The nights by the sea were absolutely some of the calmest and most peaceful. Hunter needed that peace, for he had a big decision to ponder and it was one that did not need to be made with haste. To marry the princess and potentially become a lord, or to disappoint his lord and refuse. It was good to have these cool nights to reflect upon the opportunities presented. Cool though the sea breeze was, there was a breeze from the north that was uncommonly warm. Hunter turned his head away from looking at the sea and looked to the north. There were lights burning bright and moving quickly toward the castle battlements.

Horns could now be heard, shouting the alarm and heralding an invasion. The flames of torches were being thrown onto houses and shops. The lights of the surrounding city were being dimmed by the fires of destruction.

Hunter stood on the wall, unconsciously gripping his dagger that was under his cloak. The castle guard moved quickly past him and all around him. They moved to man the defenses along the walls. Bowmen and spearmen readied their weapons. Down in the courtyard, more men readied the two catapults that were meant to break sieges. This battle looked to be a big one.

A page came up to Hunter and reported that the lord was looking for him in the main courtyard. Hunter quickly left the wall and made his way quickly to his lord’s side.

Naseem was seen in the courtyard in full battle armor issuing orders for the defense of the castle. Men were gathering weapons and getting buckets of water ready for the eventual fires. When Naseem set his eyes upon Hunter, he allowed one of the nearby captains to finish the defensive plans. He then grabbed Hunter by the shoulder and dragged him to a shadowed alcove. 

“Hunter, we are under attack once again, this time the attacking force is some three thousand. Though we have fought the enemy many times together, there is an errand I need you to do. The matter is most pressing.” 

“Whatever it is, my lord, I shall see it done.” 

“I need you to take my daughter to my brother Vicktor. He has the province to the west of us. Alert Vicktor of our plight and he may send reinforcements. I also wish for the safety of Elizabeth, that is why she is to go with you. Please get her to safety. Her brothers are elsewhere in the land and with men that I trust as much as you.”

“My lord, if it is your wish, I will see it done. I will have my horse readied and I must retrieve my sword and bow.” 

“And I will get Elizabeth to meet you at the stable. She will be near her mother. We must be quick. Even now the enemy is encircling the castle.” 

The two warriors parted company. One to finish a muster, one to flee for reinforcements. Hunter felt shame as he left his lord, though it was his command, he still felt shame at leaving behind a fight that might be his lord’s last. Though his lord was a capable fighter, he was without a doubt old. He had not been a young man when he married and now he had three grown children. Hunter looked to his lord once more and shielded his eyes as he made his way to the stable.

At the stables, stood the queen and the princess. The queen was armed with a bow and a full quiver, she was stroking the great flanks of Hunter’s war horse. The horse was meant for battles in both speed and strength. Hannah was stricthing the ears of Hunter’s dog, Troy. Troy was a big dog that Elizabeth probably could have ridden on with ease. 

Hunter rushed up and immediately checked his saddle bag for how many provisions he had. He overheard Hannah reassuring Elizabeth.

“He will take you to safety. Your Uncle Zemos will take you in and hopefully send reinforcements. We will hold the siege here and the Lion will show his voice and his claws. Child, you will remain safe as long as you stay near Hunter.” Hannah stole a glance in Hunter’s direction, the glance said it all. Protect my child or I will hunt you down even from beyond the grave. “Hunter is your father’s man. There is no one better in all twelve lorddoms.”

“I will mama.” Elizabeth confirmed her mother’s words. The two and embraced again and they parted.

Hunter mounted his horse and lifted Elizabeth up with one arm. The pair left with the greatest speed and most carefulness. Troy followed close behind and the small party took off in to the dark, leaving their home under siege behind.

---

Find the first part here

https://thecomearound.com/2023/10/20/the-flight-of-the-cub-1/