The Forsaken Hero

The inner keep was a complex of buildings ringed by a low wall dividing it from the outer courtyards. I wasted no time finding a gate and stumbling toward it, trusting my staff to make up for my trembling legs. A few soldiers started to raise their swords, but their companions dragged them away, pointing to the thick layers of ice coating the tent I’d sheltered in before nodding warily at Borealis. I wasn’t the only one who’d noticed the demise of the seventh-level inquisitors.

The main gates were heavily guarded, so rather than provoke a conflict, I found a side gate leading directly into the shadow of what must have been the cathedral. Given the traditions of this world, that alone could be where Nithalee and the shard waited for us.

A pair of third-level soldiers guarded the entrance, but the moment Borealis released his aura, they exchanged panicked looks before diving out of the way. The gate was open to allow the exchange of supplies and personnel with and without the keep, so I simply walked right in, pushing myself as quickly as I dared. Every second I wasted was another second demons might perish, or the innocent remaining in the city might be caught up in the battle.

"Every second?" I panted as I paused to catch my breath.

The tinkle of the various spatial treasures in my pocket seemed unnaturally loud, but I shook my head, pushing away the small twinge of guilt. These magic items were too valuable to leave behind, if only to deny the Empire and church from reusing them. Even the weakest high inquisitor I fought today had better protective gear than Luke. I couldn’t bear the thought of him being hurt because I missed this chance.

Borealis cawed softly and nuzzled my cheek. I leaned into him, surprised to find my eyelashes wet with tears again.

"Sorry," I mumbled, sniffling. "Even if he left us alone...I just..."

With a deep breath, I straightened and pushed through the narrow alley that led alongside the cathedral. I kept flush to the wall and peered around the corner before shrinking back at the sudden bustle of the courtyards beyond. Soldiers and mages rushed from the other facilities of the complex, casting wards, preparing makeshift barricades, and delivering parcels and letters. They seemed subdued, their faces tense, constantly casting anxious glances toward the battle in the outer courtyards.

I breathed a sigh when none noticed me in the shadows and turned my attention to the cathedral. It was smaller than the ones I used to, with less opulent architectural ornamentation. The spires were topped by modest banners of the church, and only the main window above the entrance was actually stained glass. But instead of depicting the sun or other gods’ symbols, it merely featured the primary rune of the Divine.