Chapter 423: We’re Taking The First Blood
The morning sun crept slowly over the horizon, its soft light illuminating the battlefield. The first rays of light touched the glinting armor and weapons of both armies, who stood ready for the first major clash of the war. Tension hung thick in the air, a palpable force that settled heavy in everyone’s chest. Lyan stood silently, taking in the sight of his troops preparing themselves. His elite forces, hardened by years of experience and bonded by a shared purpose, waited for his command. Wilhelmina and the Valkyries stood beside him, their expressions hard and determined, each knowing the gravity of the coming battle.
Across the field, Varzadian forces moved with practiced precision, their commanders shouting orders as they readied themselves for an advance. They were confident, eager to push deeper into Astellian territory, and Lyan could see the arrogance in the way they moved. They thought they had the upper hand, that this would be the first of many victories. Lyan was determined to prove them wrong.
Abraham emerged from the tree line, moving swiftly towards Lyan. His face was set in a grim expression, his eyes sharp as he approached. He moved with the grace of a predator, his steps silent, even on the uneven ground. There was a hardness to his eyes that spoke of urgency, a quiet resolve that Lyan knew all too well.
"Milord," he said, his voice low, "there’s something you need to know. There’s a group of Varzadian soldiers moving around our defenses. They’re trying to flank us."
Lyan’s brow furrowed as he processed the information. It wasn’t unexpected, but it complicated things. He turned to Wilhelmina and the Valkyries, his gaze steady. "We have an unknown force trying to flank us. Abraham, I want you to take a small group to intercept them. They could be bait, trying to draw our attention away from the main battle. Be cautious."
Abraham nodded, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Understood. We’ll handle it." He turned and swiftly moved back towards the tree line, his form almost melting into the shadows as he gathered a small group of scouts and light infantry, quickly briefing them on their task.
Lyan watched as Abraham gathered his men, his heart pounding in his chest. He turned his focus back to the battlefield, his eyes narrowing as he watched the Varzadian troops shifting into position. The wind was still, the only sound the rustle of armor and the low murmur of orders being given. The tension grew with each passing second, a pressure that seemed to build until it was almost unbearable.
Wilhelmina stepped closer, her eyes meeting Lyan’s. "What’s the plan?" she asked, her voice calm but tinged with anticipation.
"We stick to the strategy," Lyan said, his gaze focused. "Our archers will target their front lines, and we hold our ground until they make a move. If they want to take these ridges, they’re going to have to pay dearly for it."