Xxx. Chapter Five: Molshiem Plains. xxX
Astolfo who had been cutting a bloody swath through the Thenardier forces, was struck dumb almost when he saw a familiar suit of armour along with various soldiers not baring the white dragon head of Thenardier, but the white swan of Robillard. These soldiers were actually not fighting at all, merely parrying the attacks of his men who had begun to tire thanks to having fought back a force of three hundred that were within the Town of Celeste.
It didn't take long for Astolfo to look about and see many of the Thenardier soldiers that remained were baring the Sigil's of other small houses; Féret, Leblanc, Robillard, Robertian, Valois. Seeing many of the remaining 'enemies' throwing down their weapons. Astolfo walked up to the armoured individual he recognised. He hadn't seen him since the tournament in Nicé two years past.
The knight in question, seeing Astolfo marching towards him sighed. Removing his helmet, he revealed a beguiling face with, curly black hair that messily fell about his face. "I surrender to you Lord Vorn." Was all he said.
Giving a tight smile at his friend. "Sir Ladislas Robillard, I accept your surrender." Was all Astolfo said as he looked about and noted, in the immediate area. Thirty or so knights were going to their knees. "Your sword, Sir Robillard." Astolfo continued when he noted that the Black Banner of Zhcted was now flying next to his two own standards as well as the raging Bayard of Brune.
"You change sides?" Ladislas questioned lightly. He wasn't one for politics, after all he was the third son of a small time Earl, who was only considered slightly more affluent than house Vorn. They could barely manage fielding little more than five knights and two hundred and fifty men-at-arms and common soldiers.
"No, just a mutual pact." Astolfo muttered, he had always gotten on well with the youngest son of Robillard who was a pair of years older than himself. "Should I send the ransom to your father or the Duke."
Ladislas, at that point proffered his sword hilt to Astolfo, who claimed it. "My father if you want the ransom paid." Was all he said.
"White Swan of Robillard, Black Bull of Robertian, Red squirrel of Féret, Golden lion of Valois and the Black Wing of Leblanc." Astolfo listed off the various arms of the smaller houses he could see gathered. "Didn't think any of the houses gathered were allied with Thenardier."
At that Ladislas looked decidedly annoyed. "Yes well, it was either join Thenardier or be decimated." The equally tall man as Astolfo growled. He always hated it when the bigger nobles picked on the smaller less well-off nobles like his own house. "didn't have much choice in the matter."
"I'm sorry to hear that. You'll be treated as expected of a person of your station." Astolfo said as he noted that Guy and Reynold were standing by waiting studiously. Looking at them he snapped his fingers. "Guy, Reynold. You fought well, I'm proud of both of you." The young lord and knight said. "could you fetch a table, some chairs and writing utensils from my manor and set them in the courtyard."
"Of course, Sir." Guy straightened visibly at the praise he had received from his lord.
"Good to have you back, Lord." Reynold said as he wiped his sword on his tabard, before sheathing it and moving off in the direction of the manor.
Looking back at Ladislas. "Take your men to the courtyard, you know where it is." Astolfo said as he grunted and looked at the bodies of dead knights that littered the streets of his town. Fortunately, the enemy had been struck into inaction at the appearance of third dragon. So much so that they hadn't been able to defend themselves well enough. It also didn't help that he had spear-headed the charge with his best fighters on his flanks.
Wiping his swords clean on the surcoat of a fallen knight he grunted a little. "Well, all things considered, that was a rousing success. I hope me now having a dragon sweetens the defensive pact we have. More of a worthy ally than one knight and hundred men-at-arms."
Ellen who had appeared behind him. She herself had ordered her thousand to line the low rising hill just to the north opposite where the Thenardier soldiers had been. To say her thousands sudden appearance coupled with the dragon flying overhead and swooping down on them, had been a good deterrent was an understatement. the Thenardier forces had retreated as soon as they saw the Black Dragon Banner.
Lim and Rurick were at the courtyard, they had just had the pleasure of meeting Astolfo's two squires. "Your squires are rather charming, going as far as to thank me. For not killing you at Dinant." She said as she looked dismissively at the dead. "Didn't think you would take so many prisoners. You sure you can afford to stretch yourself like that."
"I know one of them, he's the youngest son of Lord Robillard. The son of the man who held the right-flank of the rear-guard at Dinant. It's the least I can do, he's also a long-time friend." To be fair he was on friendly terms with most of the poor noble families sons or daughters. He just hoped that none of his other friends had been ordered to fight in the Thenardier army.
"I'm surprised that no one has questioned, why some of my knights are now patrolling the streets. Some of your men have even struck up friendly conversation with them." She said, her voice betraying her confusion and curiosity at what she was witnessing.
Astolfo chuckled as he led Ellen back to his manor where he was sure Bertrand and Gaspard would be processing the prisoners. "They trust their lord and know that I would never betray them." he said as he waved to some of the children who had burst out of the temple with some sharpened sticks. They were all attempting to strip one dead knight.
One of the girls in the group waved back to him. "Lord Astolfo! You're back. How was your holiday?" the little girl cried out happily. Her lord had always been nice, sometimes he would even join in and play games with her and her friends. He was really kind.
Patting the little girl on the head he smiled gently. "My holiday was wonderful Roseline. Have you been behaving for you mama and papa?" he questioned. Eyes narrowed playfully as he helped one of the young boys – Gilles – pull one of the gauntlets from the dead knight. It was gruesome work, but it had to be done. Despite how horrible it was, war was a profitable venture to those who could afford it.
"Of course, Lord Astolfo. I'm always good for mama and papa. When can you play with us next?" little Roseline said with a pout. It wasn't her fault she was a little clumsy.
"Soon, very soon. When things are back to normal. I'll take you and your friends horse riding and teach you to hunt rabbits with traps." He said before standing. "I've got to go, you be careful striping that armour it's heavy." He called as he continued on his way.
Ellen couldn't stop herself from smiling at the sight. She had never seen a lord or lady do something like he had just done. She could see the adoration clear as day in the little girls eyes. It just added another facet to the seemingly enigmatic Brunish Knight that stolen her heart. She just wished her love was not an unrequited one.
Astolfo noticing Eleonora staring shook his head. "What're you staring at? I thought I wiped all the blood away." He jokingly added. While he wanted a quiet life, he was sure he would never be successful in his wishes.
"that was so kind of you." Ellen said. She wasn't lying. Many lords would've brushed the poor dear aside, sadly she probably would have as well. "Not many lords would stop and talk with a common girl."
"Here in Alsace, it is a common occurrence. I know everyone's names from the eldest man to the newest of babes." He said fondly. As some of his people, stopped what they were doing and bowed to him, waved or began cheering his return home with many offering handshakes which he accepted. Further surprising Ellen by his actions. "Like I said at the mouth of the mountain pass. These are my children and family, it breaks my heart to be away from them. For too long." He said, as he accepted another handshake.
'You continue to amaze me Astolfo Vorn.' Ellen thought fondly as she kept pace with her ally and friend. She supposed they were that now, or very close to being friends. She liked to think.
Astolfo seeing the prisoners lining up with a few of his spear men standing by with some Zhcted knights, were giving their names to Bertrand and Guy. 'Strange I would've thought... never mind Gaspard doesn't know how to write.' He thought for a second, it made more sense now. Guy and Reynold by virtue of being his squires, were also expected by him to learn to read and write. That when the time came, they would be able to run the knightly houses they would no doubt go on to create.
The other thing he noted rather idly, was that Athily had comfortably draped herself over his manors roof and was watching the foreign invaders with a studious gaze. Oft baring her fangs if one glanced at her nervously. 'Athily, is my roof comfortable?' he jokingly asked his dragon friend.
'More fitting than that tree-nest you built for me. the thatch is very buoyant.' She stated rather happily. Before laughing a little. 'Titta incoming!'
As Astolfo heard Athily's voice in his head, with her warning felt a body impact against his back, with a head being pushed against him just below his shoulder blades. "Lord Astolfo, you're finally back. Sorry I couldn't keep my promise."
Turning around Astolfo found a teary eyed Titta refusing to let him go. Having turned in her grasp he gently gave her a hug in return. "I'm sorry I could only keep half of my promise."
Titta letting go stood in front of her lord. "I wanted to be in the house when you returned. With snacks and tea ready for you. But Guy and Reynold forced me into the Temple." She cried with indignation at being lifted by the two squires.
"Titta, your life is worth far more to me, than tea and snacks could ever be. I wouldn't have cared if the house burned down, so long as you weren't in it." Astolfo said before chastising the little maid before him. "You got to look after yourself more. Tig..." whatever he was about to say died on his lips as he went to utter his little brothers name. "Never-mind. Would you mind making some tea and snacks. I'm famished."
Giving a determined look, Titta nodded with a smile. "I'll make all of your favourites!" as she said that she dashed off towards the manor, weaving between soldiers and knights.
Ellen having her polite conversation with Astolfo interrupted again, decided to tease a little. "So that's the kind of woman you like. I'm jealous."
Shaking his head, Astolfo looked up at the sky. "No. believe it or not I was going to propose a marriage arrangement between her and my little brother." Was all he said as he went towards his front entrance. Before calling out. "Ellen, Ladislas, Rurick, Lim. Please join me."
As he said that he began to mount the stairs that would lead to the front entrance. Hastily followed by the four he called to.
! #$%^&*()
"Where do you reckon, the Thenardier army will fall-back to?" Lim asked as she gazed at a detailed map of the Alsace region that was spread out on Astolfo's dining room table.
Ladislas, was hazy on what was happening with the army. All he had been told was that one of the Thenardier army advisors would be leading him and all the small forces that the other nobles had sent, after being strong armed by the Duke.
Gazing at the map his forces along with Ellen's, were place on top of Alsace. Picking up the token that represented the Thenardier army, he placed it on top of what looked to be a large plain. "Molshiem Plains. It's the only place large enough for him really recoup his forces. I was getting ready to turn it into farmland. As well as digging irrigation ditches and channels, projected income from the plains along would be near five-hundred gold!" Astolfo said enthusiastically.
Again, Ellen had to remember just how poor Alsace really was, but he had a dragon at his command, so it was a good trade off. His dragon would be worth a few hundred men. "Are you sure that's where he would go?" Ellen questioned, they had to be sure.
"Yes, if we pursue him. He'll want to be able to utilise his dragons. It's the only plain in Alsace large enough. What he won't realise is that it isn't all that flat, more dipped. Why I have to have ditches and banks built." Astolfo said, getting distracted for half a second. "we can use that to our advantage. By the way who is leading them Ladislas, you never said." He finished.
"The pipsqueak Zion. That's not all, Tristan Leblanc and Nikita Valois are also with him." Ladislas stated, before watching Astolfo frown at mention of Nikita.
"More friends of yours?" Ellen asked as she saw Astolfo's reaction.
"You could say that. Tristan and I have squared off in a few Squire tournaments. But not since we've both become knights." Astolfo muttered. He may've been the better lance fighter, but he and Tristan were about even when it came to swordsmanship. He then groaned a little as he thought about Nikita. "Nikita is the heiress to the Valois family in the north west along the coast by the Sachstein border. She's a little much sometimes." Astolfo didn't have words for the woman.
Laughing at his lack of a description on Nikita, Ladislas decided to enlighten them. "She's the only female knight in Brune. Astolfo here fought her in a Squires melee when they were sixteen. She was disguised as a male, unfortunately no one bet on Astolfo's swordsmanship being so brutal. Her light armour was left in ribbons, which had the effect of allow her breasts to spill free from the confines of the armour. She was booed out of the arena. Astolfo here went to her tent and offered her pointers and tips on how to better herself.
Ever since then, she has both claimed him her eternal rival as well as her greatest obsession. Much to the point she has tried to emulate Astolfo in every way. It also hasn't helped that this idiot rebuffed a marriage proposal from her father a year back." Ladislas finished, noting that his seemingly prickly friend had shrunk in his seat.
"You know that's one of the only times I regret being nice to someone. She's too much sometimes. Dropping by for random visits. Challenging me to duels when I have to visit the capital, which happens to also coincide with her visits." Astolfo bemoaned. She was the one woman that actually got to him. He had been so relieved when he found out that Lord Leblanc had told her to stay and guard Valois her home province. When he was Dinant.
Ellen couldn't help but giggle a little. Titta walked in with another tray of snacks. "But Lady Nikita is nice!" the small maid exclaimed. "You shouldn't be so mean." She continued to scold.
"You tell him Titta." Rurick joked from his spot. His words making the maid remember they were in company.
Lim seeing her chance resumed talks back to the appropriate track, that being the battle that would take place at the Molshiem Plains. "Other than those two and the dragons. Which I'm sure we'll figure a strategy out for. What would the Army formation be." She directed that at Ladislas.
"Light soldiers and cavalry in the front about three to four hundred of them. A traditional Brunish Knight formation behind them, I'd suggest they number about eight hundred strong. Followed by the earth dragon no doubt. Behind the earth dragon will be likely a formation of one thousand two hundred knights that will be tasked with breaking up and becoming a right flank flying column or left flank flying column. No doubt the flying groups won't number more than four-hundred. Zion will follow from the rear with the vyfral dragon and three hundred elite Thenardier Knights, including Tristan and Nikita.
They're wild cards in all this. Nikita is likely to join us just as she is likely to fight us. Tristan's in the same position as me, he'll make a show of fighting. But I think he'll concede if a decent fight is given to him." Ladislus finished going through how he saw it. Well from what he remembered when discussing it with Tristan and Nikita the night before.
Both of whom expressed concern about these actions of invading Alsace. Nikita went into a long spiel about how her love would swoop in and save the day, which would move her to seeing the light or some such nonsense. Tristan had been oddly silent, he was on good terms with Astolfo. But his father had lost an arm while under the orders of Astolfo in the rear-guard fight at Dinant. He just hoped that Tristan didn't let his pride get the better of him.
Ladislus, looked around the room casually. For being Zhctin they weren't too bad. "I'd offer you my sword in this fight Astolfo."
"No, no. that isn't necessary Lus, if you join us. Thenardier will take it out on your father." Astolfo grumped. It was a shame, Ladislus was a sharp fighter and good cavalryman.
"Fair enough. Thanks. For what it's worth, my father thanks you for leading the rear-guard at The Dinant Plain, he doesn't think he would've gotten out alive. Had it not been for your bravery and leadership. I know Lord Leblanc, Féret and Rodant agree with him. My father will be heartened at word of your return home." the eldest knight said solemnly before exiting the room and taking his leave to re-join his men.
Rurick sensing it was his turn to talk, walked forwards with his own reports in hand. "as far as death toll, prisoners and wounded go. Your soldiers did remarkably well against a superior force. In the end only three of your people died."
"Three too many if you ask me." Astolfo muttered.
"While forty carry various injuries of some kind." Rurick said as he flipped a page over. "As for our adversaries, two hundred and twenty dead and eighty prisoners of war, of those prisoners of war; twenty are wounded, thirty of them hold knighthoods. The rest were common soldiers who looted the Dinant plains to upgrade their armour." He finished. as he quickly re-scanned his numbers. To say this victory had been a rousing success was an understatement.
It was also relatively easy for the Zhcted cavalry which, might he add was totally exhausted thanks to the wild chase they had just embarked on. He was honestly impressed with the three Brunish warriors who had travelled over Nine Koku, thousands of Belsta non-stop for near two days before fighting back an enemy force of three hundred and gain little to no injuries or fatalities from the venture. 'Astolfo Vorn, you truly are an inspiring man.' The bald knight thought as he stepped back.
"So that leaves near two-thousand seven hundred Thenardier curs left for me to kill. Simple enough." He then gained a mischievous smile. "I'll take the left thirteen hundred. Ellen, I'll leave the right thirteen hundred for you. Lim and the knights can mop of the hundred we miss." He was joking of course, but it seem that Titta and Lim didn't appreciate his humour.
Ellen on the other hand looked to be seriously considering it. "how many are needed to defend the town?" she asked. It seemed that she hadn't been considering his plan on fighting half of the army each.
"I'd say ninety to a hundred good men." Astolfo hummed in thought as he rubbed his chin beard that had grown over his captivity. "I could leave fifty of my men, you could do the same. But we'd only have around one thousand and fifty to a hundred against his twenty-seven hundred." He finished as he totted up the numbers in his head quickly.
Nodding Ellen didn't look to enthused about the odds. "Bottom line is we're going to be outnumbered whatever we do." She was then looking at the map with a scrutinising glare. Before speaking up again. Looking about the room she noted Lim was deep in thought, while Astolfo was munching on a rather delicious looking platter of ham, cheese and crackers. "Astolfo and I will lead a force of four hundred and confront Thenardier head on." she noted that the two were nodding along with her plan so far.
She then directed what she said next to her bosom friend. "Lim, I want you to lead another four hundred and wait for an opening before hitting their flank hard. Anything you'd like to change?" she questioned at the end, she was open to suggestions at this point. So far, she had perhaps three hundred more soldiers to deploy.
"Some rope would be helpful, doesn't matter if its old and frayed. We can double it up, I just need a lot." She asked as she looked at Astolfo, who was pursing his lips.
"I can do it. Just leave it to me, I can handle it no problem." the voice of the young maid, made itself known once more as she entered with a pot of tea
Nodding his head, Astolfo didn't see any problem with allowing her to gather the rope. "Alright Titta. We'll leave that to you. If you do need help, just ask Guy or Reynold." Astolfo said getting a bright smile from the young girl.
She then looked between Astolfo and Ellen for a moment and noted the utterly bored look on Astolfo's face. She always found it funny that such a smart man could hate being in attendance for meetings like this one. but then he was a pacifist in most cases. She knew he would mourn the dead, even those who were his enemies.
She also knew there was no way her lord had any romantic feelings for the War Maiden. She had seen when her lord was smitten. It was when a nice blonde girl came through the mountain pass, she was beautiful about the same age as her lord maybe even a year younger.
She herself had only been nine or ten at the time, a few months before Lady Margot passed away. She was out walking in the village with Astolfo when they ran into her as she was asking for directions to Nicé. It was adorable seeing little Astolfo getting all flustered when he met the girl and was forced to introduce himself by Lady Margot. He stuttered. Her Lord one of the most confident speakers she knew, stuttered like a shy country boy.
That was the last time she had ever seen Astolfo get flustered or show any sort of attraction towards a female. 'Perhaps he's waiting for her. Oh, I wish I could remember her name.' Titta thought in frustration before departing the room, intent on finding as much rope as she could.
"What about Athily and the remaining soldiers you haven't deployed." Astolfo queried slightly as he looked up from his platter of snacks. How he ate so much was beyond Lim.
Ellen couldn't believe it. How could she forget about the majestic creature lounging about on the roof of the house they were inside of. "She's your dragon do you have any ideas?"
"I do actually, I'm glad you asked." Astolfo smirked cunningly. Oh, he was going to enjoy sticking it to Zion Thenardier. He would show that little rat what for, no one invaded Alsace without a dam good drubbing. Or their life. That would show the Duke. He would steal his precious son away from him. He would enjoy watching him spiral into despair.
! #$%^&*()
Riding at the head of four hundred knights, Astolfo was deep in thought. Last night, he had a rather interesting conversation with his War Maiden ally. It seems that her Viralt Arifar was a somewhat sentient weapon. It had led its wielder in the manors basement, where she allowed her childlike sense of curiosity override her sense of caution.
She had learned of a rather disturbing secret he'd rather leave buried. It was something he hadn't even told his dear younger brother. The only person to truly know was his father Urs and a witch who had disappeared a few years prior. 'it seems that my secret was only worth three thousand gold and an alliance with LeitMeritz.' He silently mused as he allowed Strider to plod along his light leather barding covering his flanks and hindquarters and light blue trappings round the bottom. His neck and head were also covered in patterned leather armour.
"Thinking about our earlier conversation?" Ellen questioned. She didn't blame him, aside from his dead father. She was the only other person to know of his little secret. Well Arifar had tipped her off. He was a Dragon Slayer, she found the remains of an earth dragon in his basement along with other treasures. She herself had been shocked, Arifar had also hinted that Astolfo had bathed in Dragons blood. Possibly even ingested a fair amount of it as well.
She had done a bit of snooping and found in a chest hidden out of sight was various jars and vials filled with blood along with notes and other research. Naturally she had to question, her ally and confront him on the matter. She was not ready for the story he told her.
As she asked her question, she glanced at the white wood and gilded iron lance. 'Light-Bringer, he called it. To think it has the ability to slay dragons.' She thought in slight wonder. It was definitely on the same level as Arifar or any one of the other Viralt wielded by the other Vanadis. 'And he's my ally. HA! Can't wait to rub this in blue-berry's snobby little face.' Ellen thought gleefully almost missing Astolfo's answer.
"Yes, I'm surprised though. You're allowing me to keep the Three Thousand gold, while also forcing me into a permanent alliance with you that allowed for unlimited Military access. To move throughout Alsace as you please." Astolfo grunted out as he replied to his ally.
"Well I really don't need three thousand gold, I make that much in a month easily." Ellen said offhandedly. As if it was a normal thing for people to be able to earn. "but I feel like we've gotten closer as allies just from this revelation, allowing for a greater amount of trust between us." She continued looking and feeling rather mature, before adding. "It'll also help me sell it all to the King should he question why I joined in an alliance with. Being allies and associated with a Dragon Blooded Knight as well as being a Dragon Slayer and Rider. Will no doubt come off as very appealing." She finished trying not to look sulky at the fact she may be called to the capital because of her decisions.
Laughing a little, Astolfo couldn't help but agree with the War Maiden. "Not an enviable position that you find yourself in." he said as he saw the Thenardier troops ahead. As he did, he saw Bertrand trotting over to him. He would be the only other Brunish man in the four-hundred-man cavalry unit. Besides himself. "Ah Bertrand! Finally, you've arrived!" he called out jovially to the elder man.
"Young Lord." The man said rather tiredly.
"Play nice Astolfo." Ellen chided.
Bertrand then noted the Vorn Family black bow hanging from Astolfo's saddle. "My Lord the Bow?" he questioned.
"Ah, yeah. Don't know why, it just felt right bringing it along. A good luck charm." Astolfo said. He had almost forgotten that his families heirloom was attached to his saddle along with his two swords Joyuse and Précieuse. While in his right hand was Light-Bringer, his trusted Lance. He also had an hour glass shaped shield in his left.
Ellen couldn't understand why he had a shield. She had surprised Astolfo when she had called him down to the basement, she had tried to run him through only for Arifar to leave not a single mark on his body.
But she supposed he wanted to keep up appearances. Afterall she and Astolfo were now the only ones that knew of his armoured skin. He had told her that a witch had arrived one day in the wake of him and Tigre killing the earth dragon and advised that he should drink the blood, since he had bathed in the blood. She was also the one that had titled him as the Dragon Blooded.
Seeing the two men go silent, she garnered Astolfo's attention once more. "Nervous?" she hadn't taken Astolfo for a man who needed good luck charms. Besides if things worked out, by the time this battle concluded; Zion would be confronted with near eight hundred knights, a vanadis and a pissed off provincial lord at his front. While to his rear three hundred men; a mixture of Alsace soldiers and militia and a hundred Zhcted knights. Oh, she also couldn't forget Athily.
Needless to say, if things went well, Zion would be trapped between a rock and a hard place. Astolfo merely grunted at her question. "More worried about not winning and allowing that cur Thenardier to get away with attacking my people." Astolfo growled. He was riling himself up. brooding and stewing in his own anger and grief; he had needed something to let loose on and Duke Thenardier had kindly offered his son and three thousand souls to help him. He was going to send Zion's head back to his father in a burlap sack while the body was crucified on the main road in and out of Alsace. Barbaric yes, but he wanted to send a message to any who dare oppose him.
"Good, I'm the same." Was all Ellen said. She wasn't nervous more worried about not winning. Ellen again found herself glancing at the man she had come to find so intriguing and want to have by her side forever. He had gotten his hair cut at some point between their strategy meeting and marching out to Molshiem. No longer did he sport his short choppy red hair on the sides of his head; he had gotten the sides shaved while leaving his long braid intact reaching his mid back. It was a unique hairstyle, but it definitely did wonders in making him look more masculine than androgynous. His masculinity was further enhanced by the now neat goatee that decorated his chin, tapering to a point. His armour was different the suit he wore at the Dinant Plains;
It was a black and white tunic that was probably lined with hardened leather, the tunic also had his signature light blue accents. His trousers were intriguing, they were normal black trousers that had chain link sewn into the fabric. But on top of that he had thigh high armoured boots that looked like they cost an arm and a leg.
'No doubt he quietly sold the odd Dragon Scale here and there, to pay for those to be made.' She thought.
He also had a white cape lined with his signature blue. His dominant right arm, above the elbow was clad in plate armour. While his forearm was covered in two layers of white leather armouring with a sheet of ring mail between the two layers of leather. He also had a set of plate armour Faulds on his waist.
'Finally looks like a proper lord. Shame he has no helmet.' Ellen mused. She really was mad about Astolfo. 'Perhaps, a gift. A dragon themed helmet or something that will make him look menacing.' She continued to ponder.
It wasn't too long before Astolfo decided to rouse the troops to battle, he rather enjoyed a good battle speech. Despite never really seeing the need for one, then again, he had never had to fight in the defence of Alsace and her people, always travelling across Brune at the Kings beck and call. "Many of you. All of you, foreign soldiers. Called to arms, to fight in a foreign land. And perhaps die." His voice echoed across the plain. As the four hundred at his back arrayed themselves in four ranks, his voice was strong, sincere, kind. They were not his people, but he didn't wish death upon them.
"I ask you!? Will we allow such audacious enemies to violate with impunity the territory of Alsace?! Will you noble knights permit such a vile army to escape unscathed! After terrorising the kind and good people of Alsace?!" he cried.
"NO!" was the resounding cry taken up by all the men, even Ellen joined the booming shout of four hundred. She was surprised, he was talented with inspiring people. A good trait in a lord.
"Then will join me? Up close and personal. Strip them of everything and give them nothing?! Shall we teach them that a malediction attend all those who violate our territories?!" he cried out loud as Strider reared up on his hind legs after Astolfo jerked on his reins. "Know that I stand amongst you at this time, not for recreation or entertainment. But being resolved, in the midst and heat of battle. To live and die amongst you all. For the Gods. For my province. For my people, my honour and my blood!" he bellowed his voice getting to a crescendo.
Ellen was surprised, this man before her was so inspiring with his words. He knew exactly what to say. He invigorated her fighting spirit, ignited her fiery passion. She wasn't the only one, Arifar was quivering with anticipation, she was carrying his words further with the help of her wind.
Never before had Ellen seen Arifar react in such away before a battle. Looking about her, she had never seen her knights look so ready, so determined to do battle. Horses neighing and stomping their hoofs. Her knights banging shield and lance together or against their breast plates. 'You're a man I could follow into battle any day.' Ellen thought with pride and an underlying hint of lust surfacing in her mysterious crimson eyes.
"I have one last thing to say." Astolfo called out, halting the knights abruptly, Arifar doing her best to spread his words across the entire battlefield. "Tomorrow or three weeks from now, I will be harvesting crops and digging new wells alongside my people. Living a simple life that I so desire." He stated solemnly, humbly. His tone and tenor soft and kind but powerful and full of passion and desire. "Imagine where you will be, and it will be so. All I ask. Hold the line! Stay with me! if you find yourself alone, riding in the green fields with the sun on your face, do not be troubled. For you are with the gods. And already dead!"
His words bought about a bout of laughter from the men assembled. Turning he allowed his back to face the knights of Zhcted. Strider rearing up once more, lance held aloft. "LET THIS BE THE HOUR WE DRAW SWORDS TOGETHER! FELL DEEDS AWAIT! NOW FOR WRATH! NOW FOR RUIN AND A RED DAWN!" he bellowed before drawing his hunting horn, unlike the times before. the horn resounded deeply, as the first notes carried. The knights charged as one.
Astolfo who was already a good few meters ahead grinned with reckless abandon. He need not to worry of a mortal weapon harming him, Ellen had tried that already when she stabbed him by surprise and the dragons blood which he had bathed in all those years age had done its job, the witch had been right. He was a dragon blood knight now.
Strider must've sensed his eagerness to clash with the enemy, as he shot forth ever faster. Pulling away from the main battle group. If he had to, he would crash through the entire army by himself he would push through. He would pay Thenardier back a hundred-fold. "Arrrgh!" He roared angrily and hungrily as he bypassed the opening salvo of arrows that were aimed for Ellen and her knights, of which she protected with a wall of wind thanks to Arifar.
Strider was a smart horse; the wall of enemy spearmen was surprisingly thin and spread wide in hopes that they would be able to overlap the smaller enemy force. It was not to be. The large and brutal war stallion thundered through one of the many gaps as Astolfo lunged with his lance and knocked a pair of spearmen over.
As he did, he began to swing his lance about blocking and parrying spear and sword thrust thrown at him before lunging with Light-Bringer and knocking man and beast to the ground as the light cavalry joined the fray. The enraged knight even blocked a pair of arrows launched at him before they themselves were viciously cut down by Ellen.
As the blood shed continued, Astolfo found himself battering away spear and sword alike before thrusting and lunging with Light-Bringer. Skewering, killing, murdering the army of Thenardier. He was happy to note that many of the men-at-arms and other soldiers in the front formation of the Thenardier forces were from the many small noble houses of Brune. They were surrendering many of them without trying to fight back, his heart swelled ever so slightly when he noted that the Zhcted Knights began to round them up and send them in the direction of Alsace weapon-less. There was a force of one hundred hidden on the blind side of the slope he and the four hundred just charged down.
They would hold them prisoner until ordered otherwise. He then could hear the thundering of a cavalry charge that matched near eight hundred horses. Wheeling Strider about he blew his hunting horn allowing the low mournful notes to reverberate about the field calling for the Zhcted Knights to reform.
He wanted to try a last-minute counter charge. Before the eight hundred or so Brunish Knights hit home. after all this was what the Brunish cavalry was known for its shock charges on bogged down enemies. Watching as many of the Zhcted knights charged towards the larger formation of men. He was so happy when there plan worked with Lim hitting the Brunish flank just as their own haphazard charge connected against the Brunish's organised one. as they hit the second wave of Brunish Knights, Astolfo couldn't help but admire Eleonora's swordsmanship from horseback. 'Wind Princess of the Silver Flash and Danseuse of the Sword.' As he thought that he allowed the stray idea of seeing her and Tigre standing together.
Shaking his head of the thought, he looked about and found Bertrand nearby. "Let us go Bertrand! We can't all her to outdo us, now can we?!" Astolfo said with a stray humours tone seeping through. "After all we promised Gaspard and the other lads, we'd give these curs a dam good thrashing!" he finished before flourishing his lance and blocking a sword thrust.
"Not at all my lord." Bertrand agreed as he ducked out the way of a blade.
It was then the Thenardier's own horn sounded, along with the resounding and booming footsteps of the Earth Dragon they possessed. Right before it let loose a harsh roar, frightening many of the Knights.
Ellen seeing her knights balking at the sight of the massive dragon growled, as Astolfo reined in next to her. "A land Dragon like the one you slew. It's brass coloured as well, I can't imagine how hard taming that one was." she said as she tightened her grip on Arifar as she watched a pair of her knights attempt to ride past the Dragon only to be slaughtered by the beast.
Grunting as well. Astolfo looked about. Lim and her knights were holding the flank and drawing a decent amount of knights away. But it wasn't enough. "You fight the dragon, I'll work on giving you some room to fight." He said before wheeling about, "CHARGE RIGHT!" he bellowed, prompting Bertrand and the other knights to charge right drawing a great many knights with them.
As he went to re-join the fray he called out. "Don't die, it is entirely too soon for that to happen." As he spurred off, he missed the dusting of red that covered her cheeks.
"Idiot. Now time for some fun." As she said that she dismounted off of her white steed who followed off after Strider. Advancing on the snarling beast that was nothing in comparison to the beauty of Athily. "While this wasn't unexpected. It's still a pain that there is another one after you. But for now, I think I'll show you a little party trick of my own." She said as she raised Arifar in the air; glowing a pale colour as wind began to swirl around the blade until a miniature tornado sphere was rapidly moving about the pale wind blade. "Cleave the Winds! Ley Admos!"
Roaring with fury the dragon charged forwards, as Ellen swung her blade down. Throwing her tornado sphere at the brass coloured Earth Dragon.
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Athily, who had been flying high in the sky above the low clouds that had settled over the plains gave a fanged grin. It was her time to enter battle, she couldn't wait for the day where Astolfo rode upon her back and into battle. It would be glorious indeed.
But her target this day was the lesser flying dragon that was holding its ground, such a pathetic and pitiful creature. Allowing itself to be broken in such a manner, no will of his own. She would end its life gladly.
Folding in her wings she dropped out of the sky like a meteor, before opening her impressive feather bound wings at the last second and launched at the other dragon, making knights dive from their steeds while the horses themselves whinnied in panic.
Her target the Vyfal Wyvern eyed her before spreading its own wings and launching itself into the air. 'Seems you still have some modicum of pride left Wyvern!' she growled as she followed the Wyvern into the skies. Letting loose a screeching roar.
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Zion seeing his second Dragon take off with no command given screamed in anger at the current turn of events. No one had told him that Vorn had a dragon of his own. 'Just wait Tigre you pink hair rat, I'll kill you for making me look a fool.'
As he thought that he watched in abject horror as his Earth Dragon was split clean in half.
Nikita was not having a good day. No-one could tell her clearly which of the Vorn brothers had died at Dinant, nor could anyone of the retreating knights that managed to escape Alsace tell her which Vorn sibling had rallied his knight so well, along with setting a dragon loose along with the Black Dragon of Zhcted on them. 'I really hope it's Astolfo.' She mused.
If it were Astolfo she would happily step aside should she be commanded to engage in a fight. 'this entire campaign against Alsace is a mistake. There's no point. We've already lost Ladislus, Lord Robillard will be beside himself when he learns of his youngest death.' It was hard all of her long-time friends and some of the only men to accept her as a female knight and fellow warrior. Were being killed and used as puppets, she hated the big houses like Thenardier and Ganelon for manipulating them like they were.
"Tristan?" she questioned, getting the silently sat noble knight beside her to give her a side-long glance. "What will we do if its Astolfo?"
"Whatever we can." Was the silent knights only reply as he watched the front couple of waves along with the Flying column get pushed back and forced to fall back towards them. he knew any minute now, Zion would order them or one of his generals to rally the troops and counter charge the Zhcted knights. 'We've lost.' Was all he could think as he noted the army completely buckle. When they saw at most six-hundred knights and soldiers charging down the centre of their formation.
"Lord Zion a large force of three hundred cavalry is at our rear!" a soldier cried out in shock. He had been by the gates of Alsace when he saw the local militia and men-at-arms, rip apart the Thenardier Knights.
"Three hundred men! I barely have Six-hundred men left in my main force. We're cut off in the rear and out-numbered." Zion then began to look around frantically, before chewing on his thumb. "Think Zion think, what is a general to do? The bravest thing I can do is to protect the..." he then gained a look of dawning. "That's it! I'll save myself. Bring the second column around we retreat now."
"Please my lord allow our knights to fight back, if we can regroup enough and mount another strike, I'm sure we can still win the day!" one of the many advisors said.
"Leblanc! Valois! When the knights stand down it is up to you to cover our retreat."
"Understood." Was the quiet answer of Tristan.
Nikita was a little ruder about. And spat on the ground, she wasn't his to order around. That honour was reserved for her love Astolfo.
He then looked around before shouting, completely ignoring her. "Get the knight to stand down! Stand them down now!" he yelled.
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Seeing the Thenardier army pulling back, Astolfo smiled slightly before calling out to Ellen. "I told you Thenardier was a fool, that he would retreat to save himself when a sizeable force of mounted soldiers appeared at his rear. That coupled with Athily chasing off his second dragon. He lost his nerve, the fool!" he said jovially, he always loved it when a plan came to fruition and worked splendidly.
"Yes, you were right! I never doubted you." She replied with a smile as she slashed at the back of a retreating knight.
"But to think that the knights themselves would rout so easily once the order was given." Astolfo shouted over the din of thundering hooves. "The God of War must be smiling upon us this day." He cried out happily. As he could see Zion's elite guard.
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"this is a bad dream, that's the only explanation. How could that Vorn, that stupid arrogant boy defeat me." Zion ranted.
Nikita and Tristan walking out ahead, deciding they should at least make a decent attempt at helping the man son who held their families practically at sword point. Noted that the blue sun sigil in a white triangle overlay on blue check was waving proudly alongside the House Vorn colours, the Raging Bayard and the Black Dragon banner of Zhcted which also had a silver sword on blue dancing beside it.
Smiling at seeing the personal colours of Astolfo, she couldn't help but goad and tease Zion a little. She couldn't help but not want to kick the little arrogant puppy while he was down. She'd let Astolfo mete out his proper punishment. "Because 'Lord Zion'" She said mockingly. "You were facing against Astolfo the White Knight."
To say she delighted in the pale colour that the Thenardier took on would be an understatement. She couldn't wait to see him suffer at the hands of her love.
Astolfo cresting a slight rise in the supposedly flat plains of Molsheim, Astolfo growled as he saw Nikita with sword drawn alongside Tristan who was similarly armed. "Stand aside Nikita! Tristan! My fight isn't with you, but that rabid cur." He boomed angrily as she launched his prized lance at Zion. Only to have it dig into the ground between his legs as he sat in his chair.
This made Zion stumble backwards off his chair and into a heap on the ground.
Smiling at seeing her love, Nikita strode forwards a couple of paces before stabbing her sword into the ground and kneeling. "No need my love. My sword is yours to command." She said as she looked up at her now much more handsome than ever love obsession, he had a haircut which she loved and even grew a goatee that looked stunning on him. It was safe to say the entire time she spoke she had a deep red flush on her cheeks. "it is good to see you alive and much more handsome than before." she may have licked her lips at that point.
Tristan sighing at his companions actions followed her actions. "I am the same Astolfo Vorn. Your cause is the righteous one. my sword is yours to command." He said it was probably the most he had spoken in all the campaign in Alsace. "I ask you humour me at some point with a spar." Was all he added. Before standing with Nikita following suit.
"You two." Astolfo said with a smile. "I accept your pledges. Come stand at my side." Was all he said as he squeezed Striders flanks making him plod forward towards Zion who was now standing. Allowing his livid visage to take over his face again, Astolfo dismounted and ripped Joyuse from her scabbard, releasing the Rainbow Dragon Slaying blade of the Mythic King Charlemagne. "Zion Thenardier! There is no running away."
"I'm not running away! But you how could you betray your kingdom! You lead a Zhcted army right into the Brunish heartland, you really are descended from nothing but illiterate cowardly huntsmen!"
"I take the word of invaders, thieves, murderers and cowards with a pinch of salt. You are all four of those things boy. You are not fit to be a lord under his majesties reign. That is why I challenge you to a duel." Astolfo growled as he pointed Joyuse at Zion.
"Alright you're on! you wanted a fight, so don't try running away!" Zion cried out.
"I'm not running anywhere. Zion Thenardier, draw your sword."
As he said that the Thenardier heir drew his sword and charged at Astolfo who did much the same thing before parrying a couple of strikes from the younger man. He then riposted a strike after parrying, and with a slight flurry of strikes he managed to slice the back of Zion's knee when he made the boy stumble under his superior strength.
"You must've forgotten whom you're fighting." He then looked around. "All you dam bastards are either very brave or stupid." He shouted loudly. "that goes double for your lord and his disgrace of a son." Astolfo continued as he stood behind the now kneeling Zion who was screaming in pain and clutching his wounded leg. "I am the White Knight of Brune, equal and peer to the Black Knight Roland. His majesty dubbed me the most Virtuous Knight of our fair kingdom. I am a Dragon Slayer, with the body as proof. I am a Dragon Tamer and Rider!"
As he said that Athily landed behind him with a loud thud as she eyed everyone around her suspiciously, fangs bared, wings spread, and eyes narrowed. He had to admit nice timing.
'I do try to be punctual.'
"For your transgressions! The punishment shall be swift and lethal!" as he finished, he clasped Joyuse with both hands and swung horizontally and decapitated Zion Thenardier. "Your father can have your head." Was all he said as blood spouted out of the neck stump.
After that the rest of Zion's bodyguard either retreated or surrendered.
All told, the battle was a success.
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