<font face="Verdana"><table><TR><TD><FONT SIZE="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">Pile o' Bones
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Re: A Ride in the Dark
Kalohern dismounted and, leading Telefax, fell in behind his father as he emerged from Erkenbrand's tent. Dernwine's severe countenance suggested that something serious had occurred but Kalohern knew that to ask would only result in his being sent back to the stables in disgrace.
At that moment Erkenbrand appeared and blowing his great silver worked horn, summoned the riders around him.
"Strangers have been sighted in the forest on our western borders. We need to send three of our most fearless to aid our men, should it come to a scirmish."
Many riders at once threw their gauntlets into the circle around the campfire, as was the custom when volunteering for battle. Among them were those of Dernwine and Guthrin, who tossed in his embossed glove with an arrogant swagger.
"Dernwine, you have ridden far today and your horse is spent. Rest now, and we shall have need of you ere long, I think."
Erkenbrand selected two of the most experienced and valiant riders by taking up their gauntlets and returning them face up to their owners. He considered for a moment.
"And you, Guthrin, son of Grimbourne, the time has come for you to prove your merit."
Guthrin retrieved the proffered glove with a self satisfied smirk. Erkenbrand gave orders for the horses to be brought out and light provisions were rapidly prepared.
"You will ride under cover of darkness. Turn aside for no man unless the need is great. Find our scouts and render them such support and aid as may be needed."
The chosen three quickly mounted their horses and quietly slipped away into the shadows cast by the great campfire. Those remaining in camp settled down to chew over their roast venison and along with it the speculation as to what these tidings might bode for the future.
Kalohern led Telefax away from the campfire and out into the night. His father was seated in the fire's glow, a welcome horn of wine helping to ease his weary bones. The call of a night bird caused Telefax to prick his ears and stir to alertness. All at once, Kalohern caught on the night breeze the pungent and tantalising aroma of the pine forest. Seized by a sudden strange impulse and barely aware of his actions, he slid onto Telefax's back and turned the horse's head to follow the track of the departing warriors.
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