Into The Storm

22

The entire Kingdom of Frinnor dashed about the place, everyone having heard of the news. The knights proceeded with fortifying the city, preparing for the imminent attack. The blacksmiths worked tirelessly through the night, pounding away at the steel, shaping it and sharpening it into swords and spear tips, creating shot. Within hours, hundreds of swords were smithed and sharpened, accompanied with even more spears. Swords, spears, axes, shields and armour were given to any available man that was willing to fight. Everyone worked through the night, there being absolutely no time to waste. The future of the kingdom was at stake.

Rosalis laid in her bed in her chambers and tried to fall asleep, but could not. She drummed her fingers against her chest, anxiety gripping her. Getting out of her bed, she sat at the far edge and opened up a drawer from her bedside cabinet, finding the small vial that Merek had given her. She took it and looked at it, seeing that it was labelled as a passion flower remedy. She opened it and took a cloth, pouring some onto it. Putting the cloth to her face, she breathed in the pleasant remedy. Quickly calming down, she fell backwards back onto her bed and slept.

Morning dawned and Edmund awoke early, there being not a single moment to lose. He stood in his chambers, being donned in his armour by his servants. One servant handed him his helmet, and the other gave him his longsword which he sheathed by his side. The king then proceeded to make his way out of the castle, his helmet under his arm. It was then that he saw Elspeth standing at the double doors, waiting for him. He stopped in front of her.

"Don't go." She pleaded.

"But I have to." He pointed out calmly. "The kingdom is at stake."

"But what if something happens to you?"

"I have Rosalis by my side. She may not be much to you, but to me, she is the best custodian that a king could ask for."

Elspeth sighed and then leaned into him, kissing him. Edmund then walked out, putting his helmet on, ready to join the war.

Rosalis stood at the mirror in her chambers, staring at her reflection. She felt the scratches on her armour. Grunting, she spun around and went off to war.