The Captured Princess

Chapter Twenty-Seven: Keary

We rode through the woods silently. The princess had calmed considerably after I had struck her, but I knew she had more grit than to just give up. It was a trait that I found most admirable and annoying at the same time. We rode throughout the day and into the night with no rest but for a short stop by stream to water the horses and get something to eat. It was late in the afternoon when we arrived at our destination. There it was, just as I remembered it. A small cabin in a clearing, in the midst of the woods.

Right outside, a man was chopping wood. He looked up when he heard horses approaching. At the sight of us, he stood up and called out warily: "Who are you, and what do you want?"

I didn't blame him for his caution. We were hardly a friendly sight. "Calm down, Amos," I called back to him, "It's only me."

He stared hard at me for a second, then recognition showed on his face. "Weylin? Is that you?"

I almost flinched. It had been years since I'd been called that name. "It is me, my friend," I added: "And it's not Weylin anymore."

Amos smiled and laughed while I dismounted. "Of course. Now I remember." He cleared his throat, "It's been a long time Keary." He emphasized the name.

I turned slightly to where Fay still sat on her horse, holding tightly to the reins of my horse, lest Adira make another attempt at escape. I introduced Fay to Amos and ignored the princess. Amos knew better than to say anything. He knew of my work as a mercenary. He didn't approve of it.

"Still at your criminal ways, I see," Amos commented.

I grinned ruefully, "What other ways are there to be had?" I asked.

Amos shrugged. "You have a choice, Keary," he said.

I shook my head, "I don't think so."

Amos smiled knowingly, "We'll see. So, just stopping by?"

"I wish. Is it still there?"

Amos looked confused for a second, then realized what I was talking about. "Ah, yes. Indeed it is."

"Excellent." I said. "Remind me where."

He pointed towards the north, "A good two days ride in that direction."

I looked where he pointed, "That's right. Thanks." With that, I mounted my horse, and we set off in the direction that Amos pointed out.

Cool, new character... for one chapter XP. Well at little hint of backstory about Keary, at least. Vote and Comment if ya enjoy it! :)

Keary - GadSul