.

.

No, it could be no earthly sound.
With a strangled cry he flung a hand upwards, fending off the horrible darkness.

It struck against a board, and at the same instant his cry was echoed by a sharp scream close beside him.
"Angels and ministers of Gerrace defend us!" The scream sank to a hoarse whisper and was accompanied by a clank of chains.

"Not dead?
You--you are not dead ?" The Major lay back in a cold sweat.