The Viking Chase

Chapter 3- Mystery Girl

Author's Note- Thank you for reading my book and showing support.  Hope you enjoy and please remember to vote and comment.

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Aoife's POV-

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Three days.

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It's been three whole days since my home was attacked and countless men were killed. Three days of hiding underground in the forest. Most of the people that survived are down here in this tunnel that my father built years ago in case of emergency. It was long and narrow with straw piles for beds along one side and food near the entrance. Years ago it was made to keep the royals safe during an attack. It was close to the surface so that the royals could hear when it was safe to come out. It had tiny holes every few feet that were tunneled with sticks to bring in some air and light. All in all it was a smart idea for a couple of people to hide out in but not for dozens.

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There was barely enough food to feed us all and the air was tight as well as harsh in our lungs. The poor lighting was disorienting people as well as the lack of enough air. Already people laid on the ground moaning as if they were already crazed. The children's spirits are being broken as they sit in fear to even breathe too loud in case the warriors might hear. The women silently sob as they come to realize that their husbands are truly gone since they haven't come for them yet. The ill and old are barely conscience as they lay out of the way. The few strong men with us are tense as if they hunger for the chance to go sword to sword with the men living in our homes.

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We can not go on like this.

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As I walked down the dim tunnels they all raise their pale faces to me with eyes that are already defeated. It brings shame to me that I am their only leader here and they have such little faith in me but then again what can I do to make it better?

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Coming to the food stock pile I notice the small amount and calculate it will only last us another 2 days if we are careful. Seeing the frown and deep lines in my forehead from thought, Sebastian who is one of the few young warriors with us comes to my side.

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"My Lady, we are running dangerously low on food and water. I do not think we can stay here much longer. The men and I believe we should take our strength with what's left and at night fall escort you as far from here as we can."

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"What of my people? You expect me to leave them here unprotected without resource?"

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Looking around at the bodies, he steps closer as he lowers his voice so we can not be over heard. "They are unimportant as well as weak. We are wasting our time protecting them when you are our main concern. Please my Lady, you are not safe here. We need to leave well we still can."

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"Listen to me and listen closely." My voice is harsh from lack of water and my eye lids weak from restless sleep. But even still I try to keep my voice strong and my eyes steady on his. "These are my people and I will not abandon them. Do you understand me? I was charged with protecting and leading them not running away when they need me most. I became their leader the moment my father left for business and I do not take that task lightly. We will stay here until everyone is strong enough to leave."