Achil & The Kingdom of Jin

by David Papa-Adams

  ***

  Achil had been leading them for some hours; keeping to a steady pace along the tree canopy, he could see that they were nearing the last platform. So he brought everyone to a stop.

  “I know its a few hours before evening but we have to make a decision do we continue on foot now. Keep to the trees, and start again in the morning or rest and move on when it gets dark,” said Achil, watching everyone carefully to gage their reaction.

  “I’m for moving on right now,” said Andreas.

  “Me too,” said Nicholas.

  Nishga nodded her slow agreement. They all began looking for the nearest vine so they could climb down. Achil seemed more anxious than ever to be on their way. That feeling he had of an ominous presence was growing he felt they were being pursued. When they touched the forest floor it was as though the trees closed in around them adding to the feeling that something sinister was closing in. They hurried forward. Achil weaved in and out of the trees as though he were being chased. His senses were alive to something; some almost animal instinct moved him forward. They moved as fast as brush, bush and tree would allow. The others also could tell his aspect had changed. The four of them began to pick up the pace, hurdling any obstacle or rushing round them barely easing their pace.