Seducer of Souls - Chapter Five - Eight

CHAPTER 5

Three travellers stood high above Rhythm Valley catching their final glimpse of two small figures watching their exodus.  Cull's anguish at leaving her home and her daughters weighed heavily on her companions.  For generations the Solace family lived and died here, Cull looked set to break this tradition.

Han stood by Cull's side as she took in the sights and smells of her home for the last time.  If his need had not been so dire he would have walked away and left the old woman to live out her last days with her daughters.  It saddened him even more knowing she may not live to see the new addition to her family.
He glanced over at Serge, who kept a discreet distance.  Han felt relieved that Serge had tempered his impatience to be on their travels to allow Cull to bid her final farewells.

Eventually Cull turned away from the valley.  Her white eyes glistened with unshed tears.
"Its time for us to leave," she said.
With out further comment, Serge led them down the mountain to the plains below.

* * * * *

Serge kept glancing back making sure neither of the others had fallen or lagged behind.  He marvelled at Cull's ability to navigate.  Her blindness, never caused a pause or indecision, she was a true inspiration.
Once they had reached the plains, he suggested a moments rest; concerned his older companions may exhaust themselves on the journey.  He needed their strength when they arrive at Draken's castle.

The felt the hairs on the back of his neck rise, someone was watching them.  He scanned around, nothing seemed out of place on the plains.  However, a flash of movement caught his eye higher up the cliff edge.  He could make out a couple of large, winged creatures flying towards them.  Just as he went to warn the others, he felt Cull's hand rest on his arm.

"It's alright Serge.  They are the Kinnera," said Cull.

Serge tried to relax as the bird like beings drew closer.  Never before had his eyes beheld such a sight.  He tensed as they hovered above them, their beating wings causing loose foliage to blow wildly in their wake.
He felt Cull's grip strengthen as she sensed his unease. "Be still.  I know this kind."

As the Kinerra gracefully landed before them, he got a closer look.  There where two, both powerfully built males, with dangerously sharp looking talons.  Yet, in unique contrast, they wore beautiful, white-feathered headdress's that framed and softened their opaque eyes.
He watched the largest male bow respectfully to the others before gracing him with a penetrating stare.  He unflinchingly glared back, anticipating a physical challenge.

"If you men have finished posturing I would like to ask what it is the Kinnera want?" Cull said curtly.
 
Han through a disapproving glance in Serge's direction before addressing the large Kinnera. "Its good to see you again Gec."
"The feeling is mutual," said Gec.
Noticing the look of surprise reflected on Serge's face, he said, "If you had bothered to ask I could have saved you any embarrassment."
"There is no need for him to be embarrassed Han, it is natural for two beasts to test each others strengths," said Gec.
Guiltily Han shrugged, he had forgotten about Serge's lingering animal instincts. 
Changing the subject he asked, "Where is Lira?"
"My mate is heavy with child so cannot accompany me."
Han's face lit up with delight.  "That's wonderful Gec.  I bet your hoping for a son."
Cull grunted disapprovingly. "What's wrong with daughters?"
Wearing a light smile, Gec bowed. "Meaning no disrespect."
Cull shrugged. "Our time is short Gec."
"Of cou rse. Our elder as requested an audience," said Gec.
Shaking her head Cull said, "I am sorry we are unable to spare the time to come to your home to see him."
Standing to his full height Gec said, "He insisted."