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[daltonreed]

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The half moon shined down through the treetops barely lighting my way. I had been to Ilshenar before in my travels, but this time was different some how; it was as though even the trees wanted to be rid of me, and I couldn't help but feel as if someone were watching my every move.

As the night wore on and my tensions rose, I allowed Elderwind, my mount to carry me deeper into the forest with every step. Suddenly, I began to see a glow in the distance. Soft at first , but growing brighter as I drew near.

When I was no farther away than a wyvern's wing span, the light began to dart with amazing speed among the trees. I stared in amazement as the curious glow seemed to be getting faster. It wasn't until the flash of light and suddenly feeling the strength leave my body did I realize my mistake.

As Elderwind rared back, it took all my effort to grip the horse's bareback with my legs, and not be thrown to the ground. As the frightened animal brought all four feet to rest on the ground, I reached back retrieving one of the few arrows I had with me, and readied my bow. Pulling back on the string, waves of heat and pain sailed up my arm.

"The little pest's magic hasn't worn off yet", I thought to myself.

Gathering my thoughts I took careful aim, not knowing how many chances I would have. I tracked the light from branch to branch. Feeling sure, I closed my eyes, held my breath, and let the bow string slip from my fingers.

It seemed like an eternity, but I opened my eyes just in time to see the last faint glimmer of light fade out.

Being grateful to Shai, for pushing me through my training, I let the air slowly escape from my lungs.

Loosening my grip on the bow, I leaned forward in an attempt to calm Elderwinds nerves. Then I noticed something that made my still mortal heart skip a beat.

At first it was just a single glow, much like before. Then there was a second, and then a third. Suddenly, as if a thousand stars were born in an instant, the night was a glow with a blinding light.

Sensing the danger I was in I pulled on the reins, hoping that Elderwind had more strength than I.

"Hiya", I yelled, as I drove my heels into the horse's flanks.

As we drove through the forest a blurry pace, I could see the glow growing brighter around the edges of my hood. When I began to look back, hoping for some distance between me and my pursuers, I only saw a shimmer in the air as the bolt of energy closed the distance striking me in the forehead.

As I felt myself fall, and then hit the ground the last thing I saw before I slipped into unconsciousness, was Elderwind disappearing into the trees.

The world went dark.....

Dalton Reed V|O