Loss (3)

Alessandra rushed down the steps, somehow managing not to step on her dress. She went to the back of the cart where the guard stood and tiptoed to get a good look inside. Truth enough Alfred laid unconscious, covered in blankets and snow that fell as the cart brought him here.

"Get him inside quickly. He needs to be near a fire. Help!" Alessandra yelled as loud as she could for other guards to aid her. Luckily, men from the gates were already on their way to help. Only one of them could stand on the back of the small cart.

Alessandra stepped back to give space for Alfred to be taken out of the cart and placed before a fire on a warm bed. "One of you needs to send for the best doctor in town and bring him here no matter what. Edgar must also be informed that Alfred is here. Go the two of you," she ordered two men who were standing back waiting to help.

"Yes Duchess," they replied.