Chapter 2 - Independent Learning

As the bolt of lightning touches two of the larvae, they explode in a shower of pus-like flesh. The two-headed larva is badly scorched by the lightning, as looks weakened. One of the summoned bears evaporates into green mist upon being touched by the lightning.

Passer swipes at the larva that has him grappled, whilst the bears move engage their respective foes.

Passer's magically-imbued staff connects with the larva, causing a nasty squelch as a segment of its body ruptures in a spout of gooey liquid.

The two-headed larva, scorched by Tannis's lightning, succumbs to the bear's ferocious claws, leaving two larvae, one engaged with a bear, the other locked with Passer.

A bear evades one of the larva's clumsy attacks. Passer is not so lucky, the jaws of the larva going deep into his leg.

The larva's grey skin darkens beneath Tannis's touch. Veins of darkness spread out across its body. It's mandibles release Passer's leg as it thrashes in death throes before it collapses, twitching to the floor.

The remaining larva is quickly dispatched between two summoned bears and a well-placed blow from Passer. At a word from the druid, the bears move off into the gloom, patrolling the campsite.

Passer turns to Tannis "Let me take a look at that leg"

He kneels and touches Tannis' leg whilst whispering. Tannis feels the wound close.

"I've always had a fondness for bears" says Passer, smiling. "They can be so gentle as peaceful. And yet so ferocious."

"You get some rest, I will keep watch. You've had your first taste now of what Hallgerd has to offer. Although it's not common for these abominations to descend into the valley. Perhaps we should move camp a little way - away from these bodies" He emphasises the point by poking one of the larvae with his staff.

"Let's get going then"

The travellers continue downriver through the darkness, illuminated only by veiled light from Tannis's staff. The summoned bears flank the travellers, loping across the grassland on all fours. The Soverbot burbles to itself, oblivious of travellers or their woes.

After some time of walking, Tannis sees a flock of sheep huddled together. They are startled by the bears and dash away in all directions. "I think these bears have accompanied us long enough" says Passer, and with that the bears disappear leaving a soft green afterimage for a brief moment.

"We must be closer to civilisation with this herd here" says Passer, "let's push on a little further, then make camp."

After another timeless period of walking through the darkness, Passer stops at a previously used campsite. There is a fire pit, but no fire. Passer brings one forth.

"Rest now Tannis, I will keep watch"

It is broad daylight when Tannis wakes. The night, and its horrors, have been dispelled. Passer sits watching the river, deep in contemplation. He appears to have healed his wounds, and even sewn up the tears in his tunic.

The valley is bustling with herders rounding their sheep and goats, the nearest perhaps half a mile away down the valley, faint bleating is carried by a gentle wind passing up the valley.

A lone oak stands near the campsite. Autumn has begun to claim its leaves, giving a rich array of colors in the the morning light.

A moment later, snapping from his trance as Tannis stirs, Passer turns. "How do you feel?" There is a hint of concern in his voice.

"I have not, but it seemed you needed it more. You have a long road ahead of you in fulfilment of Hadud's errand. And I must leave you to tend to the woods. To exercise this necrotic runes."

"You are close to civilisation here, you will not be further troubled as we were last night."