THE WOODLAND GUARD’S glared at Jack more fiercely with each order he shouted. They followed his instruction and were fearless in battle when a creature was located and dispatched. Nevertheless, they appeared to despise him. Jack ignored it as best he could; deciding it was the human factor. Woodland elves were independent and spirited, they didn’t welcome strangers easily. Yet Nicole was one of them, Jack mistakenly assumed he would be welcomed as one of their own.
Gravid’s eldest son Nayr rode beside Jack each night. The young elf was tall, muscular, and fearless just like his father. He was skilled with the sword and bow beyond his years. Jack considered it a privilege to fight by his side. They rode into the village after a long night seeking a swamp demon. They found the slimy creatur
