Blogtober 2021 Story Project
The remnants of the centurion’s men stumbled through the mud and debris outside the city walls, converging toward the gate. Chaim said, “Follow me,” and Lucius and Kamali ran after him back into the city.
Kamali was young, and Lucius was military trained, but Chaim was an old man, and he began to tire after several blocks. They paused to allow him to catch his breath, and Lucius asked him where they were headed.
“The Temple,” Chaim said.
“There’s nothing left of the Temple,” Lucius replied.
Chaim set out again, now running at a manageable pace for him, talking between breaths. “When Herod built the great temple, he expected the priests to do his bidding over the will of the Lord,” he said. “Those who didn’t spent weeks in jail until they swore loyalty to him.”
“And those who didn’t?” Lucius asked.
“They were carried out of the jail in five different pieces,” Chaim said. “Those who tended the temple dug tunnels below the structure to lead out of the city beyond the walls rather than face their deaths.”
“Do you know where these tunnels are located?” Kamali asked.
“We used to explore them as children,” Chaim replied.
“What if the hooded men are already there?” Lucius asked.
“Whatever they are, they cannot set foot on the Temple ground,” Chaim said. “It is holy ground.”
“I’d trade your religion and her magic for ten well-armed legionnaires right now,” Lucius said.
“We have to hurry,” Kamali said. “They’re gaining on us.”
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