Stumbling back from the corpse, she fell backwards into the snow. She tried to rise, but limbs, once spry, were now twisted and swollen and muscles that had moments ago been powerful and strong now sagged in defeat.
She was old.
The cold crept into her and she shivered.
Gently, the man lifted her to her feet and helped her dust the snow from her tunic.
"Are you ready now, daughter?" he asked, and this time, the name didn't anger her.
"Yes," she said, and turned to face the corpse.
Her corpse.
YOU ARE READING
Winter's Tree
Fantasy[Open Novella] - [Long Listed] In the middle of a snow encrusted field stands a tree. Ancient and formidable, its roots run deep below the surface, carrying secrets that could unravel the very fabric of reality. Follow Ayessa as she struggles to rem...
