Listen to The Trees

Jacob led his son Thomas through the woods, an early morning stroll for the pair as they came to explore the offerings beyond the settlement. Muskets and sachets of seed draped over their shoulders.

“Can you hear that boy?” Jacob took off his tricorn hat, head facing towards the sky.

“I don’t hear anything, father,” Thomas replied, perplexed at his words.

“Exactly.” Jacob took a knee by his son, “Close your eyes and listen closely. It’s just the sound of nature.”

Thomas did as his father asked and opened his senses to hear what he could.

The shimmering of treetops that clashed like cymbals. A babbling creek cutting through the land like violins making their first notes tune. The birds chirped, a melody filling the air, allowing father and son to bask in a symphony they could call home.

But draped in shadows, amongst the trees, lurched a still Akecheta. Paint on his face and his son Chaveyo by his side. His breath was silent, and his heart still as a bass hum.

“Shhh.” Akecheta hushed the beating of his son’s racing heart. He notched an arrow and took aim; either would suffice to show his son how to handle the pale devils encroaching on their land.