Chasing Scarlet

Chasing Scarlet: Chapter Three

I rode on Commander, Autumn behind me, watching the trees and hills pass by. In the far distance, I could see my land. Gray clouds hovered over us, threatening growls of thunder erupting from the bellies of them. If only we could make it, then we wouldn't have to worry about getting soaked. I wrapped my cape tightly around me and felt the slight shiver of the girl behind me. She was only a few years younger than me, but she looked much older. Her face was gaunt, her bright green eyes tired, her hair was what really caught my attention. Thick straight mid-back length dark red hair framed her pale little face. It laid perfect on top of her head and glided over her slim shoulders. It was as dark as the autumn leaves on some trees, her hair almost scarlet. Autumn was the perfect name for her, it matched her hair and she seemed happy in the chilly weather.

I liked her sister better though I must say. They both looked alike, but Andra was still childish and Autumn looked tired, worn out. We charged through the hills, the gray clouds darkening. "It's going to pour right about now..." I heard her say. Just then the clouds opened up and spilled their contents all over us. Cold rain soaked through my cape, slicked back my hair and drizzled over my face.

Autumn shouted and whooped in joy. Commander still plowed through the cold rain. Arms unattached themselves from around my waist, and weight left Commander's back. I screamed and turned around to see a limp shape on the path. I reined in Commander and watched in relief as she got up. A grin lit up her face, her scarlet hair plastered to her pale face. Lightning struck the sky behind her, lighting her up from behind, causing me to shiver.

She danced in the pouring rain, her arms raised towards the clouds and her face turned up, swallowing the fresh rain. She cried in joy and twirled. I slid off of Commander and stalked towards her. Grabbing her arm, I dragged her back to the horse. "Get on, or I'll knock you unconscious and sling you over like a sack of potatoes!" I shouted over the pounding rain and thunder. Her grin was wiped off her face and she dragged herself onto Commander. I climbed on and heard her mumble, "I can't have any fun in the rain."

We rode in silence save the rain washing dirt from us and pounding on us. She seemed quiet all the way back as Commander trudged through the mud the rain was making. On reaching the barn, I collasped from the horse's strong back and crumpled to the ground in a soaking heap. Autumn slid gracefully off my horse and stroked his neck, wiping water droplets off of his sleek coat.

A familiar shape unwrapped itself from the shadows and leaned over me. Harold smiled down at me and offered a frail but strong old hand. I declined it and rose to my feet by myself. The girl noticed Harold and ran into his arms. She cried on his shoulder as he comforted her. She pulled back after a few minutes and he examined her scarred hands.

"Tsk, tsk. What has Magnolia done to you?"

"She had me whipped for stepping out of line at home. I can't play anymore, Harold!" she wailed. Harold frowned as he produced an elegant case from behind his back.

"Then I guess you don't want this present I had made specially for you." He held it out ot her and curiousity got the best of her. She snatched the case and laid it on a clean patch of floor to open it. Inside was a beautifully carved violin. Tears streamed down her face and she hastily wiped them away.

"It's beautiful! Oh, I wish I could play!" She delicately picked it up and fingered the strings. She lowered her head and held up the violin to Harold. He took his present back and softly plucked away at it, the little instrument tucked under his chin and on his shoulder.

Autumn's body shook with sobs. She glanced up and stood. "I shall give it to Andra. She will be pleased to have it, Harold. Thank you." She took it back and packed it away.