"Dear Kingdom,

        The sky will darken and the hills will run red with the blood of others. A young one will rise wanting vengeance and ambition. Only one can stop her, a troll with black fire and clear sky. He will rise the kingdom back to its feet, regaining peace. Search for 'the cloud' in the setting sun.

sign, unknown."

Branch reread over and over again. He had a bag on his back and he was preparing to leave. His wife, Poppy stood besides him. He looked over to her and concern edged her vision. Her belly was swollen to the size of a watermelon. She was going to give birth soon and he didn't want to leave when she was so close to arrival. He took a breath in and felt his pain ebb away. 

"Be careful, my king." She whispered.

He nuzzle her head and took one more breath of her sweet scent. "I promise I won't get myself killed." He teased. Poppy giggled, but soon grew silent. Something hung in the air as Branch was about to leave. He gave Poppy forehead a peck. Poppy arms where wrapped around Branch's waist. They let go and Branch grabbed her hands and enjoyed the love that tingled in her eyes. His hands slipped out of hers and he started to walk away. He looked back and smiled at Poppy. She gave a wave to him and he waved back.

He headed off towards the west, where the sun sets.

WARNING: THESE NEXT FEW CHAPTERS WILL CONTENT GORE. IF YOU DON'T LIKE BLOOD, WELL YOU WILL JUST MISS THE LAST CHAPTERS OF THE BOOK.