Vuroth's Tear: Even the Gods Cry

Chapter 28

Chapter 28

"The village is only a few hours away," Velana looked at the others, "I haven't been there for a long time and humans aren't generally allowed to stay so we may be on our way without any time to rest."

Aven spoke up, "If humans aren't allowed to stay, what about Analda?"

"I'm sure that Jazel is keeping her safe. If Stein didn't let Analda stay, my sister left with her. If they aren't in the village, they won't be far and we will find them."

"Sanub wasn't happy that we left with you, he may still be furious," Resh warned, "He still doesn't let go of grudges."

"Then I will handle him as well, if I need to," Was all she said.

"I dunno about you, but I'm not too comfortable going into a village full of werewolves who don't like outsiders. Really doesn't seem like a great idea, you know, us being outsiders and everything," Whispered Donovan to Aven.

Aven glanced at his friend, "If Analda is there, that is where I'm going. Stay behind if you want."

"Hah, and leave you, the battle magnet, to your own devices?" Donovan laughed, "I'll take my chances with the mutts."

Resh and Velana both stopped walking and looked at him.

"Sorry," he said and looked away, Aven laughed and shook his head as he stepped over a rotted log in his path.

Velana and Resh led the way into the clearing with the circle of huts, Aven, Donovan and Dravis followed close behind. Everyone who saw them stopped what they were doing and stared, uneasy at the sight of more humans in their home.

Velana stopped Resh, "We need to see Stein and find out if Jazel and Analda are here. I just hope he's not unhappy to see me."

"I'm sure you will be welcomed back into the pack if you want to stay," Resh said with hope.

"I only stay for as long as my friends do, Resh, you know that," She replied. He nodded and they continued towards Stein's hut. Resh signed for everyone to wait outside before disappearing behind the curtain in the doorway.

Stein smiled at him, "I have been waiting for you to return. How did you and Toth fare in your travels?"

Resh let his head fall, "Toth was lost, overwhelmed in battle. He died fighting."

"With great honor, I am sure. I am sincerely sorry for your loss, Resh." He laid a consoling hand on the mourning young man's shoulder.

Resh lifted his head and spoke in a nervous tone, "I have guests who wish to speak with you."

The old man sighed and brushed his beard, "More humans, I assume?" He stepped outside following Resh and smiled when he saw Velana standing before him, "Velana, my darling daughter, I have missed you," He said and hugged her tight, "and who are your friends?"

"This is Donovan, Dravis and Aven," She pointed to each of them as she said their names.

Stein forced a smile, "It's a pleasure to meet you all."

Resh decided to leave them to their conversation and went to talk with others who roamed the village.

Velana knew Stein wasn't thrilled about all being in the village, "We aren't looking to stay long. We were only hoping for a little time to recover from our journey and then we will take Analda and be off."

"Where is she?" Aven interrupted.

"Aven, is it?" Stein's smile was more genuine now, "She should be in Jazel's hut, it's that one right over there." He pointed.