Fight for Freedom

She had found it difficult to talk to Han about how guilty she felt. Serge was his friend, and she felt responsible for what had happened to Serge. Did she have the courage to face Draken again; he had frightened her terribly during their first encounter. She heard Han walking behind her. Turning she greeted him "Hi."

He gave her a warm smile; "I thought I might find you out on these rocks. What have you decided on doing next?"

Ann looked thoughtful for a while, she had a feeling Han would appreciate her help.

"I want to help Serge," she answered. "But I don’t think I could take on Draken again."

Han sat beside her, taking the opportunity to enjoy the sunny morning and fresh air. "I think I know some people that might help you develop your abilities."

Ann turned to him, giving him an interested look.

Han continued, "These people can be a bit difficult, they value their privacy. But I think they will help you."

"Why do you think these people will help me?" Ann asked.

Han smiled, "Because you’re a woman."

Ann considered this reply, and then nodding, indicating that his idea sounded fine.

"We will leave tomorrow, " said Han, "The sooner we reach the Rhythm Valley the better."

Han looked at Ann’s attire, "I think I have some clothes here that might fit you."

Ann looked down at her T Shirt and Jeans, "I suppose I do look a little strange in these."

They spent a busy evening getting together a few supplies, and clothing for their journey. Han estimated it would take a few days to get to the valley. There was also the problem that once they were outside the meadow boundaries, Draken could be aware of Ann. That night Ann felt relieved to be doing something positive. She always needed to be acting; it made her feel calmer.

They were both pleased to wake up to another sunny morning. Feeling that this was a good omen, they set off to Rhythm Valley, in good spirits.

Ann quite enjoyed the walking. Han had explained that they would be travelling south, following the River Gwent across the Corus Plains. She was quite looking forward to the journey and seeing more of this land, even though it was going to be a long trip.

Fortunately, the sunny weather stayed with them, making the days warm. Ann asked Han questions about the people they would find in the Rhythm Valley. She was a little frustrated with his lack of answers. He was making her all the more curious with his vague replies. During the last night of their journey, they camped at the base of some soaring mountains. While Han was unpacking their supplies, Ann decided to get some director answers about their destinations.

"Come on Han, tell me who these people are that we are going to see?" Ann asked.

Han reached into his bag and unpacked some of their provisions. "Here eat some of this food, it is the last of our provisions. But tomorrow we will reach the valley, and should be able to get more food there."

Ann was starting to get irritated, "Why won’t you answer my questions?"

Han handed her the food. Ann started nibbling on the cold meats and bread. "Han!" She queried.

Han looked at her, "Alright, I will tell you a little of what I know."

He looked off across the fields where they had stopped. Then continued, "These people are all women, three to be exact. They are related. I think there is presently a couple of sisters and their mother."

Ann listened intently.

He looked across at her, "They can hide themselves with magic, the same way I protect my home. Only they do it on a valley scale."

Ann was shocked, "They are that powerful?"