Author's note: This one is very short, it follows on from the last chapter.
Chapter Eighteen - Hostage
D'Artagnan-but he's not actually in this (with Athos, Porthos and Aramis)
Athos looked at his brothers, 'you are clear on the plan?'
Both men nodded, their expressions serious. They had spent several minutes checking their weapons, priming guns and ensuring their swords were perfectly placed on their belts.
'Aramis, you will hang back and take out as many as you can. Keeping them away from Porthos is the priority. When you are out of guns you will join me.'
Aramis nodded. The marksman had managed to get a quick look at the building where their brother was being held, he knew he would have a good vantage point from the top of the steps leading down to the cellar.
'Porthos, your only job is to get to d'Artagnan. Do not worry about either of us. Do not spend time taking on any of them. Time is of the essence. We will not have long once we are in there.'
Porthos nodded. The Musketeer was not keen on leaving his brothers unprotected, but Athos was right, d'Artagnan was injured, they had seen him on their reconnaissance. The young Musketeer had not looked well, he had obviously been beaten by the men who had taken him.
Aramis added, 'grab him and get out, if he is injured or confused force him out. I would rather have him in a slightly worse state and alive than the alternative.'
Both Athos and Porthos nodded.
Athos looked at his brothers again, 'let's go and get him back.'
The End.
Authors note: The next chapter follows on from this…