Return to Kinthaldith

A novel by Meredith Skye

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A touch of warm air stirred the corner where Jesh lay recovering, waking him from a painful and restless night's sleep. The pain felt less this morning, thankfully. Jesh got dressed and left the tent, joining the others around the fire. The cold morning breeze made him shiver. He took a proffered cup of tea from Lujen and muttered thanks.

Some of their group were still eating, and someone passed Jesh a few biscuits with cheese and meat, which were served cold. Lord Risser'toranth sat quietly in front of the fire, watching the others.

"My lord, what is your decision then? Will you let him go back?" asked Lujen, no doubt referring to Jesh.

Risser considered it. "If that's what he desires, I'll send him back with you," he said at last.

All eyes turned to Jesh, who stood. "I don't want to go back. I'm all right."

Risser studied him. "You're hurt. Perhaps you should go back."

"He said the wounds aren't deep. I can still move around. You need me. I'm the only one who knows the Prenth!"

"Jesh," said Lujen. "Traveling to Farhoven can be dangerous. You're not used to being in the woods. You're more fragile than most Kinthaldans."

"You're saying that I'm a weakling because I grew up on Prent? I can't handle it, is that it?" Jesh let his frustration show.

Lujen stared at him as though not sure how to answer. Even Lujen doubted him. Risser observed him, unreadable.

"My lord, please," said Jesh. "I can do it. I'll be all right. Timing is critical. We must find out what's happening while there's still time to stop the legislation."

Lord Risser stood up, looking at Jesh thoughtfully. "All right, you can stay for now."

This brought a scowl from Lujen. "But if your health worsens, I'll send you back," said Lord Risser.

"Thank you, my lord," said Jesh, bowing. And he felt a rush of hope.

* * * * *

They slowed the pace that day, and Jesh was glad. He didn't dare tell anyone how much his chest hurt, and the continual riding wore him out. Perhaps he should have gone back, but he didn't want to appear weak.

Jesh lagged behind the others, and the more he tried to hurry Moonlight along, the more she resisted. Finally, he spurred her too much, and she took off at a wild gallop. Jesh tried to rein her in, but she wouldn't slow down.

Then he heard a horse approaching behind him. Soon, Risser was riding next to him. He grabbed the reins and managed to stop the horse. Quickly, Jesh dismounted.

"Are you all right?" asked Risser.

"Yes. Thank you, my lord," said Jesh, taking painful breaths. The intense ride hadn't helped the pain in his chest any.

The others rode up. Risser nodded to Marran. "Switch horses with Jesh."

"Yes, my lord," he said in agreement.

At that, Jesh felt relieved and grateful to Risser.

* * * * *

They stopped briefly for lunch. Jesh tried to get the food down, but he had little appetite.

"Feeling all right?" Lujen asked, worried.

"Yes," Jesh lied. Lujen's eyes showed doubt, and he glanced over at Risser but said nothing.