Page 59 of Whispers of the Elderoak

They both remained silent, the healer continuing to work slowly.

Out of nowhere, a roar sounded in camp, not far from their tent.

Ava tried to sit up but was still chained. “What was that?”

The healer was suddenly bustling about, packing a small bag that Ava hadn’t noticed before. Commotion continued to sound outside, the shouts of soldiers and clash of swords ringing out over more roars. It sounded like absolute chaos outside.

The healer unlocked Ava from the table. “You must hurry. We don’t have much time.”

Ava sat up and looked around. “What’s going on?”

Rushing toward her, the fae handed her a tunic, brown pants and leather boots. “Put this on. Quickly. The distraction won’t last long.”

Ava slipped the tunic over her head, adrenaline pushing the lingering pain away. She put on the pants and the boots then the healer handed her a belt with an ebony dagger, stolen fromone of the guards. Ava’s fingers fumbled as she put the belt on while the healer put a small leather satchel over her head, the strap crossing her body between her breasts.

“Take that tonic twice a day to prevent infection. There’s some food and water in here as well,” she said and began ushering Ava toward the back corner of the tent, near Remy’s cage.

“Wait,” Ava said as she looked at Remy. “What about him?”

The healer shook her head. “I shouldn’t. If two prisoners are missing, they’ll suspect something.”

Ava grabbed the healer’s arm, pulling her close. “They’re going to suspect something anyway. I’mnotleaving without him.”

The healer sighed and grabbed the set of keys, kneeling to unlock the cage.

Ava bent down and placed her hands on the bars as Remy came close and grasped one of her hands, pulling it in and giving it a squeeze. “You don’t have to worry about me. You need to get out of here.”

“Not without my friend.” She smiled, eyes watering.

Remy grinned back as the door swung open.

“You two need to hurry,” said the healer, glancing frantically toward the entrance to the tent.

Standing, Ava asked the healer, “Why? Why risk yourself for me?”

The healer took Ava’s hands in hers. “Because I believe hope has returned. And has come to save us all.”

Ava didn’t know what to say. She looked at her, noting the awe in the healer’s face. “What’s your name?” she asked.

“Isolde.”

“Come with us,” Ava insisted but Isolde shook her head.

“Not until I finish my own plans,” she repeated.

Her own plans? Unsure what that meant, Ava held Isolde’ssteel gaze as determination washed over her face. She wasn’t going to leave yet.

Ava hugged her quickly. “Thank you.”

Isolde nodded and then lifted the bottom of the tent, looking outside.

“The coast is clear,” she said, backing away to make room for Ava and Remy. “Head straight ahead into the woods and don’t stop until you cross a river. There you will find a small cave where you can rest tonight. Travel only by night to remain hidden but be careful of the creatures in the woods. Not all are friendly. Look for the brightest star in the sky. It will lead you to safety. If you get lost, follow the mice.”

“Okay,” Ava said and crouched, looking at Remy. “Are you ready?” she whispered.

He nodded, and hands tightly clasped together, they crawled under the tent and into the night.

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