Chapter 6
Ealayne rode her horse slowly through the ancient grove. The towering trees swallowed up the afternoon sun and she looked around uneasily. It was strangely silent, and there was an air of expectant waiting about the place. The nature magic was very strong here. She could feel it. Unfortunately she could not tell if it approved of her presence or not.
She dismounted from her horse, readjusted her armor and buckled a short sword to her belt and a small shield to her left arm. They felt heavy and awkward. She looked back longingly at her staff tied to the saddle. On impulse she took it down and held it. Taking a deep breath she closed her eyes and whispered ó dhúchas go gcumhdaú tú. She felt a slight tingling sensation spread from her chest outward through her body and heard a delicate sound like a wind chime as a tiny breeze swirled around her feet lifting the leaves from the ground for a brief moment. She opened her eyes and waited. When she felt no resistance from the ancient grove, she began to feel a little encouraged. She set off walking as quietly as possible through the dense undergrowth towards what she thought was the middle of the forest. On and on she walked, and the light grew dimmer and dimmer. And then she saw what she was looking for.
There before her was the largest oak tree she had ever seen, its trunk as massive as a castle turret and its branches disappearing hundreds of feet up. Walking back and forth near it was an enormous Firlbog. His scale armor glowed with a magical sheen, and he radiated strength. She stopped and stared. This was why she was here, and it terrified her.
Sensing her presence, the Firlbog warrior turned and looked directly at her. His voice boomed across the expanse between them.
"Druid, you think you can defeat me?" he laughed harshly.
She stood paralyzed as he stalked towards her.
"I have been The Blademaster since before your ancestors were even born!" he roared and raised the biggest, wickedest looking mace she had ever seen. Ealayne dropped her staff and drew her sword.