"Deliver Us From Evil"

Simon closed his eyes for a moment as if in prayer. Then he opened them again, at the same time appearing to become more noble of countenance. It seemed to the others as if he somehow grew in stature as well. "In the name of the One God whom I serve, begone foul sprites," he said. The flashes of movement immediately seemed to fade away. Simultaneously the sigil on Frederigo's gloved hand flared up for a moment, but he was expecting that and with an effort gave no sign of the pain that he experienced. At the same time, Astra felt briefly uncomfortable - something that would concern her when she reflected upon it later. To Andrea, it seemed as if her loins were on fire, together with the tips of her ears. She could not help letting out a gasp of pain before the sensation faded, but fortunately none of the others seemed to realise that it was the result of anything other than astonishment at Simon's display of power.

In the short time remaining before it got too dark, they collected the Spirit Willow leaves and Fire Moss that they needed. As they did so, Andrea reflected on what she had just experienced. Did the pain that she had felt mean that she was becoming somehow evil? Was it truly freedom that she sought, or was she just trying to evade her responsibilities? What about Croix Keep? Her family were probably dead, but should she not find out for sure? And did she not owe it to them to try to reclaim the castle from the dragon's men? Though how she could do that she had not the faintest idea. Damn! No sooner had she made up her mind than something had happened to put her in doubt again.

Since they could not hope to find their way through the forest in the dark, after they had collected what they needed they had no choice but to make camp by the Azure Lake. "It was unfortunate that we reached the lake so late in the day," said Simon, "since, of all the Fey Wood, according to legend this is the most dangerous part, and it is likely to become all the more perilous at night. We will light a fire, and will take it in turns to keep watch again, but if you - Frederigo - or you - Astra - see anything unusual then wake me at once."

1. As it happened, it was on Simon's own watch that Aethir MacFionn emerged from the darkness into the firelight, looking not a day older than when he had disappeared.
2. Andrea had intended to stay awake whilst she decided what to do, but an overpowering drowsiness seized her. The last thing she saw before falling asleep was the nodding head of Astra, who had been on watch.

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