Chapter 21: Rescue
They walked through Nolaren’s gates, coming upon an operation that was clearly running lean. The fort looked sized for about two companies, but from the activity level and the scattered patrols, they were operating with maybe one. Celdorne might’ve had the GDP per capita, but trying to hold a defensive line this long with pure Celdornian manpower was like the British Empire trying to hold India without local auxiliaries. The Kingdom couldn’t afford to leave any gaps against the demons, so they’d chosen to spread themselves paper-thin instead.
The layout showed competence, at least. Clear fields of fire from the walls, buildings spaced to mitigate collateral damage, and towers manned just enough to maintain the illusion of adequate security. Two-story barracks, mess hall, infirmary, ammo storage – all the essential pieces were there as well. Pity about the manpower shortage rendering it all mostly unused.
Their vehicle pulled up to the command center, a squat stone building dominating the fort’s center. Naturally, it was the only fully-staffed facility in sight. Heaven forbid they cut corners on the one thing that might keep this house of cards from collapsing.
The Corporal led them to the command post. A towering minotaur stood at the map table, shoulders squared in a way that seemed out of place for a border fort that usually just counted goblin raids. His brigandine armor was spotless, every rivet catching the light as if he’d just marched out of a parade ground in Alexandria.
“Sir!” The Corporal stepped ahead to announce them. “Sir Warren and the Heroes have arrived.”
“Sir Warren.” He offered a slight bow. “Thank you, Corporal. That will be all.”
Warren introduced them. “Captain, may I present our Heroes, Sir Cole and his team of Slayers.”
“Most fortunate timing, gentlemen. I am Captain Lorresh, commanding officer of this post.” Lorresh’s cultured tone didn’t quite mask the urgency as he indicated the map. “We’ve a patrol overdue – six men under Sergeant Vanner. Their last green flare originated here, thirty minutes hence.” He gestured to where a forest met a river, about 10 miles deeper into demon territory. “They were due to report a quarter hour ago.”
“Demon forces?” Warren asked.