Chapter 2
A New Discovery
Out from the forest edge Gene emerged. Now clad in his usual attire of black pants and shirt, he put on his ragged cloak and tied his sword to his waist.
“Time to collect the pay,” he said to himself as he began the trek back to the Village of Eldor. He put his fingers to his mouth and whistled. As the sounds echoes slowly disappeared into the distant woods, a familiar cry filled the morning air. Out from the treetops like a phoenix bursting from its ashes rose a magnificent hawk, its wings golden brown and tail as red as the bloodstains scattered on Gene’s cloak.
The giant bird proceeded to land on the outstretched arms of Gene.
“Hello old friend,” greeted Gene, “I have a favor to ask of you.” The hawk stared at Gene intently with its sharp amber eyes. “Bring this paper to Ashvin at the village, so he can prepare my money for me.” Gene rolled up the piece of paper and attached it to the leg of his companion. “Make haste Argo,” Gene said as the bird took flight.