laneys.info Beware of Yankees, drunks, and loose women.

As the warmth of the sun woke the army to a new day, Adgertesse’ cleaned up on the shoreline as Lericanin and Allaster joined her.

“Heard you had a little excitement last night,” Lericanin mentioned as he crouched and dipped his hand into the cool water.

“Yeah. Elven scout hovering over me as I slept. Probably wanted me to know that I could’ve been dead at any moment. Nice of him to refrain, I thought.”

He quietly nodded.

“I was thinking of keeping the sword so when the battle starts, we can make sure we get it to Kailee,” Allaster suggested as he washed his face and neck.

“Actually,” Adgertesse’ proposed. “Only two of us have the ability to get near her and Selyria is the healer. He’s going to keep his prize close to him. I’ll probably die in the attempt but, at least that gives you the chance to close with them as well as give her a fighting chance to end this thing.” She noticed her plan didn’t meet with much approval as they both eyed her sympathetically. Finally, Lericanin nodded.

* * *

In the latter afternoon, Lericanin called the group to the campsite and Tess could tell their captain was having doubts about his own survival of this battle as they all sat around the fire and eyed him. Along with the army of knights from the north, Darvin had rejoined the group also who had been a welcome sight among the core group in his tabard sporting the Golden Scepter colors.

“Tomorrow, this fight is going to be one of the largest that anyone’s ever been involved in or even read about. Don’t think that our past successes mean anything here because the enemy has wished our end and is going to bring their strength to finish it once and for all. Faith and dedication to each other as well as those we fight beside will be the only things that keep you alive. You’ve all been well trained and have gained experiences that most would only dream of. We have the tools, the heart and desire to see this through and if I fall tomorrow I wanted you all to know that I’m proud to have served with you,” Lericanin eyed them all in turn and Adgertesse’ finally realized she didn’t wish any of them to perish. They had homes and loved ones to return to and she hoped the best for each.

Sir Hanlen straightened. “It’s also been our honor and pleasure to fight alongside this group. Knowing what’s at stake, your friend that he’s taken and all the things you’ve had to endure, I’ll be glad to give my life to see it through.”

“Here, here,” Sir Adwen agreed as the monks also nodded.

“We’ve been honored to have you with us,” Lericanin smiled. “Few of the church have allowed themselves to be in our company because of the make-up of some of the members. I say it’s to their shame and loss for these people and all those who couldn’t fight with us tomorrow will be in our hearts and memory: Faer, Victor, Gunnar; they’ll be with us tomorrow and this is for them.”

A long, quiet pause filled the evening as Tess pondered the possible events of her part on the field. Another army from Lamar had arrived that day and would be escorting the group in the center of the army whose tents littered the field beyond the river on the eastern side.

“Tonight, the priests will be giving a sermon so, all those wishing to take part are welcome,” Lericanin informed.

She prepared her weapons and gear for the battle, remembering all the highlights of the past four years since she met Kailee in the forests west of Soderham and hadn’t been able to tear herself away since. As she finished up, the group trickled back with quiet determination in their faces. She watched Lericanin finish his own preparations and then lay down as Lita joined him. Knowing this could be her last night with them, she wished his warmth also and quietly lay on his other side. Listening to their soft breathing, she relaxed in the peace of the night and prayed that all went well tomorrow.