Chapter84

#Chapter84

Bits and pieces of the earth tickle the sliver of skin exposed on my stomach. My fingers twitch and stretch and beneath them, I feel dirt. I grab at the frozen ground as if the world is beginning to tip over, and when my eyes finally open, I see a steep incline. When I turn toward the sky, I don't see it, and instead see the shading canopy of the forest. My mind slowly gathers information until I feel strong enough to push up off the forest floor. I look around for my father but instead hear voices—one of them belonging to him.

I heave myself up with the help of a tree trunk then stumble toward the sounds as my head throbs. Once I spot the three men through the trees, I stop and stay hidden behind one.

/"Soon,/" One man, rugged and hairy, says to my father.

/"And the others?/"

/"Hiding in the mountains. They are waiting for your call./"

My father nods. /"You will be rewarded for your loyalty./"