Of Gods and Elves - By Brian D. Anderson Page 0,51
Linis had reported the presence of possible agents from Angrääl watching them, she had hardly slept. Then, two of her scouts had disappeared three nights ago, and the temple watch had seen shadowy figures lurking just beyond the walls. Their location was compromised and she felt an attack would soon come.
The few knights she had available were not enough to hold off an attack should the walls be breached. They had attempted to convince her to escape, but she refused. The High Lady of Valshara would not scurry away in the night, and she would not leave her people behind. If evacuation became necessary, everyone would go. Of course, if the hidden exit had been found by their enemies, they would all die.
Her mind wandered to thoughts of her son. She wished she could speak to him one more time. Their reunion had been all too brief, though she was thankful that she was able to see him before the end.
“My Lady.” It was Ertik.
Selena forced a smile. “Brother Ertik, how are the preparations coming?”
“They go well, My Lady,” he replied, though not convincingly. “If the walls are breached, the knights will be able to slow any invaders long enough for everyone to get out.”
“I want you to spread the word,” commanded Selena. “Gather all packs and gear and place them in the receiving hall at once. I want nothing to hinder our escape, if it comes to that.”
“Yes, High Lady,” Ertik bowed and left.
Selena busied herself by inspecting the provisions and defenses. The knights tried once more to convince her to leave, but she would not be moved. When it was time for the evening meal, fatigue had begun to set in. Her feet swelled and her legs ached. Still, even after a hearty meal and hot bath, she could not bring herself to sleep.
After lying in bed for an hour, she decided to read. She sent for some hot tea and settled in her favorite chair, curling up with one her favorite comedies. She needed a laugh. Selena had only read the first paragraph when there was a loud knock at the door. It burst open before she could speak and Jericho, the captain of the knights, stepped inside holding his sword tightly.
“We are besieged, High Lady,” said the captain. “We must evacuate.”
“I heard no alarm raised.” Selena reached for her coat. She was thankful that she had begun the habit of dressing in clothes suitable for travel, rather than her cotton nightgown. “Have they breached the defenses already?” She slipped into a pair of short leather boots.
“I don't know how it was done,” Jericho admitted. “But they killed three knights before we even knew they were there. Whatever they are, they're neither human nor elf.”
A cold knot twisted in her stomach. “How many are there?”
“I don't know,” said the captain. “But they fight as if possessed. We cannot hold. You must leave now.”
Selena squared her shoulders, standing straight and tall. “Begin the evacuation. Then, and only then, will I leave.”
Jericho lowered his eyes but made no move to obey. “My Lady, if you do not come with me willingly, I regret that I must take you by force.”
“You wouldn't dare!” she hissed.
“It is my duty to protect this Order.” He took a small step forward, but did not lift his eyes or place his hands on her. “You are not only our leader. You also symbolize what we are. Should you die, we die with you. The knights are falling back as we speak to aid in your escape. Every second you delay, more of us meet our end.”
Selena boiled with anger, but she had no other choice. She nodded sharply and allowed Jericho to lead her though the temple to the receiving hall. Screams echoed everywhere as the enemy found new victims, but Jericho wouldn't allow her to pause. Tears streamed down her face. Her people were being slaughtered, and she was helpless to do a thing about it.
She hoped desperately that the gathering in the receiving hall would be large, but as they entered those hopes were dashed. Three knights, Ertik, and two novices.
“So few,” Selena whispered in horror. She felt her legs begin to give way, but Jericho caught her.
“Come High Lady,” said the captain softly. He led her to the tunnel entrance. “Others may yet follow.”
Selena tried to fight back her tears.
“I will stay behind and help others get out,” said Ertik.