Viking Warriors by Emmanuelle de Maupassant

Author:Emmanuelle de Maupassant
Language: eng
Format: mobi, epub
Tags: Medieval
Published: 2020-01-29T16:00:00+00:00

27

Closing my eyes against the brightness all around, I kicked hard. Dwelling in that cramped, underground space, I’d grown used to its gloom and the confinement of its walls. The sky now felt huge and the sun dazzling. I knew I must clear the perilous rocks. Only then would I have a chance.

Almost immediately, the swell lifted me high then plunged low, saltwater entering my nose and throat. I struggled and spluttered as the current swept me sideways. Scraping my elbow, I spun, reaching out my hands to stop myself. I caught my breath in pain but fought forward, almost dragged under before being hoisted upwards on a surging wave and pushed beyond the jagged granite.

I felt the difference at once and was filled with optimism. If I might now stay afloat, I could kick my way to shore. Yet, as I began to swim, I seemed to make no progress. The realization came to me in a flood of despair. How foolish I was! I’d never reach the shore, for the tide was on its way out, drawing me with it. I’d be swept out of the fjord, to the open sea.

In my panic, I kicked harder. I might, perhaps, make my way back to the rocks, drag myself hand over hand, returning to the cavern. That hope was in vain for the current was strong. Already, I was drawing level with the next opening in the cliff—a smaller hollow, without visible ledge but also without rocks. I might take refuge there and wait for the turning tide. Summoning the last of my will, I thrashed through the water. Turning my body, I swept close to the cliff face and braced myself. Knowing how easily the waves could crush me against the unyielding granite, I launched myself into the cave.

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