Ashes of the Crown

Chapter 9

                                                            The Siege of Renshollow

The residents of Renshollow were preparing for the upcoming attack, and the atmosphere was charged with excitement. Kael was standing on top of the temporary barrier they had erected at the entrance to the settlement. At his side, the Blade of Eryndor shone dimly, its brightness a ray of hope in the growing darkness.

Selene came closer, her keen gaze sweeping the horizon. The scouts report movement in the woods. They will arrive shortly.

Kael's mouth clenched. "How many?"

She said, "Too many for comfort." "However, they are unaware of our readiness."

Grent yelled commands to the folks behind them. Their determination was evident despite their lack of military experience. Blacksmiths, farmers, and merchants all used whatever weapons they could find. Shields were raised, spears steadied, and bowstrings tightened. Fear and pride surged through Kael's heart. These individuals were defending their homes, families, and lives.

Mira's voice whispered, "Kael," jolting him out of his reverie. She and Orin stood holding supplies. We have strengthened the southern boundary. Although it's not flawless, it ought to hold.

Kael gave a nod. Well done. Remain near the others. Stay united when the onslaught occurs.

Mira paused. "And you?"

He made an effort to smile comfortably. "I'll be where I'm most needed."

At nightfall, the first wave arrived. With their armour gleaming in the last of the light, the Shadow Council's forces rose like wraiths from the treeline. A tall man wearing armour made of obsidian stood at their head, exuding a menacing air.

The figure's voice roared across the pitch, "Give up the Blade, and your pain will be short."

With the Blade of Eryndor burning brighter in his fingers, Kael took a step forward. "This village opposes you." Get out now or suffer the repercussions.

With a deep, ominous laugh, the armoured figure laughed. "What a dumb boy. It is not possible for you to disobey the Council. The enemy forces charged as he raised his sword.

Kael looked around at the peasants. "Remain on the queue!"

The clash was loud and instantaneous. The air was filled with the sounds of battle, shields clanging against swords, and arrows raining down. With the Blade of Eryndor slicing through the enemy lines with an almost sentient accuracy, Kael battled at the front. It seemed as though the weapon shared his resolve, guiding each strike.

As Selene scuttled amid the confusion, her daggers flashed, delivering deadly blows. Grent rallied the peasants around him with his roaring war cry as his enormous hammer crushed foes left and right. Orin and Mira made their way through the throng, caring for the injured and making sure the defences held.

However, there were far too many of the enemy. Two additional soldiers appeared to replace each one that was killed. Kael's breath came in rough spurts, and his arms hurt. But he would not give up.

The conflict continued into the night. The village was engulfed in flames, which created unsettling shadows over the fighters. Kael was confronted by the leader in the obsidian armour. When their swords collided, sparkles flew into the air.

The leader hissed, "You have the Blade of Eryndor, but you don't know how powerful it is." "Just as it has consumed others before you, it will consume you as well."

Kael tightened his jaw. "The Blade isn't important. It's the one with the weapon.

The leader's attacks were unrelenting and his strength seemed unnatural. Kael was brought to his knees when his defence failed. The leader brought his sword up to deliver the final stroke.

"Kael!" A dagger swung passed Kael's shoulder and struck the leader's helm as Selene's voice echoed. The moment Kael needed was provided by the diversion. He thrust the Blade of Eryndor forward, penetrating the leader's chest-plate with a burst of strength.

The leader stumbled, dark energy leaking out of his armour and breaking it. He exploded into ash with one last terrible cry.

The death of their leader caused turmoil throughout the enemy forces, causing them to fail. They were forced back into the forest by the villagers, who took advantage of the situation. The battle was over by morning. The village remained intact despite the damage.

Kael lost his grip on the Blade of Eryndor and fell against a burnt wooden post. Selene knelt next to him, blood and ashes streaking her cheeks. Her voice was firm but gentle as she continued, "You did it."

Kael corrected, looking around at the exhausted but victorious peasants, "We did it."

With his hammer draped over his shoulder, Grent walked up. "Boy, you've gained their respect. Now, they will follow you wherever you go.

Kael gave a headshake. "I'd rather not be in charge. All I want to do is keep them safe.

Mira joined them in saying that "sometimes the best way to protect is to lead."

Kael stood at the edge of the village, looking out to the horizon while the inhabitants toiled to rebuild. At his side lay the Blade of Eryndor, its light dim but steady. He was aware that the fight for Renshollow was only getting started. Until they took possession of the Blade and destroyed all he valued, the Shadow Council would not give up.

Selene showed up next to him with her arms folded. "You're considering your next move."

Kael gave a nod. "We must leave this place. It's not secure.

"So, where are we going?"

Kael's hold on the Blade's hilt became more firm. "To the capital." We need allies if we want to have any chance against the Shadow Council. We must mobilise the kingdom.

Selene grinned. A former farm lad who led a rebellion as a warrior. It seems like the beginning of a legend.

Kael forced a small smile. "Hopefully, it ends happily."

They went back towards the village together, prepared to take on whatever was coming.