Ranger’s Oath by J.T. Williams

Ranger’s Oath by J.T. Williams

Author:J.T. Williams [Williams, J.T.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2023-12-28T23:48:00+00:00


Chapter 17

Bucinn

They moved through the forest. Clur had cycled away from them down to the south, though Hafnar and Rierdan remained together. They were moving directly toward the source of light.

The forest was dense with thick brush and tall bushes. Rierdan struggled to navigate over several large fallen trees, wishing he were a bit bigger like Toluca to easily clear the massive logs as Hafnar did. The ranger, despite his massive size, displayed remarkable agility, effortlessly moving from one log to another, sometimes leaping in a single bound or using his hand to propel himself. Rierdan, on the other hand, had to be careful and nimble due to his small stature.

As they approached the edge of a clearing, the flickering light of a great fire rose, casting a mesmerizing glow into the night sky. They discovered a peculiarly crafted statue in the center of the clearing.

"I do believe that is a giant beaver," Hafnar remarked.

"A beaver? Like the ones you find near rivers? That seems odd," Rierdan questioned.

Hafnar shrugged. "I'm not sure. There are cultures that find significance in various animals and worship them. Perhaps these people hold the giant beaver as a sacred creature, especially considering its association with rivers. It does make some sense."

"Have you ever come across a religion centered around beavers in your travels?" Rierdan inquired.

Hafnar shook his head, replying, "No, I can't say I have. Although, now that I think about it, there is a difference between otters and beavers. Just thought I'd point that out."

Rierdan turned to his master, seeking guidance in deciphering the meaning behind the giant beaver statue. Hafnar sighed and shared a bit more information, indicating that even the experienced ranger was unsure of what to do next.

"Look around the fire. Do you see anyone else?" Hafnar asked.

Rierdan observed their surroundings and realized that apart from the grand fire, which seemed to have been lit intentionally, there was no sign of any other presence except for the massive beaver statue.

Suddenly, Clur let out a distant roar. Rierdan felt the urge to rush and help the creature, but Hafnar placed a hand on his shoulder, cautioning him to wait.

"She's just scared of something. Patience, boy," Hafnar advised.

Rierdan was itching to take action, whether it was to step forward into the clearing or sprint through the woods. His heart raced in his chest, and he could barely contain himself.

"Apologies, master. I'm just excited," Rierdan admitted.

"Excited? You really like beavers, huh? Looks like we stumbled upon the perfect gathering for you," Hafnar teased, causing Rierdan to chuckle softly.

Just then, a small group of figures emerged from the woods, wearing peculiar costumes adorned with what initially appeared to be random plant material. As they moved closer to the light, Rierdan realized that the costumes were made entirely of beaver pelts.

"I swear, when it comes to vampires, people lose their minds," Rierdan remarked.

Each figure that emerged from the woods donned beaver-themed attire, forming a circle around the giant statue. They held flaming branches and swayed slightly as they danced around.



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