AN: sorry about the wait but it's been crazy what with homework and such. I do not own rangers apprentice. The next chapter will also be in Charlie's POV.

Charlie was scared to death. After the big man grabbed him he screamed but a hand was clamped over his mouth. He was hauled to a horse, bound hastily then slung sideways across the pommel.

It didn't take long to reach an already prepared boat at a stream. He was brought down from the horse and carried into the boat. Charlie was laid in the bow too frightened to move. The men were conversing in low voices. The horse was left there and they pushed off.

Charlie knew that you loose a trail if it travels in water so his hopes of his dad tracking him were slim it he knew his father would do anything to get him back.

The men noticed Charlie's fear ridden eyes and said reassuringly, "Don't worry lad. If you do what your told, no one will hurt you, yet." It wasn't very comforting but Charlie finally managed to drift off to sleep.

charlie woke with a start as he felt the boat hit land. He tried to peer over the bulwarks but was pushed back down by the men. Another voice came from the shore.

"You're sure you got the right one?" It said.

"Sure thing boss. Right where you said he would be." the taller man said.

"Good. Bring him out."

Charlie was lifted out of the boat and brought to the shore. The man who stood there was as scary as his voice was. He had wildly crazy black hair, wide bright blue eyes andan over large nose. He was dressed in all black. His face looked like it had been patched with sandpaper.

"Welcome little Charlie. Now that thou are here I can set my plan into action." He said maniacally. Then turning to his minions said, "did you leave the note?"

"You bet boss. Treaty will have a nice surprise."said the shorter man.

"Good. Bring our young guest to the hut and secure him. And make sure he cooperates." The last part said quietly to the side.

Charlie was brought to a small hut in a forest h didn't recognize. They bound him to a chair by his wrists, ankles, torso and neck. The taller man suddenly put on a scowl then gripped Charlie's throat threateningly.

"I swear you little brat, one peep out of you and I'll throttle you, understand." Charlie nodded frantically, doing his best to hold back tears.

The men left and he was alone.

AN: please review and tell me what you think. :) again sorry about the wait.