Marhaba! Who knows this one? It's from one of the most controversial (and one of my favorite) regions in the world. Can you believe we're up to Chapter 10? Here's where I'd like to thank all of you who have shown your support by favoriting, following, or reviewing. A big thank you to angeleyenc for reviewing both Chapter 8 and 9 (sorry I didn't put you in the Chapter 9 A/N…your still awesome!). Also, I'd like to thank water goddess 19, Raynee Dae, and violentyetawesome for following AAW, it's great to watch this story grow. I hope you're all enjoying the story, it means a lot each time I know someone likes it, or even has input to share or constructive criticism… (hint,hint…in other words, reviews are always welcome!) J Anyway, I'll stop begging for your amazing opinions on this story and get on with AAW!
"My lord, shouldn't we turn back toward the citadel? Our presence may not be missed for several more days, but it seems we have reached our hunt's end." Sir Kay slowed his horse, eventually halting at the back of the hunting party. The forest that marked the disputed border between Uther's and Cenred's land stood before the group, and he had been a bit taken aback when he had first realized Arthur didn't seem to have any intentions of turning back.
"And why would that be?" Arthur responded, directing his own mount to face Sir Kay.
"Cenred's land lies within the forest ahead. Should we enter, we would be trespassing and would have no claim as to our actions." He responded calmly, attempting to reign in the tightness that wound about him whenever he looked toward Camelot's cruel neighbor.
"Need I remind you that this forest is Camelot's?" Sir Kay faced Arthur as he allowed an expression of distaste to cross his features.
"You and I both know that is not the case. It is disputed, but-
"But nothing." Arthur responded tensely. "Your king regards these lands as his own, and so they must be. Besides, where would the fun be in hunting lands we have seen before! Come now, Kay, lighten up. We'll just pay Cenred a little visit." He smiled now, nothing but boyish excitement and mirth rolling from the young leader's grin. The mischief was already set in his eyes, and Kay knew there would be no talking him out of it. Kay would have loved to talk back to the boy, for that's all he really was, but he knew better than to disrespect his future king. He did owe him his allegiance, and if charging into an enemy forest was required, he would have to go along. Yet, none of the others would ever understand his true reason for hesitating as his horse stepped across the border. They were all too young to remember.
After reaching the thick undergrowth of the wood, the group of knights abandoned their horses, stepping lightly upon the lush earth. Although he was not particularly fond of this place, he had to admit there was a tranquil beauty about it, and Kay attempted to focus on the scent of the trees instead of the feral thoughts running about his head. However, in his nervous state, he misplaced his foot as he walked.
Crunch.
The snap of a stick over dry leaves brought the attention of the knights to Sir Kay, who felt as though it was his first day on patrol by the glares being sent in his direction. He knew they were not serious threats, but it was still important to be careful, as no one could tell what might alert an unwelcome creature of their presence. Though they were out searching for a griffin, any other murderous beast would be most disappointing to attract, and difficult to get rid of. They continued to walk through the trees, and Sir Kay saw Arthur turn to seek out a trail in the other direction, when the solid sound of an arrow embedding a tree hit his ears. Turning abruptly, unsheathing his sword, he saw an arrow jutting out of the tree directly to his right. Glancing about for any sign of an attacker, he finally laid eyes on a girl. She stood firmly, bow still drawn, in a pair of worn pants and an ill-fitting shirt. He also saw knives and a sword hanging from her side, and though it was clear she was a poor, starving peasant, she carried herself as much more. Her brown hair was braided back tightly against her skull and her hard, dark eyes commanded attention in a way that he began to feel rather small compared to the confidence that approached from her cool form. Then he saw it. Dangling from a strip of leather, a long, slim blade hung. The lengthened dagger winked at him conspiratorially as it reflected the streams of dawning sun. Praeditus was here, and so was she.
Sorry it's short, this chapter has been really tricky, so any feedback on how it turned out would be great! I really wanted to get an updated out to you lovely readers, especially since it's been a week. J