The Distant Kingdoms Volume Seven: Bourke's Raiders

PROLOGUE

As per standard behaviour for this time of the cold season, a harsh, bitterly chilled wind blasted across the countryside, its miserable touch reaching to every single tree, bush, animal, person and building in the region. The former three would bend to the cold winds will, while the various structures about the area merely ignored the minor intrusion. A layer of thick, grey clouds moved with an unknown purpose across the sky, their forms dropping the occasional fall of snow across the land. This solid bout of precipitation further hampered any person moving about either across the countryside or within the unattractive walled metropolis in the distance. Unfortunately, this was simply a state of being which had to be endured by the occupants of the city. During the cold season, the people were at the mercy of the elements if they ventured from out of their homes for any reason necessary. Nothing could be done about their plight; they endured these conditions with little more than the occasional curse, muttered through blue-tinged, trembling lips.

Up in the tower, he sat near a modest enough writing desk, no less than three small pieces of exceedingly thin parchment stretched out before him. Leaning over, he read the collective of notes that eventually formed one, far longer message … No, not a message- a command. Hoping he may have inadvertently misinterpreted the meaning of the message, he perused the notes yet again. Not moving one iota from his position near the desk; it appeared his initial interpretation and misgivings were indeed quite correct. The notes combined in their connotation to provide the worst message possibly; a call to arms for war. Finally leaning back in his chair, Lord Colin Bourke gave a despondent sigh.

Oh, my god!

CHAPTER ONE

THE HAMAFORTH KINGDOMS

THE NATION OF PORRA

THE CITY OF XEROUS

Even though time was gradually hauling the north-western realm of Porra from out of the cold season of Peslinin, the weather had yet again turned for the worst. Intermittent storms threw howling winds and rushing snow and sleet across the partially frozen countryside. Many of those military personnel dwelling within the massive tent city positioned between Xerous City and the castle had long since sought shelter in the more permanent, weather-proof structures of these entities. In times like these, the troops and officers of the ever-increasing army had been instructed to locate suitable shelter and remain in these places until the foul weather eventually cleared.

The Xerous City Cathedral, city hall, community shelters and other such buildings were all filled to overflowing with chilled soldiers and officers. Some of the soldiers were even temporarily housed in the city prison where they were at least out of the freezing cold weather and could likewise give the warders a hand in controlling the sizable population of Territorian troops currently incarcerated in this institution.

Those citizens of the walled metropolis spent the vast majority of their time in their houses, huddled up to the fires which provided some measure of insulation against nature’s ravaging forces in the outside world. The citizens of not only this city, but also the entire region and indeed, much of the country had always lived their lives by this mode of occupation. All the work was accomplished during the warm season, food and water was stored away, money was saved and the houses prepared from a lengthy stay indoors during the cold season. A large number of people did, in times gone past, freeze or starve to death, especially amongst the lower echelon of Porran society under the ‘guidance’ of former Lord Laninval. This season of Peslinin had drastically changed these statistics for the better. Under the reign of Lord Colin Bourke, reported deaths from these causes were quite rare. Virtually all those living in Xerous City and the outlying towns and villages had been provided with enough food to stave off hunger. They had also been provided with more than an adequate supply of firewood courtesy of the thousands of troops about the place who really had nothing better to do with themselves at this time than rampage through the surrounding forests, chopping up any and every piece of old timber they could locate. Colin had given strict instructions that the standing trees were not to be touched as he had no real wish to eventually be presiding over a massive desert due in part to the complete lack of vegetation.

In Xerous castle, the occupying military force had yet again switched into emergency mode. Only a bare handful of sentries were periodically exposed to the miserable elements on extremely short shifts. In these instances, the soldiers on duty did their level best to stay out of the foul weather, but still keep an eye open for any indications of possible danger to both the mighty stone fortification and those persons residing within.

Lord Colin Bourke had arisen from the comfort and warmth of his bed at a fairly early hour of the morning. Every sound created within the castle due in part to the movements of thousands of people was now effectively drowned out by the din of the raging storm. Much to his relief, the castle never gave even the slightest impression of having any difficulties in protecting those persons inside its mighty walls. He did, however, harbour some measure of pity for anyone still roaming about the tent city located across the valley. Many of these canvas modes of shelter would have to be rebuilt after the fierce winds had collapsed any of these temporary structures.

After dressing himself, he dispatched one of the Dearnian guards, Junicca, to fetch a number of important people so he could speak with them at length about recent developments that had come to his attention. The remainder of his escort in tow, he then ventured down the narrow flight of stairs to the main hall where, much to his surprise, he discovered hundreds of uniformed people scattered throughout the sizable chamber. Most of those military persons before him now turned to study this new Lord of Porra. They had heard about this strange man and some had even seen him at a distance, but few had ever been close enough to converse with his Lordship.

What the hell’s going on here, he inquired, staring back at his admirers.

Colonel Ferran Cintras permitted a great many of the troops inside the castle to wait for the storm to subside, the second-in-command of the Dearnian contingent in Xerous, Banisor explained. Do you wish for me to have them removed from the hall, your Lordship?

No way! he retorted, a touch irritably. Admittedly, these constant, unrepentant storms were starting to get on his nerves.

My apologies, my Lord, Banisor instantly offered his sincere regrets over the comment. I did not intend to offend you.

Colin’s head dropped. I’m the one who should be apologising, Banisor, he fully admitted. It’s just that this bad weather’s got me on edge. If it doesn’t break soon, we could wake up one morning and find ourselves up to the eyeballs in enemy troop!

I would suggest that these storms are also keeping the armies of Jom Azzer at bay across the border. It is an exceedingly difficult thing to march through waist-high snow in such blustering winds.

Those soldiers closest to these two men on the raised podium stared, open- mouthed at Lord Bourke. It was beyond their grasp that his Lordship, the Royal Appointed leader of the entire nation of Porra should lower himself to apologise to a Dearnian. They stood clustered nearby, staring up at the green and grey dressed man in something akin to shock. Other soldiers scattered about the high vaulted hall were themselves in small groups, speaking amongst themselves, eating camp rations or playing some unfamiliar game with a deck of cards. Colin silently wondered if their commanding officers were aware of this last activity being conducted in the hall.

Beside him, Banisor had now noticed a great many soldiers still staring in curiosity at Lord Bourke. He personally felt this unsolicited attention was greatly uncalled for and decided to put a halt to the practice.

Do not stare at his Lordship! the typical tall, blond Dearnian man angrily snapped, his voice easily carrying about the crowded chamber. He is not a display at the local zoo! Now go about your business!

Muttering angrily to themselves, the uniformed men and women glared with undisguised irritation up at the Dearnian. They offered no protest over his demand as such a discussion could have ended very badly for all parties concerned. They wandered away from the podium and its occupants then continued studying his Lordship, though with a touch more discretion.

Followed by his security entourage, Colin left the platform and ventured into a long, thin ante-chamber running off of the hall.

Now who’s cranky, he commented to Banisor on the way to this designated meeting place.

Banisor simply ignored the snide comment, concentrating instead on his primary task of seeing to his Lordship’s personal safety. He stepped to one side of the doorway as his main charge positioned himself on a chair at the head of a long, narrow, heavy set timber table. In no great time, Pira Laninval, daughter- and in fact only child of the accursed former Lord of Porra appeared in the room. Another of the Dearnian guards, Tillisar trailed after the recently appointed Lady Pira and joined Banisor at the still open entrance.

What! Colin blurted, in mock horror as the Lady Pira placed herself at the opposite end of the table. Only one bodyguard! I have at least twenty of them constantly following me around! I’m only surprised they let me take a bathroom break in peace!

I believe his Lordship jests at my expense, Pira Laninval chided him, her somewhat stern features breaking into a light smile. And besides, the castle is crammed full of armed soldiers. Surely they are enough to keep you safe?

Some of these soldiers tried to kill me not so long ago, he hastily reminded the petite, dark-haired girl. All it takes is one malcontent with a grudge and a sharp sword to make my life a news item in the local papers. Mind you, I still think they overdo the bodyguard routine. He adjusted his weight in the chair. But, I still think you need to be careful around here.

I am honoured to receive such generous and intelligent advice, your Lordship.

Now I think you’re making fun of me.

Next into the room were Thellic, the commander of the entire Dearnian contingent in Xerous, as well as Colonel Ferran Cintras, the supreme commanding officer in the entire country. They too seated themselves in silence to either side of Lord Bourke. Shortly afterwards Commander Inlo Ricc, Lieutenant Gary Wyndham, Captain Cal Buchanan, Sergeant-Major Walter Bradshaw and a handful of high-ranked officers from the Armed Forces in the region all filed into the room. Only Bradshaw missed out on getting a seat at the table. He was honestly quite grateful for this fact, as this many officers and other such dignitaries did make him feel just a touch apprehensive. So instead, the red and black uniformed British Army NCO stood back amongst the Dearnian guards and other enlisted personnel in the room.

Before anyone in the crowded room could commence speaking, the foul tempered head chef and an assortment of kitchen staff appeared at the entrance. Each person, with the notable exception of the chef was currently holding either a steaming tray of recently prepared food or plates and eating utensils. These people hastily stepped into the room, deposited their burden across the long table then left without comment.

I took the liberty of ordering us some food as I figured no one would have had time to eat yet, Colon explained, his sense of smell now assailed by the mouth-watering fragrances wafting up from the lavish morning meal.

Those present in the room both at the table and standing about the walls helped themselves to this fare, often placing copious quantities of the food onto their respective plates. Only Pira Laninval ate lightly, placing what could be best described as a couple of spoonful’s of cooked vegetables with a thick gravy onto her plate. Thellic on the other hand just shoved aside his plate, declining to eat during what he considered to be a most important assembly.

Colin began to speak after finishing off a mouthful of food. His mother had always taught him to finish eating before speaking in any circumstances. This was a practice he had obeyed his entire life. Late yesterday I received a report from Kerroway stating that a lot’s happened over there recently, he explained, while inspecting a suspicious lump of something on his plate. He was not certain if he was supposed to eat this mysterious item or stab it with his fork to see if it would move. Apparently, after I sent word to the Queen that there was trouble brewing, she decided to take a far more personal approach with the people in charge of that city. I’ll let the Colonel explain the rest to you as he was the one who read the letter to me. He can give you all a better account than I can.

The senior officer in Colin’s ever-increasing army was at this time, unfortunately, half-way through a mouthful of his meal. He chewed furiously for a moment before swallowing. My apologies, Lord Bourke, he spoke up, a touch embarrassed. I was not expecting such an honour. The short-built of senior age looked around to inspect the faces of those people with him in this room. Many of them strangers not so long ago that he now considered close confidants and friends. As from this day everything has changed, the officer explained, placing his eating utensils to one side. According to the communique I received yesterday, her Majesty was greatly vexed to hear about the problems at the garrison city of Kerroway. She initially sent an important dispatch to General Arrish Marn who was still too ill to leave his sick bed. Apparently, those persons tending to him decided- by their own judgement, not to bother the General with something so travail as an urgent message from the Queen of the entire Hamaforth Kingdoms. So the most senior officer in all the lands lay blissfully unaware of our difficulties regarding the other officers over there. Only two days ago, one of the more junior officers stumbled across the dispatch quite by accident and decided to actually bother the General about this matter. A wry smile formed on the Colonel’s face. From all accounts, the result of Arrish Marn reading her Majesty’s communique was nothing short of spectacular!

A smattering of laughter from the other officers present rang cheerfully about the crowded room.

Nearly half dead, the General hauled himself from his bed then proceeded to tear up the officer’s quarters, arresting anyone even slightly involved in these recent issues. At one stage, the more senior officers in that city were being placed under house arrest simply because there was no more room left in the stockade! The very next day nearly every officer involved, recanted their views on taking charge of the invasion and have now sworn unremitting loyalty to Lord Bourke. Only the Colonel at the centre of this subterfuge is still under arrest. No doubt, he will remain locked up until this entire business is at an end and I dare say his military career is finished! Ferran Cintras paused to allow everyone around him to mentally digest this information. He ate a bit more of his meal then spoke once more: The General, now he is assured everything is going according to plan …

And he has the officers terrified, Colin interjected, cheerfully.

Exactly, my Lord, the colonel responded. Anyway, he has retired once more to his sick bed to recuperate from his injuries. He does assure us all that once the campaign commences, he will accompany us into the Azzil Territories; even if only as an observer. Hopefully, the General will be well enough to take a much more active part once we chastise the Territories for their wickedness!

A raucous applause broke out from many of those people present on this occasion. Even the Dearnian guards were caught up in the moment. Only Pira Laninval, Wyndham, Buchanan and Bradshaw remained steadfast silent. Most of these people were well aware of the full effects of a war and did not like the notion at all.

Considering a great many people are going to die, I really can’t see what all the excitement is about, Colin spoke up, his eyes roaming over those persons present before him.

The once thunderous applause died a swift death as if a heavy weight had been dropped from a great height onto those persons responsible for the disturbance. Everyone in the room remained silent, staring at one another almost as if daring someone to speak.

Excuse me, sir, Bradshaw spoke up first, breaching the uneasy silence. "When will this campaign begin?’

Good question, Colin replied, nodding in approval. I’ve been speaking to the Colonel about that exact topic and he feels our armies should start moving in about two weeks. He noticed a mired of confused expressions throughout the room. That’s fourteen days.

What about the weather, Lord Bourke? Inlo Ricc inquired, her features set in a moderately concerned expression. If we were to depart and get caught in the open in one of these terrible storms, the results could be devastating to our armies.

At first, Colin appeared a touch apprehensive over some aspect of the girl officer’s inquiry. He cast a fleeting and nervous glance towards the colonel who likewise looked ill-at-ease. The senior officer refused point-blank to so much as glance at the commander and chose instead to peer down at his hands which were resting on the table before him. This absence of forthright behaviour on both men’s parts became a cause for concern for Inlo Ricc. She had the sneaking suspicion both of them were hiding some terrible fact from her.

That’s why we’re leaving it a bit longer before paying our respects to the good people over in the Azzil Territories, Colin abruptly continued.

The commander remained mute, her mind going through any possible causes for these men to behave in such a manner towards her. She knew one fact for certain: She did not like any of the possibilities cropping up in her thoughts.

Apparently, the Lord of Porra explained, the really bad storms and snow falls don’t really occur after about this time of the season; or so the experts in the army and even in the city tell me. We also don’t want to leave it too long or we could find Jom Azzer …

May his wife grow a beard, Thellic interjected.

A couple of light chuckles wafted about the crowded room.

Even Gary Wyndham found the comment amusing, and he did not really have anything against the man in question- or his bearded wife.

Waiting just across the border with an army three times our size, Colin spoke up, raising his voice to reclaim the attention of the participants in the room.

Believe me, if half of what I’ve been told about him and the Territories are true, we really want to get in and out of there in one hell of a hurry. Not only will we be facing a pretty impressive army over there, but every law- enforcement official, petty criminal and slightly irate peasant with a pitchfork will be out for our blood! The thing we really need to focus on is that we’re basically on a rescue mission. Not some half-assed vendetta to punish the local population with a list of impressive atrocities. And while we’re in there we’ll be doing our best to avoid any large settlements at all costs. Our army’s to move around any towns or villages and even farm houses; just so long as they leave us well enough alone. The very last thing we need is to start up a running battle with the entire population of the Azzil Territories. He studied the faces of those persons around him and found many were less than impressed with most of these notions. He continued: And you all have my word on it, if I ever do find out anything to the contrary- those responsible will be sorry they ever drew breath.

Judging by the harsh expressions on the officers present- along with the Dearnians, Colin knew his terms had not been well met. Even Thellic appeared unimpressed at these conditions involved in their invasion of their western neighbour. Apparently, a great many members of this forum had been looking forward to this expedition as a means of extracting a terrible revenge on the subjects of Ruler Jom Azzer. Although, he knew many people on both sides would perish as a direct result of his actions, he was not about to depopulate the entire western half of the continent.

He needed no more blood on his hands.

So, everyone start preparing your people to move at a moment’s notice, he informed them. And finally, if you don’t agree with my terms; as they say where I’m from; ‘shit happens’, so get over it!

The assortment of military and civilian dignitaries finished their meals then hastily filed from the antechamber. A number of them were still not overly thrilled about his Lordship’s instructions on the impending invasion, but they likewise knew there was no arguing with him on the subject. Once he had his mind set on a matter, there was no changing it without exceptional circumstances. One by one they left the room, eventually leaving behind Colin Bourke, Lady Pira and some of the others to finalise the finer details of the war.

***

Once he had departed the room, Lieutenant Gary Wyndham went around to the rear section of the castle where Private Richard ‘Ricky’ Sorell was standing guard duty on the stables where the Iroquois helicopter was housed on an almost permanent basis these days. The enlisted Marines private was always posted on sentry duty these days, ever since his commanding officer had found out about his gross dereliction of duty not so long ago when he and Ernest Bonaparte had visited Xerous City and wound up in a local jail after a wild brawl in one of the less than upper-market taverns. Despite Sorell’s explanation that he had, in fact, left a number of the local soldiers to guard their irreplaceable aircraft and that he was delivering an important message for Colin Bourke, the lieutenant had still been beyond the normal boundaries of enraged. The entire incident had been a colossal mistake from start to finish and certainly needed to be severely punished.

Considering their rather unusual situation, Wyndham had decided to punish the wayward trooper by placing him on guard at the stables until such time that the private could prove himself to be trustworthy enough to carry out other functions.

How is everything, Private Sorell? Wyndham inquired, on reaching the front of the disused stables where the aircraft was presently sequestered.

Just fine, sir! the enlisted man replied- without bothering to salute the officer.

A gesture that did not go unnoticed by Wyndham.

Very good, soldier, he retorted, without bothering to make an issue of the certainly intended lapse in military procedure. If Sorell wished to sulk like a five year old then let him. He glanced at the large timber structure. Has anyone been in there at all during the night?

Just two of the kitchen hands, the enlisted man answered. They just wanted to take a quick peek, Lieutenant, so I sent them packing.

The officer was not all that certain if the term ‘peek’ was in the Marines Corps. manual, but again he made no adverse mention of this incident.

Very good, private, he stated. We can’t have the locals breaking up the huey for souvenirs. Have you had chow yet?

Ah- no, sir. I haven’t had a chance yet.

The officer pondered on this minor dilemma. You go and get something to eat at the kitchen. I’ll stand guard here for a while.

The soldier had to be perfectly honest to himself; he was nothing short of astonished by this greatly unexpected act of generosity on the lieutenant’s behalf.

Yes, sir! he blurted. Thank you!

And once you’ve finished, send out Field to stand a watch then get some sleep.

Yes, sir! Sorell snapped, before rushing away just in case his commanding officer changed his mind. He returned a brief moment later.

That was quick, Wyndham stated, standing at the stable’s entrance.

I forgot to give you this, sir! Sorell announced, handing across his rifle.

The lieutenant took charge of the firearm even though he held grave doubts as to the necessity of carrying such an armament in a medieval-looking castle manned by a couple of thousand armed troops. He watched as the private charged towards the kitchens and realised this was not his decision to make. He was on watch and as such needed to be properly armed for any occasions that might crop up- as per standing orders.

After initially checking the weapon to make certain it was properly loaded and ready to be discharged should the need arise, he slung the rifle over his right shoulder. Thankfully, Wyndham had remembered to wear his heavy jacket provided on their arrival at the castle, as well as the thin leather gloves that still appeared capable of keeping away the worst of the season’s chill. Outside the stables, the wind continued to kick around the nearly deserted courtyard, stirring up some dust and other such naturally formed debris. Looking up at the upper battlements of the wall, Wyndham saw one soldier, a tallish woman moving about obviously on a sentry duty herself. She noticed him and they smiled and nodded in each other’s direction. He still thought it was just a real poor option to have women on active duty. The lieutenant had seen first-hand the results of enemy fire on men under his command in Vietnam and wanted nothing to do with similar injuries inflicted on women. In all honesty, some of the female troopers in the castle appeared to be nothing more than skinny girls parading about in military uniforms. It sent a shiver running the length of his spine.

The woman in the blue uniform of the Hamaforth Armed Forces eventually vanished back into one of the observation towers set at regular intervals about the external walls of the castle. Not wishing to stand in the freezing cold wind any longer, Wyndham ventured into the makeshift aircraft hangar and on a whim decided to inspect the motionless aircraft yet again. Opening the door to the pilot’s side, he climbed inside after first placing the M-16 against the helicopter. It would appear quite careless on is part if he were to accidentally discharge the loaded weapon while inside the aircraft. Also, a bullet hole in the wrong place would turn the machine into nothing more than an impressive-looking paperweight.

Much as he expected, the interior of the cockpit was in quite sound condition and did not display one iota of unsightly dust. The only difficulty with the transport was the undeniable fact they most probably did not have enough aviation fuel to get the bird up off the ground or keep it airborne for any great length of time. A great deal of the invasion plan depended on them getting at least five full minutes of flight time in the Iroquois. After checking the rocket pods and side weapons, he found these items also in good working condition. The entire crew spent a couple of hours every single day cleaning the aircraft and maintaining all weapons on board. The undeniable fact about their situation was that without the Iroquois in perfect operational condition they were all basically pedestrians.

When almost finished with this task, he halted on hearing a disturbance of some unknown description coming from somewhere outside. Picking up the rifle, he wandered out into the foul weather which was now delivering a minor measure of sleet to the surrounding region. No one was in sight either on the ground or up in the parapets of the castle walls. Lowering the weapon, Wyndham decided to further investigate the mysterious sounds he had only heard moments ago. He moved with a great amount of caution around the side of the stables and was shocked to discover two bodies prone on the frozen ground at the very foundations of the massive stone and mortar wall. One of these forms resembled the uniformed woman he had seen before and on closer inspection found his suspicions were well founded. Both of the bodies were indeed dead, the female soldier unmarked and having apparently perished from a fall from the upper most sector of the wall. The other form appeared to be male and had been almost completely decapitated by a single blow. Only a fragment of skin held the head onto the motionless body while copious quantities of blood were splashed about the area in a nauseating display.

Gary Wyndham realised his serious blunder at exactly the same time it became too late for him to correct the fact. On spying a thick rope dangling down the wall, he attempted to move, but was a fraction to slow to prevent a heavy boot land at the back of his exposed head. The tremendous impact briefly stunned him, sending the officer sprawling face-first across the cold, almost grassless ground where he lay motionless. The M-16 flew from his breached grasp, eventually coming to rest some metres away from his outstretched hand.

Wyndham muttered a word, a particularly unpleasant word, as he attempted to scramble around to at least face his assailant.

Another kick sent him rolling further from the weapon and succeeded in winding him. Lying flat on his back, he looked upwards and was moderately surprised to see a grimacing male face staring down at him. The intruder’s face was liberally smeared in mud to disguise his appearance and in a short order three other men in similar black attire had joined him behind the stable. The tallest member of this insurgent group gazed across to where Wyndham now lay. Something about this scenario did not please him in the slightest.

Kill him! he ordered in a hushed voice.

Yes, sir, the nearest man to the lieutenant acknowledged this command, drawing a long bladed knife from his belt.

Don’t I have anything to say about this Wyndham gasped, his feelings terribly hurt that he had not been consulted about his impending murder.

Ignoring this unsolicited comment, the first intruder, dagger in hand, silently stepped closer to the strangely uniformed man who still lay on the ground as if completely helpless. The very last thing he had been expecting was for this supposedly ‘helpless’ man to lash out with his right foot, giving him a good, swift kick to the groin. He did not so much scream or grunt at this undignified attack, but squeal in a high pitched blast of expelled air. Once having completed this protest to this treatment, the assassin toppled flat on his face where he thrashed about in agony while the person responsible for this situation leapt to his feet.

On seeing this unexpected incident, one of the other commandoes charged after Wyndham, swinging his sword in wide arcs at his opponent’s exposed head. Once again this intruder was dispatched in a calm, professional manner and ended up in a semi-conscious state on the ground near his still moaning comrade. Realising their intended victim was a touch more capable in the unarmed combat department than any of them had first imagined, the two remaining members of this unit were now in the process of loading their short crossbows with razor tipped bolts; that at such a short range would prove nothing short of lethal.

Not caring at all for this type of death, Wyndham rolled across the ground to where his weapon still lay in the mud, his outstretched fingers just missing the weapon by a bare fraction. Something grazed his right shoulder, causing an instant burn of intense pain. This was an obvious clue that one of the commando unit had already fired at him and sort-of-missed. Reaching further across, he snatched up the rifle just as the other assailant brought his crossbow to bear on him. When a person was about to be perforated with some glorified kid’s toy and was in possession of a fully-loaded automatic rifle, there was really no great need or legal requirement to aim said weapon.

Rolling over, Wyndham hauled back on the trigger and just kept on squeezing.

The black clad man in the process of firing on the officer gave a shrill yell as he was torn from his feet and deposited against the side of the stables. He burst through the slightly rotted timber panes, landing somewhere amongst a collection of disused tools and equipment. The man previously kicked in the groin had gingerly- very gingerly climbed upright and removed a knife concealed somewhere on his person. Arm raised in the process of throwing this blade in Wyndham’s direction, he never had a chance to finish this act as some fast moving object hurtled from out of seemingly nowhere, striking him down.

The lieutenant looked around to see a large number of the castle troops swarming towards his position beside the large timber structure. Once alerted to the fact something was very much amiss by the incredible noise produced by Wyndham’s rile, there was no limit to the number of soldiers ready to respond to this latest crisis. In less than a minute, they had cornered and overpowered the two remaining assassins, a fact made more easy as the lieutenant had just discharged his weapon into the ground at their feet. Now they were just far too terrified to budge from the spot, far less put up a fight against almost forty armed and aggravated troopers.

While these two intruders to the castle were being bundled up, Ricky Sorell wandered into the crowded courtyard, quizzically gazing about at all of this unexpected commotion. He was, much to his commanding officer’s disbelief, eating what appeared to be a hot dog of almost three-quarters of a metre in length.

What’s goin’ on around here, Lieutenant? he inquired, before biting off another chunk of the greatly oversized hotdog.

Company dropped by before I had a chance to clean the good silverware, Wyndham explained, cryptically. But that’s okay. Some of them have decided to stick around for diner later on.

More people continued to file into the courtyard near the disused stables, including some members of the Iroquois crew. Guns drawn, Corporal Scott Stuart and Private First Class Clarence (Clary) Field scrambled across to where their fellow crewmembers presently stood. The castle troops were now in the process of clearing away the corpses, sadly including their own people, as well as dragging away the struggling prisoners from this botched raid.

What happened, sir? the corporal repeated Sorell’s earlier question.

Goddamn! Field blurted. That’s one big mother of a hot dog!

I know, the other enlisted man grumbled, his mouth full of the item in question. I … I tried to explain to one of the cooks just how to make a hot dog and, well, he sort of screwed it up.

To answer the first question, Wyndham began; sort of irritated by the distraction the giant hot dog was creating. These assholes came climbing over the wall and almost got me with my pants down! He shoved the rifle back to its original owner. And thanks, private, he announced. You were right! I did need it!

Private Sorell, now juggling the M-16 and the huge hot dog went back to his room in the castle. Much to his disgust, Field was then placed on sentry duty by Wyndham before both he and Stuart likewise returned to the castle. The former went to the infirmary to have his injured shoulder treated and the latter to his own room. A couple of the castle soldiers hung around the courtyard for some time after the attack, almost as though expecting another commando incursion. After a short while, everything returned to normal, leaving the Marines soldier standing guard by himself.

CHAPTER TWO

Much to everyone’s surprise, the two surviving assassination squad members were presently up on the podium, tied to the garish thrones that Lord and Lady Laninval once used- before his exile and her revolting and somewhat degrading demise at Thellic’s hands. The two commandoes, minus their dark woollen hoods, now stared down at those persons gathered about their position. The killers both looked quite nervous while everyone else appeared on the wrong side of furious. All up, this had been Colin Bourke’s idea and considering some of the other notions he had come up with during his stay in Xerous, no one was really all that surprised.

Colin himself had actually been one of the last people in the castle to find out about this unfortunate incident. He had naturally heard the shots fired by Gary Wyndham, but had at the time dismissed them as nothing more than yet another of the Beyonders showing off their firearms for the benefit of the local troops. He was greatly saddened to learn that even more of those soldiers under his care had perished and was determined to discover the true meaning behind this unauthorised incursion into the castle grounds. After discussing the incident with Colonel Ferran Cintras, Colin casually stepped across to the two figures on the podium. A wry, light smile illuminated his freshly shaven features.

You know I’ve just been talking to my advisers, he began speaking to the firmly tied and gagged men. And do you know what they’ve advised me to do. Well, of course you don’t! So let me bring you up to speed: My esteemed colleagues have assured me that as neither of you are wearing any recognisable military uniform or insignias, you are officially classified as not just spies, but assassins. And as such, you have no rights as provided for prisoners-of-war! He could not help but give a grin just brimming full of evil intentions. So, no rights! No protection! Nada! Nothing! He then allowed an angered expression to appear on his face- right before he tore off a shoe and threw it at them, striking one killer on the side of his head. Two of my people are dead because of you half-wits! he blurted. So don’t expect any goddamn favours from me! I mean for Christ-sakes, one of them was married with a child back in Valderhien! And now I’ve got to send some stupid note telling them she’s without a husband and the child’s without a father! They now have no means of support, you bastards!

This last statement on his part was not entirely correct. Under current rules regarding the death of a soldier during a time of war, a reasonably generous pension would be paid by the Crown to the widow. However, no amount of money would ever make up for the loss of a loved one. Also, Colin wished to pile up evidence of his apparent growing physiological instability until these men readily believed him capable of committing all sorts of heinous acts against them.

Colin took a deep breath as if attempting to sort out the terrible thoughts running freely through his mind. He shook his head a little as if to hear a rattling sound inside his own skull. He looked back up at the tied killers. A couple of the Dearnian guards in my employ want to drag you two brainiacs down into the dungeons and start working on you with a hot knife and a pair of pliers, his Lordship informed his two guests. And I have to be perfectly honest with you both; right now I’m really inclined to give them permission to go ahead!

The Dearnians that had come up with this suggestion had been firmly told to forget about any such plans.

But, Colin told the captives, I’m usually a peaceful man. So I tell you what I’m going to do: When I have your gages taken out of your mouths, I want to hear exactly why you’re here and who sent you! Anything else comes out of your mouths and both of you assholes take a trip to the dungeons and from there probably straight to a lower level of hell! Now, you both probably think you’re too big and tough to break under torture from some lousy Dearnians, so have a look at them! He pointed towards Thellic and a couple of the other members of his personal bodyguard squad.

The two killers both peered across at the tall, blonde men and women in their immaculate white robes. Much to their surprise, one of these men had dark hair and they wondered if he was a ring-in from the local military. Still, they had heard the terrible accounts of what the Dearnians did to their enemies and were fearful of the possibility of ending up in a similar sort of predicament.

Colin Bourke looked to Commander Inlo Ricc and nodded.

The girl officer stepped across to both seated men and roughly tore away the tied cloth presently gagging their mouths. She had personally known one of the murdered sentries and was not overly delicate in her treatment of these intruders. Once finished with this task, she stepped well back just in case they decided to perform some dubious act to demonstrate their displeasure at her, such as spitting in her direction.

The first killer to be released from his tight gag did spit, though to the podium floor. He nervously gazed down at the man who legend had it was not of this world. A moment’s silence passed as he began to speak: We … We were …

Say nothing! the other commando screamed, shaking his muscular frame as if attempting to break free from his bonds and permanently silence the other man.

Sent here … the first man spluttered, by his Lordship …

The other killer was in a rage. You will die if you …

A good, swift, well-aimed kick from the commander to his head caused the man to forget every word he was about to utter. The captive’s head wobbled about as his mind went for a long waltz down a long, dark tunnel into complete unconsciousness.

You can go on now, Colin instructed the other man with a mocking politeness. He could not help but notice that Inlo Ricc refused to look in his direction and immediately came to the unfortunate conclusion she was onto his plans for her in the foreseeable future. However, these things could not be helped and they had far more important matters to attend to right now.

His Lordship Laninval sent us! the captured killer announced, his voice echoing about the hall. This admittance stunned many of the people present for this rather theatrical interrogation. He gave us the plans for this castle and strict instructions to assassinate key members of the staff- including yourself. Also, he wanted the flying machine destroyed at all costs!

This part of the plan puzzled Colin. Why?

The Beyonder machine cost him victory in the siege, the commando continued to explain, a light rain of spittle erupting from his moving mouth. Lord Laninval feels it poses a direct threat to our campaign against the Kingdoms!

Where is his Lordship right now? Thellic inquired, his tone deceptively civil.

He really wished an answer to this question.

Back in the Fortress City of Terrimorter, the killer replied, truthfully.

I would have thought Jom Azzer would have had him executed for his part in the failure of the siege, Ferran Cintras put to the tied man. In all honesty, I was desperately counting on such an event to happen. It just goes to show you cannot trust anybody from the Territories to do anything right.

Colin pointed to the captured man. I didn’t tell you to stop talking!

What will become of us once I tell you what you wish to know?

You’ll be sent to the local prison and stay there as their guest until this mess is finally over, Colin informed him, earning a basketful of reproachful glares from many of those persons in the hall. And if I ever find out you’ve been lying to me, I’ll personally ride around Xerous City with your head in one hand and your entrails in the other! Got it?

The seated man nodded furiously. Yes, Lord Bourke!

Now, you have my permission to keep on talking.

Once we had successfully completed our plans, we were to start fires throughout the castle and escape during the resulting confusion.

That’s real nice, Colin muttered. Why exactly were you sent to kill people here and cripple the helicopter?

Helicopter?

The flying machine. Yes, it did interfere in the siege, but your army had already lost that one. There has to be another reason behind Laninval wanting it destroyed so very badly.

I do not have first-hand knowledge of any other reasons behind our mission, the tied killer confessed. But, I did overhear some of our officers talking about a retaliatory strike against the Azzil Territories for our attack on your King’s army, its destruction and his abduction. Once he had finished speaking, the commando looked to an obviously concerned Lord Bourke and smiled.

Don’t get cocky, his Lordship advised him. You’re not home and free yet!

Thellic appeared from out of the gathered crowd on curious, silent onlookers. He stepped across to whisper some secretive words in Lord Bourke’s ear. Colin for his part gazed up at the tall Dearnian, gave a single nod of recognition then diverted his full attention back to the object of this interrogation.

We were just sort of wondering about something, he happened to mention. Is the King still alive? And the two princes?

The prisoner realised he had reached a point in this discussion where trading information for his life was now tantamount to treason of the worst order. He clamped his mouth tight and refused to look at his chief captor. In his mind, there would be no further discussions on this topic, not even if they took him to their filthy dungeons for days of horrific torment.

At this stage of these terse proceedings, Thellic, former Royal Protectorate of the Thellon family back in the capital city of Valderhien decided to take a firmer part in the discussion. Ripping his broadsword from its sheath, he lunged headlong up the short stairs onto the podium, a blood curdling scream of rage bursting from between his lips. As he advanced on the prisoner, this tied killer could only remain seated on the gaudily decorated chair, eyes bulging in fear over his imminent fate.

Thellic! Colin bellowed, fearing his questioning of the captured assassin would hardly be a success if the prisoner was not in possession of his own head. Don’t do it!

Some of the soldiers, much to their immense reluctance, actually charged after the fast moving Dearnian guard. They hoped to catch him before he executed the prisoner, but were far too late to interfere in whatever plan the tall blond man had in mind. They came to an abrupt halt near the stage just as Thellic grasped the clearly terrified man by the front of his black outfit.

Wait! Wait! the commando blubbered in fear. I will tell you anything you wish to know! Just do not kill me!

Are his Majesty and his Royal heirs to the Hamaforth throne still alive? Thellic roared, sword hanging with great menace above the shaking man’s head.

Yes! Yes! The King and his sons are being held in the Imperial palace in Terrimorter by Ruler Jom Azzer! We also have a great many prisoners from the battle in our dungeons! There are a lot of officers and enlisted troops! He continued blurting out every fact rattling about in his frightened mind. And some Dearnians as well! We even have the last Royal Protector locked away!

This fact quite startled Thellic to the point where he released the captured man’s clothing, allowing him to fall back into the chair.

Owww! Careful! The commando blurted.

My most humble apologies, the chief Dearnian muttered, with a complete lack of integrity on the matter.

Behind him, the entire crowd had just burst out into a raucous chorus of cheers and mutual congratulations. People sprinted straight from the hall in order to be the first ones to spread these joyous tidings.

His Majesty, Entell Thellon the Third and the prince heirs still lived!

Colonel Ferran Cintras hugged some of his subordinate officers then stepped across to pat Colin on the back. So elevated was his overwhelming joy at this news that he was not at all embarrassed to have given such an emotional display at his Lordship. Even Commander Inlo Ricc put aside her seemingly endless bout of melancholy to rush down from the platform and reach the colonel’s side to kiss him.

A tap on his shoulder caused the elder officer to turn around and stare back at Colin.

When you’ve finished sucking face with the Commander, you might want to send a note to the Queen to tell her we’ve got confirmation her husband’s alive in Terrimorter.

His Majesty, the senior officer absently corrected this little lapse of protocol.

Yeah, him too! Colin grumbled, fed up of protocol. And let her Majesty know the princess are alive and well to the best of our knowledge

Why the stern look, my Lord? the officer inquired, still flashing a broad smile.

I’ll tell you about it later. Just go send the message to Valderhien. The Queen and Princess Paura might actually get a good night’s sleep in a few days.

Colonel Ferran Cintras virtually sprinted from the rowdy hall as at last he finally had a much more pleasant duty to perform. His post at Xerous castle had not proven to be one of the more joyful times of his long life. Now events were looking up for everyone concerned- on this side of the border.

Turning around, Colin was sort of awed to see Thellic staggering down the podium stairs, his sword still clutched in one hand, a huge, quite uncharacteristic smile spread across his bearded face. It was one of the precious few times he had seen the chief of his guards display any sense of good cheer. His fellow Dearnians swarmed around their chief, embracing him and likewise patting him on the back in congratulations.

Much