EXCERPT

Charlot held his musket against him. If he turned around, he’d find many Sioux with arrows aimed at his back. Perhaps not. They were also distracted by the wall of fire he’d pushed Fire Woman through. Now she was gone.

His mind still couldn’t fathom what he’d witnessed moments ago after following Thunder Bear’s orders, husband to Fire Woman, a beautiful lady he’d been foolish enough to lay down his life for.

Now he’d most likely die, but he’d fight until the bitter end, taking maybe one enemy with him since he had only one round in his musket, so he must make the shot count. Pondering Fire Woman’s whereabouts could wait until much later.

He whipped on his heel and aimed, firing into the group of Sioux warriors who still gaped at the spot where the wall of fire had vanished.

He hit one warrior. The big brute fell, clutching his chest.

Charlot bounded forward and jumped into the bush. He hit the ground, rolling many times to avoid the arrows that would no doubt come his way. One whizzed by his head and pierced the tree. Shouts followed.

He crawled, not daring to look up. He also didn’t have time to reload his musket. Finding a spot to hide was imperative.

The Sioux suddenly fell silent, the orders in their language ceased.

Charlot didn’t dare move. Something had distracted them, but what could it be? Footsteps trampled along the forest floor, followed by a whoosh through the air.

Chaos.

Absolute mayhem.

Shouts.

But he kept his head buried, praying the cover of the bush would keep him hidden from the Indians, who seemed to see through everything in the trees.

Another woosh sounded. Then a sharp point pierced his side, cutting beyond skin and muscle. The pain was so great he couldn’t cry out. It sucked the breath from him, and he clutched his side. Everything went black.