33
ANDREAS
We advanced deep into the forest with the soldiers. We were looking for fresh tracks. For about three hours, we rode silently on horseback along rugged trails. Sparrows chirped in the treetops, and rays of sunlight filtered through the dark green leaves from time to time. Elena's words echoed in my head. "I hope you return safely." Did she really mean that?
Suddenly, Lachlan stopped. He silenced the team with a hand signal. There were sounds ahead. The sounds of horses fleeing. I slowly drew my sword. Lachlan stepped forward, turned back, and whispered, "Are you ready?" Everyone armed themselves with their arrows and spears.
When we cleared the thorny bushes, we saw a wide clearing. They had fled without extinguishing the fires they had lit during their break. It was impos
