The camps outside of the gates of the city were full of commotion. Many of the injured were being cared for at a makeshift hospital. It was overflowing with soldiers, with some laying dead upon the bedrolls. A mass grave was being dug for these unfortunate souls. The banner of the Archduke, a dark green elm tree, surrounded by black, stood above the main gate. Behind it was the rebelling city, dark smoke rose in front of the large full moon.

As the Coven’s cohort marched into the camp they took up an empty spot to begin setting up a forward operating camp. Here the maintenance, supplies, and communication network would be placed. Runners would relay information between the forces, as well as bring needed supplies to the front-line. This battle wasn’t planned to take long however, as it would be done around dawn. Lady Iris ordered her troops to standby and help prepare the camp. She joined the Coven’s council in the large tent with the Archdukes emblem on the sides.

The Archduke Marthius was alongside his entourage, various men and only a few women. One of which was his daughter and her servant. The Coven had the three major Abbesses, Lady Elizabeth, Lady Ann, and Lady Evelyn. Next to them were their Deacons or wards. Alongside the Archimandrite was of course Iris. The Archduke himself had his children, various generals and officials, alongside him. The only one Iris really looked at was his son. Who was the heir Knight Soliatus of the Elm.

Knight Soliatus of the Elm stood out in the room. He had black hair, like his father and sisters, as well as a slight tan. His face had a well-developed jawline that spoke true of his noble status. He was clean-shaven and large, clad in dark green armor with bronze colored designs along the trim. A light scar flowed from the bridge of his nose down to his lower left cheek. His father was of similar appearance but more of a Redwood then an Elm. As the Archduke Marthius was a gluttonous one, which showed with the servants running away with dishes. At the very least he looked strong, although Iris was confident she could beat him.

This content has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

“Ah your Coven honors us Archimandrite Grace, I must thank you for routing and capturing the town of Volkstein. My forces were already drawn thin.”

“It was of little trouble, good Archduke, we simply couldn’t stand idle as the Duke Gawain ravaged the land.”

The Archduke laughed at this, “Nonsense, no need to be formal, you sound like the other nobles.”

Lady Grace’s eyes smiled, “That is something I seek to avoid,” she paused, “You have gotten more, kingly.”

Snorting he said, “Yes, the stress of this shiet, and these damnable fools will be the downfall of me. ”

After exchanging pleasantries the two called for all servants to leave the tent. It took only a short amount of time for Iris to zone out. Lady Grace stepped on her foot, giving her a disapproving glare. From what Iris heard, it seemed the main objective was the capture of the city. The Duke would try to flee, yet none of the holdings provided as much value as Toric. The siege had been long and caused many casualties. His other generals to the East had failed to make significant headway in their own campaign. Supplies, causality and morale were low. This battle would be the deciding factor of a renewed offensive, or a losing stalemate that would last until next year.

The Archduke, the Archimandrite, and Lady Evelyn would lead the main fighting force through the northern districts. This contained the largest area to cover. Lady Ann and Knight Soliatus would take the lead towards the southern districts. The most important objective being the barracks of Toric. Lady Elizabeth and Lady Iris were expected to support this maneuver. Upon securing the barracks the four would capture the headquarters of the rebellion, Duke Gawain’s Palace.

They all split up into their respective positions and began the advance into the city. Both Lady Elizabeth and Lady Iris’s cohorts walk through the battered down gate of the city. It had begun, the fate of this conflict would be decided shortly.