The Silver Fox

Chapter 8: Nathanial

I sit in the tall grass and watch a spider gracefully weave its intricate web. Dew drops adorn the delicate transparent strands, each a tiny mirror of the lush green of the meadow. Beaded necklaces of emeralds fit to be worn by Annalisa. Winter has faded into Spring, showing how long I have been in the hospitality of these outsiders.

My history still a mystery, I mull over the attack. My memory slowly trickling back, I remember more every day. The phoenix man was a stranger to me, and he came out of nowhere. I was riding Jade, my beautiful black mare, through the forest and he just jumped out of a tree. No normal human would be able to jump from that height and despite the grime covering his face, he was beautiful, the sign of a Beny. His hair was a brilliant mixture of auburns and crimsons. He had obviously taken on the symbol of the phoenix because of his fiery hair and had also put the icon on his blade and as his tattoo. The metal was sculpted so masterfully that I expected the bird to fly right off the sword, the same sword that struck me in the chest. His hair so bright, as if flickering flames were sprouting from his scalp.

I look down at my foot shackles, both glad for having my hands free and bothered by being hobbled. The people here still do not completely trust me, but at least they allow me to go outside. The meadow is such a relief as a contrast from that grey, musty recovery room. I glance over at Jacklen who is sitting just 10 ft from me.

Out of the corner of my eye I see a black streak that could only be one thing, Jade. She canters towards us and I see Princess Annalisa sitting bareback on her. Jade's mane flies out behind her and waves in the wind.

I smile as I see the silver fox using her gift to talk to my horse. The last time anyone tried to ride her, a 10 year old boy was in the hospital for a week. She threw the boy before he had even sat down on the saddle. Jade is very stubborn to anyone who rides her, even me! I am amazed by the princess’s way with animals. I will have to talk to her, ask her what is going on in my horse’s head. 

I signal to Jacklen that I am ready to go back inside. She wraps my arm around her shoulder and supports my weight as I walk back to the room where I am living now.