Chapter 16
The light of day cast an eerie glow over the ruins of the outer walls as Caleb approached Blackthorn. Smoke and dust hung in the air, though most of it had settled by now. The lack of bodies served as evidence that Philip’s men had broken and ran, even with the threat of their homes and families being overtaken by enemy forces.
It had been difficult for Caleb to hang back, but he’d done it. Anticipation overwhelmed him as he approached the castle. The fact that no word had come of his brother being located or Philip being captured was unsettling. He did his best to stay calm, and as the soldiers took note of him, stopping to salute, or raise a fist and give a cheer, he kept his confidence.
The last of the prison wagons was pulling out, laden with soldiers who would make the l
