Salvation Earth

Arran was getting impatient with the soldiers who continually wanted to stop. He stood on a slight rise and gazed ahead. Even now he couldn’t see the keep although they were well over half way there. He looked back. The soldiers were still sitting on the verge, some asleep, about three leagues back. He walked back down to the road.

“I think we will go on without them, Razz. Why can’t they keep up? The road’s good!”

“Well, they have almost to run to keep up our pace,” replied Razzan.

“Unless we carry them, we will be late!” Arran stated impatiently. “Jordan and Vargen may have Elven back already and we will have missed everything.”

“You shouldn’t be so eager to kill, Arran. We are taught that it is the last refuge of the desperate.”

“Well, all right then. The others may be back at the keep and waiting.”

“That’s not what you meant Arran. So, what if they are? If they have made it back, then at least they are safe, and a little wait will not hurt them.”

“You’re right, Razz. I’m just being impatient as usual. I’ve been on edge ever since that last visit of Zeb’s. Something he said.”

“What is it. What is the matter?” enquired Razzan calmly.

“Nothing precise. I just felt he was trying to prepare us for something. I think he knew all along what was coming.”

“Why didn’t he just warn us?”

“Would you believe him? You always said that he was mad.”

“Point taken,” agreed Razzan

It was a peaceful night on the barge and warm enough. Jordan and Vargen awoke fully refreshed. After Vargen had eaten, they set off. The trail was not yet cold. The men they were after were careless and Elven had left what signs he could. Jordan knew that they would be crossing the border soon but had not brought a map and didn’t know the lands that they were heading into. The lands were flatter than their own and gave a good view ahead.

They did not travel at the furious pace of the day before as Vargen, unsurprisingly, had eaten far too much. Jordan knew that Elven’s captors would not have travelled far the afternoon before and would have camped the night. Even at this pace they expected to run into the camp within three hours. The two warriors eased up again, showing caution. They didn’t want to rush past Elven again or blunder into the camp.

Jordan stopped. “I smell smoke,” he exclaimed

Vargen sniffed the air. “I smell food!”

“Shut up. It’s their camp, that hollow to the right. It’s full of thick bushes, it’s the only place it could be.”

“You’re right,” said Vargen, suddenly getting serious. “You take the left and I’ll take the right.”

They fastened their cloaks and pulled the hoods over their heads. Stealthily, they crept towards the thicket. The cloaks were legendary. They were their prize possessions, being made from the hide of the rarely seen wild coney, one of the few remaining wild mammals left in the land and believed to have been hunted to extinction. However, the wild coney had evolved such amazing powers of camouflage that most men could walk right past one without noticing it. The warriors’ cloaks inherited this amazing power of camouflage. A warrior, laying on the ground with his cloak spread over him was almost invisible, even in dusty sparse areas of scrub. Most of the time the cloak was worn folded back until it met where it was fastened. The hood was split and worn like a collar. This protected the outside from wear and meant that outsiders rarely saw it. The colours were a mixture of gold and browns that shifted as the cloak moved. You could never quite focus on its surface. It was indeed the most beautiful piece of clothing, practical too, as it gave very good protection from the cold, making it an ideal sleeping bag.

The smell of smoke was strong as Jordan and Vargen entered the thicket. There was no other sign that anyone was there. After searching the area, they estimated eighty men had camped there.

“Two fires, both covered over,” said Jordan “and so warm it’s a wonder we didn’t see the last man walking out of camp!”

“Well, we’ve caught them up,” said Vargen. “Now what? I mean eighty men, we don’t have much chance of getting Elven from them now.”

“We might,” said Jarrad optimistically. “At night, we could sneak in and get him. He will only have a few guards. We will just have to follow, keep our eyes open and take the opportunity when it arises.”

“Maybe. We had better work out a good plan. Whereabouts do you think we are?”

“Well, I would say we are just over the border, about half way between the northern keep and the river keep.

“Just over the border and out of the way,” reflected Vargen. “This place is too well used. I bet they are here quite often. They use the barge regularly, don’t they?”

“No wonder they could move a raiding party around with little trace. They must know a lot about Cam as well,” Jordon supposed.

“But not about us, I suspect,” said Vargen grinning. “We must use that surprise to our advantage.”

“We did not prepare for a long journey,” said Jordan, changing the subject. “We must live off the land. We can’t leave a message for the others either as we don’t know the northern lands, we have no map.

“We could split up, you follow the trail and I’ll go back to the keep and get the others,” volunteered Vargen.

“The most important thing at this moment is to warn the others, above all else, that takes precedence. We can’t help Elven now. He will just have to hold out for a while longer, he’s made it this far. I doubt if they will kill him now. Their trail is so obvious that even without Elven’s signs, we will soon pick it up again. At least there will be enough of us to organise a proper battle, so we would have the advantage, no matter what the odds.” Jordan thought for a moment “We go together, we can’t split up. There is too much at stake to chance one of us getting caught or having an accident and not making it.”

The two men set a course west and made off. By mid-afternoon Vargen was complaining of hunger.

“You are supposed to be a warrior that can run for three days without food,” said Jordon, annoyed.

“I can. I eat just in case the three days start now! I wouldn’t want to start out on a three-day run having not eaten for two.”

“I don’t think we’ll ever see two days of you not eating. See that rise there? We will be able to see for miles - you can eat when we are at the top.”

So, they ran the last few leagues and stopped on the top of a range of small hills. Vargen promptly opened the food pack. “Shall we steam into this, or eek it out like we won’t eat again?” Ignoring Vargen, Jordan scanned the horizon with his twin scopes.

“There, look,” he said excitedly. “There it is, beyond that next range, just south of our course. Hurry up Vargen, you can eat on the move.”

“Rationed again,” said Vargen packing the supplies away “here’s your share, yes I see it”

“We should make that soon after dark if we hurry.”

“But it plays havoc with my digestion, eating on the move.”

“That’s because you eat far too much.”

It was a moonless night and they toiled in total darkness for the final two hours before arriving at the keep.

“Who’s there?” cried a guard from above.

“Haven warriors. Open up,” called out Vargen.

“What do you want?”

“We are here to meet our brothers.”

“How do we know who you are? You can stay out there for the night. These are troubled times and there are lots of queer folk abroad.”

“That’s why you should let us in,” ventured Vargen.

There was no reply from above.

“Great,” said Vargen, “bloody great, another unnecessary night cold and hungry.”

“Well, it looks like Arran’s not here yet. Come on, light a fire.”

The sun had almost touched the horizon when Arran decided to call a halt for the night.

“We are not going to make it tonight. Set up camp, Razz, post the watch and get those stragglers in.”

Arran was still pacing up and down by the time the fire was roaring.

“We are not getting anywhere fast. I find it so hard working with these soldiers.”

“Will you take it easy for a moment? We will be glad of their help soon enough, you’ll see,” put in Razzan.

The night passed without event and before dawn Arran had the soldiers up and ready. He made them march in a double column with his men either side and behind driving them on. The soldiers complained like hell but had no choice.

The guards on the Keep tower were still stamping the night’s damp out of their feet and were eager for their shift to finish, when they spotted Arran’s party. Vargen heard the shouting above and set off to meet them. Arran saw him coming and ran ahead.

“What news?” Arran cried even before they met.

“They still have Elven. They left the barge and met up with a small war party. About eighty men. They are moving north about twenty leagues east of here.”

“Damn,” cursed Arran. “Eighty men! Are they all well-armed?”

“I did say a war party, of course they are well-armed. Luckily, they seem to be undisciplined barbarians, no match for us.”

“Even so, the odds are too high. Nadine is going for help. We will just follow them for now and mark a trail for her.”

“They may have reached their main force by then.”

“It matters not. We will be a full combat unit and will take on anything,” Arran said proudly.

They walked on to the keep where Jordan was waiting.

“Bad luck Jordan, Worry not. We have a full combat unit on its way. We will get them.”

The soldiers eventually arrived and the Keep opened. Arran left instructions for Nadine with the captain and ordered him also to send word back to the baron for two divisions of reinforcements.

“Jordan, we leave in two hours. There’s no point in lingering here. We can still put a couple of leagues behind us before dusk. Have everybody ready.”

“Do you think the baron will send men?” asked Razzan as they marched away from the keep.

“I don’t know, maybe not, but I think it will be Snade’s decision. I’ve a feeling that he will wait for more intelligence before committing any men,” answered Arran.

“So, he can sacrifice us first?” questioned Razzan.

“Exactly, I would not trust that man with anything. We will stick to our plans and we won’t rely on Snade’s men.”

Arran was pleased to be rid of the soldiers. Now they could travel at a fair pace. There was no need to run now, they just had to trail Elven’s captors, lay a trail for Nadine and wait for reinforcements.

Elven was not doing so well. He could not understand how he kept to his feet or why this was happening. The pain had gone. The tiredness had gone. Everything had gone. Elven was barely aware of his surroundings. He was being pushed and pulled everywhere and could no longer leave his sign. His mind retreated to within, no longer concerned with his survival. He slowly and heavily marched on, led by a chain around his neck. That night Elven was once more kept on his feet. He was not aware of the comings and goings of the barbarians but kept seeing cat faces and heard voices in his head. He thought that he must have been dreaming.

Nadine reached home that night. The warriors kept on going. Jarrad promised that they would be back in a few days.

“Nadine!” her mother called, as she entered the yard. She hugged her daughter tightly. Her brother ran up to join them. “The guards told us you were back, but at such a late hour.”

“Yes, I am sorry. There is trouble coming.”

“You must be tired and hungry, I’ll stir up the fire. Mother, fetch some broth, we will heat it up. You can then tell us your news.”

“You’re freezing, Naddy”, her mother said, concerned. “Get in front of that fire. I’ll get some water on as well. A good hot bath will do you the world of good. Hal, don’t just stand there, you should have got that fire going by now and got the broth. Do I have to do everything?”

“But Nadine has news.”

“No news is good news, that’s what I says. Anyways ’twill keep ’till she’s warm, fed and rested. There’s no good in telling a tale on an empty stomach.”

Hal looked as if he might explode, turned and stormed off.

Nadine had not been fussed over for some time. “Thank you, mother,” she whispered, smiling. She snuggled into the rugs in front of the fire and fell fast asleep. It was in the early hours that she awoke finding herself quite uncomfortable. The fire was still blazing. Adjusting her eyes to its glare, she became aware of someone sitting in the shadows.

“I let you sleep, you needed it,” said her brother. He pushed a pot back on the fire. “Mother went to bed. I have been waiting to hear about the troubles you speak of.”

“You are so patient, Hal.”

“Have some bread and soup first.”

Nadine told him her tale between mouthfuls. He sat there quietly listening and refrained from asking questions until she had finished.

“So, the baron wants our food, does he?”

“It’s not his fault, he’s out of his depth. Even if all-out war does not come, he will be lucky to survive economic hardships, famine and overcrowding. The town is filling with refugees. He is only doing what he can to help people survive.”

“Well that’s a first,” spat Hal.

“He’s got to do something, he can’t ignore it. You should have seen the town, it was a mad house.”

“Fit for a madman, I’d say. How come you are so supportive of this madman?”

“Because there is probably another insane madman around the corner that makes him look like a saint. It’s time you forgot old quarrels. The baron can’t stand alone against what’s coming. Nor can any of us. We must all pull together. He is the only stability these lands have ever had. Right or wrong, we can’t lose that. We need to send a strong force to meet Arran. It might be enough to stop a full-scale war if we act now with strength.”

“Maybe you’re right. Anyway,” Hal said, changing the subject, “the sowing is done. There is nothing else urgent until harvest, just repairs and maintenance. We could comfortably send half our force if not more.”

“Then do it, Hal. Do it. Jarrad will be back in three days with a hundred warriors.”

“A hundred! Whew they won’t need us, they could win a war on their own.”

“Hal, please take this seriously, I don’t think you realise just what we are up against.”

“We will match their numbers. I will go with them.”

“No need. I will return with them.”

“You cannot go, Nadine. It is too dangerous.”

“My man is there, Hal. I will not sit here and wait. If anything happens, I want to be with him.”

“You’re in charge then. May God go with you.”

Hal spent the next two days picking and equipping his men. He checked the food supplies and worked out how much he would donate to Cam. They could not afford to give away any, but they were not starving. With the men training for combat, Hal had little else to do. He went into the house. Nadine and their mother had finished packing the supplies and were drinking a little wine in the kitchen.

“Hal, can’t you talk her out of it?”

“No, mother, she’s a big girl now.”

“We have prepared some soup for tomorrow when Jarrad and his men return,” said Nadine. “They will need to stay the night.”

“Yes, I’ve cleared a barn for them. It’s warm and dry, the best we can do.”

The next day went far too slowly far Nadine’s liking. With everything done, she just kept looking for Jarrad to appear.

“You must take it easy,” said her mother. “You need rest. You will find excitement soon enough.”

“I know, I know, but I want to get back to Arran. He’s heading north right now and the longer I wait, the further away he gets. I might never be able to catch him.”

“I’m sure you will, my dear. Jarrad has to catch him, does he not?”

Hal came in carrying a small sword in a jewel-studded scabbard. “I want you to have this. It was our father’s when he was a boy.

“Hal, what are you thinking? Do you expect her to take part in combat?”

“I don’t know. She’s tough enough, but I think I would feel happier if she had it with her.”

“Thank you, Hal. I had one to take anyway, but this is wonderful, I’ve not seen it for years. It’s far better than the clumsy old blade I was taking.”

Nazine and Maleen looked down from the terrace. They had taken a break from tending the crop. Down below Jarrad was waving his arms and bellowing orders. Men were coming out of the armoury with weapons.

“There’s something going on, Naz.”

“I told you no good would come. You see if I was, not right?

“I don’t think this is our fault,” puzzled Maleem.

“No. It’s Gemma’s. Have you seen her since Gem’s been away?” bitched Nazine.

“For God’s sake, Naz, I do believe you really are jealous. I think there’s more going on than what you can see under your nose. This looks like a general call to arms.”

“I wouldn’t know. I’ve never seen one before.”

“Quite, before your time, was it?” poked Maleen.

“That’s right. I’m not as old as you.”

“How do we know? You were born before records began.”

“What records? Look out.” Warned Nazine.

“What are you two looking at?” asked Gemma as she sauntered over.

“What are you doing up here?” asked Nazine.

“I thought I might find some fresh bean shoots.”

“You know that’s not allowed. We are supposed to let them grow to maturity.”

“Oh, don’t be so mean, a few won’t hurt. I’m fed up with the tough old ones, especially when they are dried. I’d like something nice for a change,” protested Gemma.

“I bet you would,” poked Nazine.

“And what do you mean by that? asked Gemma.

“Shut up you two,” interrupted Maleem. “I want to know what’s going on below.”

“Oh, it’s just silly old men stuff. They’re all hooping about war,” stated Gemma.

“There’s nothing silly about war, Gemma,” said Maleem.

“There’s trouble coming. I told you no good would come,” said Nazine.

“I wouldn’t let it trouble you, let the men handle it. It’s what they are for,” suggested Gemma.

“You’d leave it all to men if you could, wouldn’t you,” added Nazine.” They have their uses.”

“I bet they have. And I bet you make the most of them.”

“Just because they don’t look at you, my dear, there’s no need for jealousy. See you later, go back to your digging.”

“Oh. Oh, that bitch.”

“She’ll get her just dues, just you wait and see,” reassured Maleem.

It was just before dusk when Jarrad’s company tramped into the compound, tired and hungry. Hal and Nadine were on the steps.

“What a sight,” said Nadine, relieved. “So different from the supply train last week, they look fierce and threatening.”

The company was heavily armed, and it showed. There were pikes, spears with flags on, pointed helms and shields, all brightly coloured with their own family arms and protective spirits. A sight not seen by Nadine before or anyone else for as long as could be remembered.

“Our men will look a little dull alongside this lot. Have we not got any pointy helms?” mused Nadine.

“Our men are as bright in spirit,” replied Hal. “This is what Haven warriors live for.”

“Thank goodness they are on our side.”

“Yes, I pity all that stand against them. There is not a match in all the lands. Now you can see why I was not too worried by your tale. No one can defeat these lads, they are the best,” said Hal proudly.

Jarrad clanked up the steps, weapons jangling.

How magnificent he looks, thought Nadine, the pointed helm with mail hanging round it, metal plates covering his shoulders, chest and back, broadsword at his side, saffron tunic, a wire standing on each shoulder mounted with his flags. It was important for group commanders to be easily seen during battles. Hmm, Arran would look even more magnificent.

“Greetings Hal, Nadine,” said Jarrad.

“Greetings, Jarrad. I have your men billeted in a barn, the will be warm and comfortable enough. Nourishment will be provided. I will have them shown the way,” Hal informed.

“I thank you for your hospitality at such short notice. But things look grim, we can’t spare any time for niceties, we must be away at first light. I fear a race is on.”

“Aha, always the gloomy one, Jarrad. It is the least I can do. Besides, things cannot be so grim. I was just saying to Nadine that there is no one in all the lands that can stand up to you.”

“Not at equal odds.”

“Even at ten to one most would have trouble.”

“Jarrad, tell him,” interrupted Nadine. “He won’t take it seriously. He could send more men, but he will not.”

“I’m sending fifty of our best fighters. I don’t think more men are necessary now. We are after three men or perhaps a raiding party.”

“But Hal, these people mean business, they are serious. They are above-average, fearsome fighters and may exist in far greater numbers than we can handle. Some of the northern houses have been destroyed. The baron does not know who they are or what to do about it. If they are not stopped, they will be here given time.”

“I see,” said Hal. “You think there really is a chance that we could be overrun? Things have been so stable for generations that it’s hard to believe.”

“The sooner you believe it the better. Be prepared to throw in everyone able to fight. Plan for the worst, be ready.”

“A bit extreme, Nadine, but she has a point, Hal. It pays to be ready.”

“Women are such worriers, always look on the negative. But you do have a point. We have too much to lose and would never recover. I’ll get to work tomorrow. We will increase and improve our arms and stiffen our defences. Train up all our able-bodied men.”

“And women,” said Jarrad, eyeing Nadine.

“We should have built up our defences long ago.”

“I wouldn’t worry about your defences,” said Jarrad. “If the barbarians get this far, you won’t be able to stop them. We must meet them at Cam. All of us, in one big army. It will be the biggest these lands have ever seen.”

“Let’s hope it will be enough,” said Hal. “I never thought it was so serious.”

“We will know in a few days I think, but start preparing. What I have seen so far suggests the worst. Goodnight Hal, Nadine.”

“Goodnight.”

“Goodnight. I am going to have supper and go straight to bed,” Said Nadine. “We will have an early start and a long march tomorrow.”

It was still dark as the men formed columns in the compound. The men clinked and clanked as they got into line.

“They are doing it deliberately,” thought Jarrad. “Our small plates of armour are all backed with leather and all weapons should be secured to the person. They would never sneak up on anyone like this, but it does encourage them to let off a little steam and make some noise.”

Jarrad walked to the head of the column. The gates were already open and through them he could see the faintest glimmer of light on the horizon as the mist lifted. The barrows were loaded high and heavy.

“All correct and ready to go, Jarrad,” reported Argot, at the head of the column. “We now have four barrows of supplies. They should see us through four weeks.”

“Move them out, Argot,” ordered Jarrad.

Looking down the line he saw Nadine and Hal approach. Nadine was all done up in her own battledress, and not looking at all feminine, apart from her trim figure and the use of some soft colours.

“Leave some for us to fight, Nadine.”

“You can have all you like, Jarrad. I shan’t fight unless I have to.”

Hal walked through the gates with them.

“Once we have full intelligence, we will send you word, Hal. Farewell.”

“Goodbye Jarrad, Nadine, take care.”

“Bye Hal. Don’t worry, we have been alerted in time, maybe we can stop this before it gets out of hand.”

Hal stood and watched the column fade into the dark as the eastern horizon grew more and more golden.

Later that morning, Arran’s group picked up Elven’s trail and turned north. Arran looked at a sign. “That’s not Elven’s, that’s one of ours,” Jordan pointed out. “Elven’s signs ceased twenty leagues back before you joined the trail. We never found any indication of violence or his body, so we assume he is still alive. He may be heavily guarded or bound.”

“Let’s hope so. I am going to send Maleen to scout. We will move fast, catch up and study them. I would like to take this opportunity to learn all we can about them. May the Gods help them if anything has happened to Elven,” said Arran, showing concern.

Arran’s group doubled up their pace. The mood was grim. No one had any idea where all this would lead, let alone if they would ever rescue Elven.

The following day they found a campsite, perhaps a day old, but still no sign from Elven. They quickly moved on.

“We are moving deeper and deeper into unknown territory,” said Vargen. “We are not on our own ground any longer.”

Just before dusk, Maleen jumped out from behind some rocks and waved his hand. Before you could blink, everyone had melted into the ground. Those with cloaks could not be seen at all. Maleen came back to Arran. “Guards. Just over this ridge, settled in a grassy knoll,” he explained, pointing up the rise. “They have stopped early and they’re not too careful about keeping watch. They may be meeting another group and confident they are far enough away not to have been followed. We must keep a careful watch. They have guards along the ridge although there are not many, and they are not very alert.”

“You have done well,” praised Arran.

Later during the night, just before dawn, Arran, Maleen and Jordan slipped past the guards without any difficulty. They crossed the ridge and scrambled along the hollow. Silently and slowly they crept to the edge of the camp, past more dozing guards. There were many fires and people sleeping everywhere.

“Are we going in, Arran?” whispered Jordan.

“No, I don’t think we should risk it. There are too many of them. I wouldn’t want to fight my way out of here if I could avoid it. Let’s move around the camp and see if we can spot Elven. Maleen, make a note of their numbers.”

The three men moved carefully along the edge of the camp. Near the far side, Maleen tapped Arran and pointed. There in the middle of a group of large tents, tied to a stake was Elven. He was being jabbed with staffs by two guards who were really enjoying themselves.

“They won’t let him sleep,” said Arran. “It’s torture. They are not harming him, they must have a use for him. He will be all right for the time being, but we can’t get him out of there now.”

“We can’t just leave him,” protested Jordan.

“It’s too big a risk. We would have to fight our way out and carry him at the same time. I don’t think we would succeed.”

“For the God’s sake, Arran, we must do something. I can’t let him suffer like this.” Jordan was understandably upset.

“He doesn’t know what’s going on now. Don’t worry we will get him back. We must organise an advantage for ourselves. Will you try to keep control of your emotions, Jordan? Let’s get back.”

Soon after dawn, Vargen came over to Arran and said, “they are breaking camp. There was a beacon in the west during the night. I think it was what they were waiting for. They are sure to meet up.”

“It must be another raiding party. They must have crossed the border on the far side of our watch tower.”

“So, the group is getting larger. We will never get Elven.” Jordan’s concern was growing by now. He was desperate to relieve Elven of his torture.

“We will follow if we need to and await our ideal opportunity. Find out where they come from and how strong they are. It is important information anyway and that’s partly what we are here for. We have a large force moving up. We must be prepared to lead them, have a plan and be organised. We had better break camp then,” Arran said, reassuring his men.

By late afternoon, the raiding party appeared and joined Elven’s captors amid cries and whoops. Meanwhile Arran, Maleen and Jordan got as close as they could.

“Look, there’s more grain,” said Jordan.

This second group looked much as the first. Fierce, wild and undisciplined. Many of them were men dressed as animals and were led by cat-faced men.

“This lot give me the creeps,” said Jordan.

“I think that’s the general idea,” said Arran. “Don’t let it get to you. They are a rabble, keep that in mind.”

“Well, I am getting more and more uneasy. We start off following three men, and here we are looking at a bloody army. I don’t like it.” Jordan was visibly agitated.

“No one is asking you to like it. Anyway, who the hell do you think was carrying out all those raids?” Arran was keen to point out that the men they saw before them, although dangerous, had to be overcome at all costs.

“I know, but to see them is something else and I’m not sure I want to know.”

“At least we have found them. We can keep an eye on them. That was our second objective. We are achieving something, Jordan. We knew this was not going to be easy.”

“Look!” exclaimed Maleen. “Several fights have broken out. Is it some form of greeting?”

A wolf head appeared to be in charge, he was surrounded by cat masks who, were beating down the other group with sticks. The beaten group were soon prostrate on the ground.

“It looks like a form of domination, to show who is in charge. They seem to be contesting the leadership.”

“Wow. They really are like animals,” amazed Maleen.

“I don’t think Elven’s lot have been on a raid. Just spying. This second party is far more heavily armed. Look at the number of bearers with them,” said Jordan.

“Yes, I see them now. They must be slaves I would guess,” said Arran. “You’re right, though. There are a lot of them, I didn’t realise. Look, they have only just finished coming over the hill, and they have more barrows. Grain, I’ll wager. There can’t be any left north of Cam.”

“We’ve got to stop them. This is only part of their army. If only our support were here we could finish this lot tonight,” said Maleen eagerly.

“Well, it’s not and we must wait until it is. Don’t dwell on ‘if only’. Let’s get back.” Arran turned away, “Jordan, how do you think we’d best face them when the time comes?”

Jordan weighed up the options thoughtfully as they walked back to where the others were making camp in a dry gully. They had cleverly pulled up bushes at the entrance and could not be seen.

Jordan smiled at Arran, “Attack them all at once, I should think. No seriously, looking at their lack of organisation, I doubt if they fight in formation as a team. They are fearsome fighters, no doubt. Now, we are trained in formation combat as well as single combat. In the right location, a wall of us could hold an infinite number of them, well at least until our strength gave out. With their present numbers, we might stand a chance, but we need to pick the right location.”

“You are half way there.” Arran agreed, pleased to see that Jordan was back on form. “Location is indeed everything, and timing. We must not be tempted to charge straight in, we must pick the right location. Secondly, the right time. I think that when they are on the march, we could hit and run. Take them by surprise, do as much damage as possible without losing too much ourselves. An ambush perhaps, when they are strung out. They won’t be ready. At least not the first or maybe the second time.”

“Yes, we could cut off the tail of the column. Hold off the main party while some of us finish off the stragglers, then retreat. That would make them get a move on,” enthused Jordan. “Then we could hit the front of the column, perhaps as it came over a rise. By the time the whole column was aware of us, we could be away, then whenever they moved through a narrow valley we could hit them from both sides. We would pick them off and wear them down.”

“That’s the idea. We can do it, but I want to look a bit further ahead. What happens when it’s all-out war? asked Arran.

“Well, we would have the baron’s men and all the great houses. The Houses’ soldiers are better men than the baron’s. We can soon train them in formation combat. If we can meet the enemy while they move, if possible, rather than letting them get into position, we may have a chance. If we attack and retreat, they are bound to chase. Then we cut them off, holding back the main force while the baron’s men deal with the cut of barbarians. That would be best for them. What worries me is what they might do if faced with huge numbers of those barbarians. Run, I would think.”

“Good, Jordan. Same plan on a bigger scale. So, let’s look ahead some more. For that plan to work at its best we need to know more, like how big an army they have altogether, where their main base is, which trails they are likely to use, and what their main purpose is. Surely, they don’t need such huge supplies of grain for themselves? Grain and stores have been going from all over the baron’s northern lands for months.”

“Right, but I have no idea. There must be more to this.” Jordan nodded.

“Then that makes this a reconnaissance mission, not a rescue mission. We must put all emotion for Elven aside.”

“So, that was what you were leading up to. We are to abandon Elven?” asked Jordan.

“Not abandon. We may get a chance to rescue him but not if it jeopardises our priorities. We must find out where their home base is and what they are up to, at all costs, then get as large an army trained and up here ready.”

“You mean start the war ourselves,” said Maleen who had wandered up. “Sounds like a good idea to me. We will fight it on our own terms.”

“I think they have as good as already started it,” said Arran. “We don’t normally start wars ourselves, but it’s only a matter of time before they completely overrun us. They may be massing their forces even as we speak.”

“Well, I doubt if they are going to go away.”

“No, but at least we have a plan to sleep on. Goodnight,” said Arran and he…

Nadine and Jarrad marched into Cam amidst cheers and trumpets. The whole town was trying to get a look at them. The march had been reduced to a slow stumble through the crowd. It was a while before the baron’s soldiers got the crowd under control and cleared a path for the two of them.

“I’ve never seen the likes of this,” said Jarrad, “the people living in town have always cowered away from us in the past.”

“They are desperate people, Jarrad. We are their only hope. You see, if we defeat the barbarians, the townies will go back to being suspicious and wary of us again. It’s just that we are not their biggest fear at this very moment.”

Kai Snade, the baron’s minister, met Nadine and Jarrad at the keep. “Welcome, although I don’t have much of a welcome, I’m afraid. The whole town is full and we cannot put you up anywhere.”

“That’s fine with us. We will camp outside the north gate and set off at dawn,” Jarrad said, relieved just to have arrived.

“Good, I am sending one hundred and fifty men with you. We lost another great house while you were away. A strong one, too. I can’t ignore this any longer. I don’t think these northern barbarians are going to go away. If you can deal with them now, then do it,” said Snade, unable to mask his concern.

“That makes sense,” said Jarrad, “but we still don’t know what we are up against. Let’s hope Arran has found out more. If the opportunity arises we will defeat the barbarians or die in the attempt.”

“Captain Hendra here will be at your disposal. He will command my men, pick up the others we sent to the keep, giving you the best part of two hundred men. They will be some of our best fighters.”

“That makes close on three fifty in all. Nothing will stand in our way. Captain, we depart at first light. Pray don’t be late.”

“We will be there,” said Hendra and saluted.

Jarrad was in no mind to stand talking to the slimy Snade, so marched his men on through the jumble of houses towards the northern gate.

The morning came with an eerie glow in the east that slowly brightened to a warm orange. The warriors were moving around in the half-light packing their kit when the soldiers arrived.

Jarrad met the captain. “Well done, Captain Hendra, an early turnout.”

“Jarrad, these are the best of our men. All handpicked and sworn to me. We will serve you to the best of our ability. Although we know they are not as good as your warriors, they are loyal and will do their best.”

“We will need them to do just that before this is through. We are about ready. Let’s go. Torran, order the march.”

The warriors merged together and proceeded along the northern road, flowing in natural rhythm. The soldiers followed at a hurried shuffle.

The three days on the road to the tower were uneventful, apart from meeting refugees heading to Cam. Jarrad tried to get information from them, but none seemed to have seen the enemy, they were fleeing before they were attacked. This road was well-travelled with soldiers and men from the great houses, so it was quite safe. The barbarians seemed to avoid it because of this. There was still an inn open about half way along to the keep. It was now doing a roaring trade. The inn was seemingly unimportant to the enemy who, had left this vulnerable little building alone. The keep was not large enough for them to stay in and all had to camp outside.

It was long after dawn before the party set off the next day. Their numbers grew, now joined by the soldiers from the northern keep. Day after day they pushed north, travelling at a frustratingly slow pace for the warriors’ liking. The road was no more, not even a trail this far north.

At about midday, the barbarians’ camp finally packed up and lumbered away. The warriors followed annoyed at the enemy’s agonisingly slow pace. Day after day, they pushed further and further north, deeper and deeper into unknown territory, although the landscape was slightly flatter, it was little different to their own.

“Do you think they know we are following?” asked Razzan. “They could be leading us anywhere.”

“Come on, Razz. It will take smarter men than these to spot us and we have been travelling directly north, if you had been paying attention, not going in circles. No, these barbarians have finished for now; they are going home. They are well into their land and probably won’t even be looking for anyone now.”

“We would most certainly have seen a scout party. They may have lookout posts this far into their land. Two men on a platform high in some thick bushes would not have been seen by us.”

“You worry too much. We just have to take that chance,” said Arran.

It was on the fourth day that Nadine and Jarrad reached the keep.

“Better late than never,” said Nadine.” They’ve seen us on the tower.”

“If Arran’s still here, he will come out otherwise Captain Hendra can get them to open up.”

“They won’t be here for hours yet,” said Nadine. “Anyway, we can’t all fit in there, we must camp here.”

“We are probably scaring the life out of them. Perhaps we should surround the walls and shout and scream,” amused Jarrad.

“Stop it, Jarrad. It’s not funny.”

“No sense of humour, women.”

Everyone got busy. The fires were lit first, then the tents erected. By the time the soldiers came marching in, proudly putting on as good a show as possible but still a shamble, the warriors had finished a meal and were relaxing. Captain Hendra called for the gates to be opened and the soldiers filed in. Nadine and Jarrad followed. The commander of the keep welcomed them and apologised for not coming out to meet them, explaining that they looked far more fearsome than the Haven warriors he had seen before and that he could not be too careful. He volunteered his spare men to go with them. The commander offered Nadine a room, but she declined, preferring to camp with the warriors.

In the morning, the group set off again following Arran’s trail. The next few days were quiet. They were in strange lands and took time to plot maps of their progress as they went. Many days passed until eventually they were met by Jordan on watch. He led them on into camp. Nadine spotted Arran at once and ran up to him, throwing her arms around his neck and hugging him tightly. They kissed hungrily, oblivious to anyone around them.

“I’ve missed you. Thank the Gods you’re safe,” whispered Nadine.

“We’ve done nothing but follow Elven’s captors. We believe that he is still alive. There is a town in a hollow over in the next valley, the raiders have him there”.

Jarrad appeared at their side. “When do we attack?”

“Tomorrow, before we are seen. The town is in a dip against a half circle of cliffs. There is only one way in or out, so we must be careful.”

The new arrivals set up camp and everyone had supper. This time there was no merrymaking or fires and little conversation. Arran called in the warriors and briefed them on the plan for attack.

“We will watch the place for a while, see if we can work out their movements. We will attack at dawn. A basic plan, I know, but it’s our best chance given the circumstances.”

“I urge some caution,” said Jarrad. “We should get an idea of the size of the garrison, where it is and how to take it before charging in.”

“Maybe, but an early surprise attack can be just as effective as a little knowledge. We will decide on the exact moment after we have looked at the place. Let’s turn in for now, we need as much rest as possible,” said Arran.

Not long after the camp had settled down, there was a commotion as several people entered camp noisily. The warriors, fearing it could not be one of their own, leapt to their feet and grabbed weapons. Arran came rushing across camp to see the watch stumbling into camp, supporting a sorry figure who was barely able to walk, between them. As they approached, Arran saw that it was Elven. He was unable to stand unaided and stared blankly ahead.

“By the Gods,” he exclaimed. “Elven! How did you get away?”

Elven could not answer and seemed unaware of the question or even where he was.

“Was he alone?” asked Arran

“Yes, he just walked up to us and collapsed,” replied Malone.

“Get a fire going and get some hot food into him. Let me know the moment he says anything.”

“How could he have possibly escaped, let alone found us in his condition?” said Nadine having just arrived. “They wouldn’t just let him go, would they?”

“Perhaps it was a mistake by his captors. And to find our camp he just headed south,” suggested Arran.

“South! He doesn’t even know what day it is.”

“Well, he is safe now and that’s all that matters. Tomorrow we will wipe out their town without the worry of Elven being a hostage.”

“So, simple, is it? Said Nadine crossing her arms. Are you blind, Arran? Something is very wrong here. They must know that we are here. We might be surrounded right now.”

“I assure you that we are not. We would know about it. If it helps, I will send out more scouts to probe a bit further out. I am not going to be taken in by unusual events just because we don’t understand them.”

“Well, I’ve got a nasty feeling about this. Something tells me it’s not going to be all that simple. Be extra careful, Arran.”

The camp was bustling a long time before dawn. The excitement could be felt. Little breakfast was had. Few could eat, although Vargen managed to put away double rations. The men assembled in prearranged order. Razzan, Jarrad, Vargen and Arran were to go ahead to clear the way.

Arran walked with pride as he inspected his line of warriors, checking that confidence and eagerness shone through their eyes. Not one set of eyes held fear. He informed them all that he would lead ahead with Razzan, Jarrad and Vargen to ensure the way was safe. They would leave within the next 15 minutes. He ordered his men to be at ease and use the time to check their weapons. Arran and his three comrades turned from the assembly.

“Let’s give Elven one last try before we set off,” said Arran.

They marched over to the tent that Elven was in and entered.

“Elven, we are going to attack the town now,” said Arran.

Elven sat up, blank faced and said, “No, not yet. It’s too early.”

“Too early?” repeated Vargen. What does he mean by that? I want to get this over by lunch time.”

“It’s the best time to attack,” said Razzan.

Arran watched him for a moment, and then said, “When Elven?”

“After the garrison leaves this morning on exercise. The town will almost defenceless,” said Elven, his face still blank and unemotional and showing no signs of awareness of those around him. “You will see them leave from the ridge over the approach road.”

“Well done, Elven,” said Vargen. “You hear that, Arran? He may have saved the day.”

“Maybe. How do you know this, Elven?”

“I just know. It is their way.”

“Come with us and show us.”

“Yes, I will.”

They all marched off, signalling everyone to move.

“It’s funny how Elven suddenly came to life,” Nadine said to Arran, “when he looked almost dead. He still looks sort of blank.”

“He hasn’t slept for ages. How do you think you would look? What do you expect?”

“I tried to touch his mind and detected nothing. Arran, he’s not in there.”

“That’s not funny, Nadine.”

“No, but it’s accurate. It’s more than tiredness. Something is very wrong with him, and I think it could have disastrous results for us today. I don’t like it, Arran.”

“Nadine, at times you are such a worrier. We have everything under control.”

“Yes, if everything is as you see it. But something is blocking his mind. Perhaps even controlling it.”

“Nonsense.”

“Look, why is it you brag to your drunken friends about my powers and threaten to set the mind witch on them? Then at important moments, useful times you totally dismiss me when I could be of use.”

“Nadine, what do you want me to do? Call off the attack.”

“Well, no.”

“What then?”

“I don’t know. Where’s your famous logic? Use the information available to you and formulate a plan. That’s what you are always telling me.”

“Logic. OK, we press on with the attack. We know the layout of the town. Geographically, our plan stands. But what I will do is hold back half of our force, well-hidden back from the ridge. Just a couple of warriors, on the ridge, watching over us. If the garrison does leave town, we won’t need everybody anyway, then if we get into trouble they can come to our rescue. We may then take the enemy from both sides. So, I shall put two men at the flagpole in the square. If we get into trouble they will lower the flag. This shall be the signal for the others to attack. And you, Nadine, will remain with the reserve, that’s an order. That should cover everything.”

“Very logical. But there is one thing bothering me, though.”

“Go on.”

“Well, now that we have Elven back, why are we attacking the town? It is only going to lead to more trouble.”

“Come on, Nadine. These barbarians have destroyed many great houses.”

“You have no direct evidence of that.”

“How many marauding armies have you seen passing through our lands?”

“There has been enough damage done. There could be several armies from anywhere.”

“Well, they are not that common. These people have been up to no good.”

“So, you are going to destroy them out of logic not evidence,” said Nadine.

“If you like, yes. Look, Nadine, logic is somewhere between a guess and hard evidence. A guess is usually emotionally influenced because of total lack of evidence, whereas logic is the power of deduction, using probability not emotion. It is a cold decision based on likelihood, not how you feel it might happen. That is where you start to listen to your fears and be controlled or influenced by them. You have to totally dismiss your emotions.”

“Well, that puts paid to women’s intuition then, doesn’t it? Anyway, I can’t be thinking about killing people without being emotional.”

“But that’s the whole point. How many times do I have to explain this to a woman? It’s not just your judgement, but it could put your life at risk. The enemy will not hesitate to kill you. You hesitate for a moment and it could be your last. Women should stay at home in the kitchen.”

“That,” screamed Nadine, “is a typical male reaction, and dare I say totally illogical.”

“I’m sorry, Nad,” said Arran throwing his arms around her. “You know I didn’t mean that. You know the warriors treat their women as equals. All the women are trained alongside the men.”

“Yes, but deep down you have the same prejudices as all men,” she said shrugging his arms off. “Well, you are stuck with me. As a princess of the house of Jarsad-Malkem, and in support of the unity of our tribes. I have more say and importance than just your woman. Don’t you forget that.”

“Nad, I respect your position and love you dearly. I did not mean it. I value your opinion, but sometimes you confuse me. And I cannot afford to be confused now.”

“Well, try not to be so narrow-minded. You are probably right. These people have been up to no good. They have brought in large amounts of grain. We have a good idea where that came from, they don’t look the farming type. And we cannot let them get away with it. But I still have an uneasy feeling. You must look at every possibility before destroying a town. For your own sake if not theirs.”

“Yes, yes with this plan we have a safeguard. We cannot walk into a trap. But you stay with the reserve.”

“All right, I don’t really care for them, I just worry for you. The plan looks sound, let’s do it.