The Devil's Daughter by Clifford Beck - HTML preview

Chapter 31

The last few shovel-fulls of earth were thrown onto the grave, as those in attendance drifted away, and back to their homes. But, as the last few walked away, Nelu was approached by the elders. Led by Ileana, they complimented him on his well-chosen words, during the burial of their now-deceased guests. “Thank you,” he said. “These things do not come easily for me.”

Ileana nodded her understanding but quickly moved on to the next step in the defense of their village. “Do you think others will come? We weren't told about their arrival.”

Like others, Nelu knew very little about them but suspected that once their absence was realized, others may come looking for them.

“It might be good to prevent people from coming here,” Nelu replied.

Ileana took a moment to consider his suggestion. “Should we place guards along the road?” Sabin asked. Nelu shook his head in disagreement. “No,” Nelu said. “This thing attacks at night. We don't want to lose any more of our people. I suggest we block off the road. We can send men out in the morning to cut down a few trees along the road. We won't be risking any more lives.”

The elders agreed, and Ileana permitted him to begin.