Entry #18

A Break in the March
by Mike Martinez


We have been walking three abreast for days. It was impossible to bring the horses, so we marched into the wood with just our armor and a few pack animals. This has been a fool’s errand from the beginning. We have no idea what the beast looks like or how it comes and goes. All anyone ever knows about it is the sound it makes before it descends on its victims and consumes them.

“The only way we know how to track the thing is by its leavings. If I never see another severed head or half chewed arm again I’ll be happy.”

“Captain, we should just go home, the men are spreading wild rumors that the creature has devoured every known village already.”

“Regardless, the General and his scouts should be returning shortly with our next marching orders. Eat your dinner sergeant, and no more repeating rumors. This glen is the only place I’ve seen sun for days, who knows if we’ll see its like again on this march.”

Presently, the quite of the woods and the restfulness of the sun was shattered by an unearthly shriek. As the men stopped and gaped in the direction of the sound. A huge winged shadow passed above them. As if in a taunt the head of the general was dropped at the sergeant’s feet.

“What do we do now Captain?”

“Same as before, we finish our meal and press on. We have still another score to settle now.”