* * * * *
The red-lit craggy roof of the tunnel seemed to bounce and sway above Oswald, as the warriors carried him and his companions deep into the heart of the mountains. The guards were silent now, awed by their descent. Nothing was audible except a continual scuff of boots on rock, the clank of chains, and the distant drip of water.
Deeper into the mountain, Grimbert called out:
‘Halt!’
The roof opened out above them, careering crazily into darkness high above the range of the torchlight. The guards carrying Oswald dumped him down on the cold sandy ground beside his other companions, then went to join their leaders.
Weakly, Oswald raised his head.
‘Where are we?’ Alfrun whispered, looking about her. Oswald followed her gaze.
The warriors stood in silence, torches held high, flanking Grimbert and Caradawg. Their gaze fixed on the impenetrable darkness ahead.
‘What are they waiting for?’ whispered Alfrun.
The Sword of Wayland Page 36