Briar Woods (Re-working)

Chapter 15:The Departure

I would see the old woman every night in my dream. She would continue to beckon me to come to her. I would, as the first night, awake with the sensation that I had actually been there. Where sleep had once been a refuge, it had now become a silent war with my own thoughts and demons.

My fatigue must have been apparent, for often Sir Raulf and Sir Gregory would inquire after my wellbeing. Brom, with his usual grace and charm, was not as subtle and pointed out how awful I looked on one occasion. I almost threw an apple at his head, until I remembered what had happened to his family and I felt my annoyance fade slightly, and I glared at him instead.

With Lord Pennington's injured men well enough to travel, they began to make preparations for their departure. I felt guilty for Brom staying when I knew they could use his support on their journey home. Lord Pennington assured me that they would fare well enough and that I need not worry overly much. I insisted they have an escort at least to the outskirts of our borders, to which Lord Pennington agreed.

I arose early, the day Lord and Lady Pennington were to leave. The escort that would accompany them would consist of Myself, Sir Gregory, Roberts and Clyde—and of course Brom. Sir Raulf would remain at Dilston Manor and continue with training of the recruits.

We offered every man that had made it through the initial training a place among my father's regiment. Most accepted the opportunity. Five men did not. Among those men were, Saul and Fen as I predicted. They felt their new skills were better served if they were with their families.

Lord Pennington decided to accompany Jocelyn in the carriage as far as we accompanied them. Once we went our separate ways he would then take his usual post leading his men on horseback. Without Brom to play his decoy, Willoby would ride with Jocelyn and Liam for the remainder of the journey. His leg wound, while mending, was still weak.

The journey was fairly uneventful through the countryside and we made good time. We received curious glances from people as we passed by homes. A few young lads followed behind with excitement for a time, when they saw our procession.

Wanting to avoid Briar Woods, it was decided that we would travel the mountain pass. The alternate route was longer and took us through rocky hills. Once we made it through the narrow mountain pass, however, the most difficult terrain would be behind us.

We reached the most strenuous part of the journey around midday. I was grateful we would make it through the pass before evening. Without proper sunlight, the mountain pass would be extremely difficult to navigate.

Off in the distance I heard a rumbling akin to thunder. I searched the sky but found no signs of a storm. Then in the distance I watched as several horsemen appeared on the horizon. Sir Gregory and Brom reached for their swords and I watched as the others followed suit. Whether friendly passerby's or not, everyone readied themselves for the worst.

A dark figure on horseback appeared to lead them and I recognized the gelding and an instant later the rider.

I felt hairs stand up on the back of my neck. Edric and his men were headed our way and in only a matter of minutes would be upon us. I was still not certain I could trust the man, but knowing Sir Gregory, I feared he would not wait to find out Edric's intentions before taking action.

Digging my heals into Genevieve's flanks, I raced forward without warning and did not stop until I came within a few feet of Edric and his men. I knew my rash actions were sure to earn me a severe scolding later, but my only concern was to avert any conflict if possible. I did not have my bow this time; instead I carried a blade at my side.

Pushing my cloak back, I lay my hand on the hilt of the sword so that Edric could see.

I heard shouts from behind me and I knew Sir Gregory must be furious with me. The rest were surely holding their breath's in anticipation.