The forgotten

Part 2

(authors note- I had much more written and ready to publish, but due to unfortunate circumstances lost my work. I will be rewriting abd am open to comments and suggestions.)

Staggering to his feet Brolan cast his gaze about, searching for the dark foe. His dazed eyes fell upon nothing more than a gaping hole in the same spot he had last seen the beast. Assuring himself slowly that the threat was no longer imminent, he quickly checked himself for injuries and finding none, decided to head immediately for his village.

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"i'm telling you exactly what happened!" Exclaimed Brolan, "why would I tell such a fanciful story?"

Shaking his head doubtfully, the barman spoke up, "Sounds like yer making a lousy excuse for getting sloshed on the hunt, and returning empty handed." Murmurs of agreement passed through the onlooking crowd as several townspeople traded knowing looks. Brolan cursed under his breath while shaking his head.

"Just because a man has fallen upon hard times and taken to ale for easing his burdens, doesn't necessarily label him a drunkard." Came a voice from the door. All eyes looked upon the newcomer to see the town healer, Joseph. He continued speaking, "before we cast our doubts let us ask for proof. Brolan, can you take us to the site of the attack? So that we may see with our own eyes, the proof of your claims?"

"Thats an excellent idea, thank you," Brolan said with an acknowledging nod, "who will follow me back to the banks of the river?" He asked while mentally kicking himself for not thinking of this sooner.

Joseph was the first to volunteer, " I will go," he spoke as he turned to walk outside. He was shortly followed by several more of the men who had gathered. Brolan hurried outside and after catching the attention of the few following him, He began to lead the way.

"Wait!" Shouted one of the men, "if you really were attacked, shouldn't we bring along weapons, in case of another monster?"

"yes, thats a great idea. Those of you wanting weapons, go and get them. The rest of us shall wait here." Joseph commanded.

After the men had hurried toward their respective homes, Joseph turned to Brolan, "Was your story completely unembellished, or fanciful rantings?"

"completely truthful," Brolan said, "i have no reason to lie"

A grim look passed across Joseph's face, but was quickly replaced by an unemotional expression. A few of the men began returning, carrying the first weapons that they had come upon. A few had wood axes, one even had a pitchfork. Select few had actual defensive items. Joseph couldn't help but grin at the ragtag gathering, "break out a few torches, and this could be the angry mob that runs Brolan out of town," he quipped.

"dont give us any ideas," one man yelled.

Joseph spoke with an authoritative voice, " Those of you without blades, may as well head home, you'll just be in the way if anything happens. Other than that, if we are all ready?" He turned questioning eyes towards Brolan.

"Yes, follow me," Brolan stated, heading once again toward the earlier created crater.