Cotton Bear's Castle - Chapter Nine

Chapter Nine

Meanwhile in a far off place a rather strange looking fortress-like building stood high on a hilltop surrounded by a thick forest. In this fortress an evil laughter could be heard as this was Voltran’s evil fortress of doom, from where he would strike out to control the world. Voltran was alive and ready to strike fear into the hearts of millions which is why he was laughing such an evil laugh.

Illinois Ben and Cotton Bear were heading away from the castle as quickly and safely as the truck would take them. The road was a twisty one with plenty of sharp turns that frequently tested Ben’s superior driving skills. Not in the best of shape the road handed many surprises and Ben did his best to keep it from skidding off the edge. They travelled along the back road for some time, gaining distance from the castle. Cotton Bear was thankful the danger was behind them for now, but Ben wasn’t so sure. Never has an adventure gone as planned or was without its many dangers.

Just then, out of nowhere, a cute little deer bounded its way on to the road in front of them stopping in the beam of the truck’s headlights. In a fraction of a second, Ben reacted by turning the steering wheel quickly and sharply, thus avoiding a sudden collision. Unfortunately for Ben and Cotton Bear, the wet and muddy roads were to cause some difficulties with the trucks handling and Ben’s control sending the truck off the edge of the road and over a small embankment. Bouncing down a hill Ben did his best to keep control of the truck, swerving to avoid the trees and bushes along the way. Twice the rear of the truck side-swiped a large tree, shoving it out of control, leaving some paint behind. Ben struggled with the truck as they careened downward. Faster they bounced over mounds of dirt and fallen trees. Ben looked up ahead through the forest and falling rain, to see a very large hedge lit by the lights on the truck appear directly in front of them.

“Hold On!” Ben shouted. Cotton Bear braced for the worse.

Then in a last second decision, Ben gunned the truck’s engine full on. “No Guts, No glory”, Ben said as the truck lunged forward smashing into the hedge. In an instant the truck was through the hedge but now gaining height as it rose up and over a ditch that ran along the edge of a new road which Ben managed to land on. After a couple of bounces the truck straightened itself out and was brought under control. Continuing down the road, a smooth paved road, Ben adjusted his hat and said, “Now that wasn’t so bad. I think we found ourselves a nice little short cut and we sure made up some time.”

Cotton Bear got himself back on the seat and replied, “Yea, nice short cut. Next time I want my fillings loosened, I’ll call you.”

Ben just smiled as the truck continued along the deserted road.

end of chapter nine