stolen one is quite special. It's hand crafted by a powerful sorcerer, deceased since long ago. That ring had been passed down our family for centuries.” “Why are you telling me this, exactly? It seems quite strange.” “Because, I would like to have you and your friend help find the thief.”

Ignite looked even more confused, “...... Why? I don't mean to sound rude, but... You don't quite know us, we've met only yesterday, very short time to develop this high of trust.” Sother nodded, “Normally, I would not do this. But your friend, he's a Kokori elf you said. I've heard of Kokori elves. And you can use magic.” Ignite sighed, “Well I can't exactly... Cont-” Before he could finish his sentence, a pillow hit him in the head. Hymn's pillow.

Ignite frowned and looked back at Hymn. Hymn was also frowning. Ignite sighed and looked back at Sother, “Is there a reward?” “Oh, of course! If you manage to find the ring, or whoever stole it, I'll pay you handsomely in gold.” Sother said. “We'll do it.” Ignite replied. Sother clasped his hands together, “Oh thank-you! I knew you would! I'll be at the palace, come to me for anything you need.” He said, before leaving.

Ignite closed the door and looked at Hymn, who was grinning. “ His mother's ring was stolen. You stole the ring, didn't you...” Hymn's grin turned to offense, “Hey! Why would you convict me of that?!” Ignite sighed, “Harp.” “That's.... Different.” “Flute.” “Uh... Also different.” “You've stolen a lot of other things, Hymn.” “Don't you trust me?” “Not really, considering it was a special ring and you probably noticed it at dinner yesterday.” Hymn fell silent. He stared for a moment, then nodded, “WELL, I did see the ring, and I DID know what it was. But I didn't steal it from that lady.”

“Alright, I'm going to choose to believe you.” “THANK-you. Now, let's go catch a thief!” After dressing and gathering their stuff, they set out to find the ring. Hymn thought for a second, “Now, being who I am-” “A thief.” “I'm sure I can determine entry point, exit route, and where they've gone based on where the ring was.” “Well, where was it, Hymn?” Ignite asked. Hymn glared at him. “I'm kidding. Let's get information from Sother.” Hymn nodded and they made their way to the palace.

The guards stopped them when they tried to enter, but Sother came to them from the courtyard, “They're my friends. What do you need?” He asked kindly. “We need to know where the ring was before it was stolen.” “Well, my mother usually keeps it locked in a small chest, near her bed.” “Are there any windows by where she keeps it?” “No, the windows are across the room from her bed.” Sother answered. Ignite nodded, thinking. “Oh, and the whole chest was stolen.” Sother added. “What does the chest look like?” “Silver with gold lining and amyther crystals.” “Alright. Thank-you. We'll report back if we find anything.” Ignite said, then left with Hymn.

“Let's try to find the chest at least.” He suggested. Hymn nodded in agreement. “Let's check alleys and then the sewers.” “Should we split up?” “No. Because if I find the chest, you'll think I actually did steal it. In fact, you can lead the search.” Ignite put his hands up in defense, “Okay okay. I'm sure a thief would consider the alleyways too open still. So let's check the sewers. I saw an entrance over this way.” He began to walk and Hymn followed.

“You better not carry me down there.” Hymn said. “Hm? Why would I?” “Oh, I thought you'd say something like... Your foot could get infected.” “OH, right, put your boots on.” “.... I don't want to. And I don't have to if I don't want to. You can't tell me what to do, because I'm older.” “For someone older, you sure act like a child. Go ahead and get a diseased foot. Just don't yell at me when I cut it off with no hesitation, so you don't die from the infection.” Hymn frowned, but he put his boots on before they entered the sewers.

“Alright, we're looking for a small silver chest, gold lining and amyther crystals.” Ignite informed. Hymn nodded, “Alright. It's kind of dark...” “I'd use my magic, but...” “Yea, I know. But I have a potion that'll work.” Hymn opened his potion bag and took out two. He poured one into the other, then put the empty bottle back in the bag. He shook the other bottle and it started to glow. Ignite grinned, “Great, that's better.”

Hymn smiled and they started to search around. It wasn't long before Ignite found something suspicious. “Hymn, look at this...” He said, kneeling down and pointing to a thin string leading down the walkway. “That's odd. Let's follow it.” Hymn said. Ignite nodded and they followed the string. It lead down the walkway then into the water. Ignite knelt down again, Huh....” Hymn set down the potion and picked the string up, carefully pulling so it wouldn't snap. “There's something attached to this.” He informed as he continued pulling. He eventually pulled out a cloth bag that was attached to the string. He set it down then opened it.

Ignite gasped, “Well, would you look at that. It's our missing chest. Let's get it to Sother.” Hymn nodded, and they headed back to the palace. Sother greeted them at the gate again, “What did you find?” He asked. Hymn held up the chest. “You found it! Where was it?” “The sewers.” Ignite answered. “I see... The lock is broken.” Sother said, then opened the chest. “...... Ahh.... The ring is gone. The guards have searched the whole village, and found nothing.”

“Well, it was attached to a string, so maybe the thief will come back looking for the chest. You can deploy guards down in the sewers to catch whoever it is.” Sother nodded thoughtfully, “That might work... We'll do that. Thank-you for your help. Here, take this.” He took the pouch strapped to his belt and gave it to Ignite. “I told you I would pay you for your help.” Ignite looked at the pouch, “But... We didn't find the ring, or the thief.”

Sother smiled, “That's alright, this chest is quite priceless. If you couldn't already tell by the amyther.” Ignite nodded, “Okay.” “Will you be dining with us tonight?” Ignite shook his head, “No, Hymn and I should get moving. We would have loved to stay a few more days, but...” “I understand. You're always welcome here, as my friend.” Sother said, holding out his hand. Ignite shook it, “Thank-you.”

After they left the village and went back to the forest, they stopped to rest by a river. Hymn leaned against a tree and searched his bag as Ignite got washed up. “So... Marshmallow...” Ignite said. Hymn looked up. “... You stole the ring, didn't you.” Hymn grinned, “Of COURSE I did! You thought I'd leave a ring like this behind?! Hah!” Hymn said, holding up the ring. “So you lied to me.” Ignite said.

“Ignite, how long before we reach the town?” Hymn asked. There was a slight teeter to his walk. “It's hard to say exactly, but maybe another hour or two. Why? Do you need a break?” Ignite replied, from the lead. “No, no, I'm just...” “Just? Marshmelody?” Ignite turned around to see that Hymn had fallen to the ground. “Hymn! Are you alright?” His ears drooped as he rushed over and knelt, turning Hymn over.  “Oh, geez, you're burning up! Hymn, Hymn pay attention to me.” He shook Hymn, but the other elf didn't seem to be focused.

“HYMN, talk to me!” Ignite urged. “I feel like I'm gonnaaa.... The trees are spinning.” Hymn answered. “Oh sweet queen Eluna.....” Ignite said under his breath and shook Hymn again, “Snap out of it! Come on! Look at me!” “Which one?” Hymn said, with a sarcastic tone. Ignite frowned, taking a deep breath, “Now is not the time. Okay, Hymn. You need to focus. How long have you been feeling ill?” “How long... I don't know, a few days...” “DAYS?! Do you know what caused this?”

Hymn shook his head. “Okay... Do you have any potions you think might cure this?” Ignite asked, worried. Hymn shook his head again. “Can you tell me how to make one that will??” Hymn didn't respond. “Hymn? HYMN?” Ignite shook him, but he didn't stir. “Why didn't you tell me?! Ugh...” Ignite picked Hymn up, laying him over his shoulder, and stood. He carried him to a large tree near a small pond and set him down. “I'll be right back. Even though I don't think you're conscious...” “Shut up...” Hymn murmured.

Ignite hesitated, then left Hymn by the tree to gather a few things. It didn't take long before he came back. He rolled out a large leaf and put several other things on top; flowers, some other leaves, a small metal cup with sap in it, and some twigs. He picked up a stone and began to mash the leaves and  flowers, then put them in the cup with the sap. He put the twigs together, then closed his eyes. His necklace and earring started to glow as he concentrated. “You better not set me on fire.” Hymn said weakly.

Ignite's jewelry stopped glowing and he glared at the Kokori elf. But it was true he couldn't quite control his magic, so he thought it best to strike a piece of flint with a knife instead. Doing so, he lit a fire and put the metal cup over it. Taking the knife and stirring the substance, he waited for it to come to a boil before moving it off the fire quickly and setting the cup on the ground. “Cool cool cool.... Cool faster!” He growled, frowning. He glanced at Hymn, who looked even worse than before. He thought about dipping the cup into the pond, but he wouldn't be able to without burning himself. He waited for the cup and substance to cool before folding a leaf into a different cup and pouring the liquid inside.

He moved back over to Hymn and shook him awake, “Drink this. It's medicine.” He claimed. Hymn barely opened his eyes, “It smells horrible...” “Yea, it probably tastes horrible too. But you NEED to drink it!” “No.” “HYMN, I will not repeat myself over and over! DRINK IT!” Ignite yelled, bringing the cup to the other elf's lips. Hymn scowled, but drank the medicine. “Ughhh...”

Ignite put the cup down after Hymn was done, “Hopefully that will cure you come morning.” He said, laying beside him. “... I'm sorry for yelling at you. I'm just worried.” Hymn struggled to move as he turned and laid his head on Ignite's chest, surprising him. “I'm not dying before I reach a thousand years.” He murmured. Ignite swallowed hard, “Yea... But... You should have told me, Hymn. It didn't have to get this bad. Please, if you ever feel sick, tell me. I'll make medicine for you. You may make potions, but it's not the same. So promise, okay? ….. Hymn? Hymn?” Hymn had already fallen asleep. Ignite sighed, “Rest well, Marshmallow.”

The next day, the bright light wasn't enough to wake Ignite. In fact, it was a kharadiya that woke him, with a big, slobbery lick. Ignite woke up with a start and looked at the animal. “Oh... Hey there buddy, what are you doing?” The kharadiya wagged it's tail, sitting down and looking towards Hymn. Ignite followed it's gaze to where Hymn was laying halfway in the pond. “HYMN!” Ignite stood and rushed to him, turning him over. Hymn wasn't breathing. “How did this happen?! HYMN WAKE UP!!”

Ignite sat the other up and shook him slightly. “I can hear his heart, but...” Ignite bent Hymn over and firmly pat him on the back. Hymn started coughing. “Yea yea, get it out...” Hymn's breathing was raspy, as he continued to cough, then he threw up. The kharadiya whined and ran away. Ignite cursed and turned Hymn to himself, “Hymn, can you focus? What happened?” “I was...... Too hot....” Hymn whimpered. He wheezed and coughed again. Ignite grit, “You're still burning up... The medicine didn't work... Okay, that's it.”

Ignite helped Hymn back over to the tree. He gathered his stuff and strapped his sword to his back, then picked Hymn up, this time carrying him bridal style. He proceeded to carry him all the way to the nearest town, the one they had been heading to. Upon entering, he began asking for help, but all he got were strange looks. “Someone? PLEASE? Help me! I don't know what's wrong! I need a cure! Please help! Why are you running away?!” A young woman approached him. She didn't look like an elf, but she didn't look quite human either. Ignite looked at her. “Will you help? Please?” The woman raised a brow, confused.

Ignite continued his plea, “Tua amin! Lle rangwa amin? ….... Lle quena i'lambe tel' Eldalie?” [Translation: Help me! Do you understand me? Do you speak Elvish?] The woman remained confused. Ignite cursed, “She doesn't speak Elvish.... I don't know what language to speak...” “Are you alright?” The woman spoke. Ignite understood her perfectly, “YOU SPEAK AEKILI!!!” He shouted, in the same language as the woman. The woman backed away, startled. “Oh, I'm sorry! I just... I need help, my friend here is sick and I don't know how to cure him. He's been ill a few days, but he hadn't told me, and now it's worse. I tried giving him efrali, and herbal medicine, but it didn't work!”

The woman raised her hand, “Hush. I'll help you and your friend. What is your name?” “Ignite. This is Hymn. Like a song.” “I see. Follow me.” She began to walk away, Ignite quickly followed. She lead him to a hut where she had him set Hymn down on a mat. “My mother will cure him.” Ignite nodded, “What will you use?” “.... Magic.” The woman replied. Ignite wasn't sure, but he nodded. He stayed by Hymn's side, refusing to leave even when the woman's mother asked him to.

After a few hours, Hymn finally woke. He stared at the ceiling, then sat up quickly, “WHERE-” “Shhhh.” Ignite interrupted. “You need rest. I found help for you. We're in the town. A woman here said her mother would cure you, with magic.” Hymn looked at him, “What?” “How do you feel?” “..... Actually, I do feel better... A lot better. But tired... Wait, where's my-” “Your harp is in your bag, your bag is right here.” Ignite held it up. “You need more rest, I won't leave. I'm glad you're well.” “Uhm... Thanks. For helping me. You did a lot for me, to make sure I was well.”