The sun beamed down as it gazed to the world below, a perfect day for a tournament. Laughter and Cheer echoed through the town, booths set up with games, merchants all about, the yelling of bargains could be heard all around as if they were trying to drown out each others sales. Multiple races merged together to form a large collage of ethnic backgrounds. This event wasn’t just an interest to the Lvine’s who resided in the town of Sidri. But it was easy to see the Lvine as they towered over almost any visitor.

Markku blew his lips out and cocked his spear on his shoulder as he stood guard in one of the main squares. The horse-like creature wiped his brow as he sweat profusely. It was inevitable because he was a large black form that soaked up enough heat to cook a fair sized turkey. He pulled his silver mane over his blue eyes to try and protect them from the light. He had never liked this particular event because they were always short on guards and he had no choice. This was no job for a commanding officer, even at his rank it was still horrible pay. Not to mention the overpowering smell of everyone else.

He decided he had taken quite enough of it, fed up he looked passed everyone to find a place to take shelter from the rain of heat. He looked to a guard’s tower at the entrance of the town. ‘Perfect, now just to get over there’ Markku weaved his was over to the entrance trying not to squish little ones as they intertwined and slipped around his legs.

“Blasted kids, move!” His voice bellowed and the children looked up and examined where the voice had come from. After a moments stare they began to laugh and ran off again. Markku sighed and heaved himself over to the desired spot. He whipped his tail and sat down with a thud. The guard he was sharing the shade with glanced down and then realized who it was.

“Sir, I’m sorry, this is my post.” The shorter stallion was white and fair, So Markku only snorted.

“Try and stand out in the sun for as long as I have when you have a black body, less you think of me as a goose, it’s not something I’m going to do willingly.” The white stallion flinched. He bowed and traded posts with Markku. He sighed, he didn’t like being snappy but the weather had made him irritable, and there was something uneasy in the air. Not the nauseating smell of the sweat and foreign delicacies, but something dark.

Swarms of people still entered for many hours, but as the sun began to set the entrance settled down. Everyone had begun to ready themselves for the festivities to begin. And since the sun had lowered its merciless eye Markku would be able to go out and be a spectator.

The tournament consisted of four events, racing, which wasn’t as easy at it sounded because you had to weave your way through many obstacles, one which flailed large metal balls with almost no passage in between. It also had hand to hand combat with nothing more then a wooden staff, and you had to balance upon a wooden plank over mud. Having hooves for feet made it very awkward to even hope to balance in the first place. Next up was his personal favorite, Lancing, where you simple charged at each other with a capped lance in hopes to knock the other off balance. Not so easy to do with most stallions that participated nowadays, it had became an event of tactics, Markku always looked forward to seeing new tricks on how to knock down a Lvine flat on its back with a lance. And the last event was a grueling feat, A stone pyramid is build on one end of the arena and the Lvine’s competing have to take it apart and rebuild it across the field and who ever built it the fastest won.

Markku had competed in the tournament many years ago and remembered how large the blocks were, he was barely able to wrap his arms around the square stones. He had won though, which was how he had started his way up to commanding officer. He grinned as he recalled the wager he had made with the town leader. It had enabled him to join the knights, it was big deals because he had grown up in a poor family and most Lvine’s that grow up that way are exiled or become an outcast, never mind a commanding officer. It was also how he had met his wife Keira, a feisty mare that never seemed to burn out of energy.

Markku walked down the now empty streets as the sun was only peaking over the arena which stood high amongst the other buildings in the town. It could be seen from the capital of Echo Falls. Echo Winds always attracted the most visitors, such a big city and so close to the tournament, they had no good reason not to go. By wagon it only took a day and a half for any human form, less then a day for Markku. It was because plains made it easy traveling, especially on clear days. Markku rushed to the gates dodging the poorly placed stands that the merchants had put up when there was no room left on the side of the streets. This year was surely the largest and most crowded he had ever seen.

The guards at the entrance bowed as he approached and he bowed back.

“Looks to be a promising evening!” One of the guards shouted out. Markku smiled as he stood at the gates.

“Aye it does! Stronger stallions every year it seems, even a few mares now and again.” The other guard laughed as he held up some tickets

“Yeah, and the money ain’t half bad either, these Echo Winds’ people don’t even know who to place their bets on!” Markku nodded with a grin, torches were being lit all around the arena now, and cheering began. That was his cue to leave the guards and go find a seat in the already crowded stadium.

_______

It was now dark, the sun was put to sleep for the night and the stars now speckled the skies. The tournament had ended. People swarmed the streets again finding places for the night or pubs to celebrate their winnings in the bets they had placed. The winner of the tournament was a young stallion, dark tanned with chocolate colored mane and tail. His daughter Erinna had a keen eye out for him ever since he had competed last year and made third place overall. He suspected she’d be out looking for him after the tournament was over. That meant his wife, Keira, would be taking care of the tavern all alone and she’d surely need help tonight. He blew his lips and began to race towards his home, and the fairly popular pub. His wife had made it well known with her special brews and keeping all of the nuisances out of the building. He weaved his way through the masses of people once again, but it was difficult to fight the flow of the people, he found himself getting carried in the wrong direction a few times, even with his stature. He finally turned onto the right street and sighed, it was a good sight, he hadn’t been home since the early hours of the morning and the sun was just beginning to heat up the town. Moonlight shone off of the cobblestone, the streets were opening up as everyone found their place as Markku rushed to the pub.

The door crashed open as Markku entered with a huff. The customers only glanced for a moment and returned to their chatter. Markku looked around, his wife wasn’t at the counter serving, and a line up was already beginning. Laughter rose from a group in a far corner and stole his attention for a moment then he looked around again. The fire place was out, which made things dark but it was already hot in there as is. Two tables were bare, but most had five to ten people seated. One lone elf sat at the furthest corner, beside the fire place to Markku’s right.

Still no sign of his wife he continued to the room behind the counter. Looking around he saw many bare shelves, it appeared many things had been sold out, and would need restocking.

“Keira, Honey? We have customers waiting, where are you?” He called out hoping for a reply. He looked down at his feet, he heard a mumble, and he thought it was coming from the cellar. He went to open the trap door that led to the cellar where they kept most of the sustenance to keep it fresh. Just as he places his hoofed fingers on the ring it barged open as a large keg was pushed through. Making Markku jump he fell backwards. Keira only laughed as she pulled herself through. Her dark green eyes gleamed as she entered the dim light.

“Needed some more ale!” was all she said as she hastily ran out into the crowd of people waiting to be served. Everyone cheered when they saw Keira bring out another keg. Markku stood and revealed a smile as he watched his wife. She had a knack for it that was for sure.

Markku helped out until the crowds began to dwindle and he could barely stand anymore. Plopping down on one of the stools at the counter his head bobbed and he let out a giant yawn.

“Busy day dear?” Keira asked as she served the elf in the corner. Markku examined the elf. He had many weapons attached to his belt, and a bow resting on the table. His eyes had an eerie glow to them, they shone a dark purple and his blond hair only made him stand out even more. He nodded himself back into reality and replied to his wife.

“Aye, the sun was murder.” She giggled and Markku smiled. His wife always seemed so cheerful, and always knew how to make him smile. Her yellow mane whipped around her face as she came behind the counter once again. Her tan colored body was spotted with white, she couldn’t fully understand the torment Markku had to go through but she felt sorry for him. Markku stood up and the two embraced.

_________

He stood quite a bit taller then her, which was pretty common for Lvine’s, but it was an odd sight. At least for Ternlei as he sipped his ale. He studied this race carefully, they seemed to possess much strength, but they all lived such peaceful lives. They even made a tournament for their abilities, which Ternlei had decided to avoid the whole thing because he was never much for large crowds. He had spent all day looking for willing helpers, but no such luck. He had spent some of the money he had found on some food and the drink which made him feel a bit better. All he needed now was a good clean up, and a peaceful sleep somewhere warm.

Though the day was warm it had cooled off fast since there was no one left except for him and the Lvine’s that appeared to own the busy pub. Markku yawned once more as he sat at the same stool for just over an hour just relaxing. His wife was tidying up in the back so it was only him and the odd elf that still sat there in the dim room.

“You know this place should be closed right now, Elf.” His eyes were heavy and it was noticeable, he was ready for a good sleep.

“I’m sorry… sir, I haven’t a place to stay, everywhere is filled up, but I’ll leave then.” Ternlei stood and gathered his things and began to approach the door.

“Nowhere to stay? That’s too bad. I’m sorry, I don’t mean to be rude, but what’s an elf like you traveling alone in these parts, especially with an event like tonight?” Markku liked to know where his visitors came from, and this elf sparked his interest since he had first got back to the pub. Ternlei looked over his shoulder.

“Well, to be honest with you, I’ve been looking for help. I’ve been searching all day, but no luck.” Ternlei’s eye’s darkened as he turned around to face the black form that sat at the counter.

“What kind of help?” Markku asked curiously.

“It’s kind of a long story, but there’s evil about and I have a lead on where it’s headed and I need help to stop it.” Ternlei brushed his hair back, it sounded crazy, but he knew it’s what he really had to do. Markku took a large breathe of air and blew it out of his lips.

“Keira, you mind if we have a guest tonight.” His voice echoed through the tavern, it was a deep voice that probably could be heard at a long distance if he had really tried. There was a murmur of agreement and Markku nodded.

“You may stay the night, you’ve caught my interest elf, I am unsure of how I could aid you. But perhaps a good sleep and a soak would help. You may stay in my daughter’s room, I don’t think she’ll be back ‘till morning.” He chuckled slightly as he pointed to some stairs. Ternlei bowed

“Thank you very much, I do appreciate it. By the way, my name is Ternlei Kross. I am a Half Elven from Rollin’ Hills.” Ternlei adjusted his armor as he stood up straight again. Markku scratched his head. He hadn’t heard about such a town, or that the half elves even resided in Echo Falls. But he shrugged and accepted the introduction.

“Nice to meet you then, Ternlei, I apologize for calling you an elf. My name is Markku Olhan, Commanding Officer and pub owner.” Ternlei only laughed.

“Don’t worry, I take no offence, we don’t get visitors often, but when we do they often mistake most of us for Elves as well. It’s all in the length of the ears.” Ternlei smiled and pointed to his ears. Markku nodded with a smile in return and showed Ternlei upstairs into their living quarters. They got themselves comfortable for the night and began to talk. Markku knew he had sensed something during the day, and he could only assume this was it.

Ternlei was grateful they had taken him in, and even more so he had found someone that would listen. Ternlei was only able to catch Markku up to date before they both decided it was time for sleep and that they would discuss the rest in the morning, which was fine because Ternlei didn’t know how much longer his tongue would work before he would have fallen into a slumber.

Though the Ale had lightened his mood it couldn’t stop him from thinking about his brother once again. ‘I’m coming as soon as I can, Destyn.’ Ternlei’s eyes narrowed as he entered the room he would be staying in for the night. There was a large bed, almost twice the size as a normal one. He thought about how awkward it must be for a Lvine to sleep lying down, but didn’t know how with only two feet they’d be able to sleep standing. Shrugging he placed all of his equipment beside a dresser that had a large mirror on it. Crashing on the bed he fell asleep almost instantly.

________

It was almost morning when Ternlei started waking almost every hour or so. He couldn’t keep himself asleep and he knew he should get up and get his things together for the trip back. He pulled himself back into a doze as he allowed himself to gain another hours sleep when he thought he heard something. His ears twitched and he opened one eye. Nothing happened, he decided maybe Markku or his wife had gotten up early to open the pub. Going back to half reality there was a loud shriek of terror. It made Ternlei jump with fright into an almost standing position.

“What? What’s going on?” Ternlei spoke with an almost normal voice as he was fully awake now. A figure rushed over to the curtains and opened them letting in light. Ternlei shielded his eyes as he tried to make out the figure.

“Mom! A drunk found his way into my room!” She pointed accusingly at Ternlei with a viscous tone. Keira and Markku had just entered the room in a rush from the loud scream Markku’s daughter had let out.

“He’s not a drunk. He just needed a place to stay last night.” Markku said trying to calm his daughter down.

“So you let him stay in my room! Now it’s going to stink like Elf!” Markku’s attempt to settle her down only seemed to make it worse. Ternlei was very distraught and his heart was still racing from the rude awakening.

“Honey, he’s a Half Elven, and besides you should know better then to be out all night gallivanting around with your boyfriends.” Markku could only help but chuckle at the situation, and at how Ternlei had taken it so well. After the excitement settled down they decided to have breakfast and create a plan on what was going to take place.

“I believe the evil will spread here soon,” Ternlei admitted as he munched on some sausages. The Lvine’s ate more grasses and oats, so he was glad they had a pub that served more then just that. “It’s already got most of the East and it’s started somewhere in Syrain. It’s only about a days walk East ward from here even.” Markku looked quite concerned as he to took a mouthful.

“You’re sure about this?” Markku chewed his food carefully as he waited for Ternlei to respond. He only nodded back.

“I have a feeling my brother has prolonged it a bit, but it’s only a matter of time before he comes looking for me again. So it’s best I be on my way very soon to keep him away from here.” Markku stood up and Keira and Erinna looked at him with surprise. They were behind the counter setting things up for the day.

“If your brother is a threat, then we must stop him. We cannot let the evil grow.” Ternlei calmly swallowed and took a sip from the left over ale in the keg Keira had brought up last night.

“I have a feeling it wouldn’t stop if I harmed my brother, the best thing I think we could do is keep him away from anywhere that hasn’t been touched and keep a close eye on him. I’ve already failed at that, but I think we have another chance if we hurry.” Markku sighed and shook his head to clear his mane from his eyes.

“If you really think that’s what must be done. I will trust your wishes to protect your brother. I do not know why he is causing such a chaotic fuss, but perhaps I should help you keep an eye on him, I would hate to see this problem spread beyond the east.”

They both nodded in agreement. Ternlei had found someone that would help him. It still had to be arranged amongst the head of the town and Markku, and a brief argument with his wife, but she soon packed his things and some more food for the quest. Ternlei bowed as he thanked Keira for her hospitality and the great food and ale. And also apologized to Erinna for causing such a fuss, she accepted it and Markku and Ternlei departed with the early morning sun already threatening the black stallion.

“I sure hope you’re right in your assumption.” Markku said with hints of concern.

“I’m sure with your help it’ll be no problem!” Ternlei chuckled as they left the town gates as the guards kneeled out of respect.