Chapter 22: Defence Lessons

Darkness was quickly descending on the forest when we reached the disused bridge that Alpha Rivers had mentioned. It stretched across a gulley with steep rocky sides and when I squinted through the darkness, I could just about see a road at the bottom.

"This is the perfect vantage point," Alpha Rivers said, peering down, "We'll make camp here. Maybe for a few days."

I breathed a sigh of relief. I wasn't sure how much longer I could have kept up with this patrol and was worried I was going to have to admit my weakness to Alpha Rivers. Now I had an opportunity to rest.

"But it's dangerous here," he continued, "Sleep with one eye open and Esme you are not to go anywhere alone."

"Surely none of us should go anywhere alone?" I asked.

"Quit the act, Es," he said in a bored tone, "You know you are weak. We all do."

"I am not weak," I hissed, "But I am hungry so if you don't mind I'm going to hunt."

I then gave him a sarcastic smile before gl