The Barbarian’s Tribute (Not-So-Savage Barbarians #1)

Twelve

T he ride into the forest was nice, quiet, with my back up against Rath’s chest as he guided Vann through the trees. His pace was sedate, probably to avoid making too much noise. I was tense and unsure when we first started out, but after a while, I relaxed in Rath’s arms, looking around with more curiosity than fear.

“Where are we going?” I whispered, keeping my voice low to avoid frightening off any game. I’d gotten a beating for that when I was just a lad and was dragged out hunting with my brothers. They said I chattered too much, when I was only asking where to relieve myself. I took to hiding on hunting days after that so they wouldn’t bring me with them anymore. I only went when my father made me.

“There is a tree farther in that is good for scouting,” he murmured, his voice rumbly and low, giving me goosebumps. It wasn’t from the cold, he’d brought me a fur covering to keep warm while we were out here. It was just my response to him.