Hunted

Chapter 6: The Start of the False Quest

It's burning...

I watched as my house and everything that I loved burn down with it. My feet refused to move from the safety of a distant patch of grass as the flames eagerly licked at the house, and the flesh of my loved ones. I could hear their moans of pain, see their clothes burn off as dark paper like pieces. I smelled the fire, suffocating my throat as the smoke threatened to fill my body.

I had this nightmare too many times before... and I knew it would never leave me alone. Suddenly, I could feel the heat from the fire. The warmth began to draw me in, licking my ankles enticingly. I stepped inside of the burning house and for the first time ever, there was someone there. A figure sitting at the table, which stood up when I walked inside. It made it's way towards me, laughing menacingly, flames dancing around their feet every step of the way, until at last it held a hand out to me and I awoke with a gasp.

I looked around. Caden was back, his arm wrapped protectively around me as usual as his features were peaceful as he slept. I smiled a little and took a glance at Elliot, who was a little further off from me, deep in thought as he stared at the sky. His features were creased with worry and guilt.

My scrutiny soon focused on a different target; my beautiful bow and familiar bag of arrows were neatly placed near me. My gaze softened as I shifted slightly to reach out for my bow. Unfortunately, that was enough to wake up Caden, which was then enough to avert Elliot's attention to us.

"Violetta, good, you're awake," Elliot said, his features lightening up a little. 

I nodded and let out a yawn as I stood up and stretched. How long was I out? 

I watched as Elliot and Caden exchanged a glance. I looked at  both of them expectantly. 

"What's going on?"

"Well Vie, Elliot believes he knows where to find out more about the fire..." Caden said as he stood up to join my side. I nodded slowly anticipating more to the story since Caden trailed off. "But, it's a long and dangerous journey. Elliot and I have agreed to accompany and protect you IF you decide you want to. The choice is up to you."

Really? Did he really  think that there would be an answer other then yes from this? Of course I wanted to know more. It's killing me not knowing what really happened. I grabbed my bag and my bow and looked between both of them. 

"When do we leave?"

"Now, if you want." Elliot said.

"Alright then, let's go." I waited patiently as Caden gathered the bags and split the baggage with Elliot. Elliot began to lead the way, and we were off on our first major quest.