Mika lat on a low branch of a giant oak tree, gazing around at the partly lit forest.
The full moon shone overhead.
I hope this works. Mika thought before taking a deep breath.
She let out a bloodcurdling scream.
Her voice echoed.
It was not long before she picked up the sound of branches braking and leaves crunching underfoot.
The rat stumbled noisily toward her.
Muttering to himself, he looked fearfully at the trees and bushes.
An arrow flew beside his head, burring itself deep into a nearby tree.
The rat shrieked and started to run away.
Mika’s voice sliced threw the air. “Move another step, rat, and me next arrow goes between ye eyes.”
The terrified skidded to a halt and sank down, burying his face in his hands.
Mika quickly climbed down the tree and stood over the rat.
“Do nah hurt me. me didn' do anythin'.” he whimpered.
“Look at me.” The raccoon said sharply. The art turned his eyes on her.
“Do nah hurt me.” he repeated.
Mika bared her teeth menacingly, causing the rat to cringe.
“Where is my friend?” she growled.
“Me dunno--”
She shook him roughly. “Damon, a black otter. Where is he?”
“In th' dungeon. But me didn' 'ave anythin' t' do wit'. Aviso did it.” he wined.
“Is he all by himself? Answer me!” She demanded.
“No, no. He be wit' a otter slave 'n a fox.” he answered, shaking his head.
Mika paused to consider that for a moment before turning back to the rat. “You take the message to Damon, and swear to delver it into his hands, and only him, I will allow ye to live. If he does not get it or Ragen ends up with it, then me arrows will find you. You will not escape from me. Have I made myself clear?” she growled.
“Me give it t' otter only. Me promise.” he said.
“You better.” she handed him the paper.
“Go!” she ordered.
The rat disappeared into the darkness and Mika returned to the safety of the cave.
Damon scanned the paper that had been slid threw a crack in the wall.
“Mika and your father will free the slaves during the duel and arm those who wish to fight.” he said slowly.
“That help.” said Swuro, from where he sat in the corner.
Kelley turned to Damon. “You and your friend have done so much for my family.” she said gratefully.
Damon ripped the paper into strips. “And without you I’d have starved.” he answered. “How much food is left?”
“Only a little.” she sighed.
“Save it for tomorrow. We’ll need all are strength.” he said, dividing the paper among himself, Kelley and Swuro.
“Eat this.” he ordered. They took it without complaining and quickly swallowed it.
“Now, how do we win this battle? You know the guards, Swuro. Any ideas?”
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