Pillars of Age

A Dark Elven Dream

AUVEDA

Auveda stepped out of the dense forest into a small moonlit clearing, her silver hair shimmering under the twin moons. Flanked by Vaethur and Atvae, she moved with an air of authority. Her emerald eyes, sharp and vigilant, scanned the opposite treeline, anticipating danger.

The forest was bathed in an otherworldly glow, Hetir's full moon having just passed and Zorhav nearing its peak. On nights like this, only the 17th of Gahizta could rival the brightness. The three figures at the clearing's edge were starkly illuminated, their forms unmistakable.

"Now!" Auveda's command was low but firm, her twin silver blades gleaming as she drew them.

Vaethur and Atvae swiftly retreated into the shadows, just as a volley of arrows rained down. Auveda's eyes tracked each one with precision. Her body moved fluidly, her swords a blur of silver as they intercepted and shattered the incoming projectiles. Splinters of wood and feathers fell at her feet, none touching her.

Another wave of arrows followed; this time aimed solely at her. Auveda's swords moved with preternatural speed, each strike perfectly timed to destroy the arrows before they reached her. The ground around her was littered with broken shafts.

With the immediate threat neutralized, Auveda stepped forward, her eyes never leaving the treeline. A few arrows flew in erratic rhythms, easily destroyed by her swift movements.

Suddenly, a commotion erupted from the forest. Clashing weapons and cries of pain filled the air. Vaethur's voice rang out, "One is escaping, I'll pursue!"

Auveda advanced into the trees with purpose. She soon came upon the aftermath of a skirmish: Dark Elf bodies lay scattered wtih their black and brown leather armor stained by their red blood. Their distinctive crossbows and large knives were strewn about.

Forest Phantoms stood near their fallen enemies, their expressions uneasy at Auveda's approach.

"Any survivors?" Auveda asked, her voice calm but firm.

"None, as you predicted, Lady Auveda. They ensured we couldn't capture or incapacitate them," Atvae replied.

"Then Vaethur's quarry is the only one left?" Auveda inquired.

"Yes," Atvae confirmed.

"Atvae, take me to Vaethur. The rest of you, search the bodies for any information—maps, letters, anything."

Atvae nodded and sprinted off, with Auveda following closely. They quickly caught up to Vaethur, who was waiting beside an unconscious Dark Elf.

"You are always swift, Vaethur," Atvae praised.

"Is she still alive?" Auveda asked, examining the prone figure.

"Yes, only minor bruises. She's subdued," Vaethur replied.

The Dark Elf woman lay unconscious, her breathing steady, her face serene despite the rope binding her wrists.

"You are skilled at this," Auveda remarked, her tone even.

Vaethur laughed lightly. "Atvae, did that sound like praise to you?" he teased.

Atvae, caught between humor and duty, simply frowned.

"Lift her into a sitting position, and support her so she doesn't fall," Auveda instructed, producing a small vial.

Vaethur and Atvae complied, and Auveda administered the contents to the Dark Elf, pressing her cheek to ensure she swallowed.

"Don't move suddenly, and stay silent," Auveda warned, her gaze intense. Both complied without hesitation.

The Dark Elf convulsed slightly, then murmured weakly, "Where am I?"