CHAPTER 08: TRIALS BY THE RIVER

The forest canopy rustled gently in the midday breeze as Lawrence and Leong made their way toward the river. It had taken some convincing, but Lawrence had managed to persuade his brother to join him on simple outing so he can feel better and eliminate the gap between them.

The path wounded through the forest dappled with patches of sunlight , birds chirped merrily overhead and the scent of pine filled the air. Lawrence walked with a purposeful stride while Leong meandered occasionally stopping to watch a wildflower or a squirrel dart up to a tree.

"You know brother" Leong started breaking the silence " this forest has a way of making you forget your troubles. Maybe you should spend time here away from the pressure of the court."

Lawrence chuckled" I think father might have something to say about that "

Leong smirked" I'm sure  the court could use a bit of shaking up. Imagine their faces if you brought home a wild squirrel as your advisor."

Lawrence laughed, the sound echoing through the trees "I'm not sure they'll appreciate my choice of advisor but it's tempting thought".

As they reached the riverbank , the gentle sounds of water flowing greeted them. Lawrence knelt to fill his flask while Leong wondered along the edge skipping stones across the surface.

"Ever had contest to see who can skip stones farthest? Leong asked mischievous glint in his eyes.

"Not recently" Lawrence admitted "but I'm up for a challenge"

Before they could begin,a rustling in the bushes behind caught their attention. Lawrence tensed his hand instinctively reach his sword. However Leong seemed more curious than alarmed.

From the under bush emerged a group of rough looking men, their eyes gleaming with I'll intent. Bandits. They fanned out encircling the brothers, their leader stepped foward with a sneer.

"Well well what do we have here?" The bandit drawled. Two fine young lads and they look fancy quite fancy!"

Lawrence stood, gripping his sword"we mean you no harm let us pass, and there will be no trouble"

The bandit leader laughed, a harsh grating sound "oh I don't think so, pretty boy. Hand over your valuables and we might let you unharmed"

Leong,still standing by the river shrugged nonchalantly. "You know I'm much for fighting. How about we leave here quitely and pretend this never happened?"

Lawrence shoot him a look of disbelief " Leong we can't just...."

"Fight them? Leong interrupted raising an eyebrow" sure we can.but where is fun in that?

Besides I've been more into a "run and live to fight another day' kinda guy"

The bandits advanced sensed the brothers hesitation. Lawrence drew his sword ready to defend them. "I'm not running Leong.we stand our ground"

Leong sighed dramatically " fine, fine if we're going to do this at least make it more interesting"

With a sudden burst of speed , Leong darted foward, grabbing a nearby branch using it to vault over one of the bandit landing gracefully behind him. He winked at Lawrence "try to keep up brother"

Lawrence couldn't help but grin despite danger. Leong sense of humor was infectious even in a face of threat. Together they moved in tandem. Lawrence's sword flashing in sunlight while Leong used his agility and quick thinking to outmaneuvered their attackers.

As the fight intensified, the bandits quickly realized they were outmatched. Lawrence skill with blade was evident,but it was Leong unpredicted movement and witty banter that threw them off balance.

"Really,you should consider a career change"Leong quipped, dodging a clumsy swipe " banditry doesn't seem  to be your strongest suit"

With a final coordinated effort Lawrence and Leong managed to drive bandits back. The leader of bandits nursing a new bruise on his cheek snarled in  frustration "this isn't over" he spat before retreating in the forest with his men.

As the last of bandits disappeared in the forest, Lawrence sheathed his sword, breathing heavily. "You've an interesting way of handling things, Leong"

Leong grinned tossing the branch aside"hey,it worked didn't it? besides life is too short to take everything seriously.you should try to have fun every now and then."

Lawrence shook his head a reluctantly smile spread on his face " maybe you're right. Just.... try to warn me next time you decide to improvise."

" Deal "Leong said with a chuckle" now about stone skipping contest.."

As they resumed their playful challenge by the river. Lawrence felt a grimmer of hope. Despite their differences and the years that separated them, there was a chance for the two brothers to truly understand each other and face the future as a United front.