Chapter Three

  First, the direction of the to be fallen tree was agreed upon, " It should reach right across and be at least two body lengths extra" Tri worked out "and by the look of it the branches won't be a problem, they'll be useable when we cross".

"Oh well lets start" he finalized.
They began by cutting into the tree at about hip height above the ground. A cut on the side that the fall was to be towards was sliced into downwards towards the center. Chopping downward very precise cuts were placed exactly where needed. Next a level slice was placed below and joined up with the first section. Once that section was completed, an attempt was begun to cut into the tree from the other side but about knee height above the first section.
Having turns about whilst the others gazed around for approaching trouble the job was soon performed.
With a large crash the new bridge fell neatly into position.

"Good shit!" Tri congratulated themselves.

"Spot on actually Tri" Ruv grinned.

  Quick work was made of clearing up all the chopped bits and pieces. Small bushes were carefully relocated to cover up the invasion signs that the tree had been cut. Soil was rubbed into the cuts to make it look as though it had been done a long time ago.
Satisfied that the area didn't look too obvious what had been done they carefully moved along the trunk and over the other side.

"That saved a hell of a lot of time" came a satisfied murmur from Tri as he looked back at their effort. "Right" stated Ruv "Lets get our arse's into gear and make the most of it".

"I'm right behind ya" Tri reassured him as he prepared himself for the next expected physical effort he knew what was to come. The rest of the day they traveled through different types of bush. 0ne looking one way, the other glancing in another direction.
Once a hand would be raised to the right ear both would suddenly stop and silently listen for any noises they thought was not of the normal lives that they were passing through. Fast continued movements were made and for the first time in this journey both men were beginning to tire, but they did not stop nor allow themselves to accept they were growing tired from the hard going.

"The sea smells strong Ruv" Tri spoke quietly

"I know" Ruv agreed. "We should be there before dusk, it'll be good to do that".

And so they traveled two men at the best speed they could always in front at the ground to make sure of the going up front. Then they would be looking around for trouble and for more subtle easier access through the bush.

 
   The speed they went was one of a half run. Both were relaxed and seemed to drift along with no effort. Most of the their minds were set of making sure that what they were doing was the most easiest way they could be doing it. With eyes always reading the country around, above, below and behind they covered along distance until the first of a bay came into view. Lying down with their packs off the two men rested and watched the coast and upon seeing no footprints in the sand nor boats around, they decided they were the only ones in the district.

"Not long till dusk i'd say" Ruv reckoned.

"Safe for a fire?" Tri spoke as he gathered some very dry twigs.

"Yep and time for a good nights rest".

"I'll tell you what Ruv, I'd day we've certainly earned it".

"I'd go along with that" Ruv yawned "I'm feeling a bit stuffed myself actually".

"Same here" Tri smiled back "hungry too".

"Like wise, we've earned it", Ruv hungrily spoke as a meal was being made ready.
Fire glowing in the dark and the red glow shining over each others faces the two travelers lay upon the ground resting.
"I enjoyed that you know" Tri casually recalled.

"What's that?" asked Ruv.

"That bridge we made today. It sure did come in handy".

"Too right sure did save the distance", Tri smiled.

The ocean began to sound as the fire became less. Tri felt relaxed. His legs out in front of him and his hands behind his head. He was a happy chappy alright.

"The waves of the beach are making me sleepy".

"Hey it's nice and warm here by the sea Ruv" Tri reckoned.
Ruv replied " It's not very often that a human being can be all happy and no problems are anymore but when it does be that way they keep it like that".
He didn't get any response.
As he turned to look a his fellow human being, he grinned, as Ruv was sound asleep smiling as he lay there completely at peace with all that he knew. The sound of the waves landing heavily without any consideration for the sleeping was the sound that brought the two visitors to the coast awake. Seagulls already busy at their daily chores seemed to totally ignore the new inhabitants to the area. The two men's presence was completely ignored by all the avian society. The cool freshness upon Tri's back was a proper wake up call.
"I feel as though i've just had a real decent sleep for a change" he murmured as he watched towards the horizon looking at the sun as it allowed everybody of that side of the planet to value of its day light. The damp and cool did not bother either men as they swam in the waves. A refreshing wash in the sea was over due and was carried out for a long time. Carefully brushing away their footprints and any marks on the sand, the men withdrew into the forest again.
In an area where they could see if any intruders were in the area the two set out unpacking their equipment and supplies. Spreading everything out in the sun to dry they set about over each individual piece of gear to make sure that it was in good condition.
"Nothing is wrong with my stuff" Tri reported happily.
"Yeah but it's still worth while doing this 'eh" reckoned Ruv.
"Bloody hell" exclaimed Tri "That took damn near half a day"

"Well spent time" he added.

"Right what now?" asked Tri.

"Well so far so good" Ruv replied, "We've come along way to get here but I reckon its been worth it". " Things should work out I hope" Tri said optimistically with a hint of fear in his voice. " Don't worry we'll make it happen the way we want it to" Tri said

"If not" he added " We had better have our act together".

"My oath" came a cheerful reply.

"The tide is going out" Tri observed "and by morning the ocean may not be so quiet".
"Well this is right" Ruv muttered as he finished stacking his pack carefully. Soon with a good fire going and their clothing drying. After being washed, the two men sat down for a long slow meal and relaxation.

"I wonder what one would be if i traveled towards that star up there for a thousand thousand years Ruv?" Tri pondered. " Yeah but," came the reply " Now make that distance into an area square and in all direction".
"Bloody hell!" Tri called out. "What is it?" Ruv whispered
"Nothing, it's alright" Tri reassured him " I'm trying to work out how much country there would be in all that area in space".
"You know what Tri?"
"No what?"
" I don't think that the human mind can visualize the distance and greatness of what you are, nor understand it".
"I think you're right ya know" admitted Tri.
" Hey i wonder if there is anybody out there?" He went on, " There would have to be but until they turn up i'm not guessing".
"Fair enough" Tri responded sportingly.

   Come daylight next morning the fellows removed all marks on the ground of their presence and hid all their equipment. But there defense and attack belongings were held onto. Traveling along the coastline they came onto some bluffs where as they located a suitable fort like a structure which would give a hard time for any attackers to over come. With all their packs hidden and a fort rigged out with traps, some provisions hidden that would last about seven days, in case of the need.

" I'd better get some fresh water Ruv" Tri wandered off.
Shortly he returned with a smile indicating that he'd found a small creek near by that could be got at without being spotted.

"All is well" Tri reckoned.

"Yeah i'd say you would be right" Ruv smiled as he walked around checking out all that he could see. "From now on it's just a game of wait and see".

The next few days were spent relaxing and exploring the local coastline. Fires were kept to only being lit in a hollow at night.
The wind began to slowly increase in strength, a;though slightly, from the north.
"That wind may bring a vessel onto the horizon, I would guess" Ruv told Tri.
"Nice place to visit" came the reply.
"Yeah well" came a tired comment as he added "let them come and I hope like hell it's the way that it should be" Ruv responded.
"What's the way it should be Ruv?" Tri asked.
"Well actually" came a slow voice, "If they think they can carry out what they are doing and expect to get away with it, then they'd better think twice before they try it again Tri."
"Hope you're right" came an enthusiastic comment from the younger of the two.
As the conversation lingered on most of the day the men were sharpening up their knifes, arrows and other weapons.
"Well" said Tri standing up and stretching his arms towards the sky, "I'm as ready as I could be."
Just on dark a small object appeared upon the horizon.
"That's a vessel approaching" came from an observer "come morning they won't be far away."
"I reckon that it makes sense for them to to land here, ya know" Tri forwarded.
"Why's that?" Ruv enquired.
"Well geographically this would definitely be the most sheltered and easiest to the beach spot right along the coast."
"Sure thing" Ruv agreed.
"As long as they don't know we are here."
"Hope not" Tri replied eagerly.

  As night fell and a cool star bright darkness began, the men fell asleep both knowing that the next day would be one of a change of the peacefulness that they had become accustomed to being familiar with.
The only sound that could be heard was the slow and quiet crashing of the waves on the shorelines below.
The coast had a restful effect on the wandering pair.
During the night the strange looking vessel continued towards the bay.
Some movement had begun before light began to happen as Tri watched Ruv in the half light, getting ready for his day.
Joining him Tri began to arm himself and come full light.
Both men were gone from there camp site.
Should anyone stand and look upon the ground where they had been sleeping they would not have noticed anything that would make them realize that the place had been used.
Slipping through trees and bush the two men moved along the bluffs towards where the vessel was now sitting still.

  "No sign of anyone being awake yet" Ruv observed as he sat down in a large rocky crevasse that gave a good view.
Now settled they began to eat a small meal as they watched and carefully thought of the vessel and it's purpose.
"I tell you what Ruv" Tri said, "first thing is to work out just how many people are on that boat and just what each one does."
"Good thinking" came the reply.
"There goes them now" he added, noting their health condition.
"Oops" came Tri, "that one, look, the healthiest one."
"Yep" replied Ruv.
"She's a captive I'd say" as they watched the woman was lead out to the bow of the vessel.

  The men watched, as the captive was soaked with a container of water. Then suddenly appeared another girl, who ran towards the soaking one.

"That adds up to five so far" Tri whispered as he rolled over and slid backwards towards Ruv, "Aha! now we have to plan, and plan well."

  Knowing that there would be a lot more sailors living on the vessel, the observers had to make certain that their evaluation of their defense ability was not beyond their rescuing chances.
As the shadows became longer more strange bright colored men were watched slowly moving around the deck.
"It seems the two captives are important people" claimed Tri.
"Yes, and by the way those sailors are treating them, they're making sure that no one does them bad, that's for real" Tri went on, "I wonder what the story is" he added to anyone that may have been listening.
They watched with detailed interest as the ocean travelers went about their mornings duties.
"Twelve in total - hell! exclaimed Tri.
"Yes but only about nine are fighters by the looks of it to me" Ruv spoke slowly.
They both agreed that they would interfere with the plans of the colored sailors and help the two captives.

  "We could swim out at night and try it then" tried Tri.
"Na" came Ruv's reply "we don't know our way around the boat" he replied thoughtfully.
"We have to bring them into our advantage, right?" he asked.
"Right" and so waited Tri.
"In the forest and" Ruv went on "they can be split up, and they'll never work it out what we are all about."
"Quiet arrows are better than their long blades on those curved big knives they carry" Tri reassured himself.
"The thing is for them to never see us that will give is the better chance Tri" Ruv commanded.
"I'll go along with that" came an honest response.

  Moving away out of sight from the sailing vessel below they traveled down through the rocks and gullies making their way towards the beach level.
Leaving no traces of their footprints nor any broken twigs and carefully going around any bird life incase they raised the alarm which attracts the attention of the group out in the bay. They chose a high ground place from which they could see the boat.
"Hey this'll do 'em Ruv" said Tri.
"Sure thing" Ruv replied with confidence.

  Together they lay resting comfortably watching the casual movement on board.
"They would crack up if they knew what was going on in these trees I would say" said Tri knowing he would receive an agreement.
Sure enough immediately Ruv replied with "Well this is right".

  Tri couldn't help smiling to himself with the satisfaction he guessed the unusual before he learned it.
As darkness became full both watchers rolled their fur coats out on the ground to make warm sleeping covers on a layer of soft ferns. The two nodded off to a short sleep.

  Before any bird life started it's daily music the two men made their way down to the sand and began leaving footprints that even to seasoned hunters, they would be confused at how many sets of legs had made in an area just longer than a stone throw along the beach.

  "That will stuff them up good and proper and sure as hell they will come looking for heaps of victims!!" Tri declared.
"Well I'd say they'll reckon about ten did these marks" Ruv reasoned, "and I hope they fall for the trick".

  Continuing with their work the two leaving many footprints entering the forest making find able traces leading towards a small hill at the top covered with large boulders.
With that done they traveled quickly back to the lookout hiding spot up above the bay.
"I'm stuffed" one of the men stated as they lay down to rest as they got there.

  A cold nights sleep and rest finished as the sun took it's turn to cast its presence over the bay.
"Hey hey" whispered Ruv as he nudged his still at rest companion. "They fell for it".
As the two watched in contentment the ships inhabitants began to travel in toward the shore.
"What we've got to nut out now is, guess what Tri?" spoke Ruv with a strange look on his face as he pondered at the floating vessel. He added "I think I know that vessel from somewhere ya know that?, I reckon I know that vessel."
"Hey ya reckon?" replied Tri.
"Yer, I do" came the reply.
With that, as planned the two descended slowly with a movement of silence down to the waters edge. Neither spoke nor made any noise.
No birds were scared off that would warn those below.

  Never changing the movement speed the silent danger lowered themselves to waters edge.
Checking once again that those upon the beach were still trying to find the supposedly many men within the forest, Tri and Ruv checked that their weapons were in place for under water swimming.

  Ruv glanced at Tri "One ripple in that water and we may as well tell them we are coming".
"Shhhh" came Tri's reply.
Instantly Tri moved with instant speed to the ground lying face down amongst driftwood pile up against the rocks.
"Look" he added.

  At the speed of a blink of an eye Ruv was doing the same. Not turning there heads the two stared out to the boat.

  Ruv came out with "One those women is watching out the window."
"Yep, see that" replied Ruv.

  Both men stood up and clasped their own hands together in a gesture of peace towards the boat.
The face at the boats window raised a finger over their mouth,
"Got that?" asked Tri.
"Yer, sure have" came Ruv's thrilled response, "she's warning us".

  As the woman captive watched, the two men crawled on their tummy's into the water as though they were lizards.
Taking long hollow stalks of branches they then lowered themselves into the water.
Not a sound could be heard, they knew that the one at the window of the vessel watched and waited.

  Quiet and slow as they were not wanting any small waves to be seen, they patiently swam underwater to the boat. Side by side and at the same pace they arrived at the back of the boat. No one had seen them. No one had heard them.
Resting in the shadow of the large boat they moved in silence along towards the middle below where they had seen that woman warning them.
Listening for the sound of footprints coming up the deck, alert men slowly raised themselves up the rope hanging from the ships maitres. Moving in a steady motion they crouched low.
No one had noticed that there were visitors on the boat.
Trying to make sure that no wet footprints would give away their presence Tri followed Ruv silently along the wooden deck towards the front.
Alert and very relaxed Tri and Ruv moved as that of animal gentleness. Listening to all sounds and knowing where they were coming from and how far away they, both knew that sounds had to be reasoned as to there cause.

  Sound without noise is silence, but in all that silence, to the listeners ear is an emptiness only to be broken if the listener has an alert mind.
Sound can be made but never heard by those who should hear, if they are content within a belief that there is no reason to feel insecure.

  Ruv, moving without sound with Tri behind him relies upon silence to convince the vessels sentry's that all was well.
Both men knew that to kill fast, if sighting of the vessels inhabitants were encountered, would be necessary. Air moving would carry their sent in advance.
Moving without sound in darkened areas, with the air current in their favor the two began to realize that they had the advantage of surprise.
Listening to relaxed voice tones they felt assured of being unknown.
Carefully listening to the sounds of the vessel they began to learn of the human activities onboard. Although a pair, yet individually self efficient, they knew the other would be of his most at the time of need.
Again carefully watching for anything that may cause the surprise visit to be stopped with heads continuing to turn in all directions they listened, smelt all the aroma floating within the slowly moving around the vessel was strong in the pleasant cooking excitement.

  Combined with a meal being prepared the air carried the odor of the low tidal beach.
Tri knew it, Ruv knew it. Neither knew what it might be. Confidence was an energy source for both.
Certain that they were undetected they moved towards an open window.

Smell just as important as sight and sound.

  Before either had neared that open window, both caught a chemical odor that males used upon themselves.
Moving at a constant slowness they gained positions to see into a lightened room. With hands and legs tied were two women, both of pale white skin color. In front of these women sat an older man with his back to them.

  A faint audible whisper came from Tri "I know him."
"Who?" Ruv silently asked.
"I reckon it's Stoney" pausing to look behind himself. "I know him from way back" he said in a gentle whisper.
"What the hell is he up to?" asked Ruv.

  A faint response came, "I've got no idea" advised Tri as he watched through the window thoughtfully and clearly shocked, Tri went on to say "Actually Ruv I know who that woman is and if I have my way she'll be coming with us."

"Ok then" came an acceptance of the fact.
Noticing the door was entered the stalker retreated back into the darkness and began to plan.

"One through the window, one through the door" Tri hissed through his teeth.
"Done" came Ruv's response as he moved on his hands and knees towards the open window.

  Likewise Tri positioned himself through the door. Tri watched as Ruv leapt from the crouched position with a leap through the opened window.
The surprise was startling for those within the room. As Ruv landed on the back of Stoney Tri burst into the brightly lit room.
One swift movement of an arm from Tri across the throat of a startled guard who only had time to realize that the door had opened suddenly, began the attack.
The captives let no screams out to begin, as they were scared into a state of shock.
As Ruv landed on the back of Stoney he withdrew and released an accurate knife across the room into the heart of the second captor. Both captives had been eliminated without any sound made.

  The two women seemed to know that to make a noise would bring less chance of their rescuers moving them to freedom.
The only one sound that did occur was a slight thud as the dying guard collapsed onto the floor.
Pointing one finger towards the completely shocked Stoney, Ruv warned, "Do not move".
His voice tone convinced Stoney not to challenge him in the slightest way.

  A large rug covered the table. Ruv quickly covered the two dead as Tri untied the two frightened women. The older of the two women tried more than once to speak with Tri, but no words began. Placing his hands over her mouth he shook his head indicating for her not to speak. Her eyes staring into Tri's, she waited for him to hold her instead he turned to Ruv, he beckoned them all to the door.
"What the hell are you up to?" asked Stoney.
"Ya safe" advised Ruv.
"We'll sort it out later" Tri ordered.

  The women and Stoney, still in shock listened carefully as Ruv gave them instructions.
"You lot go ashore, us two will clean the ship of any life ".
His authority of the situation was instantly accepted. "There are others on board?" he asked.
"Four, two bad, two good", Stoney replied. "My navigator and engineer are in the lockup".
"The others?" asked Tri.
"They are cooking in the galley"
"O. K".

  With that spoken Ruv beckoned Stoney towards the door.
Leading the way Ruv received directions from following the slow moving captain, Stoney.

  In the darkness their shapes moved with care towards another doorway.
"Which one?" a silent whisper asked the one in front.
"Along the corridor and third right".
"Wait here" came Ruv's response.
"You sure of that?" a concerned Stoney checked.
"Leave it to me" came a cold whisper.

  Stoney stood in the darkness watching as a man whom had only been known to him this evening, moved with speed along the row of doors.
He saw him open and enter the galley. No sounds came from that direction, none at all.

  Fearing failure of Ruv's intention he cautiously moved towards that open door.
Just as he was about to enter he was surprised to see Ruv walking towards him.
"What happened?"
"Nothing, they are ok now" was he only words Ruv used.

  Glancing behind Ruv he saw two deceased upon the floor.
As thought nothing unusual had happened Ruv took control of the situation.
"We must get rid of these unwanted creatures".
"How?" Stoney needed to know.
"Over the side with no clues left".

  He knew, by the sound of the killers voice, that he should comply.
He stood still, sickened, feeling a cold fear as he had to wait as Ruv searched the clothing of his two victims.
"Why do that?" he asked.
"No need to explain" was all he was allocated at that time .
Placing the deceased's personal belongings into a pouch inside his outer clothing Ruv wondered, "What are you doing?"
"Eh?"
"Come on, get some strops and weights" an order snapped.
Sensing knowledge within those words Stoney began searching for something to tie to the bodies for sinking purposes.
"And more for the others" Ruv hurrying him up.
Together they carried two corpses to the deck.
As Stoney placed ropes around the legs Ruv returned to the scene of the first attack.
Weights attached to the ropes which were secured around the ankles ensured him that they were to remain on the sea bed.
Appearing out of quiet darkness the shape of the returning man of death, a victim hanging from his shoulders with his head freely moving sideward's was not a sight that Stoney would forget easily.
Placing number three beside the others was as Stoney observed an action that Ruv had performed before.
'You've been here before, whoever whatever you are' thought a concerned captain.
The teamwork was smooth as they lowered the four bodies into their saltwater grave.
"They aren't wasted, the fish can make good use of them" was the only burial dignity these four unknown men received.
Not even a hint of empathy nor acceptance of fellow human recognition was observed by awed Stoney.
"No respect?" he asked.
"Why should that be so?" blunt words replied,
He never bothered to continue with this conversation for he was beyond his ability of understanding of this strange man.
'Time will tell' he thought.
During this day's evening he had been exposed to a new aspect of life and death that he knew not of previously.
To him Ruv had killed and disposed of fighting pirates as he himself would of processed fish he had caught.
Maybe he will learn good from this unknown quality. It scared him but reassured him that he was in the presence of an example setter who may be good to learn from.

  Returning to the cabin where Tri and the women were in deep conversation. Not looking eye to eye with Ruv, the women knew something deep within their instincts reassured each of them that they were safer being protected by him.
The older woman spoke with Tri with voice tones mannerisms haven familiarization of understandings.
As each of the two spoke the other would respond to the tones in response.
It seemed to the listeners gathered around that the actual words spoken didn't seem to be of importance to this pair.
Ruv sensed something was up. He noted the basic sounds of speech, without words were being responded to rather than the subject matter.
"A deep closeness of spirit here" Ruv surmised.
Tri seemed to him not aware of the others of the group.
He and the woman well connected as that of sunlight and sun. Which glowed or which reflected was a good question.
That seemed to change between the two.
All others remained silent. Respecting, yet not knowing why, each of the listeners knew not why they were quietly still.
They just did nothing.
'Strange' Ruv pondered. 'But all is good' he reassured himself.

  Finally Stoney broke the trance that all shared.
"Soon it Tri, trying to reduce the tensions felt by the men having to accept Ruv's control without choice added - will be day light" showing concern in his voice glancing towards his new leader Ruv.
"The others are on the beach and will return early morning".
Tri, for the first time seemed to return from an interaction with her offered - "Those ones are looking for ghosts somewhere in the forest."
Ruv took control of the plan with "Tri and I will go find the ghost searchers."
His casual soft voice had the effect of convincing the boat people that his words were carefully chosen.
Altogether there were seven live persons on board.
Ruv announced that for the protection of all he had decided that all of the group would return to shore, "us two will take care of them."
A stern glance towards the other two men was enough for them to do exactly as he said.
"Just in case all does not go well."

  Tri, trying to reduce the tensions, felt by the men having to accept Ruv's control without choice added- "Your group had best remain out of sight ashore, there are provisions stored amongst the rocks there, and wait for us."
Nothing said meant that this was accepted by all.
Securing the vessel should none of the preferred returned, preparations for disembarking were made.
In the darkness the seven people moved quietly as an organized group gathering personal belongings and lowering onto the smaller boat.
Ruv taking Stoney aside spoke in whispers, "A million to one that we are being watched, here's what we do."
Murmuring an approval Stoney listened carefully as Ruv outlined the plan.
"As we move away from your boat you and one of your men slip over the side and swim back here."
"Why's that?"
"You become invisible and wait for anyone returning early."
He paused for the idea to become clear he asked "Ok"
"Got it."

 
   Away all went into the dark night.
Rowing slowly without any indication of the two passengers rolling over the side into the sea, the boatload never spoke.
No one turned a head to see if the swimmers had made it back to the main vessel.
Hoping that should they be watched, their intentions would be thought as leaving the large boat with not intending to return.
Hearing the guiding sounds of the waves rolling onto the sandy beach the rowers, upon beaching their little boat the rowers, Ruv and Tri instructed the others to make their way towards the forest edge.
There was just enough visibility to be able to see a short distance in front.
Following behind the other Tri and Ruv carried the small boat.
Finally getting to the edge of the trees they hid the boat and lay down to wait for day light.
Once again it was Ruv who remained separate from the others. Taking a leafy branch he raked over the footprints that they had made from the waters edge.
As instructed by the leader of the group no one spoke.
In the darkness, hidden within, laying there upon the ground this collection of individuals of many different backgrounds were becoming a newly forming group of determined survivors.
Most of them were silently semi sleeping or lost within their own thoughts.
Tri with Ruv sitting aside from the others watched for any sign of movement towards the moored vessel.
No sounds came from the forest direction.
"Maybe they're asleep" Ruv suggested.
"Hope not" Tri offered continuing - "We need all the advantage we can have"
"Don't worry, we already have that" came back a reply of cold confidence.

   Demanding that the small resting group remain hidden and silent until their return they set off just as day light began to happen.
On board the vessel Stoney lay resting in in hopeful success from the mission ashore.
Each member of the group had one thing in common and that was to remain alive.

  Cheerful busy musical songs began to be heard from the many different species of birds as they started their mornings activities.
The men slowly made their way through the forest towards the direction of their carefully laid trail of the previous.
Careful attention was paid to the singing birds. Particular care was needed should the singing in the trees stop.
No alarms sounded any warnings the birds made when the men approached.

  The need to approach the more quieter areas of less birds gave the men better chance their presence being announced.
As daylight improved they traveled faster. Each man listening to all sounds, eyeing all surroundings searching for movements or sounds that could warn them of enemy presence.
There was confidence between the two that the other was properly adequate in detecting the presence of either a trap or enemy laying in wait.
Glancing towards each other they knew of the others report of his satisfaction that the going was good.
The slightest sounds sounding from any direction would cause heads to turn expectantly towards the exact position it originated from. Only years of time spent within the forest hunting could such a second nature ability be so.

  A momentary look at the others facial expressions would tell how the other considered concern or contents decision.
Moving twenty paces apart through the semi dense growth always searching the thicker re growth for danger they began to speed up the pace.

 Trying to position themselves at a critical position along the trail that they had laid the direction taken was a hastily straight line to an area below a rocky knob.

It would be here that they hoped the would-be attackers had slept the previous night in cautious preparation of the attack.

It was hoped by the positioning men that the attackers would presume their prey were hiding amongst the rocks above.

Closing near their intended place eyes were carefully searching the found in front for the tell tale sign of footprints not belonging to them from when they had intentionally placed them there to entice the follower towards the rocks.

Pausing amongst a small area of re growth with head - high thick leafed saplings they waited and listened.

They needed not long to wait for before long the bird sounds in one particular direction suddenly ceased.

To both the men this meant the attacking party were approaching towards that rock strewn area where their prey should be asleep, completely unaware they were being hunted.

Soon death would end the life of some of the gathered humans.

Ruv and Tri had not the slightest intention of being the ones ending their time alive upon this day.

They waited. Relaxed and ready. Alert for any new smells, sounds or movements.

Eyes searching in all directions they expected to see slow movement in the more seclusive thicker bush growth.

Nothing happened.

This nothing happening concerned both men.

A sudden stopping of all bird life sounds meant the presence of different not usual visitors to the area.

The intruders would now know that the birds may have alerted the intended victims that an approach was being made.

A soft, almost audible whisper came from Tri, "Where the hell are they?" he asked.

"Must be the creek" came a suspicious loaded sound from Ruv.

Not far in front of them a small creek with banks about the height of a mans hips, looking at Ruv's face, Tri learnt the direction Ruv was watching.

At times the trickling of the creek sounded different.

Tri watched in that direction, noting the sound change of that trickling water he could see smaller birds sitting on the branches over hanging the creek.

"Got it" he reported.

He could see these birds tilting their heads and jumping up off the branches and turning around to have another look at something moving up the creek.

From the birds behavior the men estimated the exact position of the attackers in the creek.

"Has to be three".

Ruv, three fingers pointing upwards began to move on all fours towards where the movement had already passed in the creek.

Tri, in the same fashion following kept ensuring that no other presence was approaching from different directions.

"Must be altogether" he whispered at Ruv.

A nodding head from the one in front meant his thoughts had been evaluated and agreed with.

Moving quickly towards a moss mound at the back of the creek the crawling two were eager for action.

Laying flat upon the ground they listened carefully for more tell tale signs that they could get an idea where their prey might be.

One minute splash was a mistake coming from their right, directed up the creek told them what they needed to know.

Eyes fixed in that direction they prepared arrows into each bows.

They waited, knowing that the travelers would be stationary and waiting to learn of that tiny splash one of them had given the game away to those they thought were asleep within the group of boulders up ahead.

The archers had no idea who or what type of persons were moving up that creek.

They hoped that there were three. If so then there would be no others in the planned attack who may catch them unawares.

Watching one small bird sitting on a branch cleaning its wings and chirping to other companions nearby was there proof of the unseen position of those who must be in the creek moving on hands and knees.

The moment that little bird stopped all movement and tilted its head to study movement below was what Ruv waited for.

They waited.

A quick stop with a head tilt was their signal to strike.

In one movement both Ruv and Tri began standing as the arrows were pulled back into the bows.

Very little noise was heard as two arrows left their holders and traveled unrestricted at height speed at the victims moving the shallow creek.

Two died immediately as arrows struck their heads.

Instantly the bows were reloaded.

The one in front had en ought time left to hear the sounds of his companions falling flat into the water, that was all.

As he glanced up to see why and how the surprised look on his asian face began to change to the blank nothing stare as the two arrows penetrated his heart.

Instantly, knowing all three were dead the two ambush ers lay back on the ground and being perfectly still listened for any clues of other people in the area.

For a long time they waited, hearing only birds returning to their daily activities.

  "I'm sure we have got them all" Ruv announced.

"Better hold on for a while more."

A procedure practice tone indicating his thoroughness of check, check and rechecking to ensure the best outcome of their actions.

Slowly raising their heads they began a seasoned thorough inspection of the forest to ensure that there was no other human life around other than theirs.

Satisfied that their decision was correct they stood and began to remove the bodies from the water way.

To be wrong could end their lives by giving away their position.

Speaking in a low voice Ruv reasoned, "Don't want the water poisoned by these creatures rotting in here."

Approving in disgust Tri cold only manage a "Yep."

The victims were searched for anything useful and carried to a place where above an overhanging could be broken off and cover the dead.

Both men standing on top of the over hanging loose soil began jumping up and crashing down until the unsupported dirt gave way.

In one movement the bank collapsed down onto the bodies.

"Easy funeral process" a cheeky report from Tri was the victims only words of burial.

"Quickest burial I've seen yet".

Ruv, laughing sarcastically, grinning away was his part.

In a way the men had respected those they had buried.

"They may have been good" Ruv said.

"But for the fact we reasoned and guessed what they thought about the best way to approach the hiding place".

Tri, a sense of self pride in a narcissistic manner, congratulated himself.

"I'm glad we cashed in on their mistake of making that splash, eh."

"The one that made the mistake of causing the splash gave away all their good work."

"I noticed a small hole in the bank where the stone must of been knocked out making that fatal splash."

  Tri, in a way felt a slight compassion for those they had just killed, "So much wasted by such a little mistake."

"That's the way it is out here in this world of reality" summarized Ruv.

Tri's agreeing nod, finished that conversation, with approved agreement.

Once signs of the  deadly attack had been removed with care they made their way back to the beach.

Standing in full view Ruv waited for Stoney to see him whilst Tri raced around the shore line to retrieve the others still in safe hiding.

"You guys" Tri called out to those waiting.

The women remaining quiet as one of the men with them replied, "Tri?, all is clear"

Rejoining the group he advised them to wait while he and the older women went up to the rocks above to retrieve the provisions he and Ruv had hidden there.

By now Stoney had collected Ruv from the beach with only a brief summary that those who had gone ashore to search for the footprint makers were of no more concern to anyone.

Happily all were returned to the vessel.

Assured they were finally safe from their captives they began to org anise their new home upon the water as each seen fit.

  'The future?' pondered Ruv alone on the deck. He had had a life of varied experiences compared to the average persons normal times. He knew he could trust his own deep down spirit from within.

Nothing during his life had caused him problem for himself. He had no bitterness towards anyone or anything. He was a happy chappy as he would jokingly tell himself.

But now he sensed the change in his ways of life was occurring.

With each adventure this solitary man had endured he had become more and more convinced that he should be his own person sharing life with that of nature as though no other human life was involved.

This way he felt far more worthwhile to himself.

He could assist good people in their survival and search for inner peace.

Keeping a distance from people he could sense those who had bitterness as part of their disposition.

That bitterness preyed upon others via many different ways, for nothing but cold hearted selfish gain.

This he had formed a resent ness towards.

Some, he reasoned, had outlooks upon life that the way to achieve their need was to take from others by whatever means possible they could use without the processor being aware of such.

He had no problems to cause him to lack enjoyment of life.

Knowing life for each of us all would come to an end he wished his turn would be of a natural process during which he would feel life for himself had been a worthwhile experience.

Ashore not very far from where he stood Ruv knew of the cycles of life for there he was content.

But now things were different; the idea itself unsettled him.

Interrupted thoughts by Stoney remained unfinished by -

"And how's it going?" Stoney's cheerful thanking voiced beamed across the deck at him.

"Good" came a forced response.

Picking up on a passengers lack of sea time he began his usual 'technique' that would try to re assure and settle those who hid their stress of being at sea.

"The entry to his premeditated attempt was immediately stopped by Ruv.

"Man" began a new almost empty tone in his voice, Ruv pausing then went onto add - "I journey alone as one" pausing at the taken back captain.

"One is all I need thank you all the same".

Stoney gathered from that blunt verbal exchange all his offerings weren't going to be accepted.

"Ok then" shrugging his shoulders as he walked away from this strange alone man.

Muttering under breath without realizing the super senses of Ruv, who easily heard the 'suit ya self mate'.

As far as he was concerned Stoney had attempted to captain the passenger.

But as Stoney he would keep an eye out for the all one man, left alone once again standing at the very front of the boat.

The solitary figure felt less than alone.

From within himself he felt a twinge of annoyance in the way that captain had thrown an attempt to try and change the way he would realize how things are.

Always the same again and again, someone ahead of him trying to lead the way of conceiving a reality in their version.

'There is always no one in front of me' he grinned in self contentment. Self dependence as usual was his way.

From literature, since such was first began, there'd always been writing scriptures, prayer and learned teaching which had so many different cultures.

He had no complaint with any of them.

The many cultures had so many teachings.

No complaints with any of them, for in his way of life solitude silence simplicity was all he needed to be complete as one,

At times there were those that had learned from him. He taught only by action examples. Nothing else.

'If they were learnable' pondering slowly, 'they would teach themselves'. Otherwise he'd reasoned they were not as they wished to be.

This was that canyon between those destined to be complete person and those who have the wish but their greed's and bitterness blocked the way forward, thus preventing growth as they yearned.

Somewhere inside Ruv a content warmth developed as that of a dozy kitten 'come what may' laughing silently to himself. Stretched arms skyward eyes shining brightly, this individual was as ready as he could ever be,

Knowing he was about to begin his first sea journey did not bother him.

Everything belonging to him was in no need of repair nor fixing.

Tri's gear was the same. He noticed Tri's interest tending towards the women. Something more than the norm was occurring Ruv reasoned.

"We are all responsible for our own ways" he announced.

Laying eyes around back towards land a feeling of temporary loss developed.

There was nothing upon land that needed his attention for maybe two more full moons.

And so this man felt no regrets upon his seaward departure.

 Little or no sway movement could be felt as the vessel remained moored in the shelter from the direct ocean swell bay.

Wandering back to the cabin Ruv soon learned from the reinstated captain that a journey was being prepared for.

"Where to and for how long?" he asked causally.

"Put it this way" the captain advised, "a bloody long way for a while."

He enjoyed that response, for in his past he'd spoken the same to others when departing upon a journey.

"Venison on the meal while away?" Tri asked.

"None on board" one of the men call over as he continued to with a computer task.

"Ok then" a jovial response came from Tri, adding "when do we head off?".

All heads turned towards the captain.

"I'd say three days from now."

"Well" Tri suggested, "who ever wants to come with me is welcome to".

The beard shorter of the two boat crew piped up, "To get some deer meat?"

"Yes, how much is needed here?" a smiling Stoney responded with, "whatever you get is what we need".

"Done" Tri spoke as he got up and began to prepare for the hunting trip ashore.
Shortly the two were on their way towards the beach.
The boat became inspected in detail by the captain and the other man whom Ruv had freed.
Knowing best than to interrupt this duty of importance he decided to figure out how to spend the time of the next few days.
The women, he noticed preferred to remain kept to themselves. They would have their reasons he thought.
"Must be until they work out if they are ready to believe it's safe here".
Strolling around the deck thinking landwards he began to feel the differences between a sea bound individual compared to his normal existence.
'This will be a new one' came an inner glow of reckless excitement from within.
Having no concern for Tri on his hunting success he mused that of the reaction of Tri's possible annoyance of being disturbed by the presence caused by boat crewman he'd accepted to join him on the hunt.

  Birds seemed to calmly float through the air seemingly busy doing something that must be worthwhile to them.
The sudden rolling over heads tilting, upon seeing food below, these birds accurately dived towards their intent by passing others bent upon the same food source.
He noted the small wing tip adjusting movements giving their precise control of each dive.
The abrupt tail feather use seemed to be so exactly timed in order to slow the rate of descent caused him to believe that birds flew better than the human creature walked.
'Not a single bit of help' reasoning as he began to become more and more interested.
The bird life gets no help by way of their preys mistakes. 'Nothing at all' he admired.
The differences of survival at sea may be very very different to anything he knew.
'A heap to learn' acknowledged the new student.
Amongst so many searching for food, birds he noticed not one that was unhealthy. This interested the observer.
'Equal abilities, plenty of food' he guessed.

   With that thought the man spent most of the afternoon watching in silence as these flocks of birds circles and dived into the water recovering small fish in their beaks.
A pattern he noticed, was of the more above the lower darting all over the place younger ones below seemed to be an advantage point.
He noticed some younger birds join the searching ones above. The reaction was to be one of aggression by the more experienced hunter.
He could not work this out. The youth of the flock being refused access to the examples of the elders?
'Time will tell' he reasoned.
Hoping to find the answer to his query by the time he returned to live on land again.
'Actually' feeling enthusiastic he realized 'there's heaps of things going on out here on the sea'.
He resolved to be more attentive to the goings on in the future.
Now he had become more aware he lacked the ability to see and notice activities of sea birds that may teach him to ways of weather changes and also the fish living in the sea may be a bit harder to be aware of than the more obvious goings on he'd learned in the forests during many seasons.
'Welcome to the new beginnings in the new world' he jokingly told himself.
'This will be good' was his summary.

  Others onboard never went near the solitary figure on deck for them the business of journey preparations kept the group to themselves.
Eyes as always never ceasing to view his surroundings Ruv noticed a brief movement within the bushes on the small high where he and Tri had stashed their possessions days before.
Not moving his head he began to move his arms as though working with rope he had picked up from the deck.
Carefully eyeing all the surroundings bushes of where that movement he detected before waiting to get a clue of what it was that had caused his suspicions to be active.
He had not long to wait for another shaking of small trees was obvious to his self trained eye.
Convinced that this would not be the two that had gone to obtain the venison, he carefully watched for any co lour difference to that of the surroundings up there.
Noting not another clue occurred, concerned he went below to a cabin returning with binoculars.
One sweep of the forest towards that hill top confirmed another persons presence.

  A quick reference to his captain and he was transported ashore in the opposite direction to that of his interest.
"Don;t worry about me" the was told as Ruv jumped from the small runabout boat onto the dry sand.
"Keep and eye out for a stick popped up into the sand where i'll enter the trees" he advised.
"Hey?" Stoney enquire
"That will tell you I am waiting to be picked up" he was told.
Pausing for a moment pointing once again in the opposite direction to where he was to go, he told Stoney " Give me two days max and then come up the hill to find me, ok"
"Righty o".

  With that they parted company casually strolling towards the trees, pausing briefly in order to induce the viewer from up on the small hill to think that the one on the beach was some one going for a casual stroll for an unknown reason on the direction away from that hill.
Once inside the trees Ruv stopped and carefully rechecked all his outfit to enable him to move with any loss nor sound.
If this was a predator up ahead then Ruv, by way of reasoning, would ensure the end of that life.
'In this day and age' he thought, 'the less that is known about him and the others he had began to share life with the better, predator or friend were the words'.

  Now he ran, he ran fast. very fast over, under, around through that forest.
Now and then he cause the noise of leaves and ferns being brushed against his clothing.
A set constant pace he set.
Maintaining that speed, his senses all active fully alert he made his way along the short coast line.
Two deer stood stationary as the figure sped through the thin bushes past them.
They never moved until the sight passed.
He rested not once at all. Wanting to be in position above his intended as soon as possible.
Hoping not to link him as the one on the beach so casually strolling into the forest before, should he lose the element of surprise.
Circling behind the hill behind that spot viewed from the vessel should bring him in behind and above the right place.
Sometime later he slowed to a walk at the base of the hill. Danger may be ahead for his place slowed to a cautious stride.
Always looking uphill for signs any traps laid. No human presence detected he proceeded to the narrow ledge at the top not far above the provisions posse.
Finally selecting one large tree of thickening branches the man climbed upward into the foliage to disappear from view whilst he rested viewing from view whilst he rested viewing from an advantage position.
Heartbeat sounding less with regained normal breathing his listening improved.

  Down below the view of the boat moored in the bay was clearly seen.

No sounds of human activity came to his ears. He needed a clue. Time meant nothing to this hunter. Somewhere amongst the growth was one or possible predators.

  Waiting, waiting, the man up the tree remained silently still.

A faint unpleasant odor reached him so briefly that he almost missed it. Experience had taught him not to ignore it.

Noticing the direction the gentle breeze had come from at the moment he smelt the hint of an unwashed human he searched carefully viewing all over there.

Finally another airborne clue arrived this time a little stronger.

He was relaxed feeling ready, perched up high in that tree. He needed to decide to either kill or leave alone whoever was below.

To his total surprise two men came in sight walking and talking just where he had been only minutes before.

He could hear them speaking in the same language he used.

Luck was in his favor for these two unsuspecting pair lay on the ground not far from the base of the tree he hid up.

In a way it was funny.

From his advantage position he could see and hear all that he needed.

Listening carefully, with loaded bow the tree bound undetected man stood legs apart balancing in a thick horizontal part of the branch.

Green leave hid him should those below have looked up.

His listening paid off, for he heard quite clearly a plan being formed of how these two intended an attempt at attacking those upon the boat.

Both carried guns. Small guns no longer used by most people.

Unknowingly they had sealed their own demise, for above this pair of land pirates stood someone, arrow poised for its death flight aimed directly at the easy heart of the one facing towards the tree supporting his danger.

Ruv knew timing was critical for should one escape, haven a superior weapon would be dangerous for him.

As one leaned away from his companion the arrow flew. As the tip entered the first body another was prepared for the second flight.

Noticing a faint thud behind him the other turned to learn its cause.

That was all the time allowed by Ruv, for the second arrow entered his chest below the shoulder to end another life.

No movement happened after that as the tree bound killer, bow reloaded, waited for any other life to appear.

Not a sound was heard. Just a deadly silence as he ensured the limitation of all within that group.

Carefully once again checking out the surrounding bush for movement he began to climb below.

As he usually did, he searched the bodies for useful stories of his victims origins. Working fast ears looking for a change of bush life, the killer dragged the two bodies towards an area of soft soil.

Here a hole was quickly dug into which the two items were placed and covered.

Replacing small plants, to hide the indication of recently dug soil on top of the shallow grave he then left the area.

No feeling of haven taken life were felt, just a duty haven been performed.

  The pace ser for the beach return was slower.

Was near dark as his arrival at the sand was completed.

Not wishing to bother those onboard a dry spot selected the man of the forest lay for a settled sleep. Content with the gentle whisper as the pebbles rolled up and down the beach as each tiny wave came and went from the shore.

  As he waited next morning for someone on the boat to notice the stick in the sand Tri and the other guy came plodding along the shore with a good load of venison.

Greeting each other with nothing other than a nod they went about swimming in the shallow clear waters.

The third member of this group stood watching. wondering just what these two individuals were all about.

'They all just live as they are' he considered.

This person had never met anyone before who was so in the now.

'There's something about these two, it is not bad but it seems they only need each of themselves in their lives'.

A feeling of inferiority began to arrive about himself, yet in no way did they come across in any way as if they were better than anyone else.

Nothing seemed to be them. They seemed to just live as being for that moment.

'Different' he realized.

Maybe one can try to understand such, maybe one could hopefully learn from all this.

  Before long a small boat appeared traveling towards the beach with one person on board.

A quick turn around and all were soon back on board.

Knives were soon in action processing the successful hunt supplies. The women joined in by packing and preparing it all for storage.

Stoney began preparing for departure as all others began to speak in lowered tones as though a sense of fear had spread through them all.

A low sound from the back end of the vessel indicated things were starting to get busy.

Their captain was now non-communicative for his passengers as he and the other two crewman began speaking in short check, check and rechecking sentences that one may expect when all details were to thoroughly confirm as proven to be top condition.

"You know something?" Tri voiced coming as a surprise break to the mood of silence that had surrounded the new group.

"And what would that be?" Ruv replied knowing some of a loaded report was now due.

"No one has been properly introduced to each other" he mused.

"I have noticed that" he said taking the chance to teach his younger companion "we have all been learning who each other is by the way of the norm."

"Yer, but" Tri complained.

"Names come later" Ruv laughed.

  By now they were all watching the ahead waves as the vessel was moved to the open sea.

"Two more were buried up above the rocks yesterday" reported Ruv to Stoney and Tri.

"Why's that?" Stoney demanded.

"Well if they had their way they would be on this boat now and we would be over the side"

"Thanks for that" an expression of acknowledgement was received by Ruv from Stoney.

  And that was all that was ever spoken about the sudden death of those two at the base of the tree he'd stood up in.

All began to accept the view as the vessel gathered speed slowly and began to rise and fall with the sea movements as it journeyed towards open seas.

Chapter four will be added soon.

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