Nittix drifted down the grassy slope towards the village.   From a distance it seemed peaceful enough.  The simple stone dwellings were arranged in a circular pattern surrounding a grassy clearing.  The remnants of a fire still smoldered in a fire ring.

Drawing closer, Nittix noticed creatures moving around the camp.  They walked upright on two powerful legs like humans, but had dark red skin the color of lava.  They were noticeably shorter than humans, varying between three and a half to four feet.  They had a single eye set above flat noses and wide mouths.

In addition to crude farming implements, a short spear rested against the wall of each stone house.  

Suddenly there was a simple, strong rhythm on a drum that rang through the air and the...

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