Chapter 7: Imminent Battle

Fidelis rechecked his armor for the third time. He and two more of his father's generals would oversee this battle to end the war.

Keeping his eagerness for it to be over in check, he turned to his page, and best friend, Sodalitas, who was busy polishing his sword. The sword had been a present from his father when he had gained knighthood at the age of twelve. It was no ordinary sword. The sword was one of the relics from the age of myths and had been used to slay legendary beasts. To wield it you had to have strong willpower and clarity of purpose.

"My Prince, everything is ready," stated Sodalitas as he stood and presented the sword to Fidelis.

Fidelis glanced down at the sword and took a moment to again marvel at the ornate craftsmanship that had been done on the weapon. The three sapphires were top-grade and acted as storage for extra magic should he need it. Contained in two of the gems were healing spells to bring one back from the brink of death. The third gem held a magic enhancer that would grant a temporary magical boost to the wielder.

Not that he'd ever had to use them. His offensive and defensive magics were pretty strong. He was one of the top magic users in the kingdom. Yet, he was still cautious in battle. One wrong move and his life would be over.

"My Prince, is something worrying you?"

Fidelis stilled and spared a glance at his friend. If Sodalitas had noticed his unease he needed to get his emotions under control. He couldn't afford for his men to see him unsure. He just wanted the feeling of something out of place to go away. Ever since the battle had been announced two weeks ago the sense of things being more than they appeared had persisted. Despite his misgivings, he continued with the plan the war council had set forth.

"Not worried my friend. More thoughtful. When was the last time that Autem personally asked for someone to fight in a battle? It's strange, but don't worry," he held up a hand to forestall his friend. "I will obey my king and our god."

Sodalitas smiled and clapped him on the back. "I know you will, My Prince. Come, it's time to get to the front line."

Fidelis slid his sword into its scabbard and grabbed his helmet. One last glance in the mirror and the pair left the tent.

Fifteen minutes later they arrived at the front line. Waiting for them was General Robur. The seven-foot-one man towered over most of the soldiers. His massive and muscular build intimidated many. Fidelis, however, knew that Robur was also very cunning and one of the kingdom's best strategists. He was the reason they had won so many battles.

"Good day, General Robur."

"Greetings to you as well, Your Highness."

"Any movement from our enemies?"

"So far nothing. They seem to be getting ready."

Fidelis frowned. Usually, the Poten attacked first. Princess Amanah was known for her impatience on the battlefield. Of course that still didn't stop her battle prowess from being displayed with deadly efficiency. Such a change in her style briefly worried him and added to his unease.

"Don't worry, Your Highness. We received word that King Bayrel himself has come to this battle."

That bit of news changed things. Bayrel was a battle-tested veteran and strategist unlike his younger daughter and not prone to rashness.

"Suggestions, General?"

"We shall proceed with our plan. After all, our king is here as well. One way or another, everything ends today."

Fidelis agreed. He could feel it in the air. Change had come. He was confident that they would be the victors.