An excerpt from Bedric Swalestrom's letter to his sister Bellamy
Dated to 27 Watersoar 635
Dear Bellamy,
I am alive and well as of this day, but what happens later is debatable.
The conditions on the march were good enough, but I'm worried that the troops have not been used to combat. Their officers are capable, but these beasts have seen but one instance of fighting in the latest forty seasons, and their discipline may have been lowered as a result.
Captain Bodvar was quick to show me the intricacies of commanding. He might be nowhere near me in the entire chain of command, but he had fought in Redwall and Salamandastron, and is lovesick as a result of meeting a Redwaller maid. (Don't tell him!) He also has a most pleasing personality, which made me think of Father more than once. You have often said that I am the most like Father out of us four, so I guess that's why we took a liking to each other.
Of course, General Ralos was always by my side. He seldom spoke, which was nice; but when he spoke he always talked about sappy previous experiences, which was not so nice. No one (except for Garrion or Thordan, being the bookworms that they are) wants to hear about Balv for the three-hundred and twelfth time, thank you very much! He is an experienced commander though, and I dare not make any decision without his approval. I'm just here to see things through, and perhaps claim a bit of experience (and credit!) for my own. Southsward is running a bit low on good commanders, so I hope our morale will improve soon. Perhaps someone, highborn or not, would suddenly spring up and take charge of the whole situation, swiping back the Trielians across the Greatrange with the force of an explosion. The only thing better than that is for two to appear suddenly. That would be downright miraculous!
Knowing how to lead your troops is the easy part - I was groomed for that role. The hard part was in trying to guess how the enemy would react to your plans. The Trielians are calling one of their own King of Southsward now - and he's not even competent! Duke Altayras may have been his junior by twenty seasons, but even he would do a better job. Not that we want him to do a better job, of course.
I hope to see you again when I return of course. Father would have betrothed me to someone in the meantime, and I of course would like to see your wedding first. Sverker Crestworth may not have worked out for you, but I'm sure that you will find someone better than him. Not just politically, of course.
Anyways, the Trielians are gathered in Vernoll, presenting an easy target. We would have to act fast to prevent them from escaping our paws. After consulting with Ralos, we have decided to attack as soon as possible. See you soon!
Love,
Your dearest brother Bedric