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Lady Amora sat in her chamber and looked out at the gloomy sky. She had immense faith in Sera's sense of duty and her presence of mind. However, there were things right at hand which needed looking into and the thought of an upcoming war was not motivating.
The click of boots brought Lady Amora out of her thoughts.
"Your Ladyship, the royal horse Jenna has returned..."
"Is Sera back then?" cried Lady Amora.
"No your Ladyship, the horse brings a message, 'Close all barracks, get all the civilians inside the rust gates, we prepare for war.'" said Balthazar, the messenger.
"The rust gates?" said Amora, voice husked by horror, "Did you read that right?"
"Yes, your Ladyship, you may have a look, it's Miss Sera's hand." said Balthazar, handing out the note.
"Oh no Balthazar, I believe you," Amora walked away gracefully from the window and sat herself on her regal chair, "What problems do the civilians face?" she asked.
"There's not enough food and the cold this year has taken several lives." said Balthazar, "Everyone is afraid of the war. With Lord Rivera gone, they are losing faith in the castle."
Amora sighed.
"If the rust gates are opened now, the people will be even more disheartened-what if they get agitated and try to revolt?" she said.
"They are already very afraid Your Ladyship," said Balthazar, "They just want to live."
"Then call for the Treasurer, tell him I've asked for him at once and send for the old guard of the gates."
As Balthazar bowed and left, Lady Amora began to think out a strategy. The castle had to be guarded, she couldn't figure Sera's plan but Amora knew the fight was coming home...the rust gates hadn't been closed since Xaxtan.
"You have 12 hours, bring only your valuables and children, the rust gates will be closed at the last stroke of twelve and anyone outside will be at the risk of war. You will be provided food inside the gates."
The announcer going through the streets was greeted with equal scorn and relief.
"At least we will not starve," said the women.
The men scoffed, "The girls are out to fight...against whom I ask? There is word in town that the lord of Newcastle is dead. We will have nothing left by the time the gates are opened again."
The walls were barricaded. With the rust gates shut tight and the barracks ready for combat Lady Amora waited at the tower house in anticipation...
A little change in scene...tell me what you thought Peace ~R
