Maharra by J. Glenn Bauer

Author:J. Glenn Bauer [Bauer, J. Glenn]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Bauer Photography and Media
Published: 2014-12-26T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 13

The battle still raged around the hillock to which the Andosinni clung. Completely encircled, they had nowhere to retreat to, so like cornered beasts they fought. Shields held firm, their spears and swords keeping the Aeronosii at bay. Warriors stood panting in the ranked masses. Blood trailed in sticky threads from their beards and swords. The sun burned down on the field and flies swarmed over the living and dead alike. The air was thick with dust that caught in their throats and made their breathing hoarse.

Castrodubis’ arrived with the hundreds of Aeronosii that were loyal to him. They blew their warhorns, long and loud, signaling the retreat. Those Aeronosii locked in combat with the Andosinni paused and broke off their fighting. They dropped back uncertainly, warily watching their enemy. Castrodubis rode forward and called for them to cease fighting. From among the blood-smattered press of warriors, a voice questioned why when they had the enemy trapped. The rest growled in agreement.

Castrodubis made a show of looking them over before replying. “Where is your chieftain? Where is Gualbes? Has he fallen in battle against our allies the Andosinni?” The Aeronosii murmured uncertainly amongst themselves and Castrodubis continued. “Since when did the chieftains of the Aeronosii hide behind the palisades of Olot while warriors fought? Never I say! Gualbes has led you poorly. He has grown rich and yet has he shared that wealth? He has broken promises and treaties and made the Aeronosii people into bandits.” The warriors growled angrily. “The Andosinni have long been our close allies yet Gualbes has cheated them.”

“Then why are their warriors here outside our city?” Another voice shouted from the mass of warriors.

“Why indeed? I invited them here to regain what Gualbes had promised them and then stolen. I, Castrodubis, who hold the honour of the Aeronosii more closely than Gualbes ever did or could!” He gestured to the remaining Andosinni. “There stand a proud people who came to aid me in ridding our people of the thief and liar that is Gualbes. You know me and you know that I serve the people. Follow me and I will restore our honour.”

The warriors of Olot were hesitant. Caros watched them cursing and shaking their heads. Castrodubis snarled. “You people of Olot. Your fight is not with the Andosinni. Your fight is with those who have misled you. If you still wish to follow Gualbes then I shall not stop you.” He pointed to the east. “Know this though, Gualbes has already fled. He has left you! He has taken the silver that is rightfully yours and fled to lick the sandals of the people of Rome.” He paused to let this sink in before adding. “He is not worthy of warriors such as you. I ask again, will you follow me?”

Now there was no doubt in their movements and a tall warrior thrust his spear high into the afternoon sky. “Castrodubis!” With a sound like snow breaking free from a mountain, the rest thrust their weapons high and with one voice called upon their new chieftain.

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