Asa's Journey Chapter 1
Asa's Journey Chapter One
In a universe far away from Earth there exists a planet called Xandania. It has two moons, the twin moons of Xandania, and these moons are not too many thousands of miles from the planet itself. But they orbit in perfect harmony to it controlling the tides as does our own moon here on Earth.
Within this world there has been turmoil for many years, and all the feuds have taken their toll upon life there. Jealousy and greed have caused many wars, and now the planet's population is scattered far and wide, most in hiding for fear of another fight. Amongst the survivors are a brave warrior girl named Kendle and her companion Asa, a flying horse from the Hegan breed. This is the story of Kendle and Asa's journey to find love for themselves.
Kendle lived alone in a fortress atop of a high ridge of rock. This rock was only accessible easily from the air, so she was fortunate to have a companion to carry her there when she needed access or safety. He was Asa, a Hegan. He had been with her since she was a young girl, and they had complete trust for each other. Alas during the wars many Hegan horses met their fate as they were the main targets of the angry mobs. Kendle managed to keep Asa well hidden whenever the mob came close to their fortress, so now that it was relatively peaceful she could still enjoy the pleasure of flights with him.
Today was a special day for them. Kendle realised that Asa was lonely, and she knew she had to find a companion for him before he left her alone to seek her out himself. So today Kendle prepared them both for the journey to seek out a Hegan mate for Asa.
The sky had a promising purple grey haze overhead as Asa took a few running steps and left the roof of the fortress with Kendle securely seated upon her back. The view never failed to make Kendle inhale deeply and smile broadly. This was her patch. She knew every rock and pool below, and where and when it was safe to land.
The tides were not as on Earth. They rose and fell rapidly according to the twins alignment with Xandania. And to the unwary it was a hazardous place to be around the pools, as the water was never still and could engulf the rocks within minutes. But Kendle was not afraid, she knew their secrets well and appreciated their glowing beauty from above, as the tides had yet to cover the rocks. Indeed, it was the tides that had protected her and Asa during the most recent wars. Many unwittingly met their end climbing the rocks trying to escape. None ever survived. The tides sucked all caught in them down deep to nourish and rejuvenate the life giving rocks.
In the distance Kendle could see the mountains of Alborassi rising up from the edge of the pools. These mountains were a place she had never dared explore before. They held untold mystery and possible danger, but she knew if she was to find another Hegan then she must brave the unknown lands and she was not afraid to face the danger for the sake of her companion. He had served her so well and she owed him his chance for happiness, so would face whatever to find him peace.
As they travelled onwards towards the mountains, Kendle saw below the pools were rising rapidly, and she watched as two unwary men met their fate and were swallowed by the waters. They had misjudged their climb onto the rocks, and their fate was sealed. She knew there was nothing she could do to help them as the waters took them down, and without hesitation Asa continued towards the Alborassi mountains which loomed ominously now only a few miles into the distance. Kendle's adrenalin began to flow as she anticipated the unknown territory.
Asa flew on towards the mountains, he seemed to sense that today was a special day. His muscles rippled in the breeze of flight, his mane and tail flowing with a beautiful grace. He felt invigorated with a sense of purpose, and his wings beat strongly letting out a faint whooshing sound as they beat rhythmically on his flight .
Upon approaching the mountains, Kendle was struck with an overwhelming sense of awe for the sheer beauty and size of them. Never had she been this close before, and her eyes were wide with wonder as she surveyed their majesty looking for a safe place to land.
Jane Shields 18th August 2016
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