Chapter 27 – Bloodthirsty Assassin
The battlefield fell into tense silence. The commoners, led by William, stood motionless, awaiting his signal. Jayce's voice rang out once more, slicing through the stillness:
—"I don't believe I need to remind you that there are no rules on the battlefield. Protect your own heads. You may begin."
The eight groups of nobles charged toward the center, where the flag fluttered, forming a human tide intent on overwhelming everything in their path. However, as they drew within about fifty meters of their target, the situation ground to a halt. Their proximity bred distrust; they feared a backstab and began negotiating.
—"Drakenwald proposes an alliance!" one of their leaders shouted. "Virelia, join us and we'll secure victory together!"
After brief deliberation, Drakenwald, Virelia, and the Kingdom of Thalor formed a coalition. The remaining five kingdoms split into two groups of two, leaving one isolated: the Kingdom of Eldoria.
Meanwhile, William had positioned himself at a safe distance—about 150 meters—where he could shoot arrows accurately without being in immediate danger. He watched intently, waiting for the right moment.
The three-kingdom coalition swiftly moved to eliminate Eldoria, while the remaining two groups clashed with one another. This was the moment William had anticipated. He knew one of the smaller groups would be targeted early and began his long-range assault.
As Eldoria was surrounded, its knights fought fiercely. One of them was about to be cut down when a single arrow from William struck a Drakenwald knight in the arm, deflecting his blow. Seizing the opportunity, the Eldorian knight counterattacked, plunging his sword into his opponent's neck.
The sudden death briefly halted the battle. No one could believe that a single arrow had changed the course of the fight.