The Ranger (Book 1) (40 page)
Read The Ranger (Book 1) Online
Authors: E.A. Whitehead
“Don’t say that,” Vincent replied, putting an arm around her shoulder, “it isn’t over yet. As long as I still draw breath, I will keep fighting to restore the Old Kingdom, and make Pallà the envy of the world.”
“For these crimes,” the soldier continued, “the Rebel, Vincent Alexander has been sentenced to death.”
“If the Eresians have anything to do with it,” Lauren smiled, pointing at soldier, “you may not be breathing for much longer.”
“Well, we’ll just have to make sure they don’t get their hands on me,” Vincent said, turning from the group and returning to the crowded streets of Senno.
“A reward is being offered for the capture of the Rebel alive,” the soldier’s voice carried over the hum of the street.
The people went about their business, trying to ignore the soldiers posted at most street corners, but most would cast a glance their way as they passed. The soldiers in turn glared at the people.
“I think it’s time we left this place for a while,” Vincent whispered to Lauren. “The Magi will be looking for me. I can’t make it too easy for them.”
Lauren agreed and they made their way to the gates of the city. A new gate keeper had been selected. He was a greasy, middle aged man who looked at everyone suspiciously as they passed.
A month had passed since the destruction of the Grand Abbey. The Eresian Army had posted garrisons in all the large cities of Pallà. Vincent and Lauren had not stopped moving since then, trying to evade capture. A rough beard now clung to Vincent’s face, and they traveled with their hoods pulled over their faces.
“So where will we go now?” Lauren asked, sounding disheartened. “The decree for your arrest will have been sent to every corner of the Empire by now.”
“We will go where we’re needed,” Vincent said, stopping to look at Lauren. “We won’t be able to stay anywhere long, but we must protect the people of this land. With time the Empire will lose interest in chasing me, and they will forget about this province once again. Things will be as they were before, except that the Rangers won’t be there to save them. If we don’t help these people then who will?” Vincent paused, realizing the gravity of what he was saying. He took a deep breath before continuing. “Even if I am labeled a rebel and sent into exile; I am, and always will be, a Ranger.”
About the Author
Ethan Whitehead was born in 1988 in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. He started developing the world in this story as a young boy while delivering newspapers. It was not until he was living in Italy in his early twenties that he started writing it down. Returning to Canada, he studied Nursing Science through Laurentian University, and serves as a Navy Reservist for the Royal Canadian Navy. Ethan enjoys reading, writing, walking, boating, and watching sports, especially hockey.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: A Trip to the River
Chapter 3: The Final Challenge
Chapter 6: The Pallàdrim’s Tale
Chapter 8: The First Assignment
Chapter 13: Shadows of the Past
Chapter 16: Keeper of the Stone