fear

Gillian was unwilling to challenge me directly.

A moment later, the room was filled with calificars and the Reverend Mother.

Kitchen duty for the rest of my life was worth Elyssa being unharmed.

“She’s a witch. We are sworn to protect mankind-“

“And the witches,” I said.

Gillian stared at me.

“We are the Architect’s hand. His will. The protectors of those who cannot protect themselves,” I recited. I had gone to services even if I didn’t like them.

I plowed into the first, using my momentum and his surprise to throw him against the far wall.

Slamming my shield into the second, I roared as I shoved him aside.

I kicked the legs out from under the third, then stepped on his wrist. He yelped and released his sword.

I took it and stood between Gillian and Elyssa.

As Ser Gilbrand and I circled each other, Gillian and three of his friends burst into the hall.

“There!” he shouted and pointed at Elyssa. “Witch!”

The four of them raced towards her, swords drawn.

I had only my training sword and shield, but I would not let them hurt her.

As Ser Gilbrand and I circled each other, Gillian and three of his friends burst into the hall.

“There!” he shouted and pointed at Elyssa. “Witch!”

The four of them raced towards her, swords drawn.

I had only my training sword and shield, but I would not let them hurt her.

We sparred. He was good, but so was I.

He had more real combat experience, and it showed.

I would lose, but so be it. Wasn’t the first time, wouldn’t be the last.

I just wished Elyssa wasn’t there to witness it.