𝑨𝒓𝒅𝒊𝒕𝒉 | ✔️

15 | Troubled Thoughts

Summer, 30th June 864AD – Midday

After my encounter with Einar the night before, I couldn't stop thinking about our discussion. If what he says is true, then my village had a week to prepare themselves for the next Viking attack. Yet, a part of me could not be sure if he told the truth.
After all, Danes were not the most trustworthy people. How do I know I could trust him?

During my usual training drills, I could not concentrate, especially with Einar's words continuing to haunt me. This morning, we trained to use archery gear. Red and white painted targets lined along the field, and our goal was to strike the heart in one hit.
I do not have perfect aim, but if I ever encounter an enemy afar, then my archery is the only weapon to keep me alive.
Remembering the first time I encountered Einar, I had made myself a fool. I missed my shot, and as a consequence, he fired back.
I realise this incident is what's kept me from trusting him. He had proven himself a threat.

"Ardith, your turn to shoot." Dreng announced.
Coming back to the present, I realised the only people left to shoot were myself and two others.
Swallowing, I stepped forward, tracing my finger along the smooth wood of my bow.

I stood in front of a target, my trembling hands holding my bow and arrow. Taking a sharp breath, I balanced one arrow on the bowstring. I raised my bow towards the target; my eyes squinting at the blinding sun.

Drawing back my bow, I waited for the right moment. Above me, I heard birds squawking on treetops. The warm summer air swirled around me; its hot breath fanned against my neck. My heart raced wildly, and I took a few calming breaths to relax trembling body.

"Remember, to kill the enemy, you must fire at the heart," Dreng advised. "An arrow can kill from miles away, but a sword cannot. At times, the enemy will be light on their feet. You cannot simply rely on your sword. That is why your bow and arrow is a useful weapon; you can capture the enemy on their tracks. Without coming any close."

I drew back the arrow further. The string screeched.

"Ardith, visualise the target as the head of your enemy." Dreng came close to me, his hot breath against my neck. "Aim straight in the middle. Show no mercy. You are after all a Defender, are you not?"

I gave a firm nod. "I am."

"Good," Dreng grinned. "Then show everyone here what you are capable of."

Grunting, I drew back my bow string, then with one release, my arrow came spinning towards the target. My eyes lit up and my heart drummed with anticipation. Perhaps I can finally hit a target. Perhaps this time I had a better chance at hitting a-

"Not even close!" Dreng announced when my arrow landed on the edge. He shook his head. "Again."

Taking another arrow, I slid it on my bow. I exhaled deeply and positioned the arrow, taking note of the distance between myself and the target. I fired my arrow.
I thought I would hit the target this time, but the arrow bounced off to the ground.
I earned another disappointed remark from Dreng, followed by a shake of his head.

"Ardith, I need you to focus," He let out an exasperated sigh. "Again. This time, do not let anything distract you." He glanced over at two male cadets who were sniggering. "Hey! You two! Quiet down!"

Immediately, the two boys fell silent. I had no clue who they were, but they appear to be younger than most people here.

Dreng turned to me, pinching his tensed forehead.
"Do it again, Ardith. Like I said – no distractions."

Nodding, I drew another arrow and placed it on my bowstring. I adjusted the arrow until I was satisfied. I took a few steps forward and exhaled deeply.
This was my final chance at this exercise. If I miss, then Dreng may not be pleased, and perhaps he would reconsider having me as a Defender.

No, I cannot return to the life before. The life of a seamstress who spent endless days caged in a small room doing nothing but mending clothes while pricking my own fingers.

People knew me as many things, but now they will know me as a Defender of Kendrick; a warrior who will commit to saving the lives of others; a brave soldier ready to face the Northmen even if it means laying down their life. Most importantly, an inspiration for vulnerable people like me who dreams to make a difference.