As they rode south, the terrain became increasingly familiar. Flindra relaxed and drew upon her extended memories. She was pleased she could draw upon the knowledge of her ancestors with such ease. A distant grandfather had grown up in this region. She committed his knowledge to her own memory.
The lieutenant signaled a halt with a raised hand. "Leitho, do you know of any place those renegades could hide? They couldn't have made it this far."
The sergeant scratched his chin with the back of his hand. "I'm just not that familiar with this area, Kalmyk. I've passed through dozens of times but I've never strayed off the road."
The lieutenant turned his question to the men. "Did any of you grow up around here?"
There was no affirmative answer.
Finally, Flindra thought it wise to speak up. "Excuse me, sir. My family spent several years in this area when I was a child. Could I help you?"
The lieutenant transfixed her with a stare. "Is there a place hereabout where a group of men could hide?"
"There are many such places. The hills around here are riddled with caves."
"And I suppose you know where they are?"
"Yes sir. My father was a woodsman. I spent much time in the forest with him. My mother would send me out to bring him his mid-day meal. I learned where the caves were because my father taught me to avoid them. They were frequently the hiding places for smugglers and thieves."
"I see. Well then, Maid Flindra, I don't suppose you would care to show us these caves?"
"I would be happy to, sir."
"Then do it."
Flindra smiled discreetly while she urged Deru to the head of the column. The Spirit might have solved her problem for her. She was working with the Prince's men. Perhaps this could be the opportunity she needed to move into a position to help Prince Storos.
No comments:
Post a Comment