OOC: The thrashing sound the Heroes heard was no more than a few minutes previous. Herger feels confident that the sound came from the trees in this area.
The Heroes look at Mardo and glance at each other. As their sight drifts to the green forest around them, a chill runs up their spines despite the warmth of the day. Mardo's words ring true. If the forest dared to conspire against them, would they stand a chance to find Aislinn?
Valurel is the first to break out of his melancholy. Knocking an arrow and drawing back his icewood bow, Valurel lets loose the shaft to strike the tortured Elf in the forehead. Quickly the light of life leaves the Elf's eyes and his chin rests falls onto his bloody chest. Ladriel's tears flow freely at Valurel's act, but she nods in agreement. There was no hope for the unfortunate Elf.
Despite her tears, Ladriel still retains a regal bearing. She nods at Kaela and Herger. Dispel the thought, Giant. If indeed the forest is the betrayer... The small Elf shudders. Yes, we must consign them to the Whisper. I know the rites, but I need Herger to raise me up to them. As Herger stands beneath a giant oak, Ladriel deftly climbs his massive frame to stand on his shoulder. Reaching into her pocket, Ladriel pulls out a small seed. Just a little higher, Giant, so I can reach the mouth of my kinsman...
As the others focus on Ladriel's solemn duties, Valurel notices the deathly quiet in the forest as Ladriel reaches into the lower boughs of the tree. Looking into the trees, Mardo notices the branches and vines that hold the Elfs' remains shift ever so slightly with a menacing hiss, as the branches and vines tighten, unwilling to release their grisly trophies.
As Valurel and Mardo instinctively take a step back, both brush against low hanging branches. Branches that have descended in total silence like stealthily predators ready to spring and tear prey to shreds...