The reunion of the two army

The place we came to was vast and open, a dry, uneven expanse of land with patches of dead grass scattered across the cracked earth. A cold wind was blowing, whipping up dust. There were some large rocks in the distance, and beyond them a line of faded trees marked the edge of the wilderness. The sky was gray, heavy with clouds, but the sun was still breaking through in places, casting long shadows on the ground.

We waited in silence.

Crimzo and the archers had already taken up positions, hidden but with a perfect line of sight to everything. Andrew stood close to me, his sword gripped tightly, his eyes sharp with focus. Yuri was right in front of me, his presence calm but commanding. The princess was close by as well, standing between Yuri and me, her stance straight, but I could tell she was watching everything carefully.

The wind picked up slightly, and Andrew exhaled. "They're taking their time," he muttered.

Yuri crossed his arms. "It's a tactic. Make us wait, let the tension build."

I didn't say anything, just kept my eyes on the horizon. Then, in the distance, movement.

The Drayton army.

They came slowly, controlled, disciplined. At least 300 soldiers, heavily armed, moving in perfect synchronization. Their armor is made of strong iron, polished but scarred from past battles. A dark red scarf is wrapped around their necks, symbolizing loyalty and courage. Their helmets have a T-shaped visor, giving them a mysterious and fearless look, while a thick belt holds small pouches and a dagger for close combat. And among them, the prisoners. Our soldiers, walking with their hands tied, their faces tired but alert.

Yuri straightened, his voice calm but firm. "Everyone, take positions."

I could feel the shift immediately. The soldiers beside me tightened their grips on their weapons, the archers above adjusted their aim, ready to fire at a moment's notice.

The Drayton army continued their steady approach, stopping a safe distance away. Then, one man rode ahead, breaking from their formation and coming toward us.

I knew immediately who he was.

He was tall, with sharp, measured movements, his dark hair tied back neatly. His face was unreadable, cold. His gaze across all of us before settling.

He stopped his horse just a short distance away, his posture straight and composed. Then, he spoke.

"I am Keven, Prince of Drayton."

Yuri stepped forward, his expression neutral. "Yuri, commander of this operation."

Keven's dark eyes studied us for a moment before he gave a slight nod. Then, with a calm, steady voice, he said, "There are names that carry weight in this era. Yours are among them. I know who you both are...".