Near the base of a tall mountain two youngsters were tearing through the hardened shrubbery, trying to make their way deeper into the forest.
The one in the front was fourteen years old but he looked much older because of his thick bushy brows, wide shoulders and cheekbones.
The brows were furrowed tightly and his teeth gritted as he cut apart a small tree with some effort. The dull blade in his hand felt heavier with every swing but that did little to hinder his progress.
"Naim, stop! Listen to me for once in your life!" the one in the back shouted, trying to catch up.
He looked much younger and appropriate for his age. A pale young man with a skinny build. He had shoulder-length black hair that with his rather delicate features made him look quite sickly.
The boy in front who was re
