Free Daughter of Hauk (The Raven Chronicles Book 1) by KateMarie Collins Page A

brightened at the offer. “Really? That’d be great!” Lexi was almost jumping up and down in her excitement. “I don’t know how long it’ll take, maybe a week or more. But Y’Dürkie’s a good tracker, I’m sure she can lead you to me once you’re rested up from town.”
                  Hugs were exchanged as Lexi headed off into the woods for her trek into the mountains. Arwenna and Y’Dürkie waited for her to disappear before continuing onward.
                  “Vas that really smart of us, Arvenna?” Y’Dürkie asked. “I know she is your cousin and all, but I am not certain splittink up before ve find Barek and Mialee is the best idea.”
                  “She’ll be fine, Y’Dürkie. She’s good enough with her bow that she can take care of herself. Besides, we may need her in the air sooner than any of us want. Better to take the time now than regret it later.” Y’Dürkie gave in to Arwenna’s argument. Lexi could be very effective from a distance.
                  About an hour before sundown, the woods began to open up to farms and a walled town in the distance. The fields showed evidence of being recently cleared and some of the homesteads were still under construction. The walls surrounding the town, while formidable, also showed signs of building. This is a town expecting trouble , Arwenna thought to herself. A quick glance at Y’Dürkie gave her the reassurance she sought. They needed to be cautious until they knew what kind of trouble they were facing.
                  The gate stood open as they approached. Two guards straightened their stance as they entered. One turned his head to the side and called out for another. A third man emerged from the small guard box and waited in the middle of the gate for them to reach him.
                  “What’s your business in Salsburg?” He asked them when they were in range.
                  “Just looking for shelter for a few days, and a chance to replenish our stores for the road,” Arwenna answered calmly. “I don’t suppose you could recommend a good inn for us? We’re not familiar with your town.”
                  The guard shrugged noncommittally. “Eh, we’ve got two here in town right now, though I wouldn’t be surprised if another one opened up soon. The closest one is The Dancing Fairy. Just off to the right after you get into town. They’ve got baths, if you’re wanting one.”
                  Arwenna smiled gently at the guard and pressed a few coins into his hand. “Perhaps you and your friends could have a drink on me once you’re done with your shift, good sir.”
                  “That’s mighty noble of you, miss. You be sure to tell them that we here sent you over. They’ll make sure no one bothers you if you don’t want the company.” He stepped aside and waved Arwenna and Y’Dürkie through the gate and into town.
                  “Let’s find this inn, Y’Dürkie, and then tomorrow we can see what we can find out.” They turned in the direction the guard gave them. The directions provided by the guard led them right to the inn.
                  The common room was well proportioned and showed evidence of good solid craftsmanship. Whoever had built this had paid well for it. A variety of enticing aromas wafted in from the back of the bar, promising good food from the kitchen. There were a few patrons at tables, and a stage in the far corner ready for a bard to perform. That would be a welcome treat after all this time on the road. The man tending bar stopped wiping down the counter and looked over at them expectantly.
                  “Good evening, Innkeeper. I was wondering if my companion and I might be able to rent a room for a few days?” Arwenna leaned on the bar.
                  “Aye, we have some rooms available. How many beds