From Darkness Won - Jill Williamson [184]
“It is doubtful Sir Caleb will allow this. The less you say the better. You will come with me. My task is to lower the southwestern drawbridge. Promise you will not leave my side?”
“I promise, Father.”
“Good.”
Soon she was walking stiffly after her father down so many flights of stairs that her legs began to ache. The valet had tied the leather armor to her thighs so tightly it pinched behind her knees, and her shield was heavy.
The sound of water made her hopeful that they were almost there, but they continued to travel down, down, down.
Just when Averella felt she might faint from fatigue, the tunnel walls fell away into a large cavern. Torches lit the scene. Two levels below where Averella and her father descended, the stairs emptied onto a rocky shelf that ran alongside an underground river. Hundreds of soldiers milled about, loading gear into a dozen boats that were tied to the shelf. The boats bobbed on the rushing current, front and back ends clunking against each other.
Though the boats were larger than the one she had taken from Xulon, Averella could not help but think of when she had first met Peripaso. She hoped the reekats were asleep.
Despite her aching legs, she kept on her father’s heels. They finally reached the shelf and wove through the mob of soldiers. She wrinkled her nose at the stench of body odor. She doubted these men had bathed since Carmine.
Sir Caleb’s voice grew in the darkness, and suddenly Sir Eagan stopped before him. Sir Caleb was dressed in full battle armor as well. He stood with a group of captains, Achan, and Achan’s personal guards.
“You know, armor and water are a dangerous match,” Sir Eagan said to Sir Caleb.
Sir Caleb hummed his agreement. “But the alternative is worse. The men have been told to be careful.”
Averella stayed behind her father, hoping not to be seen, but she could not help looking at Achan. His armor looked impressive. His helm had a long nose guard, which allowed her to see his eyes, cheeks, mouth, and chin. Her maroon sleeve stood out against the brown leather armor on his arm and made her smile.
Shung whistled a sharp sound, and the crowd quieted.
Sir Caleb addressed the men in a loud voice. “You each know your captain. The first three boats will accompany Inko and Peripaso, so if you’re on the mission to take the northern gate, move to the front. The second three boats are with the prince and myself. Our group will take the watchtower. Captain Demry will take the western gate, their boats are next. And those assigned with Sir Eagan to take the eastern gate will claim the last three boats. Make sure you’re in the right boat before we cast off. Arman be with you all.”
Averella stepped back to allow her father room to lead the way to the boats at the end of the line.
Sparrow.
She turned and met Achan’s blue eyes.
What are you doing in that outfit?
She pulled back her shoulders. Serving my prince.
His lips pulled into a straight line. I didn’t ask you to fight. Just to see me off.
I will not be left behind. I have proven that I can take care of myself.
Sir Caleb tugged on Achan’s arm. “Your Highness, come this way and we’ll get you into the boat.” When Achan did not move, Sir Caleb followed his gaze until it settled on Averella.
“For the love of Arman, Eagan! What is this? Did your daughter forget she belongs in a dress so soon?”
“She has earned the right to fight,” Sir Eagan said. “I have put her on my squad.”
Sir Caleb groaned. “It isn’t proper.”
“I do not care whether it is proper,” Sir Eagan said.
Sir Caleb shot him a scowl. “Don’t use your calming tricks on me, Eagan. The duchess could not have approved this.”
“The duchess is not her father.”
Achan took hold of Sir Caleb’s arm. “She can come.” As long as you promise to stay with Sir Eagan. And do not come looking for me.
She sighed and tossed her head. As if he was the only reason she wanted to go. Why would I come looking for you?
He cocked his head to the side as if it were obvious.
Tears formed in her eyes, and she blinked them away. You really want