#404 words

I rode. Eighteen hours a day.

There was always a stable open.

They even offered food.

It was good enough.

Not many people questioned me.

My skin was apparently tanned enough to pass for whatever country I was in at the moment.

It worked. For any other case, I had chainmail and a sword.

And money. That saved a lot of trouble.

No matter what face was on a golden coin.

Through mountains and valleys and forests, crossing rivers and chasms.

There were so many flags hanging everywhere. All of that stupid country.

At least I didn’t need to think much.

As much as I wanted to continue riding at night, the breaks at night were necessary to keep on riding safely. At night, I was exhausted.

There were different birds, very soon.

They woke one at different times.

It was annoying.

But still, I needed to continue fast, so the additional time might be useful.

After two and a half weeks of sharp riding, I put the latest stallion in the stable in front of the city walls.

Apparently, Gabe’s bloodbrothers did not know how to ride properly. They should never have taken three months.

But at least I was there. And gained access with my brother’s ring. Diplomatic privileges had their charm, if you wanted to reach a goal.

So. I was led into the city through the actual city’s gate. After a few searches.

They weren’t very thorough. And handed my sword back.

At least they could sign.

It was easier to pass as a man during my travels.

My voice would have made it more difficult, but that was an easy escape. At least something.

 The circumstances were good. But the only greeting I got was from seawater.

It smelled of fish.

But not the good kind.

I made a face and started walking towards the castle.

Finally, I could see my Lady Gabrielle again. Finally!

Maybe I could also free her from this terrible country.

They didn’t deserve her here.

Especially not if they left her alone.