Over the Ridge

Hoof beats?

            No, it couldn’t be! Stefan reassured himself. I’m in the Pescara Valley, and nobody can find me here.

            I peaked from the undergrowth and scrub brush that concealed me, hoping to get a view of what I assumed was a man on horseback. I could just catch sight of such coming in my direction. I plunged further into the cluster of greenery, hoping to keep out of sight.

            Then I heard the voice.

            “Prince Stefan! Where are you!?”

            The voice was unmistakable�"Jhanili.

            Feeling my anger well up once again, I felt like unsheathing my dagger, the only weapon I was able to grab in my flee for it sat by the door, and cutting him down from his horse.

            “Stefan if you are around, I must talk to you,” he said, pleading.

            I looked to make sure no others were around, then stepped from around the underbrush. Jhanili’s horse rose to its hind legs, neighing wildly.

            He quickly dismounted and tied him to a tree. He then came to me, seeming at a loss for words. But I on the other hand was not.

            “Why would you betray me?” I asked, wanting an honest answer.

            He looked at me, a somber look etched on his face. “To be honest, things changed once your father died�" too many things for me to tell now. Your uncle pressured me to be on his side, threatening to expose some secrets I had if I didn’t comply. This time around with the slave trade was no different, I would just let you do as you pleased and then when you failed your uncle would look like a more capable leader.”

            He hung his head. “I don’t expect you to forgive me, or even to believe me, but there is one thing I must say. If I ever spoke truth, it is right now. Your uncle is going to try to unify the Kingdoms of the East Region. If he does, the known world would be under their rule. There is only one way to stop your uncle, and you have to go to the Isnar Monestary to find him�"“

            “How do I know you are not leading me into a trap?” I asked.

            “A man will only lie if he has something to gain. I have nothing. If the King finds me, he will assuredly have me killed. My only hope is that you would defeat the monster I helped create.”

            He untied his horse and gave me the swore he had around his waist. “Take these, and ride. I will stay here.”

            “But you will die,” I said.

            “Then I will have paid for my mistake. Go, Stefan.”

            He helped me mount, then pointed the direction in which I was supposed to ride. Back East, towards the mountains. The monastery was to be on the plateau.

            I was happy to see that Jhanili was helping me escape, or so I thought.

            My heart sank as I came over the ridge to see dozens of the King’s men waiting for me with swords in hand. In the center was my uncle.

            “So, my nephew, we meet again,” he said with a sly smile.