Morgan was half in mind to just dissolve this so-called alliance and march into Plegia herself. Planning an invasion was hard, planning an invasion with dozens of leaders from different nations with no one subservient to another was next to impossible.
The bluenette silently cursed her grandfather for inviting every friendly disposed nation to this war-council. Theoretically they now had an overwhelming advantage in numbers and resources against Plegia, but if they could not agree on a plan, this war would be disastrous for everyone.
Numbers where nothing if there was no order, and it was paramount that they agreed on a common strategy before invading Plegia.
Easier said than done.
Their closest ally: The Regna Ferox, was a hot-headed bunch. Eager to move out as soon as possible to find glory, they barked at any suggestion of being in command of anyone other than their current ruling Khan: a huge bear of a man called Barak. While Barak was amendable to suggestions out of respect for her grandfather, it was clear that he did not have a high regard for Morgan herself. It was for Morgan's part expected, Feroxi culture always valued strength first and she was a far image of a great warrior and had yet to prove herself.
The delegations from the continent of Valm was a bit more troublesome. It was a mixed bunch of greedy minor kings eager for plunder and lords that were no better than glorified mercenaries. However, some of them had answered the Exalt's call out of a sense of honour and friendship.
First and foremost was the son of Empress Say'ri of Chon'sin. His name was prince Yen'fey and was a renowned swordman in his homeland although this would be his first war. A man of few words, he had not said much since he had arrived in Ylisse. Her grandfather had noted that the prince was named after his uncle.
''Did you know him? His uncle I mean.''
Her grandfather had seemed thoughtful at the question.
''Yes, I even fought against him in the Valmanese war. He was a formidable swordman.''
''Wait…You were enemies?''
''Hmm? Why yes…. It's…complicated. I'll tell you the details another day.''
While Morgan had read that the Chon'sin was split into two factions during the war, she couldn't recall reading her grandfather had ever fought the brother of the Empress.
Second was a young lord named Inigo, son of Virion the duke of Rosanne. Unlike Yen'fay and Barak, Inigo seemed to be a jovial and a very talkative man, who always wore a carefree smile. Morgan however did not like the way he looked at her, nor did she appreciate the way he tries to subtly flirt with her. At this her grandfather had just laughed it off, saying that it ran in the family.
Either case, Chrom had assured her that out of the leaders from Valm those two would be the most trustworthy.
As for the armies, they were still on route to Ylisse.
The army of Ylisse itself were nearly mustered. Counting the levies and the professional soldiers, their army counted barely twenty thousand. Additionally, Ylisse had around a thousand armoured horsemen and eight hundred Pegasus riders.
The armies of Regna Ferox were larger with around thirty thousand heads. Most of them were however light foot soldiers, better suited for skirmishes then a straight up fight. The feroxi were strong warriors individually, but they lacked the trained cohesion of Ylisse. As for the moment they were moving down to their southern borders.
As for Valm, while different lords would compose their armies different, they generally favoured horse riders on a higher scale then their eastern allies. The armies of Chon'sin were an exemption being largely infantry based. Together the armies from Valm counted forty-thousand soldiers on foot and eight thousand horse riders with around two thousand of these were heavily armoured. In addition, they had a mixed gathering of Wyvern- and Pegasus riders of around one thousand. Currently the armies had just managed to gather at their eastern harbours of Valm and was preparing to sail overseas.
By Morgan's estimates each army could either overwhelm or match the armies of Plegia on their own. According to their spies, Plegia had just mustered around fifteen thousand with a few hundred wyvern riders.
Still, those soldiers could be troublesome on the defensive. Plegia was a difficult land to invade and for all their numbers only the armies of Ylisse had any experience against Plegia. Morgan also knew that the modus operandi of Plegia would be to retreat into the vast deserts when faced with overwhelming opposition and let the harsh elements tire their enemies out. It was too time consuming and difficult logistically to gather all their armies in Ylisse and like a sledgehammer ram into Plegia in one direction, not to mention that it would give their enemy space to retreat.
Morgan would not give them that option.
Their best bet would be to attack Plegia in three different directions around the same time. The armies of Valm would come at them from the western shores. Regna Ferox would come from the north while Ylisse would cross the borders to the east. Plegia would either divide their already meagre forces, or just focus on one enemy at the time. Morgan was certain that her father would go for Ylisse first given how their forces was the weakest in terms of numbers. Afterall, he knew that Ylisse was still recovering from their previous war. The young Exalt would however not offer his forces battle, instead she planned to turn Plegia's own grand strategy against them by merely shadowing or avoiding them and wait for either the forces of Regna Ferox or Valm to attack them in their rear.
She had advised her allies to have a similar approach, but it proved difficult convincing them. The Valmanese saw it as either cowardly or a pointless exercise given their superior numbers. While the Feroxi mocked the idea. However, the Khan surprisingly agreed to the young Exalt's suggestion after letting his subordinates speak their mind. Pointing out that by placing their forces in different directions, they could prevent any ''cowardly'' retreats and force the Plegians to do an ''honourable'' battle.
The Valmanese in turn was convinced by Yen'fay pointing out how this was the most direct route for their armies, since gathering in Ylisse would require months of dangerous sea travel. Inigo in turn pointed out how they could take their time ''liberating'' the wealthy coastal ports of Plegia while avoiding any confrontation with the main army until their allies arrived.
Further agreements were made, and the council went on for some time. Discussions were made about how they would rendezvous if they failed to engage the Plegian army, how they would signal each other and how the spoils would be divided etc.
And so, after a few days the war council was concluded with the various leaders leaving to re-join their respective hosts.
Morgan was soon after appointed as the official tactician of the Ylissean host in a quick ceremony, while many still had their doubts about the young tactician. She had the full confidence of many of the Shepherds, who was split up and each given command of their own units.
As she received her title, she could see great pain in her grandfather's eyes. It was clear that it was difficult for him to send another family member to war, yet it was necessary. Even if they did not attack, she knew that her father never intended to let this peace last, and she was the only one with a first-hand knowledge of Plegia and their tactics.
The Ylissean host moved out soon after and began their long journey towards the border. Because of their host seize, it took them nearly three weeks to reach the border, however they were not harassed in anyway, nor did they meet a Plegian army at the border. Some of her captains began to wonder if the Plegians even knew they were being invaded, Morgan though of this to be most unlikely, there was no way her father would not have seen the troops movement of such large hosts beginning to surround his country. More likely he had chosen to focus his attention on one of her allies instead.
The army marched on and met no opposition nor any sign of life until the sixth day after crossing the border. At that point they had reached a crossroad, one road led north another would led west towards the Plegian capitol. South of the crossroad were a large hill where apparently the entire Plegian army had set camp. After confirming that this was indeed the main army and not some feint and knowing that the Feroxi would arrive from the north in a few days, the Ylissean host set camp around a mile away west from the hill. It was a distance that would put them way beyond any danger, yet close enough to observe the opposition without difficulty.
As they set camp, their scouts reported a strange red magical light could be glimpsed atop of the hill, right in the middle of the Plegian camp.
In response, Morgan called a meeting with her captains, the sun stood high on the hill and Morgan wanted to ascertain the situation before the last light disappeared behind the hill.
''Does anyone have an idea what that sorcerous red light is?''
''My hypothesis is that it must be some kind barrier, but I have never seen one that glow with that particular pigment before.''
Laurent the current head of the mages answered. Morgan agreed with the senior mage, but she too was clueless about the colour of the barrier.
It would be Noire who was currently responsible for the infirmary that would give them an answer.
''I have heard about it from my mother. It's called a blood barrier. A particular strong magical barrier that can repel any outside force or person as soon as it is erected. It's a formidable defensive spell.''
Another captain in the tent asked.
''But how is it different from a regular barrier?''
''It's different because it is nearly impossible to break and would stay in place for a long time with little need to maintain it, the catch is that a sacrifice of blood is needed to erect it, hence the ''blood'' in the name.''
Morgan made grimace.
''Why do I get the feeling that it's more complicated than that? A little blood sounds cheap when you gain a near impenetrable shield.''
''Well…Not much blood but maybe it's more correct to say a life. The ritual is quite complex and require two individuals of close blood relation with one being sacrificed to erect the barrier and another to control it.''
The captains began to mumble between themselves clearly disturbed by this revelation. The practice of dark magic was nearly unheard of in Ylisse and was greatly vilified. Even Laurent who usually wore a neutral expression turned with disgust.
''Abominable…A perversion of the magical arts…''
Noire seemed to shrink at this, feeling awkward at the atmosphere. Kjelle a captain of the regular army broke the silence.
''I say we should just attack them now! Let whatever coward hide behind their shield! This waiting is unbefitting of Ylisse. My scouts have informed me that the Plegians have not set any other defences up. It's likely that they (like us) have just arrived, and if we hesitated now, they would have more time to dig in further and maybe even set op some ballistae. It would be more difficult to drive them away from that hill then even with the Feroxi reinforcement.''
Captain Kjelle was always difficult for Morgan to deal with. A good captain, but headstrong and too direct with her methods (at least in the bluenettes own opinion). She was notorious for her burning hatred for Plegia and their practice of the dark arts. Morgan had known her for years, but it was clear that the captain never liked or trusted either Morgan or her sisters, despite her grandfather's assurances. Morgan suspected that it was because of their Plegian origin, as she had heard that the captain was orphaned during the wars, but it was long before she or Severa was even born.
Still while the captain's suggestion had merit, Morgan rather not risks it seeing how the Feroxi would arrive soon, giving them the advantage in numbers to surround the Plegian army.
''It would be difficult even now. They have the high ground and the sun behind their back. And worry not about any war-machines captain. Plegia eschew such crude machines, worry more about that barrier and their mages…''
As if some God had heard it, a sudden crackling bang was heard outside of their tent. A shockwave rippled through the tent and all the occupants rushed out.
It was pure chaos in the camp.
Multiple balls of fire fell from the sky and hit the camp causing explosions on impact, killing and maiming anyone nearby. Morgan looked unto the hill and saw how the top of the red barrier disintegrate briefly allowing a sorcerous lightning to rise into heavens before striking the Ylissean camp. The opening of the barrier closed promptly soon after.
''How is this possible?! How can they shoot so far?!''
''We must retreat! We're getting slaughtered out here!''
How Plegia was able to fire spells so far was a mystery that had to wait. As for the moment Morgan could hear order was quickly disintegrating, she needed to act quickly, or all would be lost.
It seemed that captain Kjelle would get her wish.
''Severa! Gather all the captains and order them to calm their men and prepare to assault that hill! We move now!''
''ARE YOU MAD?! WE'LL GET TORN TO SHREDS IN THIS BOMBARDMENT! WE NEED TO RETREAT!''
Morgan had already though about that, and a plan had already formed inside her head.
''Retreat is not an option; this was a trap. It's likely that they can attack us as far as they can see. They let us set camp here and there's no cover for miles! Our only option is to close in on them! We're closer to them than any point of safety. And worry not about the spells! Just tell the men to spread out! At least three feet apart!''
She turned towards Laurent. She had a plan that would hopefully minimize their casualties.
''Laurent! Gather your mages and divide them between the companies! Have them stand in front of them. When this is done, tell them to cast wind and direct the spell upwards! We'll use the sand to create a sandstorm as we advance that can obscure our movements and blind their mages!''
To his credit Laurent quickly understood Morgan's plan.
''But won't we risk obscuring our own vision?''
''No, look at the sun! The sun is right over the hill if we keep our eyes on it, we'll reach them sooner or later! Now get going!''
Laurent quickly turned around to carry out his orders. Morgan turned back to Severa and the assembled captains.
''You heard my plan, gather the men! Infantry front, horses behind as reserve. We'll hide behind the sandstorm until we reach that hill. On signal order the men to reform into a tight formation and charge the Plegian front. Once this is done have the horses fan out and attack the rear.''
''What will the signal be?''
''And what about that barrier?''
''Our Pegasus riders will fly overhead and keep watch. Once they can see that you're nearing the hill, they will blow their horns as the signal. I'll fly with them. Remember to keep yourself oriented by looking at the sun! And don't worry about the barrier, I will take care of it! Severa join me once you're done.''
As their captain left to bring order in the camp, Morgan made a point to speak to Noire.
''Noire, I want you and your people to stay behind and hide. Find concealment around the camp. I doubt that they would keep bombarding the camp once it's clear that we're advancing towards them. But be prepared to treat and collect the wounded as battle is joined.''
''But…the barrier…''
''No time for second guessing now Noire! I have a plan, trust me and…take care of yourself.''
Noire quickly bowed before the bluenette before running off to organize her team of healers.
Severa returned soon after.
''So, what do you need me for?''
Morgan prepared herself to reveal the last part of her plan.
''I noticed that the barrier would open briefly to allow them to cast spells. It should stay open long enough for a few pegasi riders to fly through.''
''Let me guess, you want me to be one of those riders, fly in and kill the mages inside that bubble and stop their spellcasting? Sound like suicide to me.''
''Yes, but we need to end this quickly. The sandstorm might protect us while we advance but once battle is joined our mages won't be able to do it anymore.''
Another spell struck nearby, incinerated a large tent. Screams were heard and men ran around in panic and confusion. The captains shouted and blew their horns to rally their men.
''That barrier could contain dozens of soldiers, how are a handful pegasi riders supposed to overcome that without support?''
''You are among the best in Ylisse and you won't just have anybody. You'll have me. My blade can cut through any armoured opponent as if they are wearing only cloth. And the shield can dispel any spell. If we're quick, we could cut through the guards and the mages before being surrounded. Are you with me sister?''
Severa was silent for a while before answering.
''Always.''
The two sisters then flew, and from the backs of their pegasi they had a good overview of the battle. Morgan's idea of creating an artificial sandstorm seemed to help. While the Plegians still cast spells, it was with a noticeable delay and inaccuracy. The Ylissean forces in turn was able to retain a good order as they advanced. Plegia sent their own airborne forces to take the Ylissean Pegasus riders down, but failed against their superior numbers. The Pegasus riders where therefor free to carry out their objectives: Signalling and directing their foot-based forces. As their forces finally clashed, Morgan and Severa found the opportunity to break off and head for the barrier with little difficulty.
While they were accompanied by a at least five other riders, only Morgan and Severa managed to dive quickly enough to get inside the barrier as it opened to release another deadly spell.
It was a close call, Morgan and Severa barely had time to jump off their steed mid-air as the flying steed were quickly hit by throwing lances as they entered. Landing at the centre of the magical circle, they quickly rose and tried to orient themselves. They were quickly beset by four heavily armed men, Severa with her armor-slayer blade made quick work of one guard, while Morgan with Falchion quickly took care of the rest with one opponent vainly tried to block her blade with his own, only for it cut right through and into his neck.
As they looked around, they noticed that there were no more opponents approaching them, save from two lonely figures.
One was their father, besides him was their long-hated brother. Validar was on his knees, bleeding profoundly, while mumbling incoherently. He seemed dazed and gave no indication of being aware of his surroundings. Their father was standing over him with one hand on Validar's forehead, a strange purple light emitted from his hand. He too did not give any sign of acknowledging the newly arrived intruders.
Severa nodded towards Morgan to continue, while she turned around to cover their backs for any other threats.
For a long time Morgan had been looking forward to confront her father. To see how his agitating neutral expression turn to rage, how he would shout at her and call her a traitor and disown her.
''Father…the time of your reckoning has come. Today you'll face justice for all the suffering that you have caused and your betrayal towards Ylisse. And I shall deliver it…''
Finally, her father cast his gaze towards his two daughters that he had conceived with force. Yet his visage said nothing. He seemed almost unimpressed, as if mere children armed with sticks had come to his door to threaten him. But suddenly something reassembling a smile appeared and the King of Plegia began to laugh.
''Ahh…Morgan! You have done well my daughter!''
Phew…Ok this was by far the worst chapter I had write to date. Writing about battles sure are hard -.-
I had to rewrite this multiple times, and even now I find it strange to read. Ah well I hope that I conveyed the events in an understandable manner and one that hopefully made a bit sense.
As always thank you for reading ^^