We still have a long night ahead of us.
2
Ivy
Papatoldmetoride north, so that’s what I do, using the stars as a visual aid as he taught me.
At the first light of dawn, we stop by a brook for a much-needed rest. My muscles are stiff from riding through the night, so I take the opportunity to stretch my limbs.
The wolf never reappeared, so hopefully we've managed to outrun it.
I kneel by the brook and fill my waterskin. The horse laps up water beside me, and that’s how we stay for some time—two lost souls on the run.
My face is reflected in the brook, rippling along the glittering surface. It’s hard to believe I was still sleeping in my bed a mere eight hours ago.
Memories of last night rush to the front of my mind, and I inhale a shaky breath, the cool morning air piercing my lungs like knives.
Did Papa get the better of those soldiers? Did they manage to escape?
I squeeze my eyes shut, bringing my knees to my chin. They will be all right. Mama and Papa will have escaped…
I just don’t understand. Why did those soldiers come to our cottage?
We are not criminals; we have never broken the law. So, why did I have to rush away like a thief in the night?
Despite my best efforts, a sob wracks my body, and no matter how hard I press my face against my skirt, the tears won’t stop.
I’m alone, lost, and frightened, and the woods here are strange.The trees seem to grow differently, their clawed limbs stark black against a grey, merciless sky.
No. This is wrong.
I must go back; I must find my parents. I can’t leave them behind.
Iwillrescue them.
A memory of the ghostly woman returns, and I stop crying at once.
“The spell has broken…they’re coming…”
Who was she? And what spell? Maybe she was talking about the legendary spell that protects the town. I always thought it was just an old folktale.
According to legend, a witch once cast a spell around Charstown to protect its inhabitants from evil spirits, yet despite her altruistic efforts, they still burned her at the stake.
I flinch when something wet nudges my cheek, and I look up at Belle. My horse wants me to take a drink from the brook. Glistening droplets fall from her snout, and she’s already had her fill.
I dip my hands into the brook, bringing the water to my lips. It’s cool and fresh, and just what I need.
I take another sip and splash my face to wash away the grit from my eyes. It's best we move on, but another five minutes won’t hurt.
We’re alone out here. Only the birds keep us company, trilling in the branches above.
I smile at Belle, petting her cheek. “You were a good girl last night, getting us away so swiftly. Thank you.”
I give her snout a kiss, and she nickers softly, closing her eyes.
I’m lucky to have her. She was a gift from my parents, and I couldn’t imagine where I'd be without her. She saved my life.
My stomach growls. It’s time for breakfast.
