I WILL FIND YOU.

Chapter 19: Hunt

Kai walked through the forest fully equipped with the hunting gear and a lantern. He headed up the mountain at a quick pace. Along the way he saw markings on the trees he passed. Ran hadn't allowed him to look at his map but he did explain what the different symbols meant so he wouldn't get caught in any traps.

He reached three-quarters of the way up the mountain when the sun began to peak over the horizon. The moment he saw the light Kai put away the lantern and took out the bow and arrow. He stalked the forest with patience and focus.

Rustle*

Kai heard the sound of something moving. He knelt down with an arrow notched and ready to fire. He looked through the brush for the sources of the sound.

Hop* Swoosh* Thunk*

The moment the large rabbit hopped out from behind the bush Kai released his arrow and shot it down before its little feet could touch the ground.

He walked forward and picked the rabbit up from its long ears. The rabbit squeak and kicked its little legs. He looked at the pitiful rabbit and in one swift movement he put it out of its misery.

"Minda should be happy." Kai thought as he looked at the rabbit. He could remember how excited Minda sounded when he talked about rabbit stew and was happy to get one for him.

...

Kai continued walking through the forest for several hours. When he reached the opposite side of the mountain he found a small clearing by a clear blue stream with traces of deer and other animals. It was the perfect spot to stop to rest.

He moved behind some trees to stay hidden from any potential prey and pulled out the little lunch pack Minda had given him. It was filled with both dry and fresh fruit, dried meat, and buns. The amount of food stuffed inside the little pouch was enough to last days if properly rationed.

Kai looked at the basket as he ate. He managed to catch four rabbits and a pheasant along the way. As he looked at it he thought of Minda who was waiting for him at home.

"I'll let Minda's servant Feifei cook the rabbits in a stew but I think I'll make him some grilled pheasant myself." Kai mused. He wasn't the greatest cook but he had confidence in his grilled pheasant. It was something he would make for his men whenever possible and they always raved about it.

"I hope he's staying warm." Kai thought as he looked up at the overcast sky. He couldn't help but worry about Minda's delicate health. He knew Minda enjoyed spending time in the garden more than inside and with the overcast sky the temperature had dropped considerably.

...

At the same time Minda was also looking up at the sky worrying about Kai.

"I hope it doesn't rain." Minda worried. He had been warned all his life never to wander the mountain when it rained because of the dangers. The mountain would become muddy and unsafe. If it rained enough there could even be a landslide.

"Young Master, come inside and sit by the stove." Auntie Feifei said as she hurried over to his side with another blanket. She had obviously noticed the temperature drop and with the risk of rain she was worried about Minda's health.

"I'm fine here." Minda said as he rubbed his left hand with a grimace. He was clearly uncomfortable but refused to leave the garden.

"Young Master the weather is poor and lunch will be served soon. Come inside and warm up." Auntie Feifei had been trying to convince Minda to come inside since daybreak without success.

"I want to stay here. Can you bring lunch out to the outdoor dining area today?" Minda said.

"Young Master, I think it would be better if you eat inside."