“It’s like I was saying, Azazel. People are talking in whispers of late about the Dark Ones’ return,” said Malak.
“Horse biscuits, that’s what those rumors are and nothing more,” replied the horse.
After Mörken the Dark One fell, folks felt safe once again. That was until word began to spread of the Dark One’s return.
“There is no truth to these rumors. Otherwise, the Council would alert the Watchers,” said Azazel.
“I can’t say you are mistaken. Yet, something in my bones says there is evil afoot,” replied Malak.
The two walked along Drugen Lane on their way to the village. As they passed under Trika’s bridge, Malak felt a cold shiver run down his spine.
“T’is the devil himself walked over my grave,” cried the old man.
Azazel felt it as well. “I spoke too soon. I also felt an evil in the bridge’s shadow,” said Azazel.
The two friends rushed to the council chamber. To their surprise, others had gathered at the Council’s Hall.
Council leader Thun addressed the gathering in an attempt to calm the villagers.
“Friends, I, too, have felt these malevolent feelings. The Council is doing everything possible. We can’t confirm whether this is Mörken or some new threat,” said the councilman.
“That takes the biscuit, another dark force on top of that Mörken feller,” said Malak.
“Best let the Seekers do their job while we do ours,” said Azazel.
“What job is that?” his friend asked.
“Pay a visit to the blind seer, of course,” said Azazel.
“Oh, her. I was wondering when you would bring her in to this? She gives me the willies,” said Malak
The next day, the two went into the deep woods to the seer’s hut. They presented salt, bread, and fresh cream in the traditional manner. Then asked her advice.
“T’is evil that spins its web and venom trips from the trees. Something is afoot, but who is not the question; rather, when,” said the seer.
The two thanked the crone and headed back to the village. “What did she mean by when?” asked Malak.
“I haven’t a clue. Best get a pint and sleep on it,” answered Azazel.
The friends parted ways, agreeing to meet the next day. “Not who but when,” Azazel murmured until finally slipping into restless sleep.
Malak sat thinking why the circle always repeats itself. “Things are changing. This time we’d better be ready,” said Malak.
Only time would tell what was coming for the ancient forest of Ãlskad. Until it showed itself, waiting was all one could do, whether one liked it or not.
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