[Amanaduial the archer]

Tallin gasped furiously as Dia howled in pain as the long knife scored a cut in her side. She dived forward at Obsidians assailant, but already the woman was on Lorran and galloping as fast as she could away. Drawing back her arm, Tallin threw one of her knives after her as hard as she could. The weapon only grazed Rayes arm though as she turned off the path into the forest.

Cursing, Tallin started walking back to the others, catching Arrelles arm as the distraught elf ran past her.

"Arrelle, You will not catch up with them, your horse is unfortunately a fast one."

Arrelle turned on her angrily."But... but she has my horse. That's my horse she's got!"

"Leave it Arrelle. Its not likely we'll see her again."

"But if we do..." Jet growled, licking his mates side. Tallin grinned grimly at him then turned back as Arrelle pushed her angrily.

"You wouldn't say that about one of your wolves would you? No buts, she's been my travelling companion ever since she was a foal, I'm not going to give up on her now!"

Tallin opened her mouth, then shut it, kneeling down to inspect Dia's side. She could feel Arrelles glare on her.

"Look," Belle said, interrupting the dispute, "This is no way to get anything done is it? Now I say we should finish resting here and then continue on after Arrelle's horse. We'll get her back. Dont worry, its only a horse."

Tallin winced at the last bit. Oh man, shouldnt have said that! Arrelle transfered her glare to Belle but Tallin cut in before she could say anything.

"Wait. We may carry on our original route-"

"But-"

"Like you said before Arrelle, no buts." Tallin attempted a smile. "Dont worry. We havent lost Raye yet."

"Raye? Oh you know her do you? Are you in league with her then, huh?-"

"What? Oh yes, shed really attack my wolves then wouldnt she." Tallin said, raising an eyebrow. She sighed and carried on more gently. "I know Raye through long and rather painful experience. She hates me, and the feeling is mutual."

"Why?" Arrelles voice was less angry now. Tallin didnt reply immediatly, pausing, remembering when she had first met Raye. She took a deep breath. "Lets just go. We want to reach the mountains before winter sets in dont we and at this rate, summer'll be gone in a flash."

Her wolves picked themselves up and followed Tallin as she set off. After a second the others followed.