it seems that my brother’s tactics have changed from those he used, and failed with, in the last war. I have received a report sent by bird that the wall was taken by the Brigantine boy army, eight hundred strong. Behind them are conventional troops led by Lord Thornlees, but that too is merely two thousand men. Aloysius and his forces aren’t in sight. Our army is five thousand. We have the strength to beat them.”
“They must be sending more of the main army,” the chancellor said.
Thelonius replied, “The most recent reports from our brave spies in the north of Brigant say that the main army is not yet moving. It would appear that this attack is intended to take the wall and hold it. If they do that, then Aloysius can come south whenever he likes. We must act swiftly to counter this attack, retake the wall, and secure our borders. The ports are safe, and there are no signs of an attack by sea. However, as we are now in a state of war, all towns and cities must activate their defense procedures—all people must take shelter within city and town defenses, and all members of the army and defense are on full alert.”
Thelonius turned to Edyon, saying, “I ride out immediately, but you must stay here, Edyon. Your life must not be put at risk. Stay inside the castle until it is safe.”
“Father, I’m aware you know much more about war than I do, but please be aware of the risks of the boy army.”
“I remember your demonstration, Edyon. And I remem-ber Byron’s strength at Birtwistle. But I have confidence in my men too. However, you must take care. They may send a small force south to Calia, aiming to assassinate you and other key individuals, but as long as you stay within the walls of the castle you’ll be safe. However, should anything happen that would threaten you directly, we have boats prepared to take you back to Pitoria.”
Edyon was surprised to find himself saying, “No. I won’t flee. I’ll fight.”
Thelonius shook his head. “You’re brave and true, Edyon, but you’re not a soldier. The boats are only to be used as a last resort—you won’t need them, but they’re there.” He looked to Byron. “Stay with Edyon. You saved us before, Byron, and I know, should anything unexpected happen, that you will do all you can to protect Edyon.”
Thelonius embraced Edyon, and they said their good-byes.
Edyon watched from the ramparts as Thelonius rode out of the castle with his men. At the same time, the first of the townspeople began to arrive to take shelter. None were empty-handed; all seemed to be carrying what they could—food, clothes, chickens, some leading cows, others herding goats. It was as if the people knew what to do already. They’d been through it before, as had his father and many of the soldiers. They’d survived before and won, and Edyon had to believe they’d do it again.
TASH
DEMON TUNNELS
TASH WAS running for her life again. This time from Brigantine soldiers and along her own tunnel through the demon world.
Just keep going. Get to the surface and head south. Find the Pitorian army—that can’t be too hard, can it? Find Princess Catherine or Sir Ambrose or General Davyon or Rafyon or anyone who isn’t a Brigantine. And warn them that the first load of smoke has already gone, and they might be attacked any day.
Tash stopped to listen but couldn’t hear anything behind her. Her tunnel was low and narrow—a huge advantage for her and a huge disadvantage for them.
They won’t give up—they’re Brigantines. But I need to think about where I’m going.
She put her hand on the stone walls of the tunnel, her tunnel.
Perhaps I can use the smoke in me to help me find the others. If I think of them, maybe it will guide me to them, if they’re here.
Right. So. Think of General Davyon.
Tash thought of the general: grim face; serious eyes; glossy, gleaming blue hair.
Nothing happened. The stone didn’t change.
Right. So now think of Rafyon.
Tash imagined Rafyon: handsome, broad-shouldered, and slim.
Again, nothing happened.
I’m losing my touch! Or they’re not on the Northern Plateau. Try again. Think of Geratan.
Tash pictured him: smiling face, white hair tucked behind his ears.
Immediately she felt the stone beneath her hand disappear. A new tunnel was forming. It’s working!
The new tunnel continued to grow, branching off her old one.
But I’m going to make sure this one is even smaller and more of