In The Gaze of The World Eater

by The Kaiser is writing

The World Eater returns on a day of despair for one young Imperial. With her action the despair is brought to ruin and out of that ruin leaves a young man determined to change. The desires of these two lead the world into a time of love, hope, chaos, war, and valor. The lives of many peoples shall be forever changed by the time of the World Eater and the Dragonborn. Slight AU.

28. First Great War: The Weight of the World

The First Great Chapter 3: The Weight of the World

---

Thousands of campfires were about as the Colovian State Army and the Royal Guard made their stay for the night.

Reinhard wandered about as he attempted to find the two Kessel brothers before he went to go meet with his father, and then the Warlord himself as many things had gnawed at him after their last battle.

All the losses they had taken had far surprised him, the Warlord's own brother, their best tactician, and many others had fallen among thousands of other soldiers. Even in comparison to the other battles with the Dominion's best it was catastrophic to the young fox.

"So many have been lost or have been injured, I am not childish enough to not know that every battle always involves sacrifice, but still….To see this much of it after this long." He thought, his eyes lingering on the ground as he heard the voice of Mars.

"I know Ingrid, I'll just have to do better, for everyone. I promise." Stated the brother of Andred.

Ingrid Hochmeister, the "Mother" of Colovia's newest generation of lords as she was called. The pale-ish Altmer colovian woman was smiling at the boy.

"So long as you can make an effort for improvement, it is alright, Mars." She replied as Tullius noticed the rather long look he was giving to the ground, he had seemed depressed for the first time in a while just from body language.

"Not sure if I should approach them, they seem to preoccupied." He pondered as still walked up to them despite his thoughts.

Mars brightened up instantly.

"Ah, hello Reinhard!" Greeted Ingrid as she gave him a welcoming smile.

"Our favorite did his best yet again." Laughed Mars as he bowed his head at Reinhard, whom waved it off with a bit of a stupid smirk.

"Thank you." He replied, his true feeling evident in his tone.

"Are you doing alright Reinhard?" Quickly pressed Ingrid, as usual always actively checking up on the young fools.

"Relatively, I just wish to talk to Father and Father-in-law, but I also wanted to see you Mars; is Andred around anywhere?" He asked, as the light-posts of fire crackled.

Mars's lip curved upwards. "He's just drinking with some of the guards, I didn't think he'd actually relax this time around. The shoe is on the other foot as they say I suppose." He finished with a chuckle that did not hide his own sadness.

"So, you are as sensitive as I am to it, but I think you are even more so than I." The Drach boy internalized.

He managed a smile with his response. Ingrid stood patiently as she listened to the two's conversation, a gentle smile across her lips.

"Well at least he can get back to his own spirits for once. Hope you and I can do the same." He retorted as he crossed his arms.

"Is there something you wish to talk about, Reinhard?" Came Ingrid, her kind, motherly eyes stared into Reinhard's who stayed still.

"I do not know. I have had a lot to think about over the last few days. I understand that as I suppose what you two were talking about, that we of the younger generation must step up." Stated Reinhard, correctly seeing exactly they had spoken over.

Ingrid gave an audible "Pfft" as though to chide at him.

"Reinhard, that is the case but understand we do not mean for you all to overexert yourselves. It would be bad for everyone if you got yourselves hurt too." She voiced kindly as she stood over the two, her hands on her armored hips.

"I know, and I remember, mother." Replied Tullius, pulling a small smirk.

Her expression changed to a more serious one as she once again looked over the two.

"Still though, I agree with you both." The pair of colovian boys looked up at her.

"We will lament them further when we come home, I wish to never fight in such a battle again." She stated, her gaze appeared on the verge of tears before she instantaneously straightened herself.

"Just one thing, don't forget your maintenance checks on your own armor and weapons alright? Especially you Mars." She chided as she looked over the now despairing Kessel boy.

"Woe is me, all my experience has faded from me." He laughed and then nodded in agreement with Ingrid.

"Alright mom, but don't forget to tell Edda too." He ended, smirking as he did so.

"Goodness." She replied, a silly expression graced her lips. "Even your father's never talked back like this before."
"Something tells me our two fathers did." Prattled the Kessel brother. She responded with a glare.

"Mars." She growled. Mars merely threw up his hands in surrender.

"Well you may have an easy victory from me but something tells me that my ally here has something prepared, isn't that right Reinhard." He heard no reply as he turned to look at him.

Reinhard was walking off, amused at Mars's bout of intentional stupidity.

"You traitor!" He fretted as his friend left him.

"Well then." She stated. "I win, now as part of my unconditional terms: Go to sleep Kessel."

Was the last thing that Reinhard heard as he walked out of sight and hearing. He straightened his expression and mind as he approached his father.

"At least they are fine. Ingrid is right, and I should keep thinking forwards, yet….Yet…." He trailed as his father's guards allowed him through without as much as a word as all in perfect discipline.

He found his father looking over a miniature folding table that had been setup, looking over papers and reports from their spies within the enemy, and the Imperials.

As he was just about to speak, Isebrand spoke up first as his son sat down behind him.

"I must congratulate you, you performed as well as the very man who will take the side of Oliver when the day comes." He turned over to look at his son as he sat, a fox like smile spread across his face.

"I do not want praise, to be honest." Shared Reinhard, making his true feelings known.

"Would you rather that I berate you for the natural causality of conflict?" His father asked as he started writing, a letter by the looks of it.

"Nay, it is just that I do not think what we gain from this stagnant situation, this war has continued for two years and the Imperials have failed us again and again along with the Nibenese who have tried their hardest, furthermore I think only the Heartlanders have been useful while it is we who are left with the ultimate defense and attack." Isebrand's son stated, he could not help but smile as he did not face him.

"You are right past your initial statement, you are also shortsighted and forget what this campaign is about, it will end the stagnancy of this war whether in our favor or that of the Elves. The future of our nation relies on our ability to continue, not wallow. Perhaps this is the reason why Berlin wishes to speak with you." He stated, switching his quill for another as he kept writing his letter.

Yet again before he could form a proper response his father spoke once more to the boy with the contemplating countenance.

"Still. Your fears are for naught to me, our Great March continues, and we will continue to prove ourselves along with all the others. I agree that we cannot be overjoyed, however celebrate and continue to scheme and train and kill we must. There is nothing in the world but our dream, and the future we will carve with beauty to it." He ended.

His father was right, Reinhard conceded as he subconsciously bowed, his sharp features still in an expression of hard thinking.

"I just wanted to see you before I headed off to see him, I will come back soon Father." He stated and arose.

"Thank you for checking up on me, see you soon." Thanked Isebrand.

Leaving the Drach tent Reinhard made his way over to that of the Warlord's as he went through guards who kneeled to him in silence, simultaneously so too did the Warlord's personal bodyguards, whom had been with his son Oliver the day of the battle with Falcrion.

"Why am I so conflicted? This is the way of our land, and others that have been at war for 200 years ever before the start of the 4th Era. We have won. I must be glad of that." He thought passingly.

"My Lord, I am here now." He emitted to the Warlord through his tent, waiting for his personal permission as the guards beside the son-in-law knelt.

"Enter." Boomed the Warlord.

Reinhard walked in to sit on the soft carpet before his Warlord, who sat before him. His enigmatic aura already piercing him.

"I will repeat to you what I said that day, you have done well and have saved my life, as my Son-in-law, I could not be any prouder." He echoed into his hears. As his eyes gauged at him.

Reinhard bowed his head.

"I cannot take praise, we have lost too much." Said Reinhard, repeating his earlier failure.

The Warlord held his silence as he saw the young lord wish to say something else.

"You have lost your best friend and brother. I cannot join in celebration." He explained.

"It is a certainty that any of us can die at any moment. Sacrifice shall and will happen even if it may be my own family." Dicated his Warlord, whom stared through him.

"You, and my own son are not above it. One day, one of you may do so for the other, or perhaps I."

Siegward blinked as he breathed in some.

"The death of Numerius was due to out of his own love to us. I never once thought in all the time I had known the logical, what once was a stoic and rogue of a man could have ever come this far in his dedication. He lived his fullest as one who professed himself as one of Talos."
Reinhard stared back at him, unsure if to say anything at all.

"The one time he mistakenly believed he failed he felt total shame, his soul of honor took over all of this thoughts as he wished to pay for it by finding Wolf and by having one final charge upon Falcrion's forces only to die thinking that he had failed me, when in the end his plan had totally succeeded in all but the death of Falcrion. Reinhard, if one says that any of them are to blame I shall have a finger taken, perhaps a tongue, this applies to you."

"As the Warlord of Colovia, it is my ultimate failing in being unable to protect my vassals, for they are my greatest treasures. I shall not let any harm befall them as best I am capable." He finished.

"I see." Realized Reinhard.

"I...Do not hope we face any more like we did that day." He replied, sharing his fear.

The Warlord took a moment before giving him his response.

"Reinhard, it is as a I told Mars the other day. Such battles as those will continue as there are only two that are capable of uniting Tamriel: myself, and Orndacil Venril. Until either of us triumphs in this war and thus are able to dominate the rest of the land, there will be no end to the mountains of the dead and rivers of blood."

"Many thousands, perhaps those in the hundreds of thousands will be seen by the end of it all. I envision however, that more will be possible but you must not yield in the mind or soul if you wish to hold a true soul of Colovia." He had spoken all slowly.

The Warlord stayed silent afterwards, his beard glistening through the lights that were given through lanterns.

"Is there something you wish to say to me before I get to the matter at hand?" He questioned.

"Sire, it is just that I want to know in advance my position as we close in to siege Venril's castle." Told Reinhard.

"On that matter you shall be at my side, there is much for you to learn still as evident." The Warlord's serious demeanor shifted, a moment of lightness came over him.

"If there is anything to learn from that sload of an altmer." He shared, his lips at the hint of a mischievous smirk.

"But a schemer always has something up his sleeves, as you would say." Quipped Reinhard, who too shared a hint of a smirk.

The Warlord boomed a "Ha!" as a more relaxed form graced his posture.

"I have met that man only twice in person out of the battlefield and seen much more of his name within our own reports. I am convinced, that he is a great statesman and schemer. But the last battle he was in I am to believe that he is nothing more than an adequate commander, it is only time that we put it to the test."
"However, the real fight will be if any of his esteemed generals are with him, the Red Cat and Glawennar Alkinael are the ones I would suspect to be with him, we've yet to hear of our scouts, we shall by morning however and see who it is that he has." Informed the Warlord, his hand stroking his beard as he stared with weighted interest.

Those names Reinhard knew very well, terrifying figures they were. But strangely did not hold the strategical and tactical presence of dread that Falcrion Salingorin bared with him. The difference between the two in simple terms was that while the Eagle King was known for his adeptness; he still had many skilled and powerful commanders, while "Trinimac Reborn" much lived up the name, and had just as many skilled and powerful commanders.

"I understand it, father." He bowed his head before raising it once more. "How fares Oliver since the news? I too must stay at his side, as you and Erich would say." Inquired Reinhard.

"That is one thing I have for you before we declare it night for us three, speak to him. Oliver is much in a worse state of mind despite his front of strength. He has much to go through and perhaps suffer with before he can take my position."
"I leave it to you, I would only berate him for not holding the strength of mind that my brother and Numerius possessed." Asserted Lord Berlin.

The great lord paused once more.

"Furthermore, should he….Anyone decide great vengeance against Falcrion or Venril. I greatly welcome such ambition born from despair, should he show it; you nurture it. As his brother in law and aid, you are the one alive capable of pushing him through." He gave a light nod of his head.

"Reinhard, you may take your leave now." Released his Warlord.

"I know what I must say, thank you." Acknowledged the sharp young Kvatchian man who arose, and walked his way through the two flaps.

As he left the Warlord held a faint smile.

For Reinhard, passing through the silent guards he was met by an approaching Alwin Kessel in his full suit of armor, and a most sly look to him.

"Well look who it is." He grinned as he greeted Reinhard.

Yet again finding himself to speak last, Alwin beat him to the next remark.

"Going to go see Oliver I take it?" He asked, his sly grin held.

"Did you eavesdrop, Sir Kessel?" Blinked Reinhard. Alwin merely cackled.

"No, yet my perception did. It is natural that he would be troubled, he has some growing up to do." Stated Alwin, who then gave a wistful sigh himself.

"But I suppose, even an old dog like I must as well." He said, staring into the Drach boy.

"The man that I once employed only to later have me employed is now gone. I will spend many a day mourning him when we return home. I owe half of everything to him, the other half to our lord." He declared wistfully to Reinhard, his left hand on his own hip as he spoke, looking down.

"It is now up to I and Isebrand to step up to his plate, we who learned his resourcefulness and his desire to not lose as many lives as possible will be put to it's fullest test. From now on, we embrace our natures as Foxes." He reckoned.

"There is no replacing him, but we will do our best to succeed him." Reinhard considered.

"That much I wish for myself. I will never forget his kindness, and Wolf's dedication." The rather generally sly Alwin Kessel murmured that.

As everyone knew on the matter of Wolf, he too had hated his father alongside Siegward and aided him along with almost all the vassals when they were just a city, Wolf had given up his own ambitions for his Brother's sake. He had stated that his only usefulness was at the side of another, and he was true in that. There was nobody better suited to be a second in command than the Warlord's brother.

"Anyways, I wish you well rest Reinhard, I have my own report to make to our lord." He stated, beginning to walk for a split second before stopping himself and spinning around.

He gripped Reinhard's arm, who regarded him well as he spoke.

"We must not forget their wishes." Stated Alwin, a dark tone taking over him.

"We must take the Capital, no matter what." His grip tightened for a moment before he loosened.

"Good night, Alwin." Acknowledged Reinhard.

"I won't ever forget it." He added as he parted, Alwin replied with his trademark grin, and a wave.

The eternal dream of those who wished to see their country succeed.

Reinhard continued his way to Oliver's side of the encampment, met by more silent bows and kneels of the Royal Guard who regarded him through.

Reinhard found Oliver, whom was standing in what seemed like a meditation, still in his full suit of armor.

"Oliver." Voiced his friend and brother.

"Hey, Reinhard." He sniffled.

"Perhaps, it may have been better to leave him alone." He thought as he made his reply.

"It must have been a terrible battle, Numerius, Uncle, and Kapsner are all dead." He lamented.

Reinhard could not keep his head up.

"Indeed, it was all too terrible." He agreed.

"You still saved Father, thank you, thank you so much." Repeated Oliver, who then somewhat stopped his own self, seeing his friend's own discomfort.

"You've seen too many brave souls die this time around, I realize now that you and the others do not want to be praised and congratulated at such a time." Oliver looked down. "I apologize for my foolishness."
"There is no need to my lord, we all can desire nothing more. The sacrifices we made today will pave the way to the future of you and our lord, our lives mean nothing for your names and our home." Was the earnest reply of the Drach boy.

Oliver managed a smile.

"You put up a front Reinhard. I would ask you do not do that again." He perceived as he stared at his friend.

"H-Huh?" Mumbled Reinhard, taken aback.
"It is only natural to grieve when it comes to death and loss."
"L-Lord Oliver….."
"While the wars that have come without end since the Third Era, neither has it's grief stopped, and only will once father takes control of the land. We must do whatever it takes to see him in ultimate power as fast as we can." Assured Oliver.

Reinhard collected himself upon his comfort.

"Undoubtedly." He boasted back to Oliver.

"Likewise, I am also glad to see my friend and brother in law comes back safe. I am glad to see you Reinhard, please do not take it a depressing way upon yourself." His lord comforted.

"Oh Julianos, I did not come and talk to everyone to be the one that gets comforted." Tullius thought inwardly with a measure of humor.

"Thank you, you are right on that. However…..." Reinhard tried to find a best way to eloquently speak his next line.

"That applies to you as well Oliver, and I know of what you and your father currently bear with, they are too major of a loss to us all. It is up to all of us to take their places." He finished.

"Father grieves more than I, than anyone. But what you state is…."

"Is we continue the ruthlessness of our rule and task. Like our great lord our resolve must not be shaken by any occurrence, no matter how tragic." He stated.

"Reinhard."
"No amount of grief will be enough to halt Father's progress. Your job, therefore exists to support him on his quest, as it is mine on your own." Finished the Kvatchian man.

Oliver blinked for a moment as he processed.

"You must be unwavering in your conviction, as I have no doubt it will come under a greater test in time." Affirmed Reinhard.

"I understand it now. I think that you are perhaps right, it is funny." He chuckled.

"As heir now, there are few left who possess the courage that makes them able to put me in my place like you and Ingrid. Thank you Reinhard." Smiled the young son of Siegward.
"Thank you my lord, we aid each other in times of need." A smirk came across Reinhard's face.

"However, I must admit I must discard your opinion of me there. I was terrified that you might strike me down for my impertinence." He grinned.

"Wily idiot." Replied Oliver with a scoff.

"However, this battle may be difficult, at least the ones in the future will be. The losses will not be easy to overcome for now until we can fully recover their roles as you say."
"All of which makes a most effective and clear strategy more vital than ever." Replied Reinhard.

"You are the one man I rely upon, I demand that you continue making and advising your own, they are second to none." He complimented, his overall mood having lightened with the presence of the wily and devilishly well natured Reinhard.

"So then, before we begin about tomorrow. Have you received a letter from sister?" Asked Oliver once more.

"Yes, she merely wished us well. I do not want to know how she will take the death of Wolf. I will spend much time with her when we return." Stated Oliver's counterpart.

"For our sakes I hope that you can bring me a relative during your time with her." Stated Oliver, smirking as he spoke.

Reinhard held the start of a blush.

"Yes, I will endeavor my best. On that matter." He stated with a hint of embarrassment.

"Trying to keep your composure I see, well then dear brother in law. I shall let you to those dreams for tonight. I'm about to collapse from all that's happened myself, I must be strong in case of tomorrow and I want you the same." Issued Oliver, giving his friend a light and assuring punch.
"In the face of abuse from my lord, I do agree I must retire." Joked Reinhard, assured of his own inner peace.

The two shared a smile, before Reinhard turned away.

"One final thing, I am to stay at the Warlord's side next battle." He informed, to which Oliver's features grew humorous.

"Father already told me about that. Perhaps I should strike you down for idiocy then." He laughed.

"I shall continue with my escape in the meantime then." Smirked Reinhard as he made his leave.

Eventually upon reaching his own bed, Reinhard was left with some food for thought as he drifted.

…

..

.

---

…

..

.

The Colovian March took them to the start of the Midday, as the isolated Khajiti-Altmeri castle was in full view for them.

Twenty-four lords were gathered before their Warlord as Alwin Kessel laid out his own hand-drawn battle map onto an assembled table, Isebrand Drach stood next to him.

"My Generals, let us start this war council for today. I thank you Alwin for drawing the map. Isbrand! How stands the enemy?" The Warlord's voice boomed beyond their open top tent.

"Our scouts have reported to us that the Dominion are holding within these positions." Announced Isebrand as he pointed towards what was the castle of S'ren-Ja, a castle-city large enough to accompany the current 19,000 with the Eagle King, with an unknown amount of the Castle's own garrison and militia that seemed to be that of a high number.

It became apparent that they well outnumbered the Eagle King, by an almost 3-1 ratio in their favor.
As they leaned slightly over, the examined it.

"So….He hides himself away in the castle then." Stated Tsaryov.

"He is hardly with any proper number to face us." Added Erich as he looked it over.

"He does not seem to have any of his usual officers with him, did we truly take him by surprise?" Asked Kuno.

One, by the name of Laskutin von Gennadiy appeared to agree.

"The Red Cat is not here, whether fortune or misfortune." He noted.

"However, that beast of an Altmer is there so it seems." Added Laskutin.

"I see that Glawennar Alkinael is still with him." Observed Pascal, following the conversation of his comrades.

"Glawennar is most certainly his bodyguard, as we've assumed before. However, so too did we think that of the Red Cat." Stated Erich as the Kessel Lord spoke.

"The Red Cat is not far but is in two day's march, his force is rather low and will only make it an even fight of numbers, no others of such a sort are nearby." Informed Alwin.

"Well it appears we have a safe siege either way. Friends, you have all spoken of what is necessary, however we must focus on this. If the Eagle King will not leave this castle we must either siege or find some other way." Boomed the voice of Klaus as he addressed them, somewhat alleviating the thoughts of those paranoid of enemy retaliation.

"Well, it's not as though we did not bring some proper siege equipment to not make this last more than a week." Replied Pascal, to which some others nodded.

Lord Luna von Salzer grinned to that mention.

"Well, it is not as though we do not bring our most fabled explosives, rendering entire walls useless, I reckon we can do the same." She smirked.

"And let the Field Marshalls and Elder Council write mean letters to us? I may be tempted myself to lend me and my men to do it if so requested!" Stated Pascal Horn as he placed a fist on his chest.
The Warlord raised his hand to them, ceasing their behavior.

"I must ask only one thing: Alwin, what do you think of Venril's current temperament?" He inquired his dear Kvatchian vassal.

"Venril has yet to face us individually, I think that there is only currently Glawennar to cool him. He is a surprisingly spirited man normally." Imparted Alwin.

"Hmm I see….I recall that he is an intense figure, despite his own appearance." Shared the Warlord as he tugged and pinched lightly at his own beard as he thought.

"Why is the Lord so concerned about that man's personality?" Questioned Reinhard to his own, internal self.

"Unless….Ah, I see." He quickly understood.

Luna Salzer smiled.

"As Numerius would say, to know and understand your enemy is winning the battle before it even began. What are you thinking ever so typically this time Warlord?" She asked, an interested look in her eyes and that of the other lords both young and old.

"If Venril so wishes to hold up in his castle and still profess himself the one to lead the reformed Dominion to it's dominance over Tamriel…..Then I shall give him a test of character. Isebrand! What is the closest village past here?" He demanded.
Isebrand held a near lecherous grin, his mind perfectly in tune with that of Siegward.

"There are two, both can be considered the same. There is a river…." Isebrand stood out of his stool and pointed past a hill in visual sight. "Just over there." He informed.

"Is that so? Heh, well then perhaps it is time we do a little bit of pillaging. The Khajiit must come to fear us utterly, as is the major goal of this campaign." He voiced.

"But the Eagle King..." Voiced Luna, speaking of the importance of such a man.

"Is not as important as destroying the Dominion's capability to fight on, it is up to us to deprive their people of their will to fight. Once we instill a sense of Divine fear into the Khajiit they will undoubtedly break each time we ever appear, they are as superstitious as we are. However, unlike us the current Khajiit lacks the ability to move past their fears without a bit of paw holding, as an old cat such as I may say." Stated the Warlord, ending with a bit of a smirk. The younger lords fought against holding a grin upon his finish.

Erich Model remained stoic among his Warlord's peculiar sense of humor and seriousness.

"The fear of Lorkhaj hmm? It is quite the message and visage you wish to create." He stated.

"It must be done. Show mercy to them so that they spread this far and wide." Dictated Siegward.

The Lords acknowledged it.

And then suddenly, a large, group of whizzing sounds were heard for the briefest second, and several thumps were heard in the distance.

Some arose out of their seats to see what it was, as the others were quick to be alert.

"Ingrid! Luna! Pascal! Form a barrier with me!" Ordered Erich as began the start of a strong ward meant to protect the area around the tent.

The Warlord merely stared on calmly, Alwin faced him and Isebrand handed him his spyglass.

"The new cannons." Observed Siegward.

"Yes, their range is incredible, despite it's own drop-off at it." Informed Alwin as Siegward stared out.

"He is well prepared." Recognized Lord Berlin.

Through a small wooden group of palisades he spied four of the Aldmeri cannons, being reloaded by clothed Thalmor crew. Upon further observation, he noted that there was indeed only four of these guns, and that they were rather large in size than the other ones the Warlord had seen and used before.

Their construction and conception had to have been most recent, and it lined up with some of the more….interesting reports the Colovians had made off what was kept secret by the Empire itself as of late, something that was another whole skein in of it's own self.

There was rather little else of importance, aside from another bombardment. Watching the process to it's completion, and seeing the shots hardly land anywhere close to them the Warlord handed back Isebrand's spyglass.

"Thinking of taking them?" Asked Isebrand, a grin upon his countenance.

The Warlord remained plain.

"Yes, we'll have to see how much damage they can do first." Passed Siegward, before he cleared his throat.

"Affix your armors and get ready to move! We go to their villages!" Was his declaration to them all.

"Yes Lord!" Was their unified yell.

…

..

.

---

As the Colovians marched past the Castle without as much of a glance, the winds appeared to go much into the Warlord's favor.

"Siegward, if you hold any animosity to the Khajiits for robbing you the title of 'Tiger' I believe now is our chance to get it back." Stated Erich as Siegward and Klaus were bearing witness the Dominion leaving their fortifications and go after them.

Siegward Berlin could barely suppress his grin and laughter at the sight.

"That foolish schemer, what does he think he can do to us?" He chuckled.

He was quick to change into his stoic and mighty Warlord persona.

"A wise choice, to protect your citizens. However, it may just cost you your life."

"Alright then, let's gather up and sort out the units. We'll talk about it as we proceed, we have time before he reaches us." He declared.

---

His orders would come clear to everyone as Reinhard Drach observed, it was the younger lords that would go with the original units, the Sturmreiters would be the very vanguard of the army as typical of the standard Colovian strategy, the goal being to test the morale of the enemy and potentially break the Khajiit detachments.

Kuno and Tsarvoy had quickly scouted and surmised that an entire flank of Venril's army was Khajiit, one that would be exploited ruthlessly.

With that knowledge, the Lion masked Warlord decided to have his son lead the initial charge of the Sturmreiters, and gave their command to the younger lords and generals without exception.

The second wave would be the rest of the Sturmreiters along with reinforcing infantry for the first wave, here he believed that the main Thalmor force would begin to crumble, whether the Khajiits had been routed or not, this wave would be led by Tsaryov and a couple older generals among the rest of the accompanying younger generals.

There would be two more waves afterwards, the rest would stay at the camp with the Warlord. Who had deemed the numbers sufficient.
Everyone was quickly put into their place, having been well trained and rehearsed in such matters, it was only in less than a mere half hour that they managed to flip their formation entirely, prepared to ambush the pursuing Eagle King.

As Oliver prepared to charge alongside the Kessel boys, Reinhard stood at the side of the Warlord; being among Ingrid, Erich, Klaus, Kuno, and some four others.

The Warlord, watching over his Son and the Elite soldiers of Colovia depart, sat in his stool, as customary and traditional of him.

To those who could look behind and see their lord, he was the very aura of terror and inspiration that drove them forwards as he sat with an ethereal, dread aura.

They stood in silence as Oliver gave a speech to his men, one that could barely be heard be heard from their distance.

"Reinhard, do you notice the flags of those with my son?" He questioned Reinhard, staring straight at his son and his men without turning his head.

Reinhard squinted some but he recognized the color quite plainly.

The white flag, the 'Wall' flag, as symbolized within it. The yellow flag of lightning that too was symbolized. And finally the blue flag of Rain.

"The Wall, The Lightning, the Rain." Informed Reinhard.

"The Wall that will face the enemy spears and push their front in and will not retreat or give an inch, they will be unyielding and unbreakable in their resolve to push onward." Stated the Warlord.

"The next, as you can see will be those with the Lightning flag. They will be swift and instantaneous as Oliver dedicates them to a flank, and will bring the full terror of Colovia onto it."
"Lastly with this wave, the Rain flag. They will be held back in reserve to aid or leverage against a flank and will show no mercy or hesitation in what is to be done, a reflection of leadership."

"The Fire flag will be with the start of the Second wave. They will fight fiercely to take advantage of the openings that the former have given them as they are in their most natrual element of which they passionately so enjoy: bloodshed." Concluded the Warlord.

Reinhard grasped at what he had meant, the flags and their meanings were the best and most prominent of their current doctrines. It also held the key virtues and traits that was most accepted by Siegward. It held both subtlety in it's own lack of it in a sense as the young general surmised.

"You are required to know this, as you still have much to learn of the true nature of our ways and conduction!"
The Warlord then pulled out his command sword. Siegward held it in his right hand as he saw his son and vassals stare up at him, and the thousands of eyes of his people as they awaited his command.

The wind blew the hairs upon his helm as he stared past them.

After a moment, he raised his command sword, pointing it forwards.

"Start the Drums!" He ordered one of his close vassals who was quick to rush off.

A cascade of cheers and war cries was heard among the Sturmreiters and other troops as they kicked themselves into a frenzy as Oliver led them at the very forefront.

"My son is not yet ready to take up my mantle yet, despite his sprinklings of wisdom and martial excellence. He is too hotheaded and lacks the foresight of the field, and of the ways of Nirn."

"And so it appears that Venril is still continuing forth, he will not for long."

"My lord, why did we not siege his castle?" Questioned Reinhard, wishing to know how Berlin knew that he would be so easy to coax out of his defenses.

"Wars are not meant to be waged trivially, and it is often that all plans go awry. I suspect he had heard of Falcrion's failure and wished to make something of a drawn out siege as reinforcements arrived, however I know better than to just merely do what he wants, I am the one attacking, I dictate the flow. If he had so wished to stay we would have moved onwards." Stated Siegward, so loud as that all with him could hear.

"He is more of a fool than I thought, chasing us out into this savannah, and look at how he seems to array himself! His weak flank is all too clear to someone that is even a smidgen of competent…..Though I suppose given the state of affairs with the Empire that is a hardly a major mistake."

They could now hear the six large war drums playing, the very instruments that would play at the start of a Colovian battle. Their purpose was to bring a sort of distant dread and apprehension to their enemy as they openly broadcasted their movement. The Colovian assurance to anyone they faced of their incoming annihilation.

"I wonder, if that vengeance Oliver rides with will especially cost him." Emitted the Warlord.

"It is one thing I am proud of him here however, I see the ambition to get as many of the enemy slain as possible. However, he must practice self control."
The Warlord then motioned over Ingrid.

"Lord Berlin?" She asked.

"Get a messenger on a Pegasus to get Oliver the message that once the Khajiits are broken to hunt down or take some prisoner but intentionally leave about a hundred to escape." He commanded, thinking forwards as Reinhard observed.

Ingrid was quick to move.

"Step by step, that is the way it should always be handled." Stated Siegward, as he rested his command sword on his lap.

The battle had yet to truly begin, but their lord was full of the intensity of a man who was fighting personally on the field.

He was certainly convinced of victory.

..

.

---

..

.

"Halt! Everyone halt!" Ordered Oliver at the top of his lungs.

"Send the order down, spread! Spread out as we formatted!"

"You all know your targets, we proceed upon the call of the horn! Make ready Colovians!" He finished as he readied his spear.

With that the two Kessel brothers went to their unit, meant to help in crushing the center and to move and capture and push through a certain bridge to try and get behind the Eagle King to cut his potential escape.

As Mars looked over them, they had the 'Alduin's Despoilers' of Erich Model and the 'White Foxes' of Isebrand Drach's own unit of Sturmreiters.

Their one infantry unit of about 1,800 – 2,000 sent to assist them as they were loaded up on wagons was the first colovian infantry division, the 'Wheat Field Warriors' as per their name and own reputation as being among the best. Mars recalled the name of them was based off an insult given by the Alessian Empire ever so long ago to the Colovian soldiers they faced.

They were all quickly in place, Merle von Eisner and a Platonov von Luka were there to co-command for them.

"So Mars." Spoke up Merle. As she rested her spear upon her shoulder, the young Luka staring out towards the enemy on the side of Andred.

"If you are worried about charging into a Spear line Merle I'll tell you now that they are no threat to us, I can already see them quivering. It is not as though we are by far more well equipped and experienced anyways." He paused, looking around some with his spyglass.

"We could also merely flank, but a successful frontal charge is something that will terrify even the eldest of them." He shared.

"I see, I cannot help but feel hesitation against such a weapon however." She replied, this was her fifth battle.

"There's worse, but nothing else in enough number to stop us. They'll all keep falling for the same tricks again and again." Assured the older Kessel man.

"Luka! Are you ready?" He then called.

Platonov gave a nod.

"Yes, this is just my own second battle myself. I am thankful to have you guiding me Sir Kessel." He voiced.

"No need for formalities or thanks. On horse and in command just keep following my instructions and take advantage of any opening or hole you see, if you fight just make sure others are with you and do what any cavalryman does. If you happen to get dismounted keep your wits and perception about you and fall back and see if you can get another horse, just don't forget your footing and pose."

Mars then turned his attention forwards.

"And don't forget teamwork, we would never have come this far were if not for it." He affirmed.

They were silent as they awaited the announcement, the white 'Wall' flag was mounted upon the Sturmreiters and bodyguards behind them.

"Finally, as I said earlier and will repeat to you both since ya still have some quivering feet of your own, it's no shame. But, if you are cornered and-or uncertain in a fight do not forgot your positioning, and tools! Use your bombs, knives, potions, scrolls, whatever you have on you. Alright!?" He stated, assuring them.

"Yes lord!" The three replied in relative unison.

Mars was concerned over the two, but was very confident in his own brother. It was funny to him, Andred had never fought before the war and with his own teachings he had made Andred formidable, albeit only with a spear. Yet that was no problem to him, not everyone could be skilled with multiple weapons.

They would await the sound of the horn.

Mars made a quick adjustment of his mask, checking to see if the straps were sufficiently tightened as the sound of the drums from their camp was still heard from miles.

Within a break of the drums, the horn was called.

Beneath his mask Mars smirked, as Oliver knew his timing well.

"Forwards! Spear 'em and lance them!" He cried as he elicited a cheer among all as they reared their exquisite horses into instantaneous action.

The sounds of thousands upon thousands of hooves thundered across as the two sides braced for combat.

The Thalmor, despite their renowned fanaticism appeared to shake before the groups of Colovians who in particular were infamous across all of Tamriel for their appearance, their litanies of victory, and their own prowess as Berlin's ruthless killers.

The Thalmor, while the current face of the Dominion and now made up the total deployment of all Dominion forces, had yet to earn their true reputation.

Calmly and as what they were now all too used to, the Sturmreiters lowered their spears and lances.

"They….They look like Daedra!" Cried one of the Thalmor sergeants, no more experienced than those under her command.

Thousands of spears pierced the Thalmor lines, utterly devastating them in a single charge all across. However, the Thalmor yet hung on, and did not take a step back.

As the corpses piled, Oliver yelled his frustration.

"They are but damn reservists! How are they still standing!?" He growled as he slayed Mer upon Khajiit with his spear as he fought at the very front.

However, even he recognized he had committed his own self too much. His one pride so far was the small amount of his own losses.

He heard the sounds of the cannons, this time smashing into some of his horseman and some surviving Thalmor of the first line alike.

"Damn it! They're more desperate than I thought and formidable!" He growled once more in his mind as he pulled back behind his troops, his expression of contained outrage visible to all, if it were not for his own mask.

"Make as much ground as you can! The second wave will be sent soon!" He issued a message to pass along his men and messengers for the time being. Despite his own misgivings, the Colovians were pushing brutally through their foes.

It was then, did he hear the thundering drums and subsequent hooves of the second wave.

---

"Send the second wave at once! They will smash Venril's own into bloody pieces!" Boasted the Warlord upon his new order.

As they were sent a report came in via a running Sturmreiter.

"My lords, we report that the Khajiits have begun to route!" He stated, with Erich making a visible acknowledgment.

"Ha! The Cats are fleeing from the sinking ship!" Roared Siegward as a laugh reached him.

"May their tears create a new river upon this land, that is their punishment for not giving me the title of tiger!"

As he finished another messenger rushed in.

"My lords, we report that a man claiming to be the Eagle King has been killed in battle!" He stated.

For once the Warlord was left wordless.

The messenger was met with the hard, confused stares of the lords as Reinhard could only manage an audible "What?".

…

..

.

---

…

..

.

Andred and a group of horsemen descended upon a grouping of Thalmor soldiers, one officer proudly declared to them:
"I am Orndacil Venril! I will neither run nor hide!" He declared.

As the Colovians studied them one of the Sturmreiters broke with laughter.

"Him? He's not even fat!" He stated.

"Tricky damn thalmor, they're trying to confuse us, saying they're the Eagle King himself." Stated Mars, who then raised his spear.

"Forwards, break them before they can form their ring of steel! We must be close to the real King!" He roared to his group as they kicked themselves into action and trampled over the Thalmor, swiping and piercing them with perfect efficiency.

Putting up the best efforts they could, the Thalmor soldiers were all killed by the Colovians without as much as a single score on them in return.

"Good work killers, I'm gonna go join back with the other force to hunt down anyone else as week pushing over here. Andred! Keep these dremoras with you and see about the bridge, I think some reinforcements will be coming for you soon." Ordered Andred's dear brother.

Mars halted himself, and turned to look at Andred who seemed well composed to him.

"Oh yeah, and don't forget to kill anyone who calls his or herself I suppose as the Eagle King. I'll look into it but I think the Warlord and Oliver will not want us to show any mercy you got that?" He finished with a request.

Andred nodded.

"I will not fail you or our home!" He replied. Mars grinned beneath his mask, happy to see fire in Andred's barely visible eyes.

Mars then rode off, as Andred's men stared at him.

He gauged that they were still confident, active, and rearing to go.

"Alright then. Let us get to it." He informed the hungrily bloodthirsty Sturmreiters of Alduin's Despoilers, only being a group of about forty this time, his brother was moving to go take back the reigns of the thousands else aside. Mars did often like to check up on him, something that Andred somewhat concerned himself over.

"I'm keeping him down with his own worries." Sighed Anred non-verbally.

"Let's to it, to the bridge!" He ordered with a hoot of approval from the Sturmreiters.

Their ride would take them through a light forest he wagered by the road.

As they rode they saw no sign of the enemy up until they reached just before the bridge, curiously only a single figure guarded it.

Andred was the first who readied himself to drive his spear through the warrior, who's features grew fully visible to him as they drew in.

By far the most tall and imposing Altmer he had ever seen in his time, a Mer that bore a helm with butterfly wings; something he had never seen before on any of the Elves.

He nearly was the height of Andred on his horse, he held his Halberd ready for the Colovian. Instinctively he prepared to defend his life. The Altmer's expression was that of fearlessness.

The Altmer's strike was so mighty as to disorient Andred, the blow taking the wind out of him as he felt as though he were flying just from defending himself.

He was forcibly dismounted as his horse ran on without him, the Sturmreiters charged to his defense however the mighty Elf swung his unique Halberd to a first pair.

The two men of such heavy armor seemingly were cleaved through effortlessly.

With quick retention the gigantic altmer swung again at a charging Sturmreiter and slayed both her and her horse.

Arrows flew in from his side of the bridge and hit some riders dead on, killing them as the Altmer killed those who tried their hands at vengeance as a horrified Andred recovered himself.

He stood with his spear as he faced the Altmer, whom after finishing off the last of the Colovians merely stared forward.

Andred suddenly heard a horse behind him.

"Don't go!" He cried out.

A man dismounted and took his blade towards him, a Colovian civilian by the looks of him.

"You're the last one huh? Damnit." He stated as he took Andred's side as they stared off into the standing Altmer, who faced forwards and without as much of a care for them.

"Y-Yes. I was their leader, what are you doing here?" Panted Andred, confused at the appearance of a well armed and armored civilian this far out.

"Was just observing, saw him though." Stated the man as he pointed at the stoic warrior.

Just one lone man backed up by archers on a bridge, it confused Andred.

"It's Glawennar Alkinael. What a man, he truly does not fear death, you can see it in his eyes." He stated as he looked over Glawennar who made no movement as the blood of his enemies dripped from his armor and helm.

"Er that's right, my name's Hugo Koegel. Traveling Strategist." He announced to Andred with a bit of a grin.

"And I'd say let's get out of here." He added.

"…...Right, we must. We cannot face him like this." Replied Andred.

"Risk your lives once more and face me if you wish to pass. Know that I have not once been wounded by a blade in 280 years." Boomed the voice of the Altmer who spoke in their language, whom still stared forwards as the road, paying them little attention visibly.

The pair stared at him silently, Andred held his spear at the ready. He did not wave as he stared the Altmer who planted the very end of his unique halberd on the ground.

"We should get out of here like ya said." Warned the rugged strategist to Andred who merely nodded as he kept himself facing Glawennar.

He noted how his armor looked almost bug-insect like, he was very much an armored beetle, with a winged helmet in the fashion of an elegant butterfly.

A most striking figure, and one none to be underestimated. He held an aura of fear among him much like the other Colovian lords, his was unique in that regard.

Andred near wanted to run despite his own will, he could see how such a man earned a reputation.

The second Umaril, as he was called by all Imperials.

He was lucky he was alive, still alive supposed Andred as he followed the young man up unto his horse.

"Take me back to camp." Requested Andred.

"Heh, was gonna ask you if you wanted to go there anyways, I want to meet with the Warlord and enter his service. I er, hope you can vouch for me." He stated, retaining his air of confidence.

Andred nodded.
"I can." He stated.

Hugo, who once more searched to see if they were not being followed kicked his horse into action.

"By the way, I've noticed the Eagle King's soldiers have been saying that they're him, happen to know anything about why that is?" He asked.

Andred blinked.

"I don't know, we came across a few who declared it so but we've been having to slay them. They don't surrender at all and keep fighting to the last." He informed.

"Interesting…..I suppose despite his blunders the Eagle King is a man worth taking down by the sounds of it all."
Andred held his silence.

"A man worth taking down?" He stared off behind him as the thought lingered.

…

..

.

…

..

.

Erich Model held a visible smirk as he approached his Warlord.

It had gone even better than the old guard expected.

"As we say, the noose tightens." He stated.

"Like leaves the enemy falls from their tree as we attempt to cut it down, yet the base is still not giving way." He grinned.

The Warlord stifled a chuckle.

It was part of a saying from the very key and heart of his philosophy and doctrine, the words of Zurin Arcturus.

It was something they had to hide from their 'masters' in the capital, to an extent.

"But is the tree yet doomed I wonder. More of Venril's 'deaths'." He voiced.

Klaus looked at his Warlord.

"We're killing them all, we'll reach him eventually." He stated, pondering over his next order, if such was necessary.

A Guard ran up to them.

"My Lord, a visitor!" He declared.

There was a moment of silence as the Lords aside from Siegward stared at him.

"He is, er a…...Traveling Strategist? He said he wished to speak with you given the chance. Andred Kessel vouched for him."

"Andred's here?" Whispered Reinhard as he stared in confusion.

"Hmm, let him through." He stated.

The Guard bowed, and sprinted back to go bring the man.

"I imagine, that it would be Hugo Koegel." He stated openly to his vassals as said man walked up to them mere moments after.

He dropped to his knee in silence as he faced the Warlord who faced the field.

"You may speak your piece, the Warlord is listening to you." Advised Klaus with a kindly tone to the young man.

"I shall speak first." Stated the Warlord as he arose out of his seat and strolled to it's other side before he sat down on it once more, taking off his mask.

He held something of a grin. Something that a man with expectations such as Hugo hadn't expected, he was taken off guard.

"I have heard of you boy! You have been wandering around stating yourself as such for a couple years I believe." He stated.

Hugo was left momentarily speechless of how he actually knew of a nobody such as him.

"You know well my lord!" He stated as he kept his head down. If Andred were here, he would have been baffled at the shift in confidence Hugo had taken.

Hugo for his part, collected himself.

"Then you should know then, that I wish to come under your services and learn strategies from you and all here, directly." He stated, his tone replaced with full confidence as he once more submitted his head to the Warlord.

"Despite you knowing a thing or two from mere observation already, and I believe that you have studied well of the Tiber era, correct?"
Hugo stared back at him.

"Yes, as well as that of others such as Reman and the Camorans."

The Warlord's smile grew wider.

"You better not be just trying to impress us by dropping large names, tell me. What do you think of and have noticed of this battle in particular?" He asked.

Hugo reflected for a moment, there was much he wanted to say aside but he tried to think of what the Warlord in particular wanted.

"In your battle against the Eagle King and his guard…..I have noticed that Glawennar Alkinael and a company of archers are the sole defenders of a possible escape route or cutoff, using the skills of his men best, despite his horrendous blunder in attempting to chase you."
"To continue on that note as to why I say it is due to his troops are so bold as to declare themselves as him, and seem to fight to the last as they do so. It is strange how one so inept can save his skin with an order like that." Finished Hugo.

"I think he and everyone else perhaps wrong that Venril gave such an order…..Nevertheless, it is a funny thing: This boy reminds me of dear Numerius….." The Lord finished his thought with some difficulty, he would mourn him upon reaching home.

"Well observed and that is enough. Tell me, what do you desire for your stipend?"
Hugo was left wordless at the Warlord's words.

"My lord! I do not ask for money, I wish to learn from the Hundred Generals of Colovia no matter what!" He declared, intriguing those who stood around him.

"So did Numerius say along those lines as well." Was the thought on the heads of the Warlord's oldest vassals.

"I see." Replied the Warlord.

"A man such as you will be unsatisfied with 1,000 Septims, I shall grant you 2,100 and fourty attendants for yourself."
It was quite identical to the one he had given Numerius Ercolani, all those of just about thirty years ago at the very start of Siegward's reign.

Hugo suppressed his shakiness as the voice of the Warlord boomed once more.

"And a man of your unique talents will come under Reinhard von Drach!"

Hugo was quick to respond.

An interested Reinhard gazed fiercely at his new acquire.

"I am honored! I shall serve you both as long as you allow and wish!" He bowed once more before Siegward and Reinhard.

"Reinhard, make great use of Hugo Koegel. I am certain you two will do great things for Colovia together." Asserted Siegward, who stared through him.

Siegward then looked to Erich.

"Send an order to everyone, if the Thalmor claim to be the Eagle King, we shall take not a single prisoner. All shall be executed."

His very tone and aura was in stark contrast to just moments ago.

Hugo had wondered why the Warlord had not lived up to his fearsome reputation, and then he went along and gave such an order. The Leadership of Colovia were a unique bunch, as a Colovian such as him could tell.

"Hugo, you have come at a most opportune time, our supremacy over all of Tamriel will be at hand." He declared.

He arose and placed his Lion mask on, and sat facing the enemy.

Hugo, in silence with the other lords went to the side of Reinhard, whom remained at the Warlord's own side.

"As of this battle, there are three things here that exceed a man such as Venril's own worth: His unique Eagle engraved armor, those modern cannons, and that exemplary warrior Glawennar Alkinael."

With that he pointed his command sword forwards.

"Sound the third wave!" He then boomed.

"This should send that schemer running, if he already is not…." Internalized Siegward.

Erich dispatched another messenger. The thundering sounds of drums and hooves echoed out one final time.

"Brother, Numerius, do you watch over me this battle? Oliver carries your will."

…

..

.

---

…

..

.

Yartsev von Isaak had been assigned by Mars to watch over Glawennar's position.

With his personal group of horsemen with him, they stared out across into the forest as the sight of the imposing elf was especially visible with a spyglass, as he studied the warrior, Glawennar stared back. Spooking the veteran Colovian lord who quickly put it aside.

"Are we going to attack him?" Asked one of his retainers.

"Nay, it would be a risky endeavor. The Lord has told us to avoid him again and again."

Yartsev's group seemed relieved.

"Besides, I wouldn't want to go against him myself anyways, I would not have anyone else do the job I am not willing to do myself." He stated.

"Thanks for looking out for our roguish own selves as usual Yartsev!" One of his retainers replied with a humorous tone.

"I am just trying to make sure an equal group of fools don't die, we are needed elsewhere." Replied the lord. As they made no movement on their horses.

"That Glawennar really is a second Umaril, in height anyways." Said one of Yartsev's retainers.
"I'd argue he is! Haven't you all heard of how he cleaved through eight Imperial legionaries in a single swing of that halberd of his." Shared another.

"That is no wonder! With how the worthless Legion is armed, trained, and led in comparison to us of course they'd die in droves! All they have known over these last thirty years was to do the job of that of a City Guard! Worthless pigs." Snorted a veteran.

As his men spoke over the might of the man in the forest and the weakness of the Imperial Legion Yartsev stared on.

The legendary warrior of the Dominion, one that they would one day have no choice but to fight should their lord reign supreme over Tamriel.

He would not let that man move forwards, it was the will of those who gave him life.

---

"Sir Oliver!" Came the voice of an approaching Tsaryov, Oliver spun himself around to meet him.

"Tsaryov! There is bloody work for us yet!" Exclaimed Oliver. The young lord's armor was stained with blood from the Thalmor and remaining Khajiit alike.

Tsaryov reached the side of Oliver, and regarded him with a hint of a smile.

"You have exceptionally well, the third wave comes even now." He stated.

"Indeed, we must press on and kill Orndacil Venril!" He declared in his instantaneous response to the senior lord.

"Oliver, we must show care." Reminded Tsaryov, calm in comparison to the fiery man.

"I know, but I must do whatever it takes. Tsaryov, I have come to realize that this opportunity is what my mentor and uncle gave their lives for this campaign. I could not be there for their deaths! It is by their will that I must slay Venril myself if I have to!"

Tsaryov looked into the boy's eyes, and bowed his head to him.

"I shall follow you to him then, Oliver."
"I want the majority of your group to change flanks and push through the hole of the Khajiti line and sweep into Venril's flank, we will continue to overpower them with our numbers here." Instructed the inspirited lord.

Tsaryov acknowledged him.

"I will leave some groups with you, I will leave Yartsev to watch over Glawennar. He must make sure that there is no possible counterattack." Informed Tsaryov, who was quick to motion one of his retainers.

"…...Excellent Tsaryov! Together with the others I will personally lead the charge to hunt him down once we make it through! Good luck!" He stated before he kicked his horse into action, and rode off along with his retainers and Sturmreiters.

"With me, Comrades!" Yelled Tsaryov, doing as Oliver wished.

"He grows as a commander. Perhaps dear old Numerius, your teachings have truly taken root into the boy." Thought the old north Colovian as he rode on.

Tsaryov had always believed that death was the ultimate lesson for all Colovians, he had always disliked one particular saying of Gaiden Shinji: 'The best techniques are passed on by the survivors.' however, his own experiences in his time as a vassal of Siegward told him that it was the survivors who always learned best from the dead, in teachings and memories.

After all, it was what kept him alive so far. Despite his once existing arrogance, and he knew that one day he too would give his life for their shared dream.

…

..

.

---

…

..

.

The battle progressed as the thousands of Colovian horsemen and infantry further pressed themselves through lines of spears as they and the solitary mages of the Thalmor were unequivocally overrun, showing not the slightest hint of mercy under their orders as hundreds were put to the spear, halberd, and sword.

The final cannonade of Dominion cannons halted and damaged a singular unit of colovian spears, before being swarmed on all sides. The weapons were quickly captured, despite an attempt to destroy them by Thalmor mages.

With the deaths of a handful of more prominent commanders of those of personal relation to their King, the morale of the Elves reached a breaking point. Despite it, they held on.

The resistance amazed their foes, who by far had the superiority in all respects.
What had started off as a slaughter of that was well assured victory of the ambitious colovians turned into a hunt for the life of the true Eagle King.

The four flags that Siegward had started with, were here to demonstrate the penultimate moment of all he and his vassals had labored for.

---

Siegward watched the last of the Sturmreiters make leave, the ones led by Klaus Kielholz in particular. His unit was always the last to go, being a rather religious sort of northerner he had it so that nine priests of each the Divines blessed them before they would make leave for battle.

With their ritual done, they rode off.

"Well…..I suppose I could let Venril go off easily….." The Warlord's voice gained the attention of all his vassals once more.

"But there is much one such as him could go on to learn about warfare, leadership, and courage!"

"In the off chance that a warrior is able to slay him, they shall be the hero of this battle!" Was his final announcement.

"Shall I spread the word?" Asked Erich.

Siegward boomed his chuckle.

"No not until it is over, it would only embolden themselves to get trapped and killed, despite the spirit that may blaze their souls, we may have an army of capable minotaurs, but we must never forget our limits." He stated.

Erich nodded his head.

"Understood." He stated with a hint of a smile.

Siegward turned his attention to the pair on his left.

"Reinhard, Hugo. There is little left for you to learn this battle, tend to your troops if you so feel the need, we have time either way of the flow."

The pair did not move.

---

"You will go no further, Colovians!" Yelled an officer of a unit of ten Thalmor mages that Mars and his retainers were stopped by.

"Well now, Justiciars!" Mars announced to his men.

Justiciars were well known by the Colovians, always forming the rear or bodyguard of any Dominion leader or general in this time.

"We must be close, Sir Mars!" Affirmed Helmut, who's expression was hidden behind his mask.

"Yes, we're lucky to have made it thus far." Replied Mars, in all of his honesty. He faced his brother, who had come back to his side not long ago.

"With luck there shall not be another giant of an Elf to block us." He stated.

Andred nodded, unable to smile.

There was somewhat of a standoff as the Justiciars were still some distance away but seemingly loud enough for their voices to be projected thus far were not casting any spell on them.

Perhaps, they were just appearing to be fearsome mages.

"Well they've yet to waste their magic on us, when we're all ready let's trample them over and keep going." Announced the older Kessel.

"Yes Sir!" Was the unified response.

"Good! On my mark." Stated Mars as he readied his spear.

"Charge them, our enchantments will protect us!"

There was indeed too many well protected horsemen for what was in reality a group of novice mages. Trained mages were the greatest threat to horsemen of Colovia more so than any wall of spears, novices were much akin to a person wielding a sword without a shield to back themselves.

Only singing their foes the brave Justiciars were put down, as the ride of the bloodthirsty humans continued.

For several minutes Mars and his retainers saw no signs of any other soul, no other close sounds as combat. He had wondered if he had traveled too far away as he pulled his compass as they rode into another light forest.

However, they had come across a dead horse just moments before.

"I see someone, over there!" Yelled retainer Tirza who pointed her spear towards a resting figure, who got up and began to ran.

He was of noticeable build, and Mars was convinced of whom's identity it was.

"Amazing….I've never seen an Altmer let themselves go like that." Added Tirza, who stared in disbelief.

Some of the Kessel retainers gave bellowing laughter at her comment, they too disbelieving that such a thing was possible.

Mars was silent as he made his approach.

Using his spear much like a Javelin he struck the running Eagle King through his cape, only missing doing any injury to the man but it made him tumble nonetheless with such a powerful throw.

He dismounted and approached as the man lay on his back, facing him.

Orndacil Venril took Mars by surprise.

He had expected to look upon a pathetic man, a ruler who held a position far beyond what he very well deserved. His expression, and eyes bore an intensity only matched by his own lord.

And he was reminded of something.

"There are only two men capable of ending this age of war Mars. It is I, and Orndacil Venril." The words of his Warlord came forth into his mind.

He picked up his spear as Venril stared back with total defiance and grim determination of which he had never seen before in any person out of all those he had met, all those he had to kill.

He collected himself, and posed his question.

"You are Orndacil Venril?" He asked in Tamrielic.

"Correct." Replied Venril, his fear was evident in his tone just from one word alone.

"Your army is all dead before you, and yet you continue to run?" Demanded Mars.

The Elf with the Eagle helm of the Third Dominion showed a flash of anger entering his eyes and countenance.

"Say what you will, I have the weight of the world on me and all the sins of it! For the sakes of all those who have died, those who died today; I will bring peace to Tamriel!" He declared defiantly.

Mars blinked.

He put the very tip of his spear against the Elf's exposed forehead.

"And you think, that with all that has happened today that you are capable of doing this for Tamriel?" He questioned.

Venril did not reply.

"Mars, look out!" Screamed Andred.

The very upper half of his spear was cutoff in an instant by the swing of a special halberd.

Looking aside he saw the one Altmer that he most dreaded to fight, Glawennar Alkinael.

Mars jumped back, pulling out his backup longsword as he did so.

"How? Where did he even-" His thought was cutoff by a thud in front of them as a figure landed on the ground from a tree.

Reflexively he swung his longsword upwards, knocking something out of the sky that was coming for his head.

He checked what it was.

A Mithril throwing dagger was what was by his feet.

It belonged to a most peculiar, olive robed individual in front of him. He wielded what he recognized as Kusarigama in the exotic fashion of a spear. The Individual took the side of Glawennar who stared at him, he couldn't even see the Dominion Agent's face beneath what it wore, he sensed a very strange magic he could not discern.

Mars's retainers were behind him as Glawennar spoke.

"Warriors of Colovia, you shall endanger my lord no further." He stated.

Fury took Mars as he held his ground.

"You two are that willing to die as well just to merely give him the justification to continue on!?" He raged.

Glawennar and the strange figure stood calmly as the Eagle King arose.

"If it is what it takes then we gladly shall, but I cannot allow it to be today, unless your skills can meet it." He boomed.

His brother and the others formed a line for Mars as he prepared to make an attack.

His eye noticed a bright flash from the robed figure's hands.

"Wait! Back up!" Yelled Mars, a flash of light and smoke filled the air. Emitting involuntary coughs from them all as they disoriented from the display.

It was only Mars, Andred, Helmut, and Tirza that held their ground, it seemed too wide to be a normal smoke bomb or device.

As it dissipated Mars saw that the three were gone without trace despite it all having merely been a matter of seconds.

He saw that a pack of smoke bombs had been thrown at them, and he gauged that magic had been involved as well.

He stared off, the Eagle King was retreating to the castle, and even if they gave chase those two would have stopped them.

Mars felt no frustration, only a hint of failure.

"What….What was that?" Asked Andred.

"The Eagle King keeps a most loyal entourage, their skills are….Superb." He replied to his brother.

"Are you at least alright?" Andred asked quickly.

Mars gave his brother a smile as their retainers formed a circle.

"Of course. I was just thinking of how they got the upper hand on us like that, Glawennar came out of nowhere and so did that strange…..Assassin sort of man." Mars sighed upon having spoken his last word.

"Let us head back, I'll have to let the Warlord know."
As they mounted once again, Mars stared off they way they had run, undoubtedly back to their castle.

The words of his Warlord lingered once more in his head, for his sake, he would see the Colovian flag raised in every settlement in the world.

…

..

.

---

Two hours afterwards, S'ren-Ja Castle

…

..

.

Venril rode on Glawennar's horse as they reached the castle gates, only a few Thalmor and Khajiti soldiers were there to allow him in.

"Our lord is about to arrive, close the gates quick!" Yelled one of the soldiers, being among only the few that had survived the retreat.

"Hurry!" Yelled another.

As soon as Venril and Glawennar passed, the gates closed behind them and only seventeen soldiers rushed up to them.

Venril fell of Glawennar's horse, his helm falling along with him.

He was quick to recover as his soldiers rushed to him and Glawennar walked up to him.

"Everyone else is dead….It is just us left…..." He stated as he sat on his knees, staring at the ground as his expression held nothing but horror and sorrow.

He had come to terms with his failure, his worst and most terrible one he had ever faced. Too many had paid the price for his own failings, after all this time.

"I lost too many fine people….They were slaughtered…...All for my damned lack of vision! Of ability to win for our struggle!" He screamed at his own self as his fists tightened, taking sand into his hands.

"I'm sorry. I'm….So sorry!" He trembled as many tears fell down his face, the circling soldiers knelt for him and stared with shock even after all they had witnessed.

"L-Lord please don't….." One of them tried to consult but could not find the proper words.

Glawennar calmly walked over and stood next to his lord, his helmet in his hand hand.

"Stand up, Venril." He stated, gently for who he was as a mer.

Venril looked up at him, who now knelt by his side.

"All of them died for something more important to them than their own lives, they bought as much time as they manage."
"For a Dream, a future they fought and wished to realize, one that not all can see."

"And now Venril, can you see the way? The paths you must take before you if our vision is to come to it's blossom."

"I know…I know that everyone's efforts must be repaid, that I must not abandon my vision for the future of all Nirn." Replied Venril.
Strength took heart inside of him.

"I see a future that they desired but cannot see."

Glawennar offered him his helm.

"You are the only one capable of carrying that burden to the next era, realizing that future." He confided.

His master accepted it.

"It is a heavy one, we will have to continue with all the things, unimaginable and all too familiar they may be to this world." He looked forwards, past those that believed in him.
Those who could not make it, made it possible for him to carry the millions of souls upon his back.

He arose, as their eyes did not leave him.

"Thank you all, for struggling despite myself."

Venril then looked to Glawennar once more.

"Let us keep watch, for any other survivors. I'll leave the defenses to you." He said, at a slight tremble to posture and voice. With the soldiers still showing their outright respect, Venril made his leave for the main structure.

"I only drive ever closer to deserving the realms of the Daedra, I accepted this fate but…."

"I still, am not prepared." He thought as he walked on.

"Understood." Replied Glawennar, as he regarded the Castle defenders.

"Light the fires, and open the gates. I will need some to watch for Colovian movement."
A Khajiit took a step forward, a Suthay in particular.

"Khajiit Dar'so offers watch, Dar'so run faster than many other Khajiit." Stated the Suthay Dar'so.

"With our numbers I do not wish to send you alone but we have no choice, can you do it?" Questioned Glawennar, as he towered over the trembling Khajiit.

"Dar'so can! Dar'so will try best!" He stated, Glawennar acknowledged him.

A Thalmor with a stare beyond most beings walked up to him and saluted.

"My name is Ondolemar, I am the last of my unit. They gave their lives for me, I can play the city drums in the hopes that….That we are announcing reinforcements." Glawenna regarded the shellshocked Ondolemar with agreement.

Deception is what the Colovians mastered in Glawennar knew, it is what made it so that they had won before the battle even began.

"Most excellent, make your way here if they come."

"If they come...I won't let any of them pass me." He replied, staring with a tinge of fear.

"You must focus on survival, it is what our lord wants most of you." Stated the lumbering Mer.

"I...Understand." Replied the Soldier, his gold armor marred by dirt.

"If there are any other suggestions or wishes I ask for them now, we must remain calm, the worst has passed."
As Venril's survivors prepared and waited for hours after the Colovians left, not a single one ever returned.

At the end of the day, out of the 21,000 of Venril's army, only twenty remained.

And to the present day, the Eagle King is left with nightmares of that day's events.

…

..

.

---

…

..

.

Siegward led his army home, giving only one last glance at the Castle of the man he spared. The lion hairs on his helm bristled and blew with the wind as he turned his head.

"I underestimated you, I will not allow you to live the next time I see you."

"Perhaps you may learn, it is not a castle that will protect you, your land, or your dream. It is your people that shall, and in turn you must become their castle, and they will fill your walls."

Today had been the victory of his best friend and that of his dearest brother, if only they could have seen it.

But, it was all still far from over as he determined.

Step by step, it would take him.

There was much left for him to prepare for, much for him to utilize.

With the news of this victory over the greatest figure in Tamriel, there would not be a single land that did not fear him.

All the sacrifices of his people, his vassals would soon be repaid.

The small, struggling land that he had begun with in Skingrad had now become the greatest province in the entirety of the Empire, or rather; Tamriel.

Erich, Klaus, and Reinhard heard his open declaration.

"Under Aetherius and Nirn, I alone am feared of all."

…

..

.

---

…

..

.

Three days later, Imperial City, Local office of the Field Marshalls

Two men sat on opposing sides across a table, with seemingly hundreds of papers spread out across it as they regarded each other, they were just speaking of the latest reports in their newest meeting.

"And thus did the Warlord succeed in crushing Venril's army, a most mortal blow to the Dominion morale, perhaps more so than our dear Akagi's invasion." Came the collected voice of Imperial Field Marshall and his Excellency Wolfram, he peculiarly wore a monocule, and preferred to wear some fur gloves over his clothed hands.

"Well I'd say from experience that a domestic invasion has more shock on a reclusive, isolated people than a battle lost outside of their homes, perhaps we'll see Venril take it to the extreme. In any case this war will still drag on for some time, three years is still my estimation should the winds blow in either favor after….Dear Akagi's invasion as you so say it Wolfram." Smirked Imperial Field Marshall and his Excellency Caligula, who's medals very well left little space on his own clothing.

"Before we speak more of our…..Ambitious Colovian, I have the full report." Caligula then stated, plopping down another fat stack of paper in a logbook.

Wolfram took it and opened it.

"We will have to replace 110 Mananauts, as well as…..Half of our ground forces." Stated the Heartlander Field Marshall.

Wolfram grimaced through his beard.

"That is, not to mention the numerous craft lost as well, naturally we can assume all equipment that did not return is either destroyed or left for them to try and work with, our failsafes shall keep them occupied for some years at least."

"Unfortunate, they will take some twenty or so years to replace at current rates. At least, even among the other….messes created by her incident." He gave a low sigh, Caligula merely shrugged.

"If only Akagi had not gone overboard, a shame. Oh and quite honestly with you Wolfram my true concern is the material lost, what is most pressing is that the Altmer ever curious as they are may attempt to create their own versions, although knowing them it will take perhaps a century after all this time!"
Wolfram stared at Caligula.

"Have we heard from our agents?" He asked.

Caligula nodded, and smiled.

"Of course, they are ready to execute."

"Truly? Excellent, give them the go ahead."

Wolfram then thought for a moment.

"I suppose this may outweigh our losses, I'll make contact with the Director about any further progressions in that field but..."

"The matter of our power source, is that right?" Guessed and smirked Caligula.

"It is a shame that Warlord took our original but the new ones are while despite what they are they are most…..Unique, and they are a colossal breakthrough, any of our mages or magic intensive units will have a much easier time with their reserves, why I think we ought to hand some to select Battlemages for on the field testing." Shared Caligula.

"I see, yes we must be quick to assign them, we'll make a full report to the engineers with compiled data. What the Warlord has from us is an embarrassment and is most painful but we do not need it to power our weapons, Akagi's in particular."

"So you too do not think it necessary Wolfram?" Chuckled Caligula.

Wolfram blinked, and expressed uncertainty.

"I do not know, the Logicians and the Colovians remain our greatest threat." He said as he reached for his pipe.

"I suppose we could try taking out Siegward as well…..." Suggested Caligula.

"Perhaps later, for now that odd Acturianist is needed and we will work alongside him, for as long as it is fitting for us both, perhaps he and his band of upstarts need not die anyways, so long as he doesn't scheme." Considered the other Field Marshall.

"For now let us head off to the Council meeting with the Emperor about the new three Legions we are raising. Among some other discussion we will have with our select Councilmen yes?" Mused Wolfram.

Caligula unrelaxed himself and arose.

"Hmph I suppose we must go over their 'strategies'. Very well then, let us be off."
…

..

.

---

…

…

.

Hours later, nightfall, City of Skingrad, Skingrad main keep

The Lords of Colovia made their reunion, the news had been shared of the deaths of their land's two pillars, the jovial mood contrasted with that of sadness, the two were well loved and respected even among them. There were also the case of the deaths of the other minor lords, who showed great promise and effort.

Lord Erich Model, the bearer of the Skingradian crescent moon armor as well as the current Count of Skingrad began an announcement, he would keep it short, but what he believed to be effective enough as a speech.

"Comrades, in thirty four years we came from being that of only a single minor city to taking the reins of the future of Tamriel. There is not a single one who can bear to stand against us with what we have become, of what strength and soul we possess. None can no longer match us in all regards! You all are strong, our enchantments protect us! Our magic grows, and so too does our land prosper! Do not let the deaths of those dear make you lose sight and heart, for they brought us victories that are ingrained upon Nirn's blessed soil!"
Were the idealistic, resounding words that carried their spirit of which that had made them survive and thrive as long as they had now to those who sat before him.

To the ambitious long and young lords, each of their lives lost was that of a missing star in the night skies.

Their great tactician and the Warlord's brother, among the casualties of those whom were young, and in the case of one who was the latter's once guardian. Would be celebrated.

They, who were at their core a bunch of mere brutes, aristocrats, farmers, nobles, priests, rogues, brigands, soldiers, idealists, and inventors among the many others of paths that so had been among each and every single one of the numerous figures of the Warlord's land.
They were all scum and noble, comrades.

A roar, a roar of their shouts of victory were heard throughout the night, one that shook the Palace itself.

---

The Same Night, Land of Skingrad, Warlord's Manor.

Siegward's eyes had long gazed at the pair of urns before him. In a shrine dedicated to that of Arkay.

For hours he had meditated as he sat, looking up at them as he reflected.

The memories of the two most dearest to him, repeated as he felt his own soul transport out of his own vessel.

His usual pressured countenance was burdened with many emotions, having dropped his usual masks.

He closed his eyes as to calm his self once more.

"Brother, you think I could stand and just allow father to treat you as he did!?"
"I do not have any ambitions of my own, no desire to rule when even though I had to swallow my own pride that I always knew I was inferior to you despite whatever father said, our vassals knew this!"

"Although they think this, I still planned to succeed you. If you had not arose. Siegward, I am happy you made this decision, your brilliance may be hated but I will follow everything you do!"

With incredible difficulty Siegward pulled his hand off of his brother's urn.

"...Wolf…..."

He trembled, before attempting a meditative posture once more.

His brother who had stuck as his side for his entire life despite his own grievous sins, together Wolf had to bear him exiling their father, killing their youngest brother for his loyalties to the Imperials, having to fight endlessly in battle and handle affairs, and yet he still did it out of his own unending faith. Who believed him to be the only person to unite the land after it had been so abandoned by both those at home and those in the City.

His brother could see very far ahead, further than he could.

Yet, he was gone. He had given his life to see his dream come true, he bought as much time as he could.

"And he is our hero! It was Numerius Ercolani here that made it possible that I could take my first castle!" Siegward could recall saying the day he took on his strategist and tactician, that new Hugo appeared to have led somewhat of a similar life to him.

"No matter what lord, you must not move."

"There is nothing I will not stoop to, all great leaders are feared, and so I must see you become a figure of dread to all enemies as well."

"Piece by piece should they all fall by our manipulations, we need not necessarily rush to wasting relics and blessings."
"A man or mer like Falcrion rightfully believes himself to be fully a symbol of justice and is full of arrogance who has yet to lose, he will realize his own mortality when we defeat him."
"As long as this war drags, it's only good is that eventually the weakness of all that is centered around the Mede rule is made too clear to be ignored, the minds of all but Titus too high up in their own fantasy that our strengths will be undeniable to those with reason and opportunity, they will bow before us the moment we they are gone."

"Siegward, this may be my final plan. I shall do whatever it takes to see it through with my own life forfeit, your greatest enemy shall be dead."
Much like the land he ended up joining Numerius had led a turbulent life, wishing to be a mere warrior that traveled from battlefield to battlefield in Cyrodil during the minor internal conflicts to unifying Nibenay and Colovia and being unsuccessful in finding a staying place anywhere for decades while being mocked by all who met him for the deformity in his leg, merely only causing a noticeable limp.

Ironically, when they had first encountered the other they had been on opposing sides.

He was thirty eight when he came into his service, and thirty years had passed since, how young he had still seemed in his brilliant mind, and spirit.

The Warlord let his hand go of his friend's urn.

"You both did so well, in your plans, and having bought them all that time."

"I will promise something important to you."
"I will remain resolute as the land itself, display the fury of Aetherius within my own being."

"Let Farsightedness be my ally, Arrogance my enemy."

So Recited the Warlord of Colovia.

"Your poems ever improve, Siegward." A familiar voice came from behind him.

Shaken, the Warlord looked over.

Numerius sat behind him, beholding a smile.

"Remain resolute as our land, show heavenly fury….."
Numerius arose, tears slowly fell from Siegward's eyes.

"May we see into future, may we retain humanity…."

Siegward struggled to contain himself, he waged his own war internally.

Numerius beamed.

"It is brilliant!"
"Ercolani….!" Managed the Spirit's best friend.

"Are you praising me?"

Siegward's hand reached for the smiling enigma.

Numerius, who had come to him through the wildest gust of winds, now left him fully forever with the very same.

The Warlord stared off as the tears ended.

"Do not worry, neither of you will see me sob anymore." He whispered softly, he reached for something in the cabinet both urns were under, in a lockbox only with a measure only he knew how to open.

It was their last gift to him, one they had gone through terrible lengths to.

His hand held gently around a green glowing crystalline shape. He felt a strange comfort as he held it to his chest.

He smiled despite his forlorn eyes.

"As long as this world of mine lives, no soul shall see them end this beautiful Nirn, I will take it all through my own terms…..My way, not by delusions."

"I wonder how they made this thing come to be, but….No matter." He stated as he placed it back into it's container. He reached for a pen and paper.

When the war was over perhaps in months or maybe another year, whether the city became theirs or not, he would have the younger lords spend some time in a place called High Hrothgar.
As a man who took things step by step, a visionary much in the likeness of other figures before him, he would seek to create a new tradition, and seek an untapped, forgotten strength for his continuous victories.

Through belief, was everything made possible.

…

..

.

---

End of the Great War, Chapter 3

And with this, this will be the last of this side of the backstory that will been seen for a while, I think I shall go ahead and make another fic/story for this when the time comes.

I hope that these three chapters served their purpose well, being both some backstory as well as some introductions to concepts and some characters.

You may also see it as some further setup, among some other things.

Admittedly this took longer than I would have liked, had to write this during the middle of my Air Conditioner dying, but it has been fixed as of today ironically. I'm just glad I'm out in what is essentially a place with dry heat instead of humid, that's worse than being out in a desert sort of area like me in my opinion.

Until the next chapter!