Albainox stood motionless and waited as he had done countless times before.
The stag had seen countless horrors unfold in the Seven Wood. Fires, floods, and even a war between the Dark One and the Waldvolker for the forest’s soul.
The stag longed for an heir to release him from his vow to protect to the death.
“To lie on myst-soaked grass near the babbling brook before I pass on to Valhalla is my only wish,” said Albainox.
Albainox had replaced his father, Othox, as guardian when a wild boar attacked the forest. Othox battled the beast for a day until the boar stumbled, allowing the guardian to destroy it.
The stag stumbled to the council’s clearing to report the beast’s death. Exhausted, Othox collapsed and never recovered.
Albainox had been a young buck. With his father’s death, he had to grow up fast.
During the guardian’s first year, his body became massive, and his battle scars many. “I came close to death a dozen times,” remarked the stag, remembering his youth.
With Autumn near, his bones began to ache, “Why will no doe mate with me? Am I that hideous?” said Albainox as he walked through the Seven Wood.
“Because no mother would wish upon their child the curse that is your life,” came a voice from behind.
Albainox turned to see Sephora, daughter of the council leader. “Is there no hope for the guardian clan? Am I to be the last?” questioned the stag.
“I am afraid so. Many desire you, but none will risk the curse that your clan must bear,” said Sephora.
“Am I to die alone then?” asked Albainox.
“No, I will be your consort but not your mate,” said the doe.
“We will not survive without a guardian,” said Albainox.
Sephora approached the buck and dipped her head in respect. “If we work together to protect the forest, then we all will be safe,” said the doe.
Albainox smiled and nuzzled Sephora. “Yes, you’re right. The forest belongs to all, and all should protect it,” the buck said.
Albainox led his consort to the babbling brook, and the two rested on the bank’s myst-soaked grass. “Time to rest,” said the last guardian.
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