Chapter 57: The Black Banner Approaches
The dawn broke with a crimson hue, casting an eerie glow over the land. The fields beyond Eredon Keep swayed gently in the breeze, yet the distant horizon told a different story. A column of dust trailed behind the approaching warband — Varrin's forces.
Dikun Silver stood at the head of his gathered men. His expression was calm, though the tension in the air was palpable. The soldiers of the Silver's Warband were lined in disciplined ranks, their shields polished and weapons sharp. Each man knew what awaited them.
Revan approached, his silver-trimmed cloak swaying as he scanned the distance. "One hundred strong, just as the scout reported."
Harlon, his large arms crossed over his chest, scoffed. "They're bold to march this close to Carlin's walls. Either they think we'll scatter, or they're testing us."
"They'll find neither," Dikun said firmly.
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The Call to Arms
The gatehouse creaked open, and the warband filed out with practiced precision. The privates and corporals formed a solid front line, shields interlocked. Behind them, the sergeants barked commands, ensuring order. At the rear, the lieutenants Revan and Harlon rode alongside Dikun, who gripped the reins of his destrier tightly.
"The men are steady," Revan noted. "But they watch you, Captain. Every word and gesture — they draw strength from it."
"I won't fail them," Dikun replied. "Not today."
He raised his voice, his gaze sweeping over the ranks.
"Men of the Silver's Warband! Today we face the black banner of Varrin. They come to test our strength, to see if we are worthy of the name we bear!"
A murmur of anticipation rippled through the soldiers.
"We are not just swords and shields! We are brothers-in-arms! And today, we stand together!"
The warband roared in response, their spirits ignited by Dikun's words.
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The Clash of Steel
The black-clad warriors of Varrin surged forward, their banners whipping in the wind. The two forces met upon the field with a thunderous crash. Steel clashed against steel, shields splintered, and the cries of battle filled the air.
Dikun led the charge, his sword flashing in the sunlight. He moved with deadly precision, cutting down foes who dared to stand in his path. Revan fought fiercely by his side, his dual blades a blur of silver, while Harlon's heavy axe tore through enemy ranks.
"Hold the line!" Dikun shouted, his voice cutting through the chaos. "Shield wall! Push!"
The warband responded instantly, driving forward with a unified force. Varrin's men faltered under the relentless assault.
But the battle was far from over.
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A Foe Worthy of Fear
From the rear of the enemy line, a massive figure emerged. Clad in darkened steel and bearing a crimson cloak, Varrin's champion strode forth. His axe, stained with the blood of countless foes, gleamed ominously.
Dikun's eyes narrowed. "Revan, with me."
The two charged, the clash with the champion sending a shockwave through the battlefield. Blades sparked against the darkened axe, each strike met with brutal force. The champion's blows were relentless, but Dikun's skill and agility kept him one step ahead.
Revan, seizing an opening, lunged. His blade found purchase, slicing across the champion's arm. The massive foe roared in pain, but still he fought on.
Dikun moved swiftly. With a powerful thrust, his sword pierced the champion's chest. The dark warrior crumpled to the ground, his weapon slipping from his grasp.
A wave of panic spread through Varrin's remaining forces. Their leader fallen, they faltered and began to retreat. The Silver's Warband, emboldened by the victory, pursued them, ensuring none escaped.
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Victory and Resolve
The battlefield grew silent once more. The stench of blood lingered, mingling with the smoke of dying campfires. Dikun stood amidst the fallen, his sword stained crimson. The weight of battle clung to him, but victory was theirs.
Revan approached, his breathing ragged. "They'll remember this day."
"As will we," Dikun replied. "But this was only the beginning."
He turned to his men, who raised their weapons in triumph.
"We march forward," Dikun declared. "Not as survivors, but as conquerors."
And with that, the Silver's Warband claimed yet another victory on the long road to power.
To Be Continued...