Timeless Traveler
Chapter 4 — Wendigo — a flash fiction series
Kaer was so engrossed in his studies, so captivated by what he had learned from Oyosinna that he had no idea how much time had passed. Oyosinna told him of the disappearance of the most skilled alchemist, a woman named Salvianna, who ventured too close to the Neemist Forest in search of rare herbs. It was Kaer’s duty to find her and save her.
Kaer, dressed in a dark suit, easily blended into the forest as he stood hidden in the heart of the Neemist Forest. His suit was more than just clothing; it was fluid armor, and the knives on his belt changed color in a frenzied play of hues. Kaer had spent three days and three nights in a heart-pounding pursuit, following every sign and clue that might lead him to the Wendigo monster’s lair. The Neemist Forest was a labyrinth of trees, a treacherous territory where every step could be the last, especially for those unfamiliar with the forest and its unpredictable nature.
The Wendigo, a creature of a living nightmare, an evil spirit twisted into a merciless beast, reigned as the terror of the Neemist Forest. Its insatiable hunger for human flesh was whispered to be boundless, a craving that never waned no matter how many lives it claimed. The forest was its hunting ground, a perpetual game of life and death. The Wendigo’s name was a curse, a forbidden phrase that could bring doom upon whoever dared utter it. It was a legend come true that froze the hearts of the bravest warriors, a shadow that made people avoid the forest even during the day.
A horrifying scream coming from high echoed through the forest. It was the Wendigo. Its fur was matte black, and its figure was imposing, crowned by horns that rose to the sky. Kaer, a strategy master, calculated the beast’s movements, readying an arrow in his bow. He took a deep breath, preparing for the imminent clash. With its heightened senses, the Wendigo detected the hunter’s presence and abruptly halted, its massive head swiveling toward Kaer’s concealed position. Kaer pulled the bowstring with a slow, almost ceremonial movement, calculating the trajectory in the throat. Wendigo ignored the blow that would usually have been fatal; with an agility that belied its size, it continued its walk, its eyes fixed on Kaer.
Kaer released the second arrow, which soared and came to rest in the monster’s chest, causing it to tremble slightly but not knocking it down. A howl of pain rises from the beast’s throat, which, instead of retreating, accelerates towards the hunter. With a swift movement, Kaer readied the third arrow, feeling time compress around him. The beast was only a few paces away now, and each beat of Kaer’s heart seemed to count the monster’s pressed steps. Kaer summons three ancestral wolves, ready for battle. The surprise attack of wolves halted the Wendigo, giving Kaer the moment he needed. Aiming for the beast’s head, Kaer focused all his attention on the final blow. The arrow, with lethal precision, cut through the air and pierced the creature’s skull, knocking it to the ground with devastating force. The wolves made sure the Wendigo was no longer a threat.
With precise movements, Kaer cut off the monster’s claws, symbols of its power, and placed them in his backpack. With sure steps, he made his way to the mouth of the cave. The air was sour, and unbearable dampness permeated it. The tunnels led him to a room lit by two torches. Bone pieces and traces of long-forgotten battles were all over the floor. In the center of the hall, a table of mountain stone was built, surrounded by many skulls. Salvianna and two other men were held captive in a well-bolted side room.
“Why are you crying now?” Kaer asked, his voice soft but firm. “Fortunately,” answered Salvianna, holding Kaer in her arms.
By the time they arrived at Castlecrest night had fallen. Nestled between Neemist Forest and the equally enigmatic Bristeel Hill Mountains, Castlecrest was more than a castle; it symbolized development, a meeting point for those fond of commerce or adventure. Its high towers and solid walls gave security to the inhabitants and deterred evil-doers. Kaer led Salvianna to her home, a small building.
“Do you have a place to sleep? I invite you to stay here if you want. I live alone. I owe you anything you want,” Salvianna said, blushing slightly, either from shame or the excitement of Kaer’s presence in her home.
“Thanks, but I’ll let you rest,” Kaer replied.
“Good. Then I will wait for you tomorrow,” Salvianna said, her voice loaded with visible emotion.
The author utilized an AI tool for editing and proofreading, resulting in some AI-generated content. I appreciate your help — Copilot Microsoft, Grammarly, and ChatGPT. Thank you!
