From Here to Timbuktu - Part Twenty

[Milton Davis]

"Is there a back way out?" Famara asked.

"Yes," Annette replied.

She led them to the rear door.

"You and your men stay inside. Come on, Zeke"

Zeke took his shotgun out of his leg holster then slung a rifle across his back. Together they went outside.

"You thinking about setting up a crossfire?" Zeke asked.

Famara nodded. "We should be able to put up enough firepower to drive them off."

Zeke loaded the shotgun. "That might not be enough."

"Let's hope it is."

The split up, Zeke heading right, Famara left. They slipped into the dense forest then worked their way along the road until they were about ten yards distant Famara settled in behind a thick tree, familiarizing himself with his rifle. Zeke kissed his cross then tucked it into his shirt. He worked his way close to the road, his shotgun at the ready.Ten minutes later the sound of horses could be heard. The Prussian riders came into view draped in elaborate uniforms and plumed hats, their sabers drawn. Famara and Zeke waited until they were all in view before firing. Five Prussians went down with the first volley; three more were felled a volley from the villa. The others quickly dismounted and ran for the cover of the woods. The first man to the right was blown back onto the road by Zeke's shotgun. Those to the left were struck by Famara's throwing knives. The shadows held no respite for the Prussians; the fled to the mounts under fire. Three managed to mount and ride away. 

Famara walked into the road. Zeke ran to the nearest horse, climbed on then rode away.

"Zeke! No!" Famara shouted.

Zeke chased the Prussians. The horse he chose was swift, catching up to its cohorts in minutes. Zeke raised his shotgun and fired, blowing the closest Prussian off his mount. He fired again, killing the second rider. The last Prussian turned his horse around, pulled his saber then charged. Zeke pulled his trigger; his shotgun was empty. He ducked the swing meant to decapitate him then twisted in his saddle to avoid a thrust at his ribs. He blocked another swipe with his gun, but it was obvious his luck was running slim. The Prussian suddenly pulled up, then fell from his mount. A throwing knife protruded from the back of his neck.

Zeke turned to see Famara ride up to him.

"That was stupid," Famara said.

"It was necessary," Zeke replied. "If these fellas got back they'd bring more friends. If they don't show up we'll  maybe have a little more time to get where we're going."

Famara nodded. "Let's get back to the villa."

When they returned to the villa Annette and the others were tending their wounded. Annette wiped her hands.

"What happened?"

"They're dead," Zeke said. "We need to be moving. More will come. Y'all probably need to come with us."

"That won't be necessary," Annette said. "If anyone else comes my men will tell them you attacked the villa and took me hostage."

Famara looked confused. "Took you hostage?"

Annette smiled. "Your device might tell you some things, but I know this country. I'll take you as far as I can."

Famara looked at Zeke and Zeke shrugged. "She's got a point."

"Come then, we must be on our way," Famara said.

The three of them gathered provisions then mounted their steeds. They headed north, into the mountains and into Germany.

[Milton Davis]

Thank, Penelope. We're getting close to the climatic scenes now. The secret of the book is about to be revealed.

[Penelope Flynn]

Exciting! But I have to admit I'm getting more and more anxious as Zeke and company move further into Europe and farther and farther from their Freedonian stronghold.