12.19.13.

My vision was blurred and fuzzy by the time the wavy outline of the huntsman’s cabin came into view. I was never more thankful for any sight, and I breathed deeply in relief. But as we came closer I saw dark shapes moving to and fro in front of the little house, and I heard voices. The huntsman heard them too and stopped.

“What is it?” I whispered, my voice a mere ripple through the air.

He quirked his head sideways, listening.

“I think they’re soldiers.”

“Put me down.” I ordered. But the huntsman didn’t do anything. He was still listening.

 “Did you hear me? Put me down now.” Surprised by the urgency in my voice, he lowered me onto the frozen ground.

“Are you alright, Bela?” He asked with a sudden gentleness in his rich voice. I shook my head, managing to shuffle behind the protective shield of a tree trunk.

“No. I’m not.”

“I’ll take you inside,”

“No!” I cried desperately, pressing my hand against him. “You must not take me anywhere.”

His stern brow rose slightly. “Why?”

I couldn’t think. My head throbbed with the aching sleepiness of cold that filled my entire body. The huntsman laid a strong hand on my knee. When he spoke, his deep tone was lower than ever and my spine crinkled with guilt.

“Who are you?” He whispered.

“Please,” I murmured. “Don’t ask me that—not now. Just get them to go away. I swear to you, you’ll be dead before dark if they see me.”

He nodded. “Right. Wait here then.” He turned and murmured softly in his lead dog’s ear, the beautiful one that had stayed with me in the woods, and she sat by my side once more. It was then I realized that he had instructed her to wait with me all along.