Vivian’s Point of View
Rule thirty-three:Burn. It. Down.
This is… a lot of people.
I take in their expectant faces, trying to hide my own sense of incredulous disbelief.
I’m sure there are at leastsomeprisoners who have battle experience. And yet here they are, waiting for me – a slightly depressed trainwreck with no tactical training – to lead a siege. These people seriously need to reevaluate their judgment.
‘Protect the weak. Ensure a strong front,’Cassandra’s memory orders.
Her authoritative tone helps to loosen the pressure on my lungs, and I manage a deep inhale. At least I have my assassin alter ego on standby.
It’s probably not enough, but I guess I’ll just fake it till I make it – or die trying.
Probably both.
“Anyone too weak to fight should move to the bottom of the prison. The strongest magic wielders will take the front. Magic users, focus on clearing a path and taking out Council mages. Non-magic users, the guards are your priority. Anyone who doesn’t resist should be taken as a prisoner, until we can figure out where their loyalties lie,” I call out.
Somber nods ripple through the crowd, and nervous anticipation rattles around the hollow void in my chest.
Swallowing thickly, I add, “Finally, can anyone here apparate to the Shadow Realm without losing consciousness?”
I’m assuming Morgana has a few spies or allies that ended up imprisoned.
“Aye,” someone calls from a few levels above.
He raises his hand to get my attention, and I’m amazed he manages it. He’s so emaciated that I’m worried he might crumble if he tries to fight. But when his sunken eyes find mine, he inclines his head with a quiet defiance and braces his arms behind his back.
The meaning is clear. He’s going to help, no matter how frail he looks.
I give him a thankful nod.
“I can go as well,” another voice echoes.
Looking further up, I spot a woman about halfway up the cavern. She doesn’t look like she’s in much better shape, but like the other man, she stands with an air of confidence.
“Thank you,” I tell them, even as I try to convince myself that they aren’t about to keel over. “Once you see a clear path, I need both of you to try and get outside the wards. Apparate to the Shadow Realm and find Sin.”
Both volunteers nod, and the man quirks a brow. The gesture is so familiar, it makes my chest tighten.
It’s the same thing Sin does.
“What would you like us to tell him?” He asks.
I pause to look at the hundreds of warriors who are ready to go to war with me.
“Tell him I’m coming home.” Figuring it’s now or never, I steel myself before yelling, “It’s time to reclaim our freedom!”
Some prisoners thump a fist to their heart, and others give me nods of approval. Then, an eerie calm settles over the room as everyone moves into position.
There’s no shouting or pushing – just quiet, focused violence waiting to be unleashed.
I’m both terrified and impressed by the efficiency. And even though I’m probably the least qualified person here, I make my way up the path, intent on taking the lead.
The prisoners give me a wide berth, casting nervous glances my way. Whether their concern is due to the massive three-headed dog trailing behind me or the creepy child who’s unfortunately walking alongside me, I can’t be certain.
My money’s on the kid – everyone likes puppies.
