SoulBreather by Helen Garraway

Author:Helen Garraway
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Jerven Publishing

That evening, they buried the child within the copse of trees. Sheltered and protected from the weather, if nothing else. The children were sombre and wide-eyed, huddling together for reassurance.

Mav had spent the day searching the surrounding area for signs of dybbuks, or anyone else for that matter, but the area was deserted. The lack of riding beasts niggled at Mav. The men must have come from somewhere, and they wouldn’t have walked. Had there been a fourth man? One who had fled with the animals?

He didn’t know and worry gnawed at his belly. His children could be at risk and there was little he could do about it. Except return to the citadel and end this filthy business once and for all.

Muntra helped him dig a larger grave for the dybbuks, out amongst the bracken, concealed from view. After that, they returned to the homestead to wash off the dirt, sweat, and grief.

When they entered the house, they found Solanji cuddling some of the smaller kids, offering comfort and no doubt receiving it. Bailey came out of the kitchen and thumped a large bowl of mixed berries onto the table, followed by a steaming jug. His bright blue eyes surveyed the room, and then he grinned, a splash of brilliant light driving away the shadows.

“Your favourite,” he announced to the room and began dishing up bowls of fruit and pouring the thick, creamy sauce over them.

Children’s heads popped up, eyes bright with expectation, and Mav smiled as Bailey drove away the quiet tension that had been hovering over the room and replaced it with gentle laughter. The children relaxed and began to chatter. By the time they went to bed, happy smiles graced their faces and the horror had left their eyes.

The next morning, Mav reluctantly saddled their calopes. He didn’t want to leave, but if he didn’t, the danger would never end. Solanji strapped on their bedrolls and travel packs, a similar reluctance in her movements.

Leading the beast out into the yard, he dropped the reins at the sight of his fledglings standing in a line waiting to say goodbye. He strode over, clasped Kerris behind the neck, and tugged him into a fierce hug. “Remember, it’s never cowardice to fall back and regroup. Use your brain, not your anger.”

Kerris nodded into his chest, his voice muffled as he replied, “Please come back, Mav.” He pushed a sturdy stick into Mav’s hand. “Use it,” he said, his voice unyielding.

Mav’s lips twitched, but he held Kerris’ eyes as he said, “I promise. I’ll come back for all of you. I swear it.”

Releasing Kerris, Mav swept Kiara into his arms and swung her round. “I’m sorry for messing with your machine,” he whispered. Small arms tightened around his neck. “You found all the bits, so I forgive you,” she muttered against his neck, and his heart clenched as he felt warm tears on his skin. He kissed the top of her head and put her back down, and she stepped into Kerris’ side as he wrapped his arm around her shoulders.

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