Serena’s gut twisted. There were no victors here. Not really. Her eyes spotted a pub packed with unknown soldiers. They drank, laughed loudly, and overall carried on their disordered celebration. Their presence put her on edge. Not recognizing the soldiers meant they were likely new.
The General was in Meta
She felt ill-prepared to face him. Her heart raced at the thought of finally meeting the man more feared than the King. It felt impossible to imagine.
The march towards the palace continued as they started up the sloped road. The wails of women filled the air as they neared the section of the city where many of the men lived. Their families looked at the mass of soldiers hopefully. The disappearance of husbands, fathers, and sons broke her heart. Her hands shook as she held her reins, getting closer to the entrance to the palace where she knew Raft’s father was waiting. Her heart raced. What was she supposed to say? What was she supposed to do?
She heard a horse ride up next to her and saw Ike. He gave her a small nod and then led her towards the row of stalls. She spotted the man smiling when he saw their horses. A final moment of bliss before reality would destroy everything. Her heart hurt more. Ike got off first, and she followed. Ike pulled a sheathed sword from his saddle. She realized it must’ve been Raft’s. She felt tears rise to her eyes as she walked closer.
“Sir,” Ike started taking off his helmet. He looked at Ike and then at her. He shook his head.
“No,” he said. “No. Raft! Where is my boy? Raft!” he screamed out. She felt like her heart shattered into so many pieces at the pain in his voice. His eyes searched out desperately as he walked forwards teetering on his feet. His wooden leg caught in a crack on the cobblestone road and he fell forwards. Serena rushed and caught the distraught men who continued to yell out.
“He’s gone!” she blurted suddenly, trying to force him into reality. He shook his head as heavy tears fell down his cheeks.
“No. My boy! Raft!” he screamed out, his weight crushing Serena. Ike rushed to pull the man up and helped him to sit on a nearby barrel.
“He died with honor, sir,” Ike said, holding out the sword. The man pushed the blade aside.
“I want him back! I don’t care if he died with honor! He’s gone! The King took my boy!” he yelled, his voice cracking. Serena rubbed away tears and grabbed his hand, squeezing it tight.
“I’m sorry,” she said. “I’m so sorry.” She said, her voice small and meek. “He was so brave. He wanted to protect his friends, and he did.”
“It doesn’t bring him back! Nothing brings him back!” he wailed as if not hearing her words. Ike gently placed the sword at the man’s feet.
“I’m sorry for your loss. I’ll check back on you later. My daughter will probably want to visit.” Ike breathed. He then turned to Serena. He placed a hand on her shoulder in gentle comfort. She took a shaky breath, trying to force herself to move. He nudged his head forwards telling her it was time to go.
She took a final shaky breath and stood. She pulled her hand away and wiped away the tears. Vilkrim waited for her and the pair followed the rest of the men into the gate. Upon entering, she could hear yelling at the front of the group.
Wesley and Daryl were shouting, although she couldn’t make out the words. She rode closer but James grabbed her reins, stopping her. He shook his head no. His eyes were full of a fierce warning. Wesley stood in front of his horse with Daryl, who did the same. In front of them stood a large brutish looking man. He had the same dark brown hair as Wesley, but his face was covered in scars.
The General.
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The Death Sparrow's Shadow: The Assassin of Acreage Book One Page 27