A Story Of River by Lana Axe

Author:Lana Axe
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Publisher: AxeLord Publications
Published: 2013-05-19T23:00:00+00:00

Chapter 21

Three uneventful days had passed as the companions headed for the Western Vale. The morning of the fourth day was heralded by the birds singing high in the trees. They chipped and sang and played on the wind without a care for the troubles of men.

Long days of riding were beginning to wear on the group. King Aelryk had insisted on haste, which left little time to rest or stretch the tight muscles that were forced into the same position for hours at a time. The horses were much more comfortable than their riders.

The summer heat did not help matters as it lay heavily in the dense forest. The humid air was filled with the scent of leaves and bark as if the trees themselves were sweating.

Mel led on throughout the morning as the others followed silently. The night had not spared them from the heat, and they were all still a bit tired. Finally, the trees gave way and a clearing lay in front of them. The sparse trees gave way to brilliant sunbeams, lighting the path to a meadow of purple flowers.

Mel dismounted to have a closer look at the ground. He was uneasy leading the group out into the open without first being sure it was safe. Seeing no signs of any disturbance, he signaled the others to wait while he scouted ahead. Once he had surveyed the area, he remounted and motioned for the others to follow.

Despite the lack of shade, the meadow was cooler than the forest. A cool breeze was swirling all around them as the wildflowers danced in delight. An open field lay ahead in the distance.

Mel turned his horse to speak with the king. “There is open field ahead. That means no cover should there be anything looking for us.”

“What are the alternatives?” he replied.

“We could detour north. The Oak Leaf Clan has a settlement about a day's ride from here.”

“I fear we would lose too much time. Let's cross here as quickly as possible.”

They set out across the field of endless golden stalks. What had appeared to be small enough to cross quickly turned out to be deceptively large. This crossing was going to take over an hour at a good pace. Far in the distance, another forest beckoned to them.

Mel felt as if he had held his breath throughout the crossing. Once the forest's edge was in sight, he felt safe enough to take a deep breath. Here under the cover of trees, he was at home. He halted immediately upon entering the forest. It was quiet here-too quiet. No sound of bird nor scurrying of foraging creatures could be heard. The grass was still and his horse neighed nervously.

Suddenly, a blast of energy surged toward them, knocking them all from their mounts. The horses reared and bolted through the forest in a panic. Mel drew his bow as the others drew their weapons. He knocked an arrow and released it at the oncoming noise of running footsteps. An inhuman yowl went up as the arrow found a target.

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