Chapter 14. The Punishment Den

Issahil's POV

My breathing hitched as I sprinted as fast as I could, weaving in between the trees in the forests, leaping over twigs, leaves and fallen branches and trees.

“Control your breathing Issa,” I easily picked up my father's voice from a distance and immediately started to use the breathing control technique he had taught me.

Gradually, I steadied my breathing, my feets still running and at the same time my ears listening, picking up every sound.

I stopped abruptly, my ears twitching at the sound of rustling nearby.  Someone was coming. It was time for the second phase of my training. 

A swooshing sound swept over me and I closed my eyes, concentrating. 

I could hear the birds chirping and distant animals calling. But that wasn't what I needed to hear. I concentrated harder. 

And then I heard it. A heartbeat. Faint but there. I focused harder on it and swiftly turned to my side just as another sw