The Archer

Written by Liv McLaren

There was silence in the forest. The wind did not blow, no leaves fell from the trees and not even a squirrel dared scurry in the brush so as not to disturb The Archer or startle her prey. A great stag stood between two large oaks, his massive body partially hidden but his broad chest and sprawling antlers visible. The Archer had a clear shot of the beast and so with one deadly inhale she drew back her golden bow and arrow with strong arms and a steady hand. She held her focus and cleared her mind as she visualized her arrow piercing the Stag in his heart. The calmness of the forest took over her entire being. The realm and all of time stood still as she released the arrow with a quiet exhale. She waited with anticipation as her arrow glided through the air and between the trees that towered above their heads. The stag became aware that his life was coming to an end but efore he could run, her arrow struck the great beast and he fell to the ground with a heavy thud that echoed throughout the forest like a tree falling during a storm. Luxe looked over at her father, seeking his approval. King Baron was smiling and looked back at her eyes full of pride.

“Well done. Another kill for The Archer,” boasted King Balor.

She was known by this title across The Realm and respected by many men for her sharp and accurate shot which had taken the lives of many great beasts. She held more trophies in the sport than any other man in The Realm and was highly esteemed for her unwavering focus and concentration. The King continued to look upon her with great admiration as he rose from his crouched position and stood proudly next to her. Together they walked over to the animal and watched as the stag’s chest heaved one final time as he took his final breath. A smirk like that of The Archer’s Cat spread across her lips as she snatched the antlers of her prey and held his head upright like a trophy on display.

These thrilling moments of the hunt with King Baron were memories that she held near and dear to her heart, long after their days together came to a screeching halt. As with all things in life, their gruesome game would come to an end and karma would haunt the beautiful warrior for the many lives she took. Unbeknownst at the time, The Archer would face a treacherous period in which she would no longer be the hunter. The roles would reverse and The Archer would become the prey.