Turning back to the guard, she said, "We must try to negotiate. Perhaps we can find out what they want and avoid further bloodshed."
The guard's expression was grim. "My Lady, they gave no indication of their intentions. They attacked without warning, and from the looks of it, they are not here for anything other than destruction. It seems their goal is to claim your life."
Lady Bella's heart froze at his words. She glanced at her sons, who were looking up at her with wide, frightened eyes. "Go and hide," she said to them. "Find the secret passage we talked about. Stay there until it's safe."
"But Mother, I'm scared," Edmund admitted, his voice barely above a whisper.
Lady Bella took his hand and squeezed it gently, giving him a reassuring smile despite the fear gnawing at her own heart. "I know, darling. But you must be brave. Everything will be okay, I promise."
