Chapter Eight ~ Blood Money

Jack felt clumsy walking through the tunnel. All of the other knights’ footsteps were controlled and practically silent. His sounded like a hammer banging against the wall. Hazel grabbed a torch from off the wall, lighting the way. The path opened up into a cavern, which thankfully was of large size. Jack stiffened in terror as he realized why. Eight glowing red eyes opened in the darkness. “Anyone here an arachnophobe?”

The massive black beast immediately attacked the intruders. Every knight had to duck to avoid being struck by one of its blows. White webbing was everywhere, making mobility tough for the fighters. Sword fighters were targeting the legs, but nothing was happening. “It’s enchanted! I don’t think there’s much we can do!” Emily called out, just narrowly dodging a swipe from the spider. Hazel surveyed the situation. She then remembered she was still holding the torch. Wen jumped to her side, already thinking of the same thing. She touched the arrowhead to the flame, preparing to aim. “Light him up.” Hazel stated. With a smile, Wen released the string and sent the burning arrow flying. The shot hit home, igniting the creature in a fiery blaze. The knights backed away as the spider fell to the floor, howling in agony until it was nothing more than a pile of ash.

Beyond the ash was the entry to another tunnel, where a shape was emerging. “That wasn’t very nice, killing my pet.” she said, shaking her head. “Ximena!” Pierce shouted, about to run forward. “I wouldn’t come any closer if I were you, unless you wish harm to befall the children?” she commented. “What do you want?” Hazel questioned. Ximena’s eyes rested on her and she smiled. “I knew you’d help the royals. In fact, I counted on it.” Seeing the knight’s puzzled expression, the witch continued, “There is no amount of money or treasure they could give me that would serve as ransom. But you, Hazel, you have something I desire.” With narrowed eyes, she asked the question on everyone’s mind: “And what might that be?” “I require your blood.” Ximena stated.

The whole room recoiled. “Blood for hostages? What kind of deal is that?” Emily exclaimed. “Mine. Now, is it a deal or not?” Ximena said, exasperated. Hazel quietly considered. “Fine.” She stepped forward, approaching the sorceress. Ximena produced a knife, and with a swift motion, slashed lightly across the knight’s hand. With a small vial, she collected the red fluid. From behind the two, noise could be heard, and soon the kids came bolting out of the other tunnel. The witch looked into Hazel’s eyes with a small smile, regarding her subject with interest. “Pleasure doing business with you.” she stated, and turned back the way she came. Hazel shook her head. What did I just do?

The king and queen shouted in delight upon seeing their children. “There you are! Are you both okay?” King John questioned worriedly. They nodded. “What happened?” Queen Natalie asked. “We were reading late at night, and then we woke up in the witch’s cave! Then the knights came, and we were alright.” The king addressed the knights, “Thank you. King Maximus will have our thanks, and remain an ally.” They bowed. Pierce escorted them outside, where most of the knights left to tend to their horses. The light of day was fading. Hazel and Pierce nodded to each other in respect.  “Thank you for all your help.” he said. With a nod, she replied, “Least I could do.” As Hazel turned to leave, he nudged her on the shoulder. In his hand was a small envelope. “I don’t know what it is, but the informant told me to give this to you.” he stated quietly. She took the note, eyes widening upon seeing the red dragon insignia of the black knight. She quickly opened it, reading it to herself.

I felt the need to help you guys. It would have taken you at least a few weeks to find Ximena, and you don’t exactly have that time. Hazel, this message is for you. First of all, you are right. There is more to the original note that meets the eye. However, you won’t be able to find out until you reach your destination. Second, didn’t it feel like Ximena’s price for their freedom was quite cheap? DO NOT underestimate what a sorceress can do with one’s blood. Well, I’ll see you in due time.

Keep going.

You’re doing well.

Hazel scanned through several times, absorbing a little more after each reading. “Hazel! You coming?” Emily called from in the distance. With a sigh, she headed towards the voice with her mind still whirling from the message.