"Promise me you'll take care of your sister."

My fathers last words echoed in my mind as I swung the scythe back and forth. The sweltering heat seemed to burn right through my wool clothing while heads of grain fell in bundles.

Wiping the sweat from my forehead I leaned against the huge farm tool. Standing still allowed a small breeze to cool my body down a little.

Closing my eyes a sudden memory of my dying father invaded my mind. Half of his face was peeled back showing the red muscles and blood gushing out of his ripped veins.

My breath got shorter and shorter until I finally snapped my eyes open. Gosh I hate it when that happens. My head felt light and my breathing labored as I steadied myself with the scythe.

"Mmmuuuu!" Bellowed an irritated looking water-buffalo who suddenly appeared near me. Surprised from the unexpected visitor I couldn't help but smile. "Yeah yeah I'll give you a bath soon Ness," I chuckled as I scratched behind her ear. Slowly retreating to a shady spot she gave one last glare at me before she nestled herself for a nap under the flame tree.

That cow can sure sleep. Dropping the large tool on the ground I bended over gathering the grain. Tying my last bundle of grain with strong twine I carried the load and threw it atop the others. With a huge rope cord I secured the bundles to the rickety old wagon.

Finished. Now it's time to call for help.

Placing two fingers on my lips I whistled a loud, sharp note. A few minutes passed until a faint sound of stomping and neighing could be heard.

Out of the corner of my eye a flash of brown appeared like lightning.

"Nggh." A sturdy looking horse stood before me shaking his mud-brown mane while his beady black eyes stared at me ready for action. For a second I was surprised, but quickly recovered. Well...he's new. The Elder Horse usually sends the older ones.

Lifting my hand I gently pat the horses soft mane. He gave a low whiny as he nudged my arm with his nose. It was and always has been an unspoken ritual between my family and the forest creatures that helping each other out needed agreement on both sides. He stared into my eyes and immediately I felt a warm feeling wash over me. Caressing his soft nose I knew he was ready to leave.

"Well let's hit the road then," I smiled attaching the the ropes to the creature. With a slight tug we headed out to the market, trotting side by side.