The False Pawn by A.E. Asavi

Author:A.E. Asavi [Asavi, A.E.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-03-10T00:00:00+00:00

The numbing cold seemed to seep deep into her bones, making each moment of waiting feel like an eternity. The vast, starry expanse overhead offered no comfort. The three large moons, and the four smaller ones seemed to mock her. Shouting at her—she was alone, stranded, a stranger. Anthea’s heart raced with every creak of the wood and rustle of the wind. She swore she could hear constant screeching from the front of the ship.

Anthea heard the sound of boots stomping against the planks, and Eldrion emerged from the shadows. The elf was carrying a small bowl, filled with something steaming. She kept her eyes on him as he put the bowl down, and untied her wrists. She stayed silent; he stayed silent. Inviting warmth radiated from him, contrasting the biting cold of the night. As the ropes loosened, she rubbed her wrists, the returning blood flow tingling her skin.

Eldrion took hold of her elbow, grabbed the bowl, and tugged her up. Seeing no other choice, she allowed herself to be led to a small cabin, immediately thankful for the lack of wind as they entered. The room was lit by a single lantern hanging from a hook, casting dancing shadows upon the wooden walls.

Setting the bowl on a wooden table, Eldrion motioned for her to sit. “Eat,” he said softly. She hesitated for a split second before pulling the chair and sitting down, her eyes fixed on the bowl. It appeared to be some kind of soup, the steam carrying with it a rich aroma that tugged at her hunger.

“Why?” She wasn’t sure what exactly she was asking—why give her food; why leave her at the ship; or why take her at all?

“You have half an hour to eat and to freshen up,” he said curtly, ignoring her question. “After that, you’ll return to the post outside.” With that, he turned on his heel and exited the cabin, audibly locking the door behind him.

Anthea stared at the space he had occupied just moments before, his words echoing in her ears. Half an hour. She felt the weight of every ticking second. Getting up, she scanned the cabin. She had to find something, anything, that might aid her escape or at least give her a chance. The room was mostly bare, save for some nautical tools and a few personal belongings.

And then, she spotted it—a dagger. Someone had left a dagger here. Anthea couldn’t believe it. It was too good to be true. She picked it up, thinking of where to hide it. It was too big, too noticeable. If they found the dagger on her—her façade would crumble. She reluctantly put it back and reached for a small metallic instrument resting on a shelf. Some kind of a sextant. Its edges seemed sharp, and it felt heavy in her hand. Anthea tucked it carefully within the folds of her dress, concealing it against her side. Perhaps she could use it to cut through her bindings later, or use it as a weapon, if it came to that.

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