A Woman Warrior Born

by Alexander Edlund

Breea’s mind rose to consciousness through a flickering red-black haze of pain suffused with the scent of healing herbs and clean linen. Voices spoke in muted tones. Aware of warmth on her face, and that she was lying on her belly, she tried to move, and found that she lacked the strength. Throbbing pain pounded through her, centered in her back. Opening her eyes showed a finely worked stone fireplace radiating light and comfort. The wall in which the fire burned seemed to be of wood, but she found it difficult to focus.

  "She’s awake."

  Scaukra’s face appeared before her. He looked into her eyes, but she could not keep them open and slipped back into darkness.