Kindel: The Crowning Of Our King by B.M. Tolbert

Author:B.M. Tolbert [Tolbert, B.M.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2017-02-10T18:30:00+00:00

Chapter 15

Gavan

Back deep in The Red Forest, overlooking a mountainous range stood Gavan and Edward, feeling relieved but anxious. Not much had gone right since the fall of Mauldin, and the small glimmers of light shining across The Forgotten Land certainly didn’t help.

“Let’s get out of here,” said Gavan, loosening the strap on his scabbard. “I have a feeling we’re not alone.” When they turned around there was little doubt. The Forgotten Men lined the redwoods by the cliff, half on the ground and half on rope bridges tied high in the branches. Gavan and Edward hadn’t noticed the bridges. Every rope and plank was camouflaged by sticks and leaves.

The Forgotten Men were as short and skinny as a child, but with the physique and bearded faces of grown men. That’s because their ancestors were selected to the company based on their short stature, but also because they proved strong and nimble in training. Climbing mountains required men with such traits, and after being banished all these years, malnutrition had obviously shortened the bloodlines.

Somehow they secretly impressed Gavan nonetheless, swinging from tree to tree with coordination and athleticism. “I could make good use of them,” he thought, “If war was ever fought in the mountains.” While varying in age, each had long hair, a dirty face, and multiple scars branding their bodies. Hand crafted vests with wooden ribs like a washboard covered their chests, and a hooked blade dangled by their sides used as a machete or weapon depending on need. Draping over their vests and patched up trousers were vines, leaves, and other types of camouflage, blending them with nature.

“The lights signaled a call to arms,” Gavan whispered to Edward. “There’s no choice but to split up. I spied on them for King Simeon. I spotted one I think I can trust. You go on and wait for me in Franklin. I’ll meet you there, and we’ll ride to Edwardstown together.”

Franklin was a small town that touched the border of all Three Kingdoms, making it a natural crossroads between them. Edward looked at Gavan one last time before jolting down the edge of the cliff. Arrows buzzed past him like a swarm of bees until one stung Edward’s shoulder, cutting into the redwoods.

Good thing he’s wearing chainmail under that red cloak, thought Gavan, turning his attention to what stood in front of him. “Who’s first?” He yelled, as the men on foot walked out from the redwoods followed by those in the trees, who grabbed a rope, swung to the ground, and landed perfect back flips. There were almost thirty in total by Gavan’s count, and not a one of them knew how dangerous he was. He pulled his sword while they backed him against the ledge. An older man stepped out of the crowd, not starved like the others but healthy, plump, and dressed in fine cloth to compensate for his hatchet face and balding hairline. Gavan knew his name was William Licksley, Leader of The Forgotten Men.

“I

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.