Hearts Alligned

Chapter 1

                                            Pinecrest, Scotland, 1322

Anne's POV

Anne didn't want to stay out hunting after dark. The sun was setting low, casting shadows on the trees that surrounded her. At least the town gates were visible.

She checked her bow, seeing her arrow ready to shoot in case The Beast jumped out in front of her. She only hoped she would have a good reaction time if it did. She would only get one shot.

Were her ears playing tricks on her, or was there a rustling of leaves coming from the trees? She picked up her pace as her heart beated faster. What would happen to Mother if Anne died?

The bushes were shaking. She aimed her bow at the dark trees, still moving towards town.

A figure stepped out.

A child stood staring at Anne. Anne lowered her bow.

A child! How could a child be alone outside the walls of town? Everyone knew The Beast was killing men, women, and children out here.

Anne approached the child. "What are you doing out here?"

The girl's hair was tangled and her face was black with dirt. Her blue eyes stared at Anne's face.

"Mama. I want my mama."

She must be one of the missing children everyone thought was killed by The Beast. Anne wanted to pick up the child and run for the town, but that might frighten her.

She asked, "What's your name?"

"Emma."

"How long have you been out here, Emma?"

Silence.

"Is there anyone else with you?"

Emma shook her head. "I want my mama."

"How old are you?"

"Five."

"Are you from Pinecrest?"

Silence

"What's your father's last name?"

"Kingsley."

"Come on. I'll take you to Pinecrest and we'll find your father and mother." Anne took her hand and started walking towards the gate.

Emma tugged on her hand.

Anne bent down. "What is it, Emma?"

"Don't let him get me." She whispered.

Anne's eyes looked back at the trees. "Don't worry. I won't let The Beast take you."

They started walking again, but Emma kept walking slower and slower.

"Do you want me to carry you?"

Emma looked at Anne and nodded. Anne put her arms around her and picked her up.

As they entered the gate, Anne saw a guard she knew, a friend named Charles.

Charles saw her too and his mouth fell open. He started walking towards her.

"Charles, this is Emma. I found her in the forest. Do you know the Kingsley's?

Charles stared at Emma. "How...?"

"Do you know the family?"

"I know the father. Wait here. I'll go get him.

Charles started to leave, but Anne stopped him. "Wait. Before you go, how long has she been missing?"