When Darkness Calls

“What’s going on?” she said.

“We are attacking the hobgoblin castle with the assistance of a vampire.  He has penetrated the castle and caused enough distraction for us to mount a surprise attack.”

“Xavander!” she said.

“Yes!  Do you know him?”

“Yes, I do.  How can I help?”  There were at least two hundred or so elves following close behind.

“I am Captain Zue.”  He looked back at his company.

“Major Cree Brooks.  Please,” she said before she realized she was really no longer in the army.

“Major, it is nice to have you with us.  Follow me, and I’ll explain when we get there.”

They ran for a good fifteen minutes before the forest ended and an impressive castle fortress lay before them about five hundred yards upon a hill.  When Cree had been introduced to the rest of the company, Zue explained that most of their forces were attacking the front of the castle’s outer wall.  They were to attack the right side of the outer wall, and infiltrate the courtyard and flank their defenses.  Huge catapults were now throwing balls of fire into the outer wall.

A messenger from the front lines ran up to Zue and handed him a report.  He quickly read it, rolled it up, and handed it back to the messenger, instructing him to find the other company just over the next ridge.

Zue looked back at the company and said, “We are to attack with the next volley of fireballs.  They all knelt and waited for the next volley.  Zue leaned over to Cree and spoke softly.  “The north tower fell over an hour ago, and Xavander was last spotted inside.  I thought you’d like to know.”  He placed his hand on her shoulder, then looked back at his company.  “Okay, men.  Stay low and move quietly and fast.  Watch out for the three goblins in the guard tower.  Pass it along.”  There was a quiet murmur among the company as the orders he had just given passed down the ranks