The Fox of Wales

Finale

Abigail woke from her sleep with a start. Her heart was pumping, though she didn't know why. Her dreams had been pleasant and she had imagined that she was at home in her mother's arms. The fire was roaring in the fireplace and her friends had just came to play with her. This tranquil scene was interrupted by the shrill toot of many horns and the clanking of armor. The soldiers were already moving, sharpening their blades and packing satchels. 

"Come on little miss! We must go North a little ways. Pack your stuff!" Abigail guessed this was the general through her sleepy eyes. She climbed out of bed and combed her hair. A red dress had been set out on the couch, which looked very appealing to the eye. She slipped it on and walked to the mirror to check herself out. He eyes glistened in their sockets. When she exited the tent, most of the other tents were gone. The warriors were lining up and saluting the general, who was giving a rousing speech. Abigail could make out only small portions, as she scanned the remains of campfires and meals scattered around area. Something did catch her eyes as she walked near the cliff. The cliff overlooked a vast valley, appearing to be circled by smaller cliffs. Part of the Northern Forest stretched out from the right side and Abigail noticed her village, nestled right by the forests edge. The chimneys were still smoking from breakfast and the market was swarming with people. 

"I didn't know I was this close to home. This is an incredible view." 

"You've come full circle. You started there in the forest and have ended up here. Your journey is nearly complete." The Eagle had walked up behind her.  

"Seeing everything from up here is truly eye opening. You can see everything. Even the Great Sea far off in the distance. We are not that far from the coast that surrounds the land here." 

"The Coast will be a few hours march from here. You should go home to your family. They will miss you!" 

"I can't leave you. Not when your kingdom is on the line. I wish to stand by your side." Abigail looked up into his eyes. "You must allow me to come with you."

"I would not like to see you get hurt. You are safe here in the center of the land. The army of the Deceiver is sure to be on it's way. You must flee." 

"What of your life? This isn't just evil we face. It is your way of life. I must stand by your side no matter what." 

The Eagle seemed to ponder her words. 

"We shall give you a group of warriors to protect you. They shall walk around you."

"I'll be there to see you victorious." Abigail walked slowly towards the assembling army.  She heard the marching of the boots. 

"The journey begins now. Let us go." 

After an hour of marching, the group started to notice that the enemy army had been present. Several animals were tied to posts and they were growling  in pain. 

"The Oracle's army is nearby! Be on your guard and free these unfortunate souls." The Eagle drew his own sword and cut many of them free. 

"They were here! They were armed with swords and poison darts." One of the prisoners yelled. 

"How long ago? We chase their horrid hides!" 

"No more than an hour. They said they were going to the fountain." 

"They will desecrate a holy shrine! Quickly, up the path! We must catch them!" The Eagle dashed down the path and many followers followed him. Even the captives followed. 

When they did come across the enemy, they were destroying the site. Pillars were being knocked down, statues burned, and banners were ripped in two. When the first of the enemy noticed our heroes, they drew their swords. After taunting and spitting at each other for several minutes, the charge began. The swiping of the sword blended with the wind and no screams were heard.