Chapter Ten ~ A Fork in the Road

Jack surveyed his surroundings. Rocky cliff faces reared up on either side of the path, confining the team to ride single file. “Ugh… Getting claustrophobic!” Eva said to no one in particular. “What are you talking about? There’s SO much room…” Kylie stated sarcastically, stretching her arms wide and touching the walls with her fingertips. “We shouldn’t talk too loud… There could be rockslides!” Wen warned. “We’ll be fine! Nothing’s going to happen!” Rowena responded, volume a little too high. “Rowena, quit it! Keep it up, and we’ll be under ten feet of rubble!” Emily added, temper rising. The fighting continued, building up until- RUMBLE.

The speaking stopped immediately. “Everyone run!” Hazel called from the front. Jack dashed forwards, silently willing the donkey to run fast. Behind him, he could hear the roaring sound of falling boulders. He turned back once… And watched one giant stone land in the path behind him. The fleeing stopped, and he surveyed who was with him. Ryne, Emily, and- “Is everyone okay?” Hazel yelled towards the rock. “We’re fine!” Wen faintly replied. “There’s another path over here…” Hazel sighed, “Take it. We’ll follow this road and see where we end up. Worst case scenario, we’ll have to meet up in the next kingdom.” The sound of horses could be heard in the distance, and they were gone. “Looks like we’re alone now.” Emily stated. Ryne nodded in agreement. Hazel rode to the front of the condensed party, and the three followed.

Wen sighed quietly. Without any conversation she knew she would have to lead this crew. Let’s see… Bruno, Eva, Kylie and Rowena. For now, they rode in silence. Up ahead it was clear to see an opening path. “Finally out of those mountains!” Bruno exclaimed. Wen couldn’t help but agree. In the far distance, she could make out a castle. That’s our next stop… Hopefully we’ll meet up with the rest!

“So who rules this kingdom?” Jack asked, trying to lighten the mood. “Twin sisters Beth and Jacqueline. They never really got along…” Hazel explained. As the path opened up, she surveyed the scene. There was a castle up ahead, but to their right there was a large valley. On the other side? Another castle. “I bet that’s where the others ended up.” she commented. “There’s no way over there. Guess we’ll have to go this way.” Emily stated. Everyone nodded. “Eventually the path will meet up, so this will work.” Hazel added. We’ll all be together again soon. But for now, we’ll be on our way.