As the Crow Flies — A.R. Williams

Aziru is a mercenary fighting in the Persai army. When the army is routed, the survivors are forced to retreat for home, the enemy close on their heels.

Their flight leads them to the Black Forest. Ten thousand years old and surrounded in superstition, the forest is rumored to be haunted. Legend says, that no one who entered has ever returned.

Caught between two choices, one going ahead, the other turning back, the soldiers must find their resolve and renew their courage. But it is a promise made to an acquaintance that will truly test Aziru's skill in combat and his ability to keep his word.

“As the Crow Flies” is a sword and sorcery novelette. About 15,000 words long.