Kaewyn was exhausted. The march from Veneti Hill had been arduous and taxing on both the body and spirit. The men, mostly Arlan’s Volunteers and just two dozen of the more experienced Greystone troops that remained in the Province, had struggled to follow the familiar hunting paths that Kaewyn knew all too well. The hunting paths had been muddy and waterlogged and bore little resemblance to how he had remembered them, but his memory guided them well. More than once the paths were untraversable, either because of the mud, or by fallen trees that had already succumbed to the storm. The once, torrential rain had subsided now, but during the march it was oppressive, falling at a near horizontal angle with such force it stung the face and neck. The men constantly complained and Captain Alaric, who was the senior military official accompanying their force, suggested some military discipline, but Kaewyn was reluctant to crack the whip as he knew it was just a method of coping with the horrible conditions. He too, was struggling with the effects of the storm. Each flash of lightning and distant rumble of thunder sent shudders right through him, bringing him back to when he was a boy playing along the parapets of Xu Castle with his older sister. When his thoughts were not stuck in the past, they were overcome with worry about the future. It had been the most uncomfortable horse ride he had ever experienced, and he was glad this part of it was over.

When they arrived at a small clearing that Kaewyn had used as a campsite many times during his hunting trips, he let out a sigh of relief. The familiar surroundings, though warped by the storm, served to comfort him somewhat. Old memories threatened every moment to rise to the surface with every thundering echo of the storm, but the campsite brought back good memories of times long past which granted him some small measure of peace.

He ordered the men to stop and recover some strength. The small clearing had several scattered logs and flat or sloped rocks that the men immediately used to sit and relax. Even though the rain had abated during their march through the woods, he knew it had had its desired effect. They had not encountered any sign of enemy scouts. Were it not for the storm, he suspected Severus would have had these forests littered with many eyes. Kaewyn knew from his hunting trips that they were at the edge of the oaken forest that covered this region. The Rau River lay just beyond a thin stretch of plains to the East. He had often used this location as a camping ground for when he wanted to fish from the river in less turbulent times. He recalled that Lord Rhys had said that Lord Severus had planned to camp off of the Western shore of the Rau River, meaning his camp must be nearby. All they had to do now was find it.

The men broke out rations of dried fruits and salted meats and drank from waterskins; only water as General Alaric had forbidden any consumption of wine before the battle. As they began to socialise, Captain Alaric chided them and ordered them to keep communication at no more than a whisper. Even though there was no large risk of scouts coming across them due to the storm, Captain Alaric explained that it was better to not take the chance. The Captain said that soldiers were paid to fight and not to talk. Arlan though, with wit as sharp as a freshly forged dagger, retorted that he and his men were volunteers, and therefore not paid at all. The men chuckled quietly, both the paid men and volunteers alike. Captain Alaric fumed and stared at Arlan; his eyes full of hostility. Arlan however, was all smiles. Kaewyn too forced himself to supress a smile, as he did not think it wise to aggravate the Captain any further.

Everything had gone as per the plan so far, but Kaewyn found that doubts had begun to eat away at his confidence. Even though he was tired from the long march, he mustered up the strength and decided to leave the camp. He left Captain Alaric in charge of the nervous troops and, with Yohren following closely behind, wandered out into the darkness. It did not take long for Yohren to hesitantly ask where they were headed, and when he explained that they were going to find the enemy camp, his companion quietened very quickly with a look of concern present upon his face. They pushed on between the swaying trees for only a minute before the wet muddy ground suddenly became very steep. The slope was difficult and the armour he wore for protection only served to make him feel heavier and sluggish, but he had run up and down the hill from Xu Castle all of his life. His legs were strong and knew that he could do it. Climbing with heavy steps and taking care not to slip, the two young men managed to reach more stable ground atop a small wooded cliff’s edge. Kaewyn noted that the once near torrential rain had subsided even further, becoming not much more than a drizzle. From the cliff’s edge they could see over what remaining oak trees blocked their path. Looking out into the darkness of the night, he saw hundreds of little lights clustered together, illuminating a military camp arranged neatly in a grid style pattern. Behind the camp in the far distance, Kaewyn could only barely make out the raging Rau River, rushing by at speeds that would render a crossing attempt completely impossible. For the briefest of moments, a flash of lightning fully illuminated the entire plain. The enemy camp, the river, and all between them was lit up. Kaewyn shuddered involuntarily.

“There it is Yohren. Lord Serverus’ camp.” Kaewyn said ponderously.

“Right where Lord Rhys said it would be. Looks like he was telling us the truth.” Yohren said.

“I never doubted him.” Kaewyn explained, even as a feeling of relief came over him. He was happy that they had come so far without any issues.

For a while, Kaewyn just stood in the light rain and stared blankly in the direction of the enemy camp. The reality of the situation he had put himself in dawned on him. Each of those lights shining against the darkness represented tens, maybe hundreds of troops who had come to subjugate or kill him and his father’s people, the people of Greystone Province. He was terrified. Kaewyn was not a naïve young man. He knew very well that war and battles were a part of life for a noble family of the turbulent Revaryn Empire, but he had always felt comfortable in the knowledge of, and in the assumption that it would be his father or his brother in command during such times. He felt completely out of place, like a fish out of water. He wished deeply for them to be by his side more than he had ever wished for anything in his life.

“Kaewyn!” Yohren’s panicked voice snapped him from his thoughts. “Did you hear me? Are you alright?”

“Yes Yohren, I’m… I’m fine.” He replied, coming to his senses.

“You drifted off for a while there.” Yohren said with concern. “You okay?”

“I’m just worried.”

“About your plan?

“No, the plan is sound… at least I believe it is. I’m just… worried.” Kaewyn explained, reluctant to go into detail and express himself fully.

“Well, I know that I don’t know a lot about… much of anything really, but if you want to share your worries maybe I can help.” Yohren said in his usual friendly way.

Kaewyn turned to face his new friend with a smile. “Thank you Yohren, but the only two people who could truly allay my worries are very far from here. They cannot help me now.”

“Your father and brother?”

“…Yes.” He replied, lowering his head. “There is just so much that could go wrong. You see it too, don’t you? Severus’ troops are veteran soldiers, what if they do not panic but remain steadfast and hold their ground when we attack? What if General Alaric and the bulk of our forces are defeated too quickly? How will we get to Lord Severus then?” Kaewyn spoke very quickly, and he could feel his heart beginning to race. His voice was trembling. “Truth be told Yohren, what concerns me the most is that Lord Rhys could be down there. When we attack, there is a good chance we will come across him and his Vinum Province troops. I… don’t think… I do not think I could give an order to attack them. I am not suited to command if I cannot make the hard choices.”

Yohren walked up beside him and placed his hand on Kaewyn’s shoulder. “The way I see it Kaewyn, you’ve already made the hard choices. You’re being too hard on yourself… Someone else, someone not suited to command, like you said, probably would have surrendered at the first opportunity they got, or just hidden away in Xu Castle. Someone else might’ve frozen and let someone else make the decision. I think the General or Seneschal would have gladly done that for you if you let them, but you didn’t. You knew it had to be you. The hard choices have already been made, by you, and everyone is following your plan because they believe in it. All you have to do now is follow it through.”

Kaewyn was speechless. He felt that Yohren was speaking the truth, or at least what he believed to be the truth. Yohren believed in him. It made him feel more at ease, but the doubts were still eating away at him. He wasn’t sure that words could change how he felt.

“You even managed to get an army of volunteers to fight for you. They have don’t even have to be here, they aren’t sworn to your father and they aren’t getting paid by you. They’ve chosen to fight for you because they believe that you are doing the right thing. Everyone believes in you, including me! So why don’t you believe in yourself?”

“Yohren… your words are comforting. We will see soon enough, but I do hope you are right.” Kaewyn said with a smile as he felt himself calming down. “I am glad I named you my retainer.”

“That’s good. Because truth be told, I’m as worried as you are.” Yohren said with a chuckle. “Now that you mention it, that is something I wanted to ask you about. Why did you name me your retainer? I don’t think I even know what one is honestly.”

Kaewyn said. “A retainer is a sort of… servant, but that is not the right word for it. Essentially, a lord or noble will employ several retainers, usually people with skills that they themselves lack. Maybe for their advice, for their skill with a blade, or just because they are a close and trusted friend, one whom the lord trusts with their life.”

“Well.” Yohren said with a cheeky smile. “If you have named me your retainer for my advice, or my skill with a blade, you’ll see soon enough that I have absolutely no idea what I am doing. I hope you do not regret it!”

The two young men shared a quiet chuckle. Kaewyn was happy that he had met Yohren when he did. He noted that it would have been hard to face such an ordeal without someone he could talk to as he did with Yohren. With his mother gone, he had very few friends he could confide in so honestly and openly. There was not an ounce of regret in naming Yohren his very first retainer.

“Thank you Yohren, for calming me down. I feel better now.”

“You are welcome, I—” Yohren was cut off by the sound of footsteps.

For a brief moment, Kaewyn’s heart raced thinking they had been discovered by one of Serverus’ men, but when he saw the familiar grimace of Captain Alaric emerge from the darkness, he was relieved.

“Lord Kaewyn, you should have let me take care of the scouting, and you are talking much too loudly out here. Have you found it at the very least? Lord Severus’ camp?” The Captain asked in his usual slightly hostile tone.

“Mmhmm. Just as Lord Rhys said, he has camped by the Rau River. See those little lights?” Kaewyn said pointing out toward the darkness.

Lord Severus’ camp was large. The hundreds of large tents that had been set up were formed in neat squares. Between each tent, were makeshift paths that ran all over in a grid like fashion. Even from here, the raucous sounds of cheering and drunken laughter could be heard above the wind and rain. Most of the torches of flame that he could see from up here were fixed and not moving, which Kaewyn interpreted as a lack of guard patrols. While on patrol, a guard would usually carry with them a torch for light, especially in this extreme weather. The Captain wandered toward the cliff’s edge and leant out. He looked as though he was analysing the camp. After a small time, he retreated from the edge and re-joined Kaewyn and Yohren, his expression betrayed his concern.

“His camp is… well made. It covers all of the basic military principles outlined by all the renowned strategists of old. Severus knows his stuff. Doesn’t look like he has many patrols out though.” Captain Alaric said almost quietly. “If not for the storm…”

“I know Captain, this is not going to be without difficulty. How are the men?”

“Our men are doing what they are told… but the volunteers are a bad influence on them my lord. You should’ve sent that Arlan with my father. He and his men would have learnt some real discipline then.”

“But those volunteers are here of their own choice, without them we’d have no chance to begin with.” Yohren added. “Shouldn’t we just be thankful?”

“We? Don’t get me started on you as well.” Captain Alaric spat. “You are just as bad as—”

A small bright flame shot out of the darkness in the distance and rose up into the night sky. The three of them forgot what they were talking about and followed the lone flame’s arc as it reached its peak and then slowly began to fall back down to earth. For a moment, there was an awkward drawn out silence. `

“The signal!?” Captain Alaric said in a loud whisper.

“Captain, ready the men immediately. Have everyone prepare and meet at the Eastern edge of the forest. No one is to move any closer without my order, understood!?” Kaewyn said quickly, but the Captain said nothing and ran off into the darkness in the direction of the campsite where the men were resting.

“Come Yohren, we need to move. Now!”

Yohren nodded, then the two of them began to rush in the direction of the campsite. Kaewyn and Yohren bolted out of the clearing with the cliff’s edge and began down the slope as quickly as they could. Several times Kaewyn nearly lost his footing, threatening to tumble. The worst thing that could happen now is it he stumbled and sprained his ankle, but thankfully he managed without incident. It didn’t take long for him to reach the camp, and when he did, he saw the Greystone troops marching in formation and ready to go, with the Captain leading them as he barked his orders from atop his horse. The volunteers however, were still rushing about and getting organised. One of the Greystone troops had Kaewyn’s horse ready for him and assisted him in mounting the animal. Before he could even think, he was being handed his heavy steel helm. He lowered his head and lifted the helm up, bringing it slowly down around his head. Immediately he felt claustrophobic. He could feel his own hot breath filling the helm and the sound of the light rain hitting the top of the helm echoed in his ears. He reached under his neck and fastened the strap and then quickly checked to see if it was properly attached by moving his head side to side to test the weight. He was finding it difficult to breathe properly, as though he was not getting enough air through the small holes in the helmet. A soldier then handed him his lance and then rushed off to attend to his other responsibilities. Kaewyn was now armed with everything he needed except for his small cavalry shield. He was wearing his surcoat, emblazoned with the Edderfield family colours of white, grey and black. Underneath the surcoat his torso was completely covered by a high-quality chainmail. He was armed with a lance, a long wooden shaft with a pointed steel tip which was used from horseback. It could be used as spear, to stab at an enemy, or alternatively the lance could be couched or rested under the arm and locked into position, using the momentum of a charging horse to deliver a high impact blow. Finally, Kaewyn’s own blade, a beautiful longsword forged by the Oakerton blacksmith at the request of his lord father, hung tightly at his hip.

Kaewyn spotted Yohren standing amidst the swirling maelstrom of troops, he appeared lost and confused. Before he could act, he saw Yohren wander over to some equipment scattered around the base of an oak tree, bend down, and then pick up a large object before rushing over to him. It was his shield. Yohren lifted the shield up and helped him take a hold of it. It was lighter than he expected, for he had only ever trained in the use of infantry shields, and this was a lighter cavalry shield. He had used a variety of shields before and it was familiar enough not to be too awkward. He thanked Yohren and then called out for someone to find his friend a horse. It only took a couple moments before a horse was made available and Yohren was mounted as well, though he swayed awkwardly in the saddle and looked extremely uncomfortable. Kaewyn asked him if he had much riding experience, to which Yohren explained that he had ridden his father’s pack mule upon occasion. Kaewyn chuckled, then returning back to a serious tone, suggested that Yohren should remain dismounted and stay among the volunteers who were mostly on foot as well. If he was not an experienced rider, he would be at more risk atop a horse than not. Yohren looked deflated as the prospect, but he acquiesced all the same. Kaewyn remembered that Yohren had once said that he liked horses. He would have to teach him to ride, if they both survived the coming battle.

Kaewyn’s force marched out of the campsite and made their way to the edge of the oaken forest. The Greystone troops all had their own horses, but the volunteers were nearly all on foot. They moved at a brisk pace, owing to the urgency of the situation and the Captain barking his orders to go quickly. Kaewyn felt as though he should be giving the orders, but he was thankful that the Captain had taken charge. He was nervous enough focusing on himself, let alone an entire force of men. He was not nearly as experienced in such things as the General’s son, and although he could be difficult upon occasion, Kaewyn was grateful to have him there.

During the quick march, Arlan found him and rode beside him a short while. He asked Kaewyn how he was feeling, and offered words of encouragement. Kaewyn could see that Arlan was also nervous, but he hid it so well that he appeared almost casually confident. After a brief exchange, Kaewyn told Arlan that Yohren would be on foot amongst the volunteers, who were Arlan’s responsibility, and asked if he could watch over him and keep him safe. Arlan nodded his head and promised that he would look out for him which made him feel a lot better. One less worry Kaewyn said to himself, now all he had to worry about was the plethora of other things that could go wrong. Arlan left shortly thereafter, stating that he had to re-join the volunteers, but not before the two wished each other luck. Kaewyn knew that he would need it.

Kaewyn’s force emerged from the cover of the thick trees and gathered in the open. It was much easier to see out in the open than it was under the trees, owing to the light of the bright moon, but it was still very dark. In front of them was a flat open plain that dominated the entire area, save for the mighty Rau River off in the distance toward the East. Lord Severus’ camp was easy to spot from here. Torches of flame flickered brightly in the darkness and dashed about like fireflies, indicating to Kaewyn that there was a panic. A second gathering of little flames were moving toward Severus’ camp from the North, on their left side. Smaller blips of flame shot out from the second group and flew up into the air and fell upon the camp. Fire arrows, Kaewyn guessed.

“That must be the General and our main force.” Kaewyn assessed aloud. “Have everyone form up immediately Captain Alaric.”

The captain waved his arms and gave signals, not all of which Kaewyn understood fully, and barked some more orders. Even if he didn’t understand, the soldiers appeared to know what he wanted. The Greystone troops on their horses formed up in a line that stretched across the edge of the forest. The volunteers followed suit awkwardly and formed up behind the horses. Arlan and Yohren wandered out in front and joined Kaewyn and Captain Alaric.

“Men!” Captain Alaric called out. “Be ready to attack on my mark!”

“Hold, Captain…” Kaewyn interjected. “It is much too early yet.”

“Early? The signal flew minutes ago. You would have us wait longer?”

“I would Captain.” Kaewyn said sternly. “Remember Marcus Linforde’s amendment to the plan. We are to wait.”

“That is true,” Arlan added. “We are to wait until the enemy veteran troops rally and move toward our main force before we strike.”

“That is folly, we must strike now while surprise is on our side! Look at them, they are in a panic!” The captain said angrily.

“My answer is no.” Kaewyn replied, keenly aware the troops were listening to their every word. It cannot have been good for their morale to hear their commanders’ bicker and argue over military matters and he could see doubts beginning to eat away at their confidence.

“My father is out there fighting as we speak, if we delay further he could be wounded or even killed!” Captain Alaric shouted.

“Enough Captain!” Kaewyn snapped. “Your father himself personally approved this plan. I will not sacrifice our most important advantage over the enemy due to your own impetuousness. Be patient and wait for my order!”

The captain begrudgingly held his tongue and grumbled to himself. Content that he had put Captain Alaric in his place, Kaewyn turned his attention back to Severus’ camp. Faint sounds could be heard along the wind, the clash of steel and the shouts and screams of soldiers. Kaewyn’s force was eerily silent. No one was speaking or moving. A few troops coughed quietly and a nicker or two from the impatient horses were the only sounds to break the quietly ominous sounds of battle off in the distance.

Kaewyn whispered under his breath. “Luck be with you General Alaric, and us as well.”

“This is torture Kaewyn. Is it time yet?” Captain Alaric asked.

Kaewyn ignored the captain and peered through the narrow slits of his helm at Severus’ camp. It was hard to tell what was going on, but he could barely make out the sight of a group of armoured warriors marching through the camp toward the ongoing sounds of battle to the north. Their numbers grew as they moved, more than likely rallying other, less experienced soldiers as they marched through the camp. After a few more moments, Kaewyn lost sight of them as they continued northwards. Kaewyn could only guess that they had joined the battle against General Alaric and the rest of their troops.

“Arlan, when we charge, bring up the volunteers and the rest of the infantry up behind us as fast as you can. If we run into trouble, we’ll be relying on you to get us through it.” Kaewyn said to Arlan, who bowed briefly to acknowledge the order.

It is time…

“Captain…” Kaewyn said softly. “Rally the men… and prepare to charge!”

Kaewyn could tell that the Captain’s face had lit up even under his helmet. “I do not wish to delay any longer, but as the only representative of the Edderfield name, you should make a quick speech.”

“A speech? I am not one for speeches Captain.”

“Then I shall make do.” The Captain replied.

The Captain moved in his saddle and spurred his horse toward the troops, then began to recite some words, but Kaewyn could tell that these words were not hitting their mark. Some of the troops looked at each other in uncertainty. Arlan and Yohren looked at Kaewyn and cocked their heads, they too, it seemed, were not impressed. The Captain spoke of glorious battle and eternal glory, but Kaewyn suspected most of the troops were just interested in surviving the coming battle.

Kaewyn called out to the Captain and signalled for him to return. As the young Captain approached, his gestured toward the men with his arm. “Then they’re all yours Kaewyn.”

Kaewyn rolled his eyes and spurred his horse toward the troops at a trot. The men seemed anxious and uncertain. They were a perfect reflection of how he himself was feeling. He needed words of encouragement, and the only thing that gave him such comfort, was how his enemy must be feeling right now. Kaewyn cleared his throat and then spoke, thinking all the while of his father and brother.

“I know you are all wet, cold and tired.” Kaewyn began slowly. “I am as the same as you are. I can also see fear in many of you. I recognise this fear because it is the same fear that I too, feel. I cannot tell you to not be afraid, and that everything will work out precisely to plan, but I can tell you that no matter how much fear you feel this very moment, there are others who I guarantee, are even more afraid than you are.”

The troops looked at each other and cocked their heads. They were unsure, but Kaewyn knew he had their full attention now.

“I ask you to imagine yourself as one of Lord Severus’ soldiers over there in that camp ahead. You’ve just woken up in the middle of a stormy night. You hear the clash of steel on steel and men screaming all around you. You stumble to your feet and feel sick, still slightly drunk from the night before. You look out of your tent only to see your comrades panicking and running every which way. From the North, arrows of fire stream in from above and have set small fires around your tent and wherever else you look. You rush to grab your weapons and don your armour, then you look for your commander and find him dead upon the ground, an arrow in his neck. You have no idea what is happening, but end up following a group of soldiers who you recognise heading towards the Northern part of the camp. You march toward the sound of battle, terrified and unready, but comfortable in the knowledge of fighting alongside your brothers in arms. However, as you are marching you hear something else, this time coming from the West instead of the North. Your apprehension builds, your fear starting to get the better of you. A thundering of hooves and deafening war cry fill the night air and suffocate you. You feel trapped and only too late do you realise that a second force is attacking the camp, coming at you in full force from within the darkness of the storm. You look left and right, but your brothers in arms have already broken and begun to flee. Your heart sinks as the enemy soldiers close in, and you realise all hope is lost! Soldiers of Greystone! I want YOU, to be as terrifying as that thunder!”

The men cheered vehemently; their spirits were completely lifted. They raised their weapons and shouted in unison.

Greystone! Greystone! Greystone!

“So you see brave soldiers, your enemy is far more terrified of you than you are of them!” Kaewyn shouted as he lifted his lance into the air. “We must capture Lord Severus, dead or alive! Now follow me, we ride to battle! Hyah!”

After several deafening cheers, Kaewyn turned his horse around and pointed at the enemy camp with the tip of his lance and shouted the order to charge. His tired, wet and cold body suddenly felt alive again. His arms moved with renewed vigour and all he could feel was his heart thumping inside his chest. He spurred his horse forward into a trot then a canter, and soon thereafter a full-blown gallop. He held stiffly onto the reigns of his horse and the shaft of his lance. His shield was fixed to his left arm but he held it tightly against his side all the same.

Kaewyn quickly glanced left and saw Captain Alaric and many of the Greystone troops armoured all in grey, black and white riding hard beside him. On his right, he saw more troops and a few of the lightly armoured volunteers who had managed to bring their own horses. Behind him where he had left the infantry, he heard another cheer and suspected they too had begun their charge. Ahead, Kaewyn spotted enemy troops emerging from the camp and forming a wall of shields to stop them. They did not seem as organised as they should have been and there was not nearly enough of them to form an effective defence. He continued the charge and as he closed in on the enemy formation, he saw that several enemy troops had broken off and begun to flee back into the camp. His plan was working!

Moments before they would crash into the enemy, Kaewyn realised that he was moving much slower than the rest of his men. On both sides he was overtaken by Captain Alaric and the others as they closed in on the enemy ranks. Kaewyn tried to spur his horse to move faster but he couldn’t catch up. He lowered his lance as he had been taught by his father. He braced the shaft by his right side and hooked his arm around it, stabilising it as much as he could. The Greystone mounted troops smashed into the braced enemy soldiers with such force and reckless abandon that Kaewyn nearly mistook the noise for thunder. He watched as many of his men broke through the hastily formed enemy shield wall and continued on unimpeded into the enemy camp, others had stopped their horses and begun to fight the remnants of the enemy formation after the successful charge. Kaewyn spotted a soldier thrusting his spear up at Captain Alaric who was already engaged with another enemy, so he turned his horse and lined him up, aiming his lance. At the last second before his lance should have found its mark, Kaewyn fumbled and lost his grip. The tip of the lance hit something hard and the force of the impact flung the weapon from his hands before he could react. Feeling flustered and stupid, Kaewyn looked back to see what had happened. He could not see the soldier who had been attacking the Captain, but nor could he see his wayward lance. Shaking his head, he drew his finely crafted blade with a satisfying rasp and looked ahead, riding as quickly as he could toward the majority of his men who had gathered by a large burning tent further into the camp.

The men acknowledged him as he approached and quickly asked for further direction. Kaewyn pulled the reins of his horse and slowed to a trot. He stood in the stirrups to allow him to see over the burning tents and saw a tall banner of black and gold toward the centre of the camp. As these were the colours of Lord Severus, Kaewyn thought that it was reasonable to believe that this indicated the location of Lord Severus’ command tent and his likely location. The banner towered over many smaller banners of various colours which were more than likely the colours of his vassals, the lords sworn to his service. Without thinking, Kaewyn quickly scanned through the banners to see if he could spot the familiar colours of white and green, the colours of the Elentide family of Vinum Province, but that particular banner was absent, much to his relief. Maybe Lord Rhys and his men were camped elsewhere Kaewyn thought to himself, hoping it was true.

He instructed the men to follow him as he started down the most direct route towards the black and gold banner flapping furiously in the storm. The path they had taken seemed to be a main road of sorts, one that led right through the heart of the camp. It was wide enough for Kaewyn’s troops to not have to ride in a column which would leave them vulnerable to attack. On either side, small and large fires burned tents, supplies and near everything else that was flammable. General Alaric’s surprise fire arrow attack had been very effective, even during the storm.

Ahead, a large open square appeared, most likely used for the training of troops Kaewyn suspected, as he spotted several straw and wooden dummies had been erected and were equipped with wooden weapons and shields. One of the dummies had caught fire and was slowly collapsing as the integrity of the wood and straw began to give way. On the far side of the square, a small group of ragged looking enemy troops had formed up in a makeshift defensive formation, but the moment they saw Kaewyn and his mounted troops, many of them scattered and ran every which way. Only a few brave souls stood their ground, however when Kaewyn gave the order to attack by shouting as loud as he could, these men broke and fled. As his men gave chase, Kaewyn tried in vain to recall them, knowing there was little value in running down fleeing enemy troops, but his men either did not hear him or ignored him. Thankfully, Captain Alaric rode into the square with some of the other mounted troops that must have fell behind and restored order by shouting that special way only members of the Alaric family could.

Kaewyn was relieved to see the Captain. Giving orders and making decisions during the chaos of battle was entirely alien to him. He knew very well that the young Captain had never seen a real battle before either, but he had been trained since birth by many of Greystone’s oldest and most respected Generals. The Captain was in his element and he was adapting well.

A second group of enemy troops entered the square from the direction of the black and gold banner. This force was larger and looked much less likely to rout. At their head was an older man clad in strikingly ornate plated armour. He rode a horse ahead of the troops and quickly had them formed up, holding the clearest path to the main command tents with a wall of troops. The mounted man in the ornate armour ordered his troops forward and his troops then began marching toward Kaewyn and shouting obscenities and insults. They looked ready for battle. Kaewyn hesitated, he was not sure what to do, but Captain Alaric took charge. He began to order the mounted troops to move, but stopped himself when he heard a loud cheer coming from behind.

“Time to do our part volunteers! To battle!” Shouted a familiar figure atop a magnificent white steed.

“It’s Arlan!” Kaewyn said with relief.

“The volunteers have arrived!” A Greystone soldier called out.

“Reinforcements!” Another shouted.

Kaewyn’s focus returned to the enemy formation, which now at the arrival of the volunteer troops, suddenly seemed much less confident and halted their advance. The enemy had quietened and their leader paused and seemed much less sure of himself. Arlan wasted no time and ordered the volunteers to charge. With a deafening roar, the volunteers cried out and rushed at the enemy with their weapons raised. Captain Alaric, not one to be outdone by a mere volunteer like Arlan, quickly ordered the mounted troops to follow him as he supported the charge of the volunteers. Kaewyn followed the mounted troops and joined them as they flanked the enemy position as much as they could, which was difficult to do in such within the confines of the training square. Several of the training dummies were destroyed and knocked over during the ferocious charge, and when the two forces met with a sickening crash, it was the volunteers who had the momentum. Kaewyn and the Captain followed up the volunteers charge with one of their own. They spurred their horses and rode in hard at the side of the enemy formation. The enemy troops broke quickly and tried to withdraw, but the volunteers pressed them and made it difficult for them to retreat.

Right after the charge, Kaewyn found himself beside an enemy soldier who immediately raised his sword to attack, but he was too slow and Kaewyn managed to spur his horse forward quickly and crash into him, knocking him to the ground and trampling over him. Another soldier, perhaps a friend of the trampled man, cried out in anger and swung his blade at Kaewyn who only just managed to lean away in the saddle and avoid the hopeful swing. Kaewyn then retaliated with his own blade but missed completely. He could barely see through the helmet and his peripheral vision was severely lacking. A second enemy troop joined the fight and thrusted with a long spear at him. He tried to dodge the same way he had before, but he was too slow as he saw it too late. The spear tip connected with a metallic screech as it grazed his shoulder guard harmlessly. A third enemy then came at him readying another swing. Kaewyn felt completely overwhelmed, but a volunteer on foot using a shield crashed into the first man and knocked him to the ground, then lunged for the second, spear wielding enemy. The third man turned to help his comrade but Kaewyn took advantage. He leaned down in his saddle and brought his blade down as hard as he could. He felt the blade embed itself in the shoulder of his unfortunate attacker, cutting flesh as the man screamed out in pain. He then pulled the blade across and away from the enemy and felt the blade cut deeper as he did so. He then looked to see that the volunteer who had assisted him had already dispatched the spear wielding enemy, but the enemy soldier he had knocked over had now recovered. The soldier raised his blade and was about to strike the unaware volunteer when Kaewyn shouted and tried to warn him, but he was too late. The enemy soldier thrusted his blade into the back of the volunteer who cried out in agony and fell to his knees. The enemy then pulled the blade and was about to bring it down upon him in an overhead swing, but was caught by an arrow fired from somewhere Kaewyn could not see, piercing the throat. The injured volunteer then collapsed onto the ground alongside the man he had just slain. Kaewyn wanted to check if he was still alive, but doing so meant that he would have to dismount his horse and the danger that presented was simply too great a risk. From atop his horse he could already tell by the stiff posture and unresponsiveness of the volunteer that hope was small.

Before he could think of what to do next, he saw the attacker who he had managed to slash with his weapon struck with two more arrows as he collapsed into the mud. Shortly after, Kaewyn found himself just out of arms reach of the ornately armoured older man on the horse who had commanded the small enemy force. A glimmer of recognition struck Kaewyn. He felt as if he had met the man before. The older man greying hair and strong features were familiar. He too, seemed to recognise Kaewyn even under his helmet, how, he could not say, but the man looked at him and grimaced angrily. He then spurred his horse and raised his sword aggressively.

“Edderfield scum!” The older man seethed as he closed to attack.

The older man pulled his horse up beside Kaewyn and unleashed a flurry of blows. It was all Kaewyn could do to defend himself as he awkwardly parried each blow as it came. He barely had time to parry let alone return a strike. The older man was a competent fighter and he was not his match. The older man attacked him with such hate and reckless abandon that Kaewyn was struggling badly. Each consecutive attack was harder to repel than the one that came before. Every lesson Kaewyn had ever learned in the training square back in Xu Castle came back to him. Hours of his brother smacking him about with a wooden stick when they were young children, then a blunted steel blade when they were a little older, flashed in his memory. He knew he was not moving properly, or anticipating the enemy attacks well enough at all, but he managed to do enough to stay alive in the moment.

After a particularly reckless swing that missed completely, Kaewyn managed to get in a strike of his own. His attack connected with the older man’s chest plate, but did minimal damage due to the ornate armour. A horseman riding a magnificent white steed flew past so quickly Kaewyn only realised it was Arlan after he had disappeared. When his eyes returned to the older man, he was shocked to see a long thin red gash had appeared across his chest. The older man’s eyed and mouth opened wide as the red gash faded behind a torrent of blood. The blood seeped strongly from the wound and covered his ornately crafted armour as he leant awkwardly in the saddle and then fell heavily from his horse to the wet, muddy ground with a sickening thump.

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All around Kaewyn heard screams of pain and agony, people crying out in pain or rage. He heard manly shouts of victory and panic-stricken pleas for mercy, he heard the clash of steel on steel and steel on flesh. He could smell the blood in the air and taste the metallic flavour in his mouth. He felt sick. He could not comprehend that this is what the many tomes on war and battle he had read in his time had glorified so much. The writings he read always spoke of the glory and honour of being in battle, but Kaewyn wanted nothing more than to be back in his chambers in Xu Castle, or anywhere else for that matter. It was too much to bear.

The scene laid out before him was grim. The fight had been won, but many men lay strewn about in bloody heaps, their bodies slathered in blood in dark muddy piles. Kaewyn could tell that the vast majority of dead were the enemy, but he still did not feel comfortable with all of the death. He wanted to wait and rest, as his arms were burning with the pain of exhaustion, but Captain Alaric was already organising the troops to push on toward the black and gold banner. He knew that resting was completely out of the question lest they give Lord Severus the chance to escape.

“My lord.” Arlan said as his horse came up beside him. “Are you okay?”

“I… I think so.” Kaewyn managed to say. “I am grateful for your assistance earlier.”

Arlan looked down at the body of the older man in the once beautiful armour, which was now covered by dirt and blood. “He seemed particularly keen on ending your life. Did you know him?”

“I do not know. He seemed familiar but I cannot say for certain. He might have been a lord.” Kaewyn guessed, still processing what had just happened.

“Lord, you need to get moving!” Captain Alaric called over. “You’ll be left behind I you dawdle any longer Let us go.”

Captain Alaric had already gotten their small force moving again. The cavalry began to ride and the volunteers by moving at a swift jog up the main road toward Severus’ banner. Arlan nodded to him with a look of understanding and then wheeled his horse around to join them. Kaewyn inhaled a deep breath, took one last look at all of the corpses and the mayhem of the skirmish they had just experienced, then spurred his horse forward and join his men.

The fires in the camp had grown considerably and had rendered entire pathways into different sections of the camp completely untraversable. Thankfully the main road that they were using was large enough that the fires had not been able to connect across the path and block their way. The sounds of battle from the north were still loud enough to hear over the flames and collapsing tents, but Kaewyn knew they had to hurry. Time was not on their side.

Ahead of them further along the main road, a force of enemy troops had formed a wall of shields that completely blocked the main road. Their number were fewer than Kaewyn’s force, however their armour and formation gave him the impression that these men were not typical troops, but Severus’ elites. Their shields were large and round with steel rims, interlocked and held firmly. Their armour shined against the light of the flames a bright silver and each of their metallic helmets had a single feathered red plume on top of the head. Every man in the formation was identical in their equipment, rather than a collection of random gear that the more amateur troops they had fought earlier had been equipped with. Kaewyn felt uneasy just looking at them.

Behind this imposing formation, Kaewyn saw the black and gold banner among the other smaller banners fluttering in the stormy wind. Further back upon a greatly elevated wooden platform. he saw large tent which must have been Lord Severus’ command tent, dressed decoratively in mostly black and gold, the colours of the Severus family.

“The command tent is ahead!” Captain Alaric shouted. “Lord Severus must be inside! Form up, prepare to charge on my order! Break through and victory is ours!”

The cavalry impatiently rode ahead of the infantry and formed a line of horses stretching all the way across the main road. The Captain wasted no time and lowered his long spear and charged. The cavalry followed suit and also charged with Kaewyn riding after them. He raised his sword and prepared himself to attack alongside his men. The infantry was left behind as the horses charged as fast as they could up the main road toward the enemy formation. During the previous charges, some of the enemy had broken and fled merely at the sight of them coming at speed, but this time the enemy gave no indication of wanting to rout. A horrible knot formed in Kaewyn’s stomach. He recognised something about the enemy formation, nearly as if he had seen it before. No, he corrected himself, not seen, read. He had read about it!

“Stop the attack!” Kaewyn yelled. “Stop!”

It was no use. Thunder boomed and drowned out the sound of his voice. The war cries and the charging horses compounded the effect. No one could hear him as he frantically tried to call off the charge. The cavalry closed in on the wall of shields as Kaewyn pulled the reins of his horse and slowed. He continued to shout for them to stop, but they did not hear him. The enemy troops let out a resounded cry in response to an unheard command.

Aroo! Aroo! Aroo!

The enemy formation lowered their shields partly and long spears emerged over the top of each, held by a second man who had remained hidden until the last possible moment. The enemy moved decisively and with fluidity. It was clear that they had practiced this many times before. The formation became a wall of pointed spears. Captain Alaric pulled his horse to the side and stopped as he too, began to shout at the men, but it was far too late. Horses and men alike impaled themselves upon the enemy formation with a sickening crash. Some leapt in an attempt to clear the spears, but most did not make the jump. The ones who did were quickly isolated and then dispatched by the enemy. Many of the charging Greystone troops were killed outright. Men and horses alike screamed in pain and were silenced with a thrust of a spear. Out of the thirty or so mounted troops who charged, under half survived as they withdrew just out of range of the enemy’s spears.

“Fall back!” Captain Alaric called. “Regroup!”

“Get out of there!” Kaewyn screamed in desperation. “They’re advancing on us!”

Aroo! Aroo! Aroo!

With more cries of war, the enemy formation advanced slowly, keeping in formation perfectly as they moved. The blood of his men covered their shields. As they stepped over the bodies of his fallen troops and horses, the enemy taunted him with insults in an effort to goad him into foolish action. Kaewyn was stunned with horror. He was in utter disbelief. Captain Alaric and the remnants of their cavalry began to withdraw, and the Captain shouted as him as he rode past bringing Kaewyn back to his senses. He turned his horse and rode after them, hearing the enemy hurl insult after insult at his family name, his people and his honour.

“Fight us fairly, and see what happens to ya!” One called out.

“Pathetic and weak!” Another said angrily.

“Taste Oscuan steel scum!”

“Is this the best Greystone Province can do?”

“Flee cowards, or be destroyed!”

Kaewyn cast a glance backwards toward the enemy as he rode after his men and saw that behind their formation, men armed with bows had appeared and were readying to let loose arrows upon them. He pushed his horse to ride faster but he knew he could not escape their range in time. Desperately, he kept his head down and rode as fast as he could toward his own men.

“Shields up! Protect the lord!” Arlan shouted from atop his white steed. “Advance and form up!”

The volunteers rushed forward hastily and formed a makeshift wall of shields. It bore little resemblance to the enemy formation, but it was far better than nothing and offered some protection from the arrows. Captain Alaric and the other horsemen reformed behind the volunteers and Kaewyn soon joined them. He informed the Captain about the enemy archers preparing to loosen arrows, who then immediately dismounted and ordered the rest of their troops do the same.

“Our cavalry is useless now anyway.” The Captain explained bitterly. “They are no use against that formation, better to join the volunteers on foot and charge with them instead.”

“Captain…” Kaewyn said. “They are using a phalanx formation. It is going to be nearly impossible to defeat them from the front.”

“We do not have a choice Kaewyn!” The Captain shouted in anger. “You said so yourself, we cannot let Lord Severus escape or all is lost!”

“I know! I know…” Kaewyn replied. “Let me think…”

“My lord, what are our orders?” Arlan asked, he too had dismounted at the Captain’s order.

A volley of arrows shot out from behind the enemy formation and up into the air, then following their arc, slowly began to fall, then quickly fell upon them.

“SHIELDS!” Arlan called.

The volunteers huddled together and lifted their shields. Kaewyn raised his smaller Cavalry shield to help. With heavy thuds, arrows lodged themselves into many shields and others crashed harmlessly into the mud. The barrage lasted a few seconds and when it ended, Kaewyn let out a sigh of relief. His small cavalry shield however, had several arrows sticking right through it, rendering it completely useless and even more awkward to hold, so he dropped it onto the ground.

“I remember reading about the phalanx in an old tome on military history… the name of the tome eludes me at present, but the tome details the strengths and weaknesses of such formations. The phalanx was used by the first Emperor to conquer much of the Revaryn Empire.” Kaewyn explained.

“We don’t need a damn history lesson right now. Tell us how to defeat it!” The Captain spat.

“The phalanx is strong from the front, but vulnerable from the sides and back.” He recited from memory. “It is vulnerable as the formation relies upon each man holding their position and only moving as one unit. Therefore, it is not flexible and cannot turn to face threats from the side or rear.”

Kaewyn leant out from the cover of the shield wall and looked at the enemy formation. They had position themselves perfectly along the road so that flanking them was impossible, completely negating the weakness of their formation.

“Their position renders them immune to a flanking attempt.” He said ponderously. “They’ve chosen their position well.”

“Can we not withdraw and find another way to the command tent rather than engage them head on?” Arlan suggested. “That would mean we do not have to attack from the front.”

“No time!” The Captain countered. “My father’s troops are fighting and dying as we speak. They are heavily outnumbered, and if we delay any further Lord Severus might simply flee.”

“He is right, we cannot find another way around.” Kaewyn added. “We must break them here and soon.”

“Hmm.” Arlan cocked his head and closed his eyes deep in thought. When he opened his eyes, he looked up and down the path and at many of the tents around them “I have an idea!”

“Out with it.” The Captain said impatiently as more arrows rained down upon them.

“I will take some of my best men and hide within some of these tents on side of the road. The ones that are yet to begin burning of course. Then Captain Alaric can attack the enemy formation with our troops, feign defeat and pretend to flee. The enemy already advances and if they believe they’ve beaten you, they will continue advancing. If they come past this point, then I can emerge from the tents and take them by surprise!”

“We would catch them between us in a pincer!” Captain Alaric finished.

Another volley of arrows flew in and struck shields and the ground all around them. Some arrows landed near the riderless horses and spooked them into running off. A burning tent then collapsed and crumbled loudly, prompting several more to flee. It didn’t take long for all of their horses to begin to bolt, including Arlan’s white steed.

“There goes our escape.” A Greystone soldier said under his breath.

“My lord, the plan?” Captain Alaric asked.

“You have my blessing.” Kaewyn said, Arlan’s idea had been a good one. “I will join with Arlan while you lead the bulk of our men, understood?”

For a moment, Captain Alaric looked as though he wanted to protest, but the thought of leading the bulk of the troops or perhaps the desperate nature of their situation must have held him from speaking out. “Very well. I will explain our plan to the men and then attack. Good luck Kaewyn, and you too Arlan.”

Kaewyn and Arlan made their way to the back of the volunteer’s shield wall as the leader of the volunteers picked out the best of the men. Eleven men in total including Kaewyn and Arlan moved to the side of the main road and found a large supply tent that had not yet begun to burn and positioned themselves within. It was dark within the tent, but he noticed it was full to bursting with supplies. Supplies that primarily seemed to be mostly Vinum Province wine and assorted foods, most likely stolen from Rhys’ land Kaewyn thought. Boxes were stacked up high and all over. He was surprised that they had managed to even fit all eleven of them in the tent in the first place. He made sure that he was positioned by the entrance to the tent so that he could see what was going on outside without revealing their location and then gave the order to remain silent.

On the main road, Kaewyn saw the Captain ordering the rest of their troops forward. They remained in their shield wall formation, and as much as it was inferior to the enemy formation, it still kept them safe from arrows. As they marched closer to the enemy, a lone figure left the Captain’s troop and ran toward them in their hidden spot. He fumbled around as if looking for something or someone. The man was armoured as they were but his skin was a shade darker than the norm and judging by the awkwardness of his movements, Kaewyn knew who it was.

“Yohren, over here.” He said as loudly as he dared. “We’re in the tent.”

A look of relief washed over Yohren as he spotted them and rushed over. He made sure to stay low and snuck into the tent.

“I wanted to help.” Yohren stated dryly, as if he felt he had to justify himself.

“Thank you Yohren, I am glad to see you unharmed.” He replied.

“You too my lord. I lost sight of you a few times and feared the worst. It is good to see you are not hurt.” Yohren said warmly.

“If not for our friend, I doubt I would be unscathed.” Kaewyn said as he patted Arlan’s shoulder plate with a smile no one could see under his helmet. “Your idea is a bold one Arlan, bold, but brilliant all the same.”

Arlan chuckled. “If we all die because of my brilliant tactic, I will be sure to remind you of your words.”

“I will hold you to it!” He joked as he tried to ease the tension he himself was feeling.

The sounds of battle brought their conversation to an end as the familiar sound of steel and steel and men screaming filled his ears. He hoped that sound would never be something he would have to hear again after tonight, but he doubted that was the case. A few seconds later, a flood of troops flew past the tent at speed with Captain Alaric among them. As they fled, Kaewyn noticed they began to slow and some looked hesitant to continue running far. It was good that they were not truly fleeing the field. The heavy footsteps of the enemy in their formation became louder and louder, as did the sound of their war cries.

Aroo! Aroo! Aroo!

“The battle is won!” A man cheered. “Cowards all.”

“Now we chase them back to their castle.” Another said.

“How’d they even get this far? Look at them run for the hills!” A deep voice shouted.

“Hold firm everyone.” Kaewyn said quietly. “Timing is everything.”

“Wait for Lord Kaewyn’s order. Then we attack.” Arlan added.

“We’re ready Lord.” A volunteer said. “On your order sir.”

The footsteps grew closer and closer and soon enough, the enemy formation came into view. They were within metres of the tent’s opening. Kaewyn hushed the men and withdrew further back into the darkness of the tent. The enemy crossed the entrance of the tent slowly and stayed in their tight formation. Kaewyn held his breath and dared not to move a muscle. He held his breath for what felt like minutes, and finally, the enemy seemed to have passed. Peering back out onto the main road, to the right Kaewyn saw that the path to the command tent was clear. On the left, the backs of the enemy were exposed. Not a one looked backwards as they continued marching on after the Captain and the rest of his men.

“Move!” Kaewyn said as he rushed out of the tent.

The volunteers along with Arlan, Yohren and Kaewyn stood out in the open on the main road. The fires all around were still burning, illuminating the area quite clearly. In front of them, a mass of hulking bodies with red plumed helmets was locked in their phalanx formation and marching away totally oblivious to their presence.

Kaewyn looked at Arlan and Yohren and nodded, they too returned the gesture. Raising his finely crafted sword, Kaewyn shouted at the top of his lungs, as he had never done before. “FOR GREYSTONE PROVINCE! FOR LORD EDDERFIELD! FOR VICTORY! ATTACK!”

The volunteers let out a cheer that to Kaewyn, sounded more like an army of fifty than a group of twelve. He ran forwards with his sword in the air with Yohren and Arlan doing the same by each of his sides. The enemy leader who was behind the formation quickly turned and screamed in terror. He raged at his men to turn and for his archers to draw weapons, but he acted too late. Kaewyn and his men were on top of them before they realised what was happening. Arlan slew two men with two precise cuts and Yohren stabbed at an archer who had not even time to drop his bow. Kaewyn squared off with the leader and struck him across the chest with a sloppy swing of his blade. He didn’t connect well and doubted it was fatal even though he knew it had struck flesh. The leader drew his own sword but Kaewyn attacked again, this time his blade stuck itself deep in the leader’s side and only managed to be pulled free when Kaewyn tugged at it with both hands. The leader fell to his knees with a look of complete shock on his face. Another enemy soldier turned away from the formation and charged at Kaewyn. He was big man and moved very quickly for his size. His arms were massive and he was barrel chested. Kaewyn pre-emptively swung his blade at the man, but he simply dodged backwards and then rushed forwards with a strike of his own. Kaewyn tried to parry the blade but failed to react in time. The blade slid along his own and caught him hard on the shoulder. He felt a hot searing pain all through his arm. The man attacked again with an overhead swing but this time Kaewyn managed to parry the blow by pushing the blade away from his body. The pain in his shoulder burned like fire but he couldn’t worry about it now, he had to concentrate or risk being decapitated. The big man growled and came at him again, swinging wildly. Kaewyn dodged backwards but his foot got caught on a small rock and he slipped and lost his balance. He managed to keep his feet and not fall over, but the man took full advantage of his blunder and swung for his head. At the last moment before the blade should have struck, the man’s strength left him as he went lump, his blade fell harmlessly from his hands. Yohren had pierced his side with his own blade all the way to the hilt. The big man wavered on the spot and then collapsed to the ground.

“FOR GREYSTONE PROVINCE! DESTROY THE INVADERS!” Captain Alaric’s voice eclipsed the panicked shouting of the enemy for but a moment. “ATTACK!”

The enemy formation broke apart near instantly. Half of the men turned to fight Kaewyn’s group while others remained in formation, a formation that was now lacking solidarity and thus, effectiveness. The volunteers with Kaewyn fought hard and cut down several enemies in quick succession, and when the enemy numbers became too much, Captain Alaric’s troops broke through the weakened shield wall and attacked. The enemy was completely defeated. Their remaining troops scattered in all directions, some tried to flee back to the command tents but were cut the pieces by Kaewyn’s men. Several even risked the flames and rushed through burning tents. Others tried to push their way through Captain Alaric’s men but were slain without much effort. Arlan’s gambit had worked.

For a while time seemed to slow for Kaewyn. He stood still and watched as the surviving enemy soldiers lying on the ground writhing in pain being blatantly ignored by those still standing with any medical experience. He saw his own wounded being tended to as some enemy soldiers refused to surrender. These few were finished off without mercy. Kaewyn turned around and saw men burning in the flames rather than surrender or risk facing his troops. The stench of burning flesh would stay with him long after the night was done.

“Kaewyn, you’re hurt.” Yohren said with widened eyes. “Are you okay?”

Kaewyn looked at his shoulder and saw that he had been bleeding. He touched the wound with his fingers clad in his mailed mittens and felt the pain. It appeared not to be bleeding anymore and the pain was less than it had been before, so he assumed the wound was not a serious one.

“I think I’m fine Yohren.” Kaewyn replied solemnly as he struggled to regain his breath. “I believe you may have saved my life.”

Yohren looked at the big man whose life he had just ended and stared blankly. Kaewyn guessed that it had not really dawned on him what he had just done. It was probably the first time he had killed someone. Kaewyn found himself staring at the leader whom he had just killed as well. The man was lying awkwardly upon the ground covered in mud and blood. His feelings were mixed but he was a rational man, it was clear to him in his mind. It was either kill or be killed. He had been taught by his father that his life as an Edderfield was worth more than any commoner. But if he thought about it some more, he wasn’t as certain that that belief was entirely true.

“It was you or them.” Captain Alaric said as he wandered over. “Don’t waste your tears on the dead.”

“We should keep moving.” Kaewyn said as he brushed the blood from his mittens on his hip.

“My lord, are you injured?” The Captain asked as he spotted the shoulder wound. He then leant in and examined his shoulder. “It doesn’t look too serious; I think you will be fine.”

“Where is Arlan?” Yohren asked as he looked around.

“I’m here. My Lord Kaewyn, there’s movement up by the command tent. We should hurry lest Lord Severus slip away.” Arlan suggested as he walked over several bodies and cleaned the blood from his blade with a piece of fabric.

“Agreed. We will treat your wound after we have Severus.” The Captain added. “Everyone! Group up and move up the road at once. Remember your task!”

Arlan and Yohren both joined Kaewyn as he began to make his way toward the black and gold banner. The sounds of battle from the north of the camp had quietened considerably. No one said a word, but Kaewyn knew that were all thinking the same thing. If the General’s force had been defeated, then their efforts may already be too late. There wasn’t much use in worrying about that now though, Kaewyn said to himself, it was far more important to capture Lord Severus as quickly as possible and worry about other things afterwards.

Kaewyn’s depleted force which was not a large one to begin with was down to less than thirty men. Among their number were mostly volunteers. The men looked exhausted and bloodied and many carried wounds worse than his own. He was not certain of their ability to win another large fight should they come across another group of enemy soldiers.

As Kaewyn’s beleaguered troops approached the command tent, Arlan ordered the men to spread out to ensure that no one would be able to sneak up and catch them by surprise. The command tent itself was erected upon a wooden platform that held it roughly a man’s height above ground level. The wooden steps that one had to ascend in order to enter the tent were adorned with the various banners of the vassal lords of the Severus family. Kaewyn recognised a few but many of them he could not place. He found it worrisome that the tent had no guards stationed by to protect it, and began to think that Lord Severus had indeed already fled the battle. Shaking his head, Kaewyn gathered a small group and began to climb the steps with his sword in hand. He was prepared to do whatever it took to defend Greystone Province.

Badoo! Badoo! Badooooo!

A blusterous horn blew from the South three times in rapid succession. Kaewyn turned his head instinctively and saw his men scurrying away from the path that led towards the south.

“My lord!” A volunteer shouted as he ran towards the wooden steps. “An enemy force is approaching from the South. One hundred men or more!”

Kaewyn’s small force of men regrouped at the foot of the steps in a panicked huddle. The Captain ordered them to form a wall of shield and prepare for battle. Arlan too was trying to organise the men.

“What banner do they fly?” Kaewyn asked the reporting volunteer with haste.

“White and Green banners milord. The enemy troops are all wearing a silver armour. At the head of their formation is a young lord with a white and green cloak.”

Kaewyn felt his heart skip a beat. His fists clenched and he felt his shoulder throb with renewed pain. It was Lord Rhys. His childhood friend had come with his Vinum Province troops to stop them. Kaewyn’s worst fears had been realised.

The Vinum Province troops entered the square unopposed by Kaewyn’s troops and formed up by the Southern path. There were many of them, close to a hundred at his quickest estimation. At their head Kaewyn spotted his old friend atop his horse holding his spear and directing his men to hold their position. Their troops were fresh and unhurt. They looked the part of a professional military force. None of the Vinum Province troops looked drunk or tired unlike the enemies that they had faced so far. Kaewyn knew that their chances of defeating them if it came to blows were next to impossible. He took off his helmet and positioned himself so that he was would easily recognised by his old friend. It was relieving to be able to breathe clearly again without the heavy helmet. He then ordered his men to not harm the Vinum Province troops and to stand down. The last thing he wanted was for violence to come between them.

“Kaewyn.” Lord Rhys began to speak, but he spoke with the flat monotone voice of a man defeated. “I had hoped it would not come to this, but I must ask for you and your men to surrender. I promise you will be treated with respect as is your right as a noble of the land. Your men will be treated equitably and with—”

“Rhys! if Lord Severus is within the command tent, then the battle is already over.” Kaewyn shouted as he cut off his old friend from speaking, making sure to continue climbing the steps as he spoke. “We need no longer be at odds. Join us and help me capture him. We will have him release your wife and Camilla too. We can then force him to restore Callidus rule over Vinum Province.”

“I… cannot put the life of my wife and sister to chance Kaewyn, even for you. Surely you understand this.”

“With your troops and Lord Severus our hostage what reason is there to fear for their lives?” Kaewyn insisted. “Join with us!”

“I cannot do as you ask.” Rhys replied. “Now I ask again, surrender at once.”

“But our two families and provinces have been friends and allies for generations. Why side with the invader over your brothers? Do not be a fool Rhys!”

“Do not ask me to put their lives at risk Kaewyn! It is something I simply will not do. If Rahim and Lord Corrhen were Lord Severus’ prisoners you know you would do the same.” Rhys snapped back.

An awkward silence filled the air and the men on both sides appeared anxious and uncertain. Lord Rhys shifted uncomfortably in the saddle.

“Those are Greystone troops over there.” One of the Vinum Province troops said aloud.

“Why are we fighting them? We should be helping them against Lord Severus!” Another added.

“This is our chance to free Vinum Province.” Another voice called.

Kaewyn could sense the doubt among Rhys and his soldiers, so he decided to take a gamble. “I cannot surrender Rhys, I’m sorry. Captain! Prepare to defend!”

Captain Alaric shouted orders and the remaining troops rushed to the base of the stairs of the wooden platform and formed a wall. Rhys countered by ordering his troops to surround them. The Vinum Province troops moved slowly at first, but when their young lord shouted in anger at them to get moving, they soon sped up their movements.

“This is your last chance to spare your men Kaewyn. I ask you to surrender to me now. I will not ask again.” Lord Rhys demanded.

“If you want to stop us then you will have to kill us all.” Kaewyn explained. “I know you and your men do not want this. Please Rhys. See reason and help us.”

“What say you to a duel Lord Rhys?” Arlan shouted. “It is obvious that both you and Lord Kaewyn wish to spare the lives of our men. Therefore, I propose a duel to avoid unnecessary bloodshed.”

“Arlan, don’t.” Kaewyn whispered with worry. “He is a close friend of mine, I do not wish to see him harmed, nor you for that matter.”

“Do not worry my lord. I will not die tonight.” Arlan whispered back. “And neither will he. I will make certain of it.”

Kaewyn frowned and lowered his head in thought. He didn’t like the idea of a duel between two people he considered his friends.

“While he is distracted fighting me, you and Yohren can sneak into the tent and deal with Lord Severus.” Arlan pleaded. “It is our only option. You know we cannot defeat them if it comes to blows.”

“Lord Rhys is an able fighter Arlan, a match for my brother Rahim even. I don’t want you killed on my behalf.” Kaewyn said, keeping his voice low.

“Do you trust me my lord?” Arlan asked.

Kaewyn turned to face the leader of the volunteer army and placed his hand on the young man’s shoulder. “I do Arlan. I trust you.”

“Good.” Arlan whispered back, then he turned and spoke loudly. “What say you Lord Rhys. Do you accept?”

“What would be the terms of this duel?” Rhys answered hesitantly. “I will tolerate no tricks.”

“No tricks my lord. If I am defeated, then our troops will surrender to you peacefully, I assure you. However, if I am victorious, then you must join us to defeat Lord Severus.” Arlan stated.

“No, I will not join you even if you are victorious.” Rhys countered. “My family would be killed instantly if I did as you ask.”

“Then you will stand down your men and withdraw from the field.” Arlan said as he tried to convince the conflicted young lord of Vinum Province.

The men on both sides began to speak in hushed voices. It seems they liked the idea of a duel, if for no other reason than it meant that they themselves would not have to fight each other.

“I am the acting Lord of Vinum Province and a member of the noble family of the Callidus. Who are you? I cannot duel a simple commoner.” Rhys asked. “Even if you make a sound point.”

Arlan cleared his throat and then spoke. “I am Arlan, grandson of Arlan the Swift of your very own Vinum Province.”

The Vinum province troops all spoke in hushed but excited voices. Arlan the Swift was a well-known figure in the Empire, let alone in Vinum Province. He had made his mark as an expert commander and general and was renowned as a warrior of skill. To be a relative of his would bring a large amount of prestige.

“Arlan the Swift’s grandson?” Rhys said with an annoyed tone. “If what you say is true, then you should be fighting under my command! Not for Kaewyn! Your grandfather was a legendary figure who bled for my land, he would be ashamed to see his descendant fight for another.”

Arlan shook his head and walked out into the small open space between the two forces. “My grandfather would be ashamed to see Vinum Province grovel and bow before an Invader such as Lord Severus. I could not dishonour his legacy by fighting for you…. I choose Kaewyn, a man who has chosen to fight against tyranny despite the odds being stacked against him.”

“How dare you insult me so?” Lord Rhys said with venom as he dismounted from his horse and joined Arlan in the open space between the two forces. He was full of anger and rage. “I can bear no more insults! The past week I have suffered too many attacks on my honour. I can only bear through Lord Severus’ comments as he has my sister and wife under his thumb, but you! I will not tolerate your impudence another second.”

“Then you will accept my challenge?” Arlan said calmly as he signalled for a spear to one of the volunteers, who promptly rushed over with the weapon for him.

“Indeed. Prepare yourself, grandson of Arlan the Swift…”

Lord Rhys twirled his spear in his hands and advanced on Arlan at speed. Arlan simply held his ground and prepared himself by lowered his body and holding his spear defensively. Rhys however was not interested in defence. He rushed at Arlan and practically leapt at him as he tried to finish the duel before it had hardly begun. The two began dancing around each other, stabbing, dodging and redirecting each other’s blows with ease. They seemed evenly matched Kaewyn thought.

“My lord.” Captain Alaric said. “What do we do now? I see nothing good coming from this.”

“Yohren and I are going after Severus.” Kaewyn whispered.

“What!? Let me come with you with some men. You don’t know what could be in that tent.” Captain Alaric asked.

“No, they will notice if too many people disappear during the duel. Only Yohren and I will go. You stay here and if the worst should happen… then you have my blessing to do absolutely whatever is necessary to keep the Vinum Province troops at bay. Do you understand?”

The duel raged on and the men on both sides were completely fixated on watching Arlan and Lord Rhys battle each other. The two forces cheered for their respective combatant whenever it seemed as though he had managed a good manoeuvre or that it appeared he was gaining an advantage.

“I understand Kaewyn. I do not like it but I understand. Luck be with you.” The Captain said. “I will hold here until the very last man if I must. Do what needs to be done.”

“My thanks Captain Alaric. You do your father proud.” Kaewyn said as he turned to face his olive-skinned retainer. “Let’s go Yohren. Our fate awaits.”

Yohren nodded and drew his old blade. Kaewyn remembered when he got a good look at Yohren’s blade back in the Lusty Woodsman shortly after the brawl in the Oakerton streets. The blade may have looked simple and unadorned, but he knew that it was a quality blade. He had hoped that they would not need to use it. Kaewyn drew his own beautiful longsword and again hoped that he would not need to use the weapon.

A loud cheer drew his attention back to the duel. It seemed that Rhys had gained a strong advantage and was on the cusp of winning the duel with a decisive blow but Arlan moved like his namesake and swiftly countered and then went on the offensive, regaining the advantage. Kaewyn wanted to continue watching as he feared for the lives of both men, but he knew that he had to leave. Turning away from the duel was one of the hardest things he had ever done.

Kaewyn rushed up the wooden steps with Yohren close behind. A flash of lightning lit up the night sky and the thunder he so dreaded followed a second later. He felt his heart thumping strongly in his chest as he approached the unguarded command tent. The sounds of the duel and cheering troops faded into the background and were replaced by the ominous sounds of the flapping tent. Kaewyn paused by the entrance and took a quick breath, then entered.

The space inside the tent was massive. Various tables and maps were set up all around and illuminated by a warm light emanating from several low burning candles. Kaewyn recognised some of the maps, Vinum Province, Greystone Province and several others between here and the Heartlands. It was obvious that Lord Severus was planning a route of conquest on his way to the capital. Exotic carpets covered the ground and armour racks lined both sides of the tent. Atop most of the tables were mugs, some were overturned and dripping liquid while others appeared half finished. A luxurious grand bed with silken sheets was the dominant feature of the back wall, but Kaewyn eyes were fixed on the two women in evening attire seated at a small desk. Beside them, were three men wearing rich golden robes, one older and two about his own age. Kaewyn recognised one of the women immediately, even though he had not seen her for well over a year. He could never forget Camilla. Her long brown hair had not changed since she was a small child and her dark blue eyes had always been strikingly beautiful. What Kaewyn liked most about her though was not her hair or eyes, but her warm smile.

The three men turned to face them in shock, but they moved sluggishly and without grace. It was then that Kaewyn spotted a barrel of Vinum Province wine. The two younger men pulled swords and swayed as they tried to get a better look at who had invaded their privacy. All three men were utterly drunk.

“Who dare come into my tent when I am… soshialisingg…. with my sons.” The older man said as he slurred his words.

“Father… I think it’s the enemy.” One of the younger men said as he struggled to keep his balance. “You need to... get out of here.”

“I’m not running from some… Vinum Province boy. They can’t fight for shit, but they make… very good wine.” Said the older man with a big smile. “Maybe he’s here to fetch me more wine!”

“We already conquered Vinum Province father, this one’s crest… he looks like an Edderfield.” Explained the second younger son.

“EDDERFIELD?” The older man shouted. “Corrhen has always looked... d... down on me. The Severus family is strong now, and as long as I rule, we will never be looked down upon ever again!”

It was Lord Severus and his sons. He could smell the alcohol on them from where he was standing. He looked at Yohren and signalled for him to follow as they cautiously approached the Severus family. He was elated that they had not yet fled the camp, but now the task of convincing them to surrender seemed unlikely. He then approached the drunken men and pointed his blade at Lord Severus himself, hoping to intimidate them into yielding without violence.

“In the name of Greystone Province and Lord Edderfield, I demand you surrender yourself to me.” Kaewyn said much less confidently than he wanted. “If you come quietly, you will be treated with respect—”

“IVE NEVER been treated with respect by Corrhen Edderfield!” Lord Severus spat with rage. “Why would I ever surrender to him? My army is invincible and his is off in the Heartlands playing hero.”

Kaewyn noticed that Lord Severus was still swaying in a drunken fervour, but his two sons seemed to have sobered up somewhat, as they both stood between their father and him with their swords ready.

“I am not Lord Corrhen, but his son Kaewyn. Your army is not invincible otherwise I would not be here. So, I ask again, come quietly and we can resolve this without further bloodshed.”

“Bullshit!” Lord Severus shouted. “Guards, come and arrest this idiot and lock him away.”

“Your guards are dead Lord Severus. Do you understand yet? You’ve already lost. It is over.” Kaewyn said as he kept his eyes fixed on the two sons who looked at him with contempt. Yohren positioned himself by his side and held his sword firmly.

“Father… you need to flee.” One of the sons said. “Cassius and I will hold them off.”

“Listen to Carlin father… you need to get out of here.” Cassius said as he blinked away some of his drunkenness.

“I’ll not flee from an Edderfield whelp. Where’s my sword?” Lord Severus said as he stumbled over an empty mug on the floor. “Bring me my sword.”

“Kaewyn!?” a soft voice called.

“Camilla?” He said as he saw her stand up from the small table. She stared at him with her fearful blue eyes that were stained with tears.

Before anyone could react, Camilla moved with the speed of a leopard and rushed at the one called Cassius and pulled his knife from his hip sheath, then plunged it deeply back into his hip, once, twice, three times. She screamed with anger and rage and cried at the same time. Her victim fell in a confused heap as she climbed on top of him and kept attacking.

“NOOO!” Lord Severus screamed. The sight of his son on the ground had sobered him up. “MY SON! KILL THAT WHORE CARLIN, KILL HER!”

Carlin had been so fixated on Kaewyn that only his father’s words had brought his attention to his brother Cassius’ grim fate. He spun around and raised his sword at Camilla.

Kaewyn did not even blink. He rushed forwards and crashed into Carlin with his shoulder and knocked him off balance and into the barrel of Vinum Province wine. Carlin tumbled over the barrel and landed on a small table which then fell on top of him, bringing several mugs crashing down onto the floor and spilling wine everywhere. Lord Severus was wailing with rage and bent down and pulled a massive sword from a weapon rack behind him. The sword was at least twice the size of Kaewyn’s longsword. A true two-handed weapon that could only be wielded by those of great strength and skill. Lord Severus swung it wildly as though it weighed no more than a feather and destroyed the armour racks and several chairs with two great heaves. Kaewyn doubted he could even parry the blow if he managed to anticipate it due to the immense weight of the weapon and the rage of the one wielding it.

Kaewyn backed away as the enraged lord came at him with pure rage in his hateful eyes. Lord Severus screamed something unintelligible and swung at him with an overhead attack, but Kaewyn managed to dodge out of the way as he stumbled over some chairs. Lord Severus came at him again and this time he had been backed into a corner and had nowhere to flee. Yohren shouted something and got Severus’ attention for a second, in which Kaewyn took the chance and rushed forwards blade in hand. Severus reacted slowly and Kaewyn managed to imitate what he had done to Carlin and shoulder charged the angry lord, knocking him to the ground. His massive two-handed weapon flew harmlessly out of his hands and slid under the map table out of reach. Kaewyn stood over him and pointed his finely crafted sword at his chest.

“Surrender!” He demanded as he struggled to regain his breath. “You’re beaten.”

For a moment, Lord Severus relaxed. He looked around in disbelief at what had happened. When his eyes came across his dead son Cassius, lying in a pool of his own blood however, his rage returned. Kaewyn pressed the tip of his blade into the grounded lord’s chest just enough to draw blood and threatened for him to stay down. The rage left the lord once again and Kaewyn took a breath and hoped that it was over for now.

Stumbling to his feet, Carlin emerged from the fallen table, barrel and mugs with a face of anger to match his father. He found his sword and came at Kaewyn at a fast walk. Yohren stepped in the way and blocked Carlin’s path.

“Drop your weapon or your father will die!” Kaewyn shouted, hoping his threat would find reason. He was completely unprepared to kill someone, even Lord Severus, in cold blood.

“OUT OF MY WAY PEASANT!” Carlin screamed as he attacked Yohren in full force.

Kaewyn immediately moved to assist and abandoned his hold over Lord Severus. He parried a blow meant for Yohren and then countered with a swing of his own. Carlin parried the blow swiftly, but he could not block Yohren’s attack at the same time. Carlin slumped to the floor and collapsed beside his brother. A pool of blood began to form him too, which quickly joined with that of his brother

“MY SONS! YOU KILLED MY SONS!” Lord Severus rose to his feet and charged them like a raging bear.

Kaewyn sidestepped and dodged out of the way, but Yohren was not so fortunate. Lord Severus grabbed him and fell on top of him. His hands quickly found Yohren’s throat.

“YOU KILLED MY SONS!” Severus repeated in a rage.

“Stop!” Kaewyn shouted at him, but Severus would not hear him. “STOP!”

Yohren began to struggle and Kaewyn could hear his choked voice through Lord Severus’ screams. Kaewyn knew there was no reaching him. He gripped the hilt of his blade and pushed the tip of his sword through Lord Severus’ back as hard as he could. His grip on Yohren released immediately as he rolled off of the olive-skinned young man and fell beside his two dead sons. He made no sound. His eyes were fixed on his sons as his own blood began to drench the floor. It was the quietest the tent had been since they had entered.

Yohren began to cough as he struggled to regain his breath. Kaewyn rushed over to him and helped him to his feet and asked him if he was okay. Yohren nodded that he was, and the two looked around the room. In the corner by the table, the other woman whom Kaewyn guessed was Lord Rhys’ wife was cowering in fear. Beside her Camilla also sheltered. Her hands were covered in blood, but she was doing her best to comfort the other woman.

“Camilla…” Kaewyn managed to get out. “You are safe now.”

“…Thank you Kaewyn.” Camilla said softly. “Come on Alina, we need to go.”

“I don’t want to move…” Alina replied with fear.

“Come on, It’s safe now. Kaewyn is a friend of mine.” Camilla said warmly. “You can trust him. He is one of Rhys’ close friends.”

The two of them wandered over to Kaewyn and Yohren being careful not to slip on any mugs or in any of the blood. Camilla deliberately stomped on Cassius’ limp hand as she passed his lifeless body.

“Are you both okay? Anyone hurt?” Kaewyn asked with concern.

“I’m okay…” Camilla replied as tears came to her eyes. She pressed herself up against him and rested her head on his chest. “Okay now, at least.”

“What you did…” Kaewyn said softly.

“Not now. Not here.” Camilla said through tears. “I don’t want to talk about it.”

Kaewyn wanted to press the issue. He had never seen Camilla act with such hate before. He had always known her as a calm, intelligent albeit sometimes cheeky young girl. He never pictured her being capable of doing such a thing, even considering the situation. Out of respect for her though, he decided it could wait a little longer.

Yohren walked over to Rhys’ wife and comforted her and made sure she was okay, checking her for wounds. “She seems to be alright. We should get them to Lord Rhys.”

“My husband is here?” She said meekly. “Please take me to him. Where is Rhys?”

“Lord Rhys is fighting Arlan outside, we need to stop the fight before one of them is killed.” Kaewyn said, gently pushing Camilla away from him. “We need something to prove Lord Severus has met his end.”

“If Lord Rhys sees you two safe, won’t that be enough?” Yohren added.

“Maybe, but proof of Severus’ demise is equally important.” Kaewyn explained. “Without it, I doubt the Oscuan troops will surrender.”

“What about his helmet?” Camilla said, pointing to a helmet resting on the bedside table. “That should be proof enough. He never left the tent without it.”

The helmet was very distinctive and ornate. It was adorned with twin long golden plumes and Kaewyn suspected it was made with famous Oscuan Province iron judging by the brown tinge of the metal.

“It’s certainly unique enough, his men are sure to recognise it.” Kaewyn said as he rushed over and took it into his hands. “Let’s go.”

Kaewyn emerged from the tent into the cold open air followed quickly by the others. He rushed to the edge of the wooden platform and saw to his relief that the duel was still on going. The two warriors looked tired but continued to battle each other as their respective soldiers cheered them on.

Kaewyn tossed Lord Severus’ helmet as hard as he could toward the duel. It flew through the air and landed and then rolled between the two men. Arlan and Rhys stared at the helmet for a few seconds and then up to Kaewyn in disbelief. The two forces immediately quietened down and a silence took hold. Arlan soon relaxed and began to breathe in heavily, but Rhys remained stiff. He looked up at Kaewyn and angrily threw his sword to the ground, realising he had been tricked and then fell to his knees. Kaewyn knew there was only one thing on Rhys’ mind, one thing that consumed his thoughts and only one sight that would grant him peace. Kaewyn then raised his hand and signalled. Camilla and Alina walked up beside him. The second he saw them, Rhys let out a cry and then began to sob. The Vinum Province troops began to cheer and were soon joined by Kaewyn’s men too. Captain Alaric shouted that they were victorious at the top of his lungs and all of the troops echoed his cry. Without a lord to lead them, the Oscuan Province troops would easily surrender or flee. Kaewyn finally allowed himself a moment to rest. The battle had been won.