Fallen Angel

Escape

The hall outside was eerily empty and silent. The dark stone walls were lit up by the torches mounted on them. The flames burned brightly, casting shadows onto the red carpeted floor. The edges of the carpet were embroidered with gold, adding a touch of elegance to the otherwise dismal room. Not a single person was in sight, save for the four trespassers to the corridors.

 The light burned Leira’s eyes after having spent so much time in the dark confines of the dungeon. As her eyes adjusted, she was able to take a good look at her surroundings. The atmosphere in the area gave her a feeling of dread and despair. It sent shivers up her spine, knowing that this was the place that the Relinquo and their commanders called headquarters.

 She was also able to see herself and her companions better. Her dress was tattered and torn, and covered in dirt and dust. A few bruises had formed on her arms. A few minor wounds that wouldn’t hold her back. Marissa’s dress had taken more damage than hers.  The woman appeared weary and exhausted. She had dark circles under her eyes and seemed rather sickly. Kyle looked worn, as though he could use a good rest. Will seemed to be his usual self.

 It was odd that there were no guards protecting the entrance to the dungeon. There wasn’t a single guard, servant, or Relinquo to be seen. Leira suspected it would be difficult to leave this place due to the heavy security, but perhaps she was mistaken. Then again, the lack of guards in one area doesn’t mean that the rest of the stronghold didn’t have any. She reminded herself to be vigilant.

 “First, we should find were they put our weapons,” Leira whispered. Her companions silently agreed, though with little optimism. They had little knowledge of this place; where on earth could their weapons be? Leira considered an armory. She turned right and proceeded slowly down the hall, her companions following close behind. They came across a door rather quickly. She pressed her ear against it to make sure no one was inside, and then slowly turned the knob.

 It opened into a small room with shelves attached to the walls. Spices, dried fruits, and sauces were placed in an organized fashion on the shelves. Large bags of flour, grains, and rice covered the floor. It was a simple storage room.

 The next room housed several barracks for servants. Mattresses made of hay were pressed against the wall. A small mirror and wash basin stood in the corner. No weapons there, either.

 The third room yielded success, much to Leira’s relief. The armory contained lances, swords, and maces all recently polished and sharpened. Helmets and plate mail lined the shelves opposite to the weapons. In a small heap were the group’s weapons. Leira grabbed her sword from on top. She tossed Kyle and Marissa theirs. Knowing how clumsy Will was, she picked his up and gently handed it to him.

 “Shall we find a way out of here now?” Marissa suggested.

 “Of course. Any ideas?” Kyle replied.

 Everyone shrugged. No one knew the interior of the fortress. It would be difficult to find a way out.

 “Let’s keep following this hall and see where it takes us,” Will decided.

 “Sure, why not?” Leira agreed.

 As they walked, Leira began to grow even more suspicious. They couldn’t be the only ones in the building. Where were the guards?

 The hall ended in a large foyer. The floor was black marble tile. A large chandelier hung from the ceiling, the candles providing light. Two statues of angels sat in the corners by two identical staircases. The angels did not appear graceful and serene as the statues in the Capitol, or in the secret chamber in Fortis. These bore a striking resemblance to Minerva, with a more malevolent appearance. A large, ornate set of doors across from the twin staircases seemed promising.