Goddess Child of the Gods' of Justice

Chapter 8

*****Eliza-Beth*****

They could not wait ten bloody minutes for us to leave the gates?

Really?

The second that the gates were shut and locked up tight, we were attacked from all three sides.

We outnumbered them, but they had the cover of night as well as the element of surprise.

War cries surrounded me, shouts and clangs of metal set vibrations into the brilliant night sky.

Thankfully the three quarter moon gave off sufficient light. It also made the terror in my heart knock up another notch. Soon, too soon, the ritual would be initiated, and here these mongrels were wasting my precious time.

With an angry yell I bodily threw myself into the fray of four men against Jareth and Mika.

We all moved in-tuned to one another, so much so that it was almost as if the three of us were instead one deadly creature, appendages raining retaliation and pain.

Swords stabbing, slashing, one blocking two backs, two whirling in a dangerous game of skill and sword, all dancing a beautiful yet deadly dance.

In no time, all four were down.

Two dead and the other two having surrendered like pitiful cowards once they were out-numbered.

Mika made quick work of restraining them as Jareth and I rushed to help the others

*****

“Men,” Jareth began his voice full of authority and pride, though I cleared my throat quietly. With a chuckle he added, “And Princess, you have all fought gallantly this night, though it is far from over. This is but a blip along the way that was easily and efficiently dealt with. I am pleased to have such a team of men at my back. We are a bit behind schedule but will immediately head out. I am pleased to inform you all that not a single one of our men was lost this night.” Cheers rent the air, everyone pleased that they had worked so well together and survived without the loss of a single life.

“We will ride out, at day break we will rest a bit before heading on again. Remember, we have all had a rough night, so if you notice someone struggling, give them a hand. If you are well enough to walk, allow your chosen partner to ride in your stead. If you and your partner are both more than fine enough to go forth on foot, kindly share your steed with another in need. Take a look around. These fellow men of yours will be your family until this madness has ended, one way or another. Look after one another. Offer a hand when needed.” He finished, then mounted his horse and began to lead the way.

“Verinion! Verinion! VERINION!!!” The men shouted before following their leaders.

I smiled; Mika would make a wonderful King if he ever tried. I was sure he had no intentions to, however. He truly was a born leader, though I knew he adored the job he had now. He was such a skilled strategist that I knew he was where he belonged. He would be an incredible help in the coming days.

*****

“Alright men, let’s set up camp. About twenty yards in there is a copse of thick trees. It’s a bit of a squeeze for some of you, but it is perfectly laid out to accommodate all as well as easily defensible.” I heard Jareth command in the gruff voice.

I sighed heavily and with great relief, slid off the side of my horse gratefully.

My ‘bodyguards’ refused to allow me to walk, causing me to be on horseback the past nine hours.

My bottom was sore and numb and so completely asleep, that it was a very strange feeling.

With a grin, I quickly grabbed my makeshift tent from its straps on the side of my horse and walked quickly through the thick and dense foliage.