Dain's post
Frea's eyes were rivetted on Brytta's encampment as he intently watched every move that the men made. Once more, he crept up closer to the clearing, being careful to keep his body hidden under the low lying bracken and overhanging bushes.
He watched with intent interest as Brytta's men finally settled down for the evening. One by one, they began unbuckling the swordbelts from about their waists, setting the weapons down on the ground and drawing closer to each other as they engaged in spirited conversation. A thick stew was bubbling in a large pot that hung over the central fire. The woman went forward to dole it out as laughter and joking rose from the circle and one of the men drew out some pipes and began to play. Finally, the sentry who'd been patrolling on the edge of the camp came forward to share in a bit of the supper and companionship.
Fréa's eyes alit with glee. Now! Now was the time to strike! He raced backed to his own companions, heedless of the noise that he was making as he clambered through the underbrush.
"Up, now. Their minds are elsewhere. Quickly men! Forward. This is our chance."
Fréa pivotted around to face the group, taking in the forms of Graitwa and Hama. His older brother and Hama sprang up instantly and began roaring towards the clearing with swords and daggers drawn. But, before they could strike, one last question rose in Fréa's mind. Where in the blazes was Archim? Where was his brother? Although rapidly surveying the encampment, Fréa could still see no sign of Archim.
Powerless to call back his own men or to stop time from advancing, Fréa did the only thing he could do under the circumstances, snatching out his own blade and running to catch up with the others. The lust for battle swept over him, and he was instantly overcome with only one thought: the desire to strike as hard and fast as he possibly could.
[ September 16, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]
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