The rhythmic thudding of the horse's hooves was all that Emery could hear. His face pressed against the horse's mane; the rushing cold wind hit his shivering bones. He didn't know how many minutes had elapsed since he had been riding, but the sky above only showed darkness along with whatever light the stars shone. Slowly, he was loosening his grip, his consciousness fading.
"Tsk, tsk, tsk. Stupid. Stupid beyond help. You are naive, kid," whispered a familiar voice in Emery's mind.
Emery wanted to lift his head but it felt like his world was spinning. He responded, "I feel like I know you. Please, help me."
"I have helped you once but not this time. You need to learn. Whether you die right now, it's all up to chance," replied the voice.
