Lady Loriana, beloved Matriarch of the people of Windara, struggled and gasped, desperately trying to draw a breath. The hands around her throat tightened and she began seeing spots in her vision. The ragged band of mercenaries that had accosted her carriage shouted and bellowed around her. Her own men, valliant and devoted to the last, lay still around her. Few of them remained to defend her. The battle had been so suddenâ€¦ so fastâ€¦ it seemed only moments ago that she sat comfortably inside the carriageâ€¦ talking to her closest advisor and friend, the aged and wise Jeffery.<br/><br/>Her vision blurred and she lost sight of the dirty face that glared down at her. The hands around her throat continued their pressure, but she no longer felt them.<br/><br/><span style="font-style: italic">â€I know that you worry for me, Dear Jeffery,â€ she said patiently, â€œBut you musnâ€™t allow yourself to be so anxious. These negotiations with the Lords and ladies of the nation will be the first step to establishing law and peace in our landsâ€¦ Havenâ€™t you seen enough burned villages, brutalized women, slaughtered children?â€<br/><br/>â€œMy ladyâ€¦â€ Jeffery pleaded earnestly, â€œYou know that this journey is expected. There will be danger on the roadâ€¦ I beg you to send Sir Walterâ€¦ or even Linus in your stead. Either of them would be able to convey your wishes and negotiate in your place. You are far too valuable to risk!â€<br/><br/>â€œDearest Jeffâ€¦â€ She chuckled, â€œHave you given no thought to the way such an act would be perceived by those I care for? The very people I strive to keep safe would resent me for sacrificing those that trust me. I must make this journey myself in order to maintain my position. Should I decide I value my own safety above those I love, I will in that day resign... for I will have becomeâ€¦â€</span><br/><br/>The forest around her burst into sight again. The mercenary, whoâ€™s face had been her last conscious sight, now lay dead beside her. Captain of the guard, Brenton Chauncey, panted as he knelt at her side, gently shaking her shoulder.<br/><br/>â€œMilady!â€ Brenton swayed with relief as she blinked up at him, â€œYou must run! The battle is lostâ€¦ those of us thatâ€¦ remainâ€¦ will cover your flight.â€<br/><br/>Sitting up, she started to protest. Cutting her off, Brenton pointed to the West. â€œCut through the woods. There is a small village a few leagues in that direction. The people are neutral, simple folk. You will find safety there. GO!! Do not stop till you have reached the village!â€<br/><br/>Brenton screamed in rage as he stood and again raised his blood-stained sword, turning to face his foes. Left with no other option, Loriana fled into the trees to the west.