Chapter 11: Singing in the Void

'Un matra's chantis non estrettera oubliettre.'

A mother's song cannot be forgotten.

***

The wind howls with a menacing squeal. The haelstrum devastates the forest floor-ripping through rock and trees. Kiora shields her face in an effort to shield herself from the debris. She plunges along the path without a guide in sight. 'Where is he?' She feels a mixture of panic and frustration. 'He shouldn't have left me!' The Daemik's ears pick up on a voice ahead.

"It's a straight run!" Luce's words are barely audible against the gale. "Just don't fall off course!"

The lone soldier can hear the words 'run' and 'don't fall.' She strains herself to follow the advice. 'He must be closer than I thought.' Kiora draws her hands to her face. She spreads her fingers to peek around her surroundings. The dirt path lays in front of her. 'Good.' Kiora races as fast as her legs can carry. Despite her determination, the black winds are several yards in pursuit.