The drum of boots on dirt had become a second heartbeat, steady and reassuring. Our army, a mosaic of steel, fur, and determination, stretched toward the distant capital. I adjusted the straps of my leather bag, my gaze flicking to Zeke, who was walking near the back of the troops.
''I miss him,'' Willow whined sadly, but as if sensing our glances, Zeke turned towards us, and I blushed and looked away.
''Me too,'' I told her, ''But I'd rather miss them, knowing they were still alive, instead of being with them and watching them die.''
"Another hundred miles until camp," RJ called out, nodding toward the horizon.
RJ's voice caused a chain reaction, and the sounds of arrows shot through the air.
''DEFENSIVE POSITIONS!'' I screamed, and I jumped and spun in the air, throwing my hands o
