B006T5JMRC EBOK (33 page)

“My name is Kale, and we have come with urgent news. There is an army of men en route to Braxle prepared to attack. They are ruthless and will surely claim the lives of anyone they cross.”

The Lord’s small beady eyes narrowed as he silently stared toward Kale—attempting to read his expression. Suddenly, he burst into a fit of laughter. “You expect me to believe this?” The skin between his eyes wrinkled as he insisted, “Be gone! Braxle is a peaceful town; we have neither guards nor trained soldiers. Why would anyone possibly dispatch an army to attack? It makes little sense. We have nothing of value anyone could possibly desire so badly.”

Lord Zalimond had a natural way of coming off as irritating. This made Kale grateful that throughout his time within Braxle, he went unnoticed by the self-absorbed Lord. It was a rare sight for Zalimond to be seen roaming the streets.

“Lord, I assure you what this kid says is true.” Illadar stepped forward to Kale’s side.

“Galin! You’ve returned already?” He paused. “How can you be so sure of what this young man says? And why did you abandon your job at the blacksmith forge?” His beady eyes now glanced across the four as if to ensure there were no others present whom he would recognize. “Are these your friends?”

Neelan tugged upon the hood of her cloak to ensure it safely concealed her pointed ears.

“Yes, they’re all with me and we haven’t much time to spare,” Illadar quickly replied.

“Ah, I do believe I have seen the old fellow in town before.” Lord Zalimond glanced toward Thomas.

Thomas grunted, trying not to take much offense to the Lord’s ill-mannered words.

“We don’t have the time for a reunion,” Kale interrupted their conversation. “They could attack at any moment and we must evacuate the citizens.”

“From which direction will this attack strike?” Lord Zalimond seemed to believe his warning by this point as his tone grew serious.

“Unfortunately, we don’t have any information on their location.” Kale knew that time was far too short to engage in an explanation about Malakhar, or even Elanya who informed them of the attack.

“Evacuating the people of this town is an unwise decision which I will not endorse. You could very well be leading the citizens directly toward the army—straight to their deaths.”

They knew he made a solid point and did not further argue. Kale also knew that by the time they evacuated such a large group to safety, Malakhar and the army would have most likely burnt Braxle down to ash. Kale tugged at his black hair and groaned in frustration. He knew they could not prevent casualties, unless the people were each removed from their homes.

“Is there anywhere we could hide them?” Illadar suggested. “If we can’t get ’em out of here, then we should try to find a means to hide them safely within the town.”

“Not possible. There is nowhere large enough to accommodate such a number of individuals.” Zalimond shook his head.

Kale could feel his temper rising when it dawned on him—the secret location Theresa spoke of, beneath the Lord’s grand home. “There
is
somewhere!” Kale exclaimed with enthusiasm.

“Pardon?” Zalimond raised a black bushy brow.

“I am aware of the room beneath your home, hidden away from the townsfolk, and unknown by most. From what I have heard, it should be adequate for the accommodations we need. The people could hide there until this is all over.”

“N-no,” the Lord stammered. “You have heard wrong. There is no such place.”

“Don’t lie to us, you greedy cur! What riches do you possibly think will remain if the town is demolished?” Kale’s arm shot out as he gripped the Lord’s nightshirt, pulling him so close he could feel Zalimond’s breath against his face. “Listen,” Kale growled, “there are many innocent people sleeping within their beds as we speak—women, children, and infants. Now, we will try this one last time and, so help me, you’d better tell the truth or I’ll rip you apart.” His upper lip curled, baring his teeth in anger. The scent of burning cloth filled Kale’s nostrils. He quickly released his grip before any harmful damage had been done.

Lord Zalimond’s face paled and tiny beads of sweat formed above his lip. “All right, yes, I have a treasury. It was built to secure my wealth, and could probably fit each citizen inside. B-but, how did you do that...?” He glanced toward the browned area of cloth on his nightshirt where Kale had touched.

“This is no time for such questions!” Illadar came to Kale’s aid.

Lord Zalimond’s eyes glanced to the ground in defeat. “Right... I shall dress and inform my wife of the situation, and then we will begin our alert.”

“We must go now; do not worry about your appearance and your wife will be fine for the moment.” Thomas gestured toward the petite, middle-aged woman who now stood behind Zalimond. “What part of
the enemy may arrive at any moment
do you not comprehend? We need you to join our party for the time being so the citizens are confident we speak the truth.” Thomas’ temper had been pressed and he too was quite agitated by the Lord’s careless behavior.

“All right,” Zalimond replied as he turned to face his wife. He gave her a firm nod as if to tell her everything would be fine before stepping into his home. The Lord retrieved a hand bell located near his front door. “Let us go, then.”

The Lord’s method of alarming the citizens seemed inadequate, but there was no further time to come up with alternate ideas. They made their way briskly down the streets of town as Zalimond frantically clanged the bell. It seemed as though the seriousness of the situation had finally sunk into his thick skull.

Kale and the others began to run from door to door, banging their fists upon the wood to wake each family.

“You must leave for the Lord’s home immediately; there is an attack en route now! Please wait outside his door. More information will be forthcoming shortly!” Thomas repeatedly called these words, reinforcing it to the more stubborn or confused individuals.

Mothers and fathers rushed to grab their children, while others rummaged through their belongings to retrieve valuables or family heirlooms before leaving. The town was now in a state of panic.

“We will take care of things from here on,” Kale told Lord Zalimond. “You should return to your home and ensure everyone gets safely inside.” As the Lord turned to leave, Kale firmly gripped his arm, “And do not even think of attempting anything foolish.” His voice was low and threatening.

“I am the Lord of this town; I will make certain they are safe within the underground chamber.” He yanked his arm free and left for his home.

They continued down each street, double checking many of the homes to ensure each was empty. Kale even scouted the tavern to ensure no townsfolk were still indulging in a late night drink. As he confidently made his way back toward his comrades, he heard a man’s voice calling to him. Kale spun around to see a group of nine men standing in a close-gathered group.

“I told you it was him!” One of the men exclaimed. “You’re the young man from the tavern that night, when the odd fellow in black came in.”

The foggy memory of Kale’s night out with Theresa raced through his mind as he began to vaguely recall a few of the men’s faces. “Yes, it is me. I do appreciate the aid you provided that night, but I assure you it is in your best interest to follow the others to Lord Zalimond’s home. You’ll find sanctuary there from the oncoming attackers,” Kale urged the men to make haste.

“Not happenin’.” The heavy set man who had assisted him and Illadar that night crossed his arms. “We’ve all decided we aren’t gonna’ run and hide. We will stand and fight—Braxle is our home and no one is gonna’ take it from us.”

“You have no idea what you’re up against! Do not be fools—the army that will soon arrive consists of well-trained warriors who will show no mercy under command.”

“Let them come. Braxle will soon enough be their grave,” another man spoke up, and the others supported his words with cheers. His massive arms bulged from a sleeveless tunic as he pounded a fist into his palm.

“Besides,” the first man dove back into the conversation, “Lord Zalimond is already in the process of sealing them into some secret room of which he spoke. There is no turning back now.” He ran a hand over his tightly, pulled-back, brown hair. “We might not be well-trained warriors—but we are strong and able. By the looks of your numbers, you could use additional support.”

The last thing Kale needed was to look after a band of commoners who had no prior sword fighting experience. It was a death sentence for them. Despite his disagreement with the circumstances, Kale knew they were right to assume there would be no turning back at this point. He would need to make the best of the situation and begin preparations with the unknown time remaining before the attack. In the back of Kale’s mind, he couldn’t comprehend why Jedah did not choose to come for the battle. It was he, after all, who had sworn to slaughter the final dragon. The thought made Kale uneasy.

“Fine,” he finally graced the men with a response, “if you are willing to risk your life for this town, then follow me.” He quickly led the group toward the blacksmithing forge which he had grown to know very well. They rummaged through the entire workshop, taking anything they could find that was ready for battle.

Kale watched in dismay as only a couple of the men handled their weaponry appropriately. The others clumsily swung their steel around as though it were a toy. Kale’s mood was lifted when he took notice of the neatly organized piles of armor. It was obvious that a new blacksmith had taken over the shop.

“Men, come here and find something that fits properly. This should assist greatly while in combat.” Kale commanded. He was proud of himself for his ability to lead the group.

“Smart move, kid,” Illadar’s voice caused Kale to start in surprise. “I tried to find you in hopes we could scrounge some armor, but I see you’re already one step ahead.” He grinned.

“I needed to ensure these men are well-equipped before the army of knights arrives.”

Illadar leaned back to peer around a large pillar in order to investigate the new additions to their group.

“’Ey look, boys, Galin is back too!” a blonde-haired man spoke as the others cheered. “Ya’ were the best blacksmith we’ve ever had, I tell ya’! Barniber took the place over, but it’s jus’ not the same. He fled like a coward ta’ the Lord’s house already.”

“Thanks, but this isn’t the time for praise. We’ve gotta’ keep movin’,” Illadar replied.

Kale could tell Illadar forced his face to remain expressionless in order to hide the prideful smile which struggled to reveal itself. Kale had grown accustomed to Illadar’s defensive tough exterior, but knew that beneath was truly a soft and warm individual.

“Kale, this should fit.” Illadar tossed him a chest plate.

“Thank you—we’ve got to get going now.”

Clad with the basic essentials, they gathered at the center of the town square, quickly met by Thomas and Neelan.

“The town has been completely cleared.” Thomas lowered his grey brows. “You’ve brought others?”

“Yes, they are townsfolk who have chosen to stand and fight alongside us,” Kale replied.

“Well, we need to form a strategy as quickly as possible. With more in our party the options have broadened.” Neelan’s voice was calm and serious.

After remaining in heavy silence as they each weighed their choices, Thomas finally spoke. “I believe it would be in our best interest to keep watch, in order to see from which direction the oncoming attack will come. It will allow us a great advantage with defensive tactics when confronting them as they approach. We should separate and take post on each side of the town.”

“That would be a good idea, only...” Kale paused, giving momentary thought to his words, “how will we communicate with one another? It’s not as though we can speak to each other from such a distance. Do you expect us to run halfway across the town to send word the army has been spotted? By then they may already have arrived.”

“A wise perception, young one.” Thomas grinned. “Though, I do have an idea.” He looked toward the group of men who had joined them. “We have more than enough within our party to spread out in pairs.” Thomas then reached into his pouch, retrieving four strips of silky pearlescent cloth.”

“We don’t have time for games, Thomas. Please tell us what you’re up to before we are ambushed.” Kale rubbed the bridge of his nose.

“Myself, and you three,” Thomas pointed toward Kale, Neelan, and Illadar, “along with four of the men shall make way to the homes that border alongside the picket wall. We will need to position ourselves atop the thatched rooftops in order to have a clear view of our surroundings.”

“Can’t we just stand on the surrounding perimeter? It would make things much more simplistic than attempting to climb atop a structure.” Neelan placed her hands upon her hips.

“No, dear, that would be far too dangerous. We need the protection of the walls to provide an additional defensive advantage.” Thomas fumbled with the four strips of cloth. “Now, as I was saying, once atop the roof we will utilize these pieces of fabric. They will be used as signals.” He raised his eyebrows, reading the expression upon the others faces. “I do apologize, but it is the best I could do under these circumstances. I assure you, however, they will suffice.” Thomas then bunched the material into his fist as he closed his eyes. With a wave of his free hand, he softly spoke, “
Grevorta Kadexia
.” An immediate pale glow emitted from between the crevices in his fingers. “Keep these concealed as to not alert the enemy of our presence. Should you see any movement coming toward the town, take the glowing ribbon, and hold it to the inner direction of the city. Through the darkness, we should each see the signal with ease. Using this method we can quickly determine where the attack will first hit. Though, they may enter through the town entrance, regardless, we must be prepared for anything. We do not know what type of weaponry they bring.” He handed a strip of glowing cloth to Kale, Neelan, and Illadar, who eagerly inspected the item before shoving it out of sight.