Roxelana & Suleyman

CHAPTER THREE-2

That evening, after the supper of potatoes and salted meats had been consumed, the elders of the village gathered at a rickety table near the kitchen fires. The matrons of the village went about their work, but all the while kept keen ears open to the conversation. Aleksandra and Dariusz sat nearby, on the edge of the well, talking quietly.

“No! It is too early to go back out into the village!” Father Lisowska stated emphatically, causing all to turn toward him. His face was flushing almost as red as his hair as this meeting tested his anger.

“But the beacons have confirmed that the invaders have left the valley, and our scouts have not turned up any sign of them in the village,” retorted baker Kolessa.

“No, there is something wrong! The last Tartar invasion saw them stay in the town for a dozen weeks, eating our food and stealing our wares. Why is it that they came and left within three days?”

“But the beacons, the scouts,” butted in school master Klevan and old father Petryk in unison.

“I don’t give a damn about the beacons and scouts. There is something wrong. We need to stay in the protection of the fort until we can be totally sure that the entire village and valley are clear.” Father Lisowska stood up in disgust. He brought his large fist heavily down onto the table to ensure he would impinge on the group.

There was much disagreement amongst the elders and the argument went on long into the evening. Eventually the matrons of the village also joined the heated dispute about whether or not it would be safe to leave the fort and start rebuilding their lives. Aleksandra listened anxiously, knowing that she had no right other than to remain silent. Finally, it was decided that the matter would be settled by a vote. The senior men of the village huddled around the table. The matrons stood staunchly behind them whispering in each of their ears. Flickering flames from the kitchen fires cast a glow over them all as one by one they voiced their ballot.

They would be leaving Castle Hill Fort at daybreak.

Aleksandra could see that her father was barely containing his wrath, but also knew that he would concede to the counsel of the group. He would, without a doubt, be praying for their safety throughout the long night ahead.

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