4 The Token

She knew almost everything on this trail - every tree, pile of rocks, and broken ground. That was one of the badges of a skilled hunter. About ten minutes down the trail Atila noticed something new. On the ground, slightly hidden, was a token. A token was like a calling card and not easily lost. For one to be randomly scattered was no accident.

She picked it up for observation. It was fresh and smelled of rare metals. She did not recognize the signature markings, but could brainlessly guess it belonged to someone rich and powerful. She only hoped it was someone less dangerous than her. It laying here was no coincidence.

Atila tried to think of anyone who came to this area. Hunters generally had their own unspoken "territory" which most people respected. She drew a blank. Since no one she knew of hunter here, or even lived nearby, she could only guess this token was meant for her. Someone who has heard of her or has gained the skills to even observe her without detection. Someone wanted her to find it. But why?

Now alerted even more, she searched the surrounding area for footprints or any signs of recent presence. She drew her bow as she saw a pair of foot prints. They were fairly fresh, which made her adrenaline rush. Then she saw another. And another. All of them in a circle drawing out from her and the token. This was definitely meant for her. She heard the sudden call of a mockingbird, but she knew it came from a human throat. Chaos immediately sprung as she began to fight for her life.