As the sun started rising in the sky on the third day of our travel, a little village on the edge of the glistening lake appeared. “We’re here.” Relieve washed over us. The sight upon the village was breath taking. Buildings were lit up by the red golden light from the sun. The water seemed almost as blue as the sky and fainting clouds kissed the horizon, coloured by the rising sun. Even though it was early in the morning, the people in town were up and about. Ships were loaded and shops opened their doors for the early costumers. I looked out over the lake and in the distant I saw more ships coming for the town. They would arrive just before noon probably. I wondered if there were still some exotic fruits to buy. You want to go in town? Artemis answered my thoughts. “Maybe, I think we need to refill our supplies. We’re going on a long trip and won’t be coming across many other towns.”

Then I will wait for you by the edge of the forest. Call for me, when you need me. I stroke his furl behind his ears. And as silent as a fox he disappeared from my side. I knew our contact wouldn’t fade if he stayed within a certain amount of distance. The edge of the forest was just far enough for me to keep in touch with him while I looked about in town.

As I strolled down the winding path, two guards were in discussion with a distressed farmer. The farmer, a middle-aged man, stood with his hands on his slim waist blocking the road for the guards. He looked angry and scared at the same time, like he’d just seen a ghost and no one wanted to help him. His hair was like pepper and salt, covering a small but firm face. You could see the lines of hard work in his face. He didn’t look like a farmer. More like a warrior even though his clothing told otherwise. The two guards were taller than him and one of them even had his hand on his sword. “You talk nonsense, old man!” one of the guard’s gestures towards the foot of the mountain. “You seriously think, I will believe such a story?!” he continued his arguing. “You have to believe me! He ate my cow. I saw it with my own eyes!” The second guard starting laughing. The face of the farmer grew darker. And I came closer and closer to this blocking of the road. “Thalor, you’ve always been a pleasant friend of our units, but this time you sound insane. I sincerely advice you to stop freaking people out and act normal. It were the wolves, alright.” The first guard put a gentle hand on Thalor’s shoulder, but he slapped the hand away. Angry. “I’m starting to understand why you retired, old man,” the second guard honed. And started laughing again. I dared not to interfere, so I kept my distance until the guards would hopefully leave. And right now, her wish was granted. “Oh, get your asses out of my face right now! Before I lose my patience.” Thalor stepped angrily aside and made it clear he was not interested in any response any more. The two guards got the message and walked off still laughing. When the guards were almost out of sight, the old farmer looked straight at me. “Don’t be frightened little girl, I am not an angry, insane, old man as they pointed out so nicely.” He took a deep breath and lowered his shoulders. He calmed down and the frown disappeared from his face. I smiled awkwardly at him and he returned it with a big grin. Then he turned around and stalked off, back to his farm. What had he seen? What kind of creature had he witnessed while it ate his cow? I continued walking down towards the village, but managed to quickly look at Thalor’s farm. It was a big farm. According to what the guards said, he was once part of one of the units. So, likely he was a guard himself. Or maybe his was a knight, fighting in the army of the king. And now he was retired. Settled down on a farm. I heard stories that retired knights got a piece of land for their own to build a house or to raise a family. The front door looked out over the main road I was walking on. The farm had two stables. One of them was behind the house and the other on the right side, next to the meadow. That was probably for the cows he was taking care of. I couldn’t see enough of the stable behind the farm to determine what kind of animals he was keeping also. I walked past his front door and what I saw next to the small side river, that was streaming parallel with the main road, made me feel sick to the stomach. A half-eaten, brutally attacked animal coloured the thin layer of white snow red. The smell was horrible. If I hadn’t heard that one of his cows was attacked, I wouldn’t have recognized this creature. “This is not done by any wolf,” I said out loud.

“No, it isn’t.” his voice startled me. I jumped aside from the sudden sound. When I saw it was Thalor, I calmed down. “Have you seen this creature that attacked your cow?” I asked.

“It was a monster. It must have had big claws and pointy fangs to tear such a big beast apart.” The look of horror on his face increased when he thought back of that night.

“But you haven’t seen this monster?” Thalor looked at her and took a shivering breath. “I haven’t seen it up close. But I saw it from out my window.”

“Tell me exactly what happened.” He was making me curious about this monster. Monstrous creatures were always parts of fairy tales or myths. I never saw one for real. Just like otherworldly beings were mythological creatures. Mostly they were to scare the children so that they would run home the second it would turn dark outside. Thalor walked towards the water and sat down on a piece of green grass, not covered yet by the snow, on the side of the river. Looking at his cow, who lay on the opposite side. I sat down next to him and took a tiny book from my pocket. If I were to finish Barnabas’ quest, I had to make notes. Also, I took a pencil and some ink. When I opened the bottle of ink, I realised it was almost empty. Another supply on the list.

Thalor’s eyes wandered off into the horrible night of his acquaintance with this monster.

“It has happened before. One of my lovely cows, attacked and half eaten by a monstrous creature. First I thought it were wolves, big wolves. From all the way, deep in the forest. As I am the first farm to encounter on this route, I wasn’t surprised. But then it happened more often. Me and my wife, we got scared. What was this creature that could tear up such a big animal with one slash. We always woke up too late to witness this beast kill our cattle. But then one night, I heard one of my cows moo so loud, I knew there was trouble. When I opened the curtains, my heart stopped for a second. Because in the dark it stood. A big muscular beast with long talons and pointy fangs. Blood dripping from its sharp teeth. Red eyes shone in the dark. The only light it gave off were from its eyes. Like the fiend himself. It had the body of a bear, and its legs ended in big claws as well. It was hairy. Black thorns stood up on its head and walked down its spine. I have never seen such a horrible beast. But before I could yell, scream or wake up someone else, it was gone. It just disappeared like that. One moment it still stood in my garden, the next it disappeared in the shadows of the barn. Never to be seen again. The next morning, I told my story to my neighbours and soon the guards were here. The rest is history. You know what happened.” I had written his description of the animal, beast whatever it was, in my travel journal. “Thank you for your interesting story, sir.”

“No problem, young traveller.” I stood up, straightened my coat, gave a last bow of respect towards the innocent dead cow and wanted to go. But the man stopped me. “What is a young girl like you doing here all by herself? It could easily have been you last night instead of my cow.”

This was tough question. I couldn’t possibly tell him about my quest. Not only that, the Hunters were still in the surroundings. And I didn’t know if they were looking for me.

I had to think of a clever answer. A story that was easy to believe and I could use in situations like this. “I am a traveller searching for a brighter future,” I answered and a smile appeared on my face. This was a nice, riddle like reason why I wandered alone in this big, dangerous world. Thalor smiled back and laughed a bit. “A tawny, stubborn woman you are. Be careful on your road young adventurer. And when you need a place to sleep tonight or any night. Me and my wife, always have an extra seat for a guest. A hot meal and soft bed is what every traveller desires.”

“I bet that is not without a price to pay.” Thalor looked a little disappointed when he said: “Even we have to ask for a bit of money in return. During these hard times, we can barely come around with the little money we make.” That might be a problem. I didn’t have a lot of money left. Barely enough to buy extra supplies for on the road. “I am about to go to the town to buy some supplies for on the road. But I haven’t enough money to stay in an inn. What if I work on the farm a bit in change for food, shelter and some rations for on my journey? I only need to stay for the night. I’ll probably be travelling on the next day or so.” Thalor took a moment to overthink her offer. “I shall be honest with you girl. I would love to take the offer, because I don’t want you to sleep on the streets tonight. But I honestly don’t have work for you. The crops I grow are already gathered and shipped off to be sold. And I rather take care of my cows and horse myself.”

“I could help you with that,” I answered but when I saw his doubt rise and his face frown, I quickly came with a different offer. A little too quickly. “Or I could get rid of that monster for you.” Just when I said it, I regretted it. Why? Why did I offer that? I can’t kill a beast like that! There was no turning back. Thalor looked surprised down at me. “I see. That is an offer I shan’t refuse. I won’t doubt your strength little girl, but in return I will give you some extra as a reward.” Thalor was very pleased with himself as he stood there with his arms on his hips. “I will give you ten gold pieces and you can stay here whenever you want. Unfortunately, I can’t give you any more money, but I think my idea of this as a free inn for you makes up for it.” It wasn’t such a bad idea. “So, to be clear on this. I can stay here for the night, have a hot meal and get some rations for on the road. And I have to kill that beast in return. Then you will give me ten silver pieces as a reward and free entrance to stay in your farm whenever I desire?”

“You can only stay for the night, get rations and your reward when you have killed the beast. Not before. So, you must kill the beast tonight. Is that a deal?”

Will I be able to kill a monster like this? My archery skills are quite good, to be honest. And I would always have Artemis. Well, I’d probably be the one fighting the most. As he feared everything. But still. I knew he would try to defend me. But how could I find this creature? While I was doubting wither, I should take it or not, I looked down at my feet. And the footsteps my feet made in the thin layer of snow that covered the entire ground. Some of it had melted away through the sun. Footsteps. Tracks. I could search for them. Even though the tracks might have faded away overnight. With the help of Artemis, I could find it. I would figure something out. At least try. Besides I had to learn how to defend myself anyway. This beast might sneak up on me, while I’m travelling through the mountains. And then I have to fight it anyway. I made up my mind. “Deal.” I put out my hand so he could shake it. “We have a deal. I wish you good luck and expect to see you safely return to our farm.”

Pleased with the deal he had made, he walked back towards his farm whistling a song through his teeth.

I was left alone standing beside the waterside. The image of the cow was burned in my memories. I did not want to end up like that.

I took a deep breath and resumed my way towards the town.

I wouldn’t want to live in a crowded town, but so now and then it was nice walking around here. Looking at the supplies the ships brought in. Taking a stroll over the market square. Of course, Townhaven was twice as small as Westray. The main city of this land. Maybe even five times as small. But I’ve never been there before, so Townhaven was already enormous to me. You could easily get lost in the labyrinth of small alleys. I was walking on the avenue watching the sailors unload their cargo and refill it with other kind of goods. These ships made long journeys. They traded with cities from far over the sea. First, they would arrive in the main city Westray were the biggest traders lived. Then they would set sail for other towns along the coast of our land. Including Townhaven. I wondered how it would be like, living on a ship. You’d see the beauty of other countries, exotic products, strange peoples, different languages. You could watch the sun sink in the sea every night, with stars in sight. I looked back at the forest and a longing swell in my heart. No, the forest is where I’d belong. There I felt most at home. Trees surrounding you, the music of the birds, small creatures like rabbits hopping around and of course the sweet scent of flowers in the spring. I shook myself awake from my daydreaming and walked towards the market square to get my supplies. The area was crowded with stands and people walking around. The ground of the market square consisted of different kind of stones in various forms. If you’d look from above, you could see that the stones worked as a mosaic. It was a huge eight pointed star, pointing at all the corners of our land. The star worked as a compass. But when covered with stands and people, the star disappeared in the crowd. I knew of this star for Barnabas always told me the history of the towns he visited. In the middle of the square, there were musicians and people dancing on their music. Bards walked around the square to sing the heroic songs of our land in chance for a copper- or silver piece. Rich woman dressed in long gowns with expensive jewellery, laughed at a nearby table covered with sweets and cups of tea. Children ran around playing hide and seek. And a poor beggar, sneakily pickpocketed a man’s purse. I quickly checked if I still had mine and felt the four silver pieces resting in my small purse. Well what exactly do I need? Food for on the road was already given to me, if I’d defeated this beast. But just in case, I couldn’t and had to run, I needed something to eat. So, four rations would do. I felt the points of my arrows. They were still sharp enough. Maybe a knife would be useful. I probably don’t have enough to buy more than that. As the taxes increased, so did the prices of the products. “This increasing of taxes is all to protect our country from the enemies, my beloved followers.” The king had spoken. But nobody was really, happy about it. Especially not the gifted people who were still being hunted down and killed.

I first went to the blacksmith for a short sword. As I expected he couldn’t give me much for three silver pieces.

“Sir, I need something to protect myself besides a huntersbow. I am but a lonely travelling, small girl. A perfect target for bandits and murderers. I completely understand the situation that’s bothering you. Especially with the raise of taxes lately. But I can ensure you I will do a good word for you among my people and among travellers on the road. For that they may come here to buy their swords and arrows from you, noble man.”

I looked at him with big puppy eyes and secretly prayed he’d fall for my flattery. The big, strong man rubbed his temples and sighted. “Alright, tiny woman. I will take your three silver pieces for this shortsword. It is not a beauty, but it will do in a combat with bandits. Here is a scabbard that will fit on your belt. Be careful on the road, tiny woman. And be safe.”

I gave him my three silver pieces and smiled up at him. “Thank you for your kind service, noble man. You will not regret this. May Herdus protect us all in these hard times.”

“I will pray to Herdus indeed, that he may finds a way to get rid of those foul mages!” the smith slammed his fist angrily on the table top while he said that, startling me as he did so.

I smiled awkwardly at him and walked quickly out of the Blacksmith’s shop.

It wasn’t hard to find a stand with cheap food. I bought two apples, two chunks of smoked meat and a half bread. All for just one silver piece. The lady behind the counter was a generous woman. And apparently, mother of three children. I think that was why she was so generous by taking my one silver piece for so much food. Now I was ready to find this beast and kill it. A good bed and warm meal awaited me at the old farmer’s house, if I succeeded. Before I walked back towards the farm, I tried to enjoy a little more of the market. Listening to the heroic songs of our ancestors, the bards were singing. And watching a juggler throw glasses one by one into the air and catching them again, making an almost perfect circle of glasses. I clapped and cheered when he made a bow to his public. I enjoyed myself with a dance or two among the musicians and slowly wandered back over the avenue, watching the sun sink in the dark blue, greenish sea. Seagulls screeched around the fishermen, hoping to steal a fish when the fisherman wasn’t looking. One seagull took the risk and made a forward dive towards the barrels filled with fish. But unfortunately, the fisherman saw the bird coming and scared him away by raising his oar. The bird protested and slapped his wings twice before flying back into the sky.

While I walked back to the farm, I looked up in the sky. Thick clouds were gathering now. Snow would fall again tonight. I had to be quick in finding it’s marks, before the snow would cover it forever.

The shortsword on my side bounced continually against my leg, when I started to run towards the place the cow took his last breath.

I am waiting in the shadows of the Oaktree. Artemis sounded calm. Not even scared for that what had to happen tonight. Following my spirit wherever I went, he knew all that had happened this morning and afternoon. I desperately wanted to find the beast before the snow would cover the ground in a white blanket again.

“Artemis?” no reaction. I looked around the place where the monster had last been seen. No Oaktree. “Artemis? Where are you?” I whispered. For I dared not to speak up. Afraid the farmer would hear me talk to a wolf. He’d definitely, call for the Hunters and the whole deal would be off the hook. Oaktree. Oaktree. Where is the Oaktree? I sneaked past the barn and saw the Oaktree. But no shadowy, wolf figure to be seen. “Artemis?” damn, this is not the time for games, I thought irritated. Softly I sneaked towards the tree. Making the watery snow under my feet splash softly as I approached the Oaktree. I crouched down to inspect the ground under the tree, when a sudden crack made me freeze. Caught by horror I tried to listen. The pounding of my heart in my ears. Slowly I turned my gaze to the place where the crack came from. And from the shadow, two bright yellow eyes jumped upon me.

As the four hairy paws pushed me on the wet ground, I smelled the familiar scent of Artemis. He growled. “You, stupid animal. You scared the shit out of me!” I cursed him. He grinned, for as much as a wolf can grin. I terrified you, didn’t I? Made a sound, that could be understood as a form of laughter and then licked my face with his sticky tong. “Stop! Stop it.”

He leaped to the ground and let me stand up. “Thanks to you, I could have wiped away important tracks from this beast!” oh stop your whining, I’m a wolf. My tracking skills are far better than any humans. You hurt? I shook my head and scratched behind his ears. “No buddy, I’m fine. Let’s find this beast and be done with it. Though I think you’d have to sleep in the barn when we succeed.”

If we succeed. It was brave of you, but dumb. And I hope you learn from this mistake.

“What mistake? We will get paid for this and more.”

If you wanted money, you could have worked for other farmers who might do need your help. Instead of being a hero and offer to kill a beast twice as strong and experienced in the fighting skills as you are.

“We will surprise him with our attack. We have the advantage of the surprise. He will never suspect us coming to his lair. Besides I have something more than just fighting skills. I have you,” and grinned when I said that, looking down upon Artemis. He grumbled something wolfish and stalked on, sniffing the ground around him. I crouched down as well, to inspect the ground. But all I could see were puddles of melted snow and dead grass sticking out. Closer to the barn, I found some damaged wooden planks from the wall. Probably where the fight took place. As I investigated the ground more in this surrounding, I found no tracks or whatsoever near the barn. But then in the fading light my eyes caught something interesting. At the edge of the field, was a broken fence. And on the side stuck to the wood, was a bundle of grey hairs. Quickly I gestured towards Artemis. He took in the smell of the hairs. Stayed with his nose up in the air for a couple of minutes. And then started sniffing around again. I waited. As the darkness grew deeper, my worries raised. “Well?”

I think I got him. He smells funny. Not like a bear or wolf. More like…

He didn’t finish his sentence, for he got the sense he was looking for and howled to the upcoming moon. “Sssh, fool! Think about the farmer!” I hushed. Fool?! I learned it from the master, nitwit. Artemis smiled up at me.

I rolled my eyes. “Let’s just go.” And I pointed towards the broken fence. He walked in front of me, leading the way.

As we sneaked our way back to the familiarity of the forest, small snowflakes started to fall out of the sky. The snowflakes became one, with the watery puddles on the muddy ground, but stayed on top of the branches. Soon the ground, treetops, houses and barns would be covered in a white blanket. It was freezing, and I could scarcely feel the top of my nose, or my ears. I had covered my hands with gloves, but even with my cap on, the coldness bit into my face. It was a long way up into the forest and I started to fear, we had lost its track.

But Artemis kept walking on, never resting, never looking back. Assuming I would follow him. After at least two hours of walking, my legs began to ache. And my feet got colder. The watery snow on the ground, grew thicker and less watery, but still my boats were soaked. Making me shiver all the time. With my body bend towards the hill, I struggled on. Higher and higher the road climbed. After some more hours, night had fallen in. And weariness was taking its toll. “Artemis, I can’t anymore. I need rest.” Artemis stopped and looked back. As if it was a sign, I fell to my knees. “Just give me a couple of minutes to close my eyes.” It’s already midnight. Don’t fall asleep now, he’ll travel back to the farm for more food.

“Just a minute.” The words almost refused to leave my mouth. As I rolled myself up in my cold blanket, I fell in a deep slumber.

I awoke by Artemis, liking my face again. “Would you stop, please?! I don’t want your sticky tong in my face,” I grumbled when I rolled over. You need to wake up. We have to go. I let you sleep for twenty minutes. Eat something, drink. And then we go. Short rest is over. No come up, sleepy head! Or he’ll meet us down here and there’ll be no surprise to our attack.

That last bit of his rambling, made me stand up and grab my backpack for some food. My whole body ached from the cold. My clothes were soaked by the wet snow and the almost frozen water in my bottle, burned my teeth. After a piece of bread and some meat we both ate, we continued on.

Until we reached the foot of the mountains. “Where to go?” I asked no one in particular. But Artemis answered me: we’re close. It’s this way, follow me.

We turned right on the crossing, and soon walked by a cave. The smell is strongest here. I think this is it.

“Very well. Let’s go in.” I suggested, but fear made me freeze where I stood. What are you waiting for?

“You go first!”

Artemis sighted. You wanted to be the hero, so you go first. He softly bit my ankle, and I jumped a little in the air. As if that was the cure I needed, I walked in. trembling still, but with my shortsword held high. As heroic as I could be. Ready to run out of this cave at any moment. The deeper I went in, the darker it got. The light behind me grew dim and with my hands against the walls on both sides I struggled on. The walls of the tunnel were smooth and cold. “I can’t see shit!” my voice sounded hoarse as if something or someone squeezed my throat tight. Just walk on. Follow the shadowy light in front of you. Artemis suggested. There was a faint shadowy, yellow light in front of me. Like a candle of some sort. Maybe a small fire? But could a beast make fire? I had never seen a beast creating fire. The walls went further apart, making the hall wider. When suddenly we stood in a round room. On the far end of the room was a shrine of a god I didn’t recognize from this distance. Not that I knew a lot about the gods. I knew some of them. Barnabas told me of some gods the humans worshipped. For example, the god of war, Herdus. He was worshipped especially by the non-magical people of Ancestral Region. That’s why I blessed the smith with Herdus instead of other gods. I knew he’d probably be an ordinary human. And if he was not, he sure as hell knew how to play a non-magical creature. Barnabas told me Herdus was the creator of humans, thousands and thousands of years ago. But had never returned to earth ever since. Some say they had dreams with messages from him. Nobody knew if they told the truth, or if they were just misled. Personally, I knew for sure, that those who got “messages” from Herdus, were being deceived. There would not be a Herdus saving the humans in danger. He wouldn’t come to rescue them, in their greatest needs. He was long gone.

Then you had a second god, named Veras. She was the goddess of the woods and worshipped by some magical people. Everyone knew the Archmage was one of them. Not much was known of her. Barnabas believed she was also one of the gods from the elves. But like I said before, elves were myths. They haven’t been seen in centuries.

Veras was an otherworldly being that sometimes could be seen, wandering through the forested hills of the mountains. According to stories, she lived everywhere and nowhere. Going wherever she pleased. She never made pacts with other creatures, for she was a shy girl. Sometimes if you listened closely, you could hear her song flow around the trees. People that encountered her would only see her from a distant as a golden-haired virgin in a white dress, covered with flowers. Men is told she softly sings and makes the sun shine everywhere she goes. On rainy days, you’d be less likely to encounter her. According to Barnabas, she most of the times appeared around spring and summer. And had never been seen or heard in winter or autumn. Then you had Nendir, god of the sea. Nendir was a myth also. Never had he been seen or heard. People say not even the otherworldly beings know if he is a real creature or not. Why all the sailors worship and curse him, is still a question. But sailors believed that if you’d bring a token of your love for him to the temple of Nendir, your travels would be protected. Strangely enough this was true for 9 out of 10 times, even when there were such crazy storms, that all the ships, who didn’t give an offer to Nendir, perished. The temple of Nendir was built on a cliff, near the sea.

I took my attention back to the round room. The room was lit by two small torches above the shrine, for the rest the room was pitch black. On the left side of the shrine was a whole in the ground. Probably another tunnel that led to another room. The walls of the room were strengthened by big square stones. Just like the tunnels, the walls were smooth. Polished it seemed and icy cold. It smelled funny here. It was a combination of strong herbs and the sweet, iron smell of blood. That frightened me a little. Suddenly a sound leaped from the tunnel next to the shrine. Something was muttering and footsteps came closer. Beside the altar there were no other furniture or whatsoever in the room. For as I could see of course. The footsteps came closer and I softly walked back to the beginning of the tunnel where I came from. My blade at the ready. I tried to figure out what to do next if it would step into the room. The only idea that came in my mind was the surprise attack from behind. And after that it would be improvisation to the top. I cursed myself softly for not making a detailed attack plan and prayed to the gods I would survive. Artemis stood next to me, his tail between his legs. It’s coming. I took a deep breath to calm my shaking hands and waited. A dark shadow appeared in the round room, but the shape was not that of a monster. I frowned not understanding what was going on. I looked at Artemis and even though he could not see my face, he felt my confused stare at him. I know for sure it’s him. That the smell of the hairs.

The figure walked towards the shrine. When he came in the light, I saw more of his features. It was a man. His face hidden under a dark hood. He wore long grey, black robes and his hands were slim and bony. His body, covered in the robes, looked tall but not gigantic like a monster. He carried a book in his arms and was murmuring something. My heart pounded in my throat, so loud I thought he would definitely hear me. I looked down at Artemis, and more felt than heard him say. Attack! Everything after that word, went to fast. I raised my sword, made myself smaller as I leaped forward to dive on him. Stabbing the sword in his back. At least that was the idea. Before I even reached him, he turned around, raised his hand and I stopped. Dropping my sword to my side. Stunned. It felt like my body was on pause. I could breath and swallow, but not move an inch of my body. My shaking hands, still gripped the blade. “Well hello little warrior. What strange path did you follow to end up with me?” he spoke. His voice was crooked and soft. Like a whisper. Now I was closer to his face, I could make out a little of his features. His eyes were pitch black, he had a sharp nose that fitted perfect with his sharp jaw line. His lips were curled in an evil grin showing his white pointy teeth. I dared not to speak. My words frozen in my mouth. I was silent for too long, for his grin made place for a scornful look. “I bet you are wishing right now that you had never set foot inside this place. And I do not appreciate if people ignore my questions.” I nodded in acceptation, more out of fear than true agreement of it. Suddenly Artemis leaped in the air and snatched the raised arm of the man. He screamed angrily and the charm on my body broke.

I was free again. The man threw Artemis with such strength of his arm, that he flew a bit through the air and hit the wall with a loud thump. Artemis whined when he hit the ground. “NO!” I screamed as I run towards my wolf and stood in front of him, my arms raised to try and stop the man walking towards us. Please someone, give me some inspiration to protect us, I prayed. Then something strange happened. I felt a strange energy coming up my feet, flowing through my body towards my outstretched hands. I couldn’t really describe it. It was nor cold, nor warm and left my body tingling. As fast as it entered my body, as fast did it leave through my hands. A force I’ve never seen before, sprang from my hands and staggered my opponent backwards. With his arm raised in front of his face he staggered a few steps back. He lowered his arm and looked bewildered at me. “What was that?” I whispered to myself as I looked at my hands. Nothing had changed, they looked exactly the same to me.

“A youngster in the art of the Weave.” His crooked voice whispered.

“The Weave?” I could hear Artemis standing up beside me, curious as well. The man bit his lower lip, his eyes squeezed considering something. Then a big grin appeared on his face.

He made a little bow as he introduced himself: “Greetings young mage, my apology for my rude behaviour earlier. My name is Malignus, monk and protector of my lord. This shrine is but the beginning. I will spread his word and hope that others will pledged themselves also in his magical art and power to serve him for better or worse.”

“Who is your lord?” But it seemed he didn’t even hear my question for he continued his story and explanation over the Weave. “The Weave, young mage, is a magical substance that gives magical creatures like you and I the capability of using our magic to protect or harm. I see and feel that you are but a youngster in the use of it. And do not fully open your spirit towards the Weave.”

“What do you mean?”

“Just like I say. Your spirit is closed for some reason. You need to let go in order to draw your magic from the Weave.”

“I do not..”

“I could teach you, young mage!” he interrupted my sentence. He held his head a little sideways, stretched his hand out to me, his palm up. “If you would only trust me.” His voice dropped a few tones on the last to words, his grin widened and his eyes grew darker. He bowed forward and I could take a good look in his face. It was scarred and his eyes had no pupils. His pointy white teeth were a little red at the ends. Very quickly like a snake he tried to snatch my wrist and pull me forward. But I was faster and ducked towards my sword on the ground. His hand mist me by an inch, but he quickly recovered himself. Turned around and said something in a demonic like language I couldn’t understand. I grabbed my sword and rolled unto my feet. Still crouching low to the ground. What happened next fulfilled me with horror. Artemis yelped from fear and crouched with his tail between his legs in the shadows.

The monk was changing. He growled as if in pain, while his hands turned to large talons with black, pointy nails. His face became monstrous and his teeth turned into fangs. Blood dripped from his mouth as his skin around his lips stretched and changed into black fur. He grew larger and wider. His robes fell to the ground. He turned into a monstrous demon. Large black horns curled out of the sides of his head. He growled loud, making everything shiver under my feet. I swallowed, gripped my sword tighter and run towards him. Avoiding his long talons. With a yell, I stabbed my sword in his stomach. It didn’t go in far, but made a small cut in his skin. Blood dropped from the small cut. I avoided his left arm, unfortunately I wasn’t fast enough to avoid the second blow. His talon hit me in my stomach and pushed all the air out of my lungs. I hid the wall pretty hard and landed next to Artemis on the ground. “It be nice if you’d fight too,” I coughed. The demon walked towards us and heaved his big feet above the ground to crush us. We both rolled aside just in time, when his huge foot made the ground shake. I stood up and made a few quick blows on his back. The blows didn’t do much damage, but Malignus roared out in anger and turned to face me. I jumped backwards as he tried to grab my arm. He stepped closer to me, and I danced around to his side, to stab him again. This time my sword went in deeper. Blood gushed out of the wound. He roared again, weaving his arm sideways to push me away. Unfortunately, it worked. I couldn’t get the blade out of his side in time, and next I knew, I flew in the air to hid the ground with my left shoulder first. I sat up rubbing my shoulder. A little blood came off it but it wasn’t broken. Malignus pulled out my sword from his side and broke it in two. Well now I’m dammed, I thought right before I saw Artemis leap in the air again and land on Malignus back. Biting his neck and tearing of his flesh. Malignus roared in pain and turned around, his hands weaving in the air to try and pull Artemis of his back. Artemis held on tight and I strained my bow as fast as I could. Putting my first arrow on the bow, pulling the string until I felt the feather brush my cheek and let go. The arrow made a loud “woosh” as it flew from the string into the air. The arrow landed in the monster’s left shoulder. He cried it out and flung Artemis of his back, he grabbed the arrow, pulled it out and threw it back with such force that it splintered against the wall when it missed me. Artemis was already on his feet again and jumped in the air to tear open Malignus’ stomach. But Malignus was faster and seized Artemis out of the air. He held him with one hand, as Artemis tried to bite his way out of the tight grip. I swiftly loaded my bow again and let go of a second arrow. This one landed on the right arm of the demon. His grip loosened and Artemis fell towards the ground. But before he hit it, Malignus snatched him up again on his leg. Artemis roared and yelped from pain. Malignus threw him away and Artemis landed against the wall on the ground. His leg was bleeding from the cuts Malignus’ talons had made. Artemis licked his bleeding wound. Fear choked me. He wouldn’t be able to fight anymore. I looked at Malignus. He was leaning against a wall. Blood gushed from his wounds. His shoulders and neck were the worst. There was a gaping wound right below his neck that looked horrible. The small cuts my sword had created were still bleeding, but didn’t seemed to kill him. I had to be very fast now. Shooting arrow after arrow. I carefully lay may next arrow on my bow, pulled the string and let go. The first arrow had just left my bow, and a new arrow followed the first. I watched the first arrow hit the gaping wound on his back, and the second right above that in his neck. His roar was deafening. And he spat blood on the ground. He looked angrily at me and with a sudden leap, ran towards me. I became one with my bow when I shot four more arrows. My quiver was losing arrows fast. The first two struck his eyes, blinding him. He screamed in terror and reached for the arrows, making his vulnerable throat an easy target. The last two struck exactly there. And his roars turned into a choking sound. I jumped aside as he blindly tried to reach me. Malignus fell on his knees and after choking up more blood from his throat, he took his last breath. I sat on the ground, still shaking and my heart pounded in my ears. Because of the adrenaline, I didn’t feel the pain from the cuts on my shoulder and stomach. I spat some blood out of my mouth for I had bit om my lip to hard when I focused on aiming at the demon. “That was a demon, right?” I asked Artemis. He didn’t respond, but I heard his soft whining on the other site of the room. I crawled my way to him and looked at his leg. I think it’s broken as well. Artemis grunted. In this darkness, I could not see enough to determine if the wound was deathly or if I could cure him. I reached for my backpack and realised I left it at the entrance of the tunnel from this room. “I’ll be right back.” I stood up and made a run towards my backpack. Only one of the torches was still lit. I took it to look inside my backpack and search for something to help Artemis. “I don’t have enough, but this should do until we’re back at the farm.”

But you said that… he couldn’t finish his story for I interrupted him. “He’ll have to accept the fact that I live with a wolf.”

He made no response but whined a little when I put some healing ointment on his wounds and bandaged it. “I’ll carry you. First I want to take a quick look inside that other room. I wonder what a demon was doing here. If this is a demon for I’ve only heard stories of it.”

This was a demon for sure. He smelled like a human. I wanted to tell you that. But there was a strange thing about his smell. I can’t really explain it. I only knew that it wasn’t a bear or wolf of some kind.

“He changed. He was human and then suddenly not anymore. I’ve never heard of mages being able to change their appearances like that.”

It’s over now. Let us heal and learn from this experience. And next time prepare your battles! I am not going to improvise every move I make. I laughed at my own stupidity and stroke him behind his ears.

After putting my coat around Artemis to keep him warm, I walked towards the tunnel next to the shrine. The torch gave a soft yellow light in the small tunnel and made the shadows dance. It wasn’t a long tunnel and soon I stepped into another room. This one was way smaller than the big round room where I came from. The torch I held almost lit the entire room. There was a bed in the corner, a desk and three bookshelves filled with books and ingredients. The desk was empty and the room was very tidy. I let my gaze wonder over the books. Almost all of them were about potions and history. Some were spell books, full of information about how to use magic. Information on what kinds of magic existed and more. I took two spell books with information about healing and defending yourself. Maybe I could learn something from it. I pulled open the drawers of the desk and found letters. They were written in a language foreign to me. It looked a bit like the language used by the necromancers, but more vowels and less consonants. Which was odd, for how would you pronounce that? I put the notes in my journal for later and wanted to walked back to Artemis, when something caught my eye. There was a small table at the entrance of this room and on it were some drawings. I studied them and realised they were sketches of the shrine back in the room where Artemis was. There were more sketches of a pentagram with strange signs. And one painting that made me shiver with fear. It was completely black but for two yellow eyes staring straight at me. I took the sketches and put them in my journal before walking back to Artemis. He was still lying on the ground, his face covered with his front paws. It hurts, wen. It hurts.

“I know sweety, I know.” I search for a place to hang the torch so it would give a bit of light and found one close to the tunnel towards freedom. “I’m going to try and carry you.”

I walked back to Artemis, and lifted him of the ground. He yelped from the pain. I took a few staggering steps and regained my balance. Artemis was not a puppy anymore, and I had trouble carrying him. Nevertheless I had no choice.

We walked through the tunnel towards the light of the day. The sun stood high in the sky. It was midday.

After what felt like hours walking down the hill, I put Artemis down for some rest. Now the adrenaline was gone, and my weariness grew. Artemis grew more silent with the minute. And I hugged him tight. “Don’t leave me buddy. We will make it.” My wounds started aching more and it took me more and more willpower to stand up every time and carry Artemis further.

Finally, the farm was in sight. My arms were shaking and my knees couldn’t carry me any longer. Artemis had closed his eyes and was barely breathing. I felt a lump in my throat. Tears sting in my eyes. “Don’t go buddy, don’t go,” I whispered. My voice sounded hoarse from the lack of water. I reached the broken fence. A woman was standing with the cows in the field and called for something. I was too tired to respond. A man was running towards us as I tried to climb over the fence without success. I fell to my knees. My eyes blackened and right before I passed out, I saw Thalor. “Help Artemis,” I pushed the words out of my mouth and lifted Artemis a little. He nodded and caught me as I fell forward and everything went black.