Destroyers and the Dragons

Page 33

      "We have all had something like this, but please use caution. She isn't a dragon and we are trying to unite the clans once more not throw us all into chaos." I enter the tent like I haven't been listening and sit down on the stool to look over the map. Pine, his first, has said what I've been thinking all along.

     "If we head up this trail here we can take three days off the trip, besides they won't expect a king to use it," I say with a blank face.

     "Why wouldn't they expect me to use it?" Evergreen asks putting his head right next to mine.

     "It is a trail only my kind use, we hunt along it. It is wide enough though to offer us plenty of protection, and if they are looking to hurt you. They will expect you to take this road," I point to a line on the map that is easily three times bigger than the one I am suggesting.

     "Pine what do you think?" Evergreen asks looking at Pine.

     "I have to agree with your girl on this. If we come up this trail we will be able to see what they are planning before we even get there. It will help us decide if they are friend or foe," Pine concludes.

     "Then we will take that path," Evergreen says. I nod my agreement and quickly change into my damp tunic and breeches. I pull on my armor and check for water damage. Thankfully the oil in the leather kept it from any major damage. I quickly oil the leather again and then check it one more time. I pull on my armor and begin to pack my things. I saddle my horse and get ready to ride. Evergreen pushes his mount next to mine.

     "I'd like to ride next to you today," he says. "It will show my men that I am a leader."

     "Whatever pleases your Highness," I say formally and then glance back to make sure that the line is ready to move. I click my tongue and my plains mount begins a brisk trot. I focus on the path for most of the day until the sun slips behind the trees and we can no longer see our way. We camp on the path, under the stars. I disappear into the forest and forage for a cold meal rather than light fires which may give away our location. I hand everyone a good portion of berries, bark, roots, and tubers. I drop the bag in Evergreens lap and watch as he opens it. "This is dinner your Highness. Pine and I agree that we can not afford to light fires tonight." Evergreen pulls a handful of berries from the bag and pops one into his mouth. He makes a face and I start to laugh. "Is it not to your standards?" I tease.

     "It is the most sour thing I have ever had the misfortune to eat," he says.

     "Well then I suppose you'll starve," I say snatching a couple of berries from his hand and popping them into my mouth. I manage to keep my face blank as I chew and swallow the berries. I watch as Evergreen forces the rest of the meal down and then he studies me.

     "How come you haven't eaten much?" he asks handing me a bitter root.

     "I ate while gathering," I say with a grin and then bite into the root.

     "I'll be happy when this is over and I can get a real meal," he grumbles as Pine sits down next to me.

     "I thought the King was up for any challenge?" Pine counters.

     "I am, I just didn't think this stuff tasted so bad," he says as I hand him back the root.