There is a curious hush around your encampment in the aftermath of Keldomar’s death. The sounds of the trees swaying in the wind disappears, the noise of a nearby stream fades and the nightsong of the nocturnal creatures vanishes. As you watch Anstran rifle the body of his dead opponent you are aware of the presence of the large man called Vladek, Lord of the Hunt. He stands beside you observing the scene but you get the distinct impression that only you can see or hear him.

"Greetings once again, Hyuga," he says. "You have witnessed your first Ishiaki slaying and I fear that this will not be the last. I must tell you that I have seen these Ishiaki before and their techniques and powers are truly incredible. The man you know as Anstran will change inexorably during the next few weeks as his power and knowledge of the Ishiaki way increases.

"It is with great regret that I have to warn you that our communal enemy possesses the same powers as your good friend there. In time you will come to understand their skills but for the moment Anstran is the only one who can possibly stand before the enemy. But you must not be afraid - Fear is the mind killer, fear is the little death that brings total obliteration - remember this litany and it will protect you in times of great danger.

"Now, I have much to tell you and little time left. In Vlekstaad you must search for a man named Haslek Thorn. His family have lived in Vlekstaad for several thousand years and it is with him that I have entrusted the burden of my sword Hal Magi." Vladek shows you the blade (he is only a spirit, a vision from the past) "Haslek will instinctively know you and give you the blade. It is my wish that you take the blade for your protection and for the destruction of our mutual foe.

"But beware - this Ishiaki has many tricks up his sleeve and is as we speak heading for Vlekstaad. My reading of the future is limited but I see a great battle ahead with much death and grief. Your only hope is to reach Vlekstaad and find Hal Magi. Only then will you be able to defend yourself.

"Trust your instincts and follow the code of the wild. I will attempt to send help for your journey but I fear my powers will be restricted the closer you come to Vlekstaad. I have prepared you well enough, Hyuga, Lord of the Hunt, for the fate of the Five Tribes rests in your hands. Now - I must depart, but another spirit approaches."

Vladek fades away and another figure melts into existence. It is a tall, lithe barbarian woman who possesses an unearthly beauty and a proud, almost arrogant appearance. "Greetings, Hyuga," she says in a silky tone, "my name is Kyrena and I am the daughter of Vladek. He must like you, young man, to send me to watch over you." You sense a mischievous child locked inside a woman’s body.

She continues. "Should you require my help you need only whistle and I shall appear. Unlike my father I am able to appear in certain forms at certain times. This help must be used sparingly, however, for my time on this plane is limited. Should our enemy discover me then I would surely be killed.

"You have my blessing and may the luck of the Hunt bestow fortune and favour. Our prayers are with you, Hyuga...." The spirit vanishes as quickly as she appeared.

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