Chapter 14: The March and learning from Naia
The army of Moonlight moved through the silver forests with practiced efficiency, their formations shifting like water flowing around stones. Three days into their march, Commander Lyra led the vanguard on horseback, her armor catching dappled sunlight that filtered through the ancient canopy. Princess Elysia rode beside her, the royal moonstone circlet upon her brow pulsing gently with arcane energy. Behind them, Sorrel and Lady Aria followed on their own mounts, completing the royal quartet that led the forces of Moonlight.
"Three hours to the southeastern border," Lyra remarked, her keen eyes scanning the path ahead. "Our scouts report no Thornvale presence yet."
Elysia nodded, her expression serene despite the weight of impending battle. "They believe we will fortify and wait. By the time their scouts report our advance, we will have already secured the Whispering Pass."
The column moved in silence, their footfalls muffled by decades of training. Water-wielders glided among the ranks, ensuring that each warrior's water skin remained filled, that the specially prepared fog-crystals remained charged with moisture for the coming conflict.
As the army passed through a narrow ravine, a water-scout approached, her steps swift and urgent.
"My Queen," she bowed briefly, "movement detected beneath the eastern ridge. Earth vibrations consistent with Thornvale tunneling techniques."
Elysia exchanged a glance with Lyra. "Sooner than expected. They've improved their response time."
"Or they had scouts waiting that our wind-dancers failed to detect," Lyra countered, hand moving to her sword hilt.
The ground beneath them trembled, a subtle vibration that grew stronger with each passing moment. Loose stones skittered down the ravine walls.
"Moonstone Formation," Elysia commanded, her voice calm but carrying.
The command rippled through the ranks. Within moments, the army had shifted, rearranging into the practiced pattern they had drilled countless times. Archers took positions on higher ground, water-wielders gathered in protective circles at strategic points, and heavy infantry formed defensive walls around them.