Chapter 11

Narn observed the camp and the captains departure from the command tent. His scouts had been following and observing the last stragglers from the defeated army for two weeks now. They had been able to confirm for Narn that they were indeed tracking the army they were looking for. Narn had learned, from many of the people of Mistrew’s keep, that it wasn’t unusual for several of the Sorcerer’s to attempt additional attacks when two such powers began to fight each other. Only the sudden surprise of the attacks, and the relative power of both of Sorcerer’s had kept any of the others uninvolved. Some also suggested that Terimak may have made certain deals with some of the local lords to buy their disinterest in the current power struggle.

Regardless of the reason, Narn had confirmed that this was indeed the army to be concerned about and the only one in the area. It’s size was such that he felt a little concerned, but he trusted Galdacil’s planning in these matters. Especially when such planning left him on the outside of the castle, free to do as he saw fit. But now was not the time to reveal that to his foes and so, without a sound, and barely a visible sign, he, backed down the slight hill and away from the army, vanishing into the woods, heading back to the meeting spot 2 miles away where the horses waited.


“M’lord Narn, we are all accounted for and indications are that we weren’t observed.”

Narn looked at Tel’mar his new second in command of the scouts spoke. The young man who had taken the lead amongst the original complement had turned out to be quite good with a bow, quiet in the woods and with a personality which proved useful in somebody who had to help lead the collection of hunters, soldiers and crooks that comprised the scouts. Narn had decided to set him up as Sergeant for the scouts, since he had been the one to gather the rest of them up. And he hadn’t found cause to regrett it.

“Good. Let’s head back. We’ll leave Garth and Rilen’s squads to watch the army from a distance, in case they start moving again. Galdacil and Erimbril need to know what we’ve seen here.” Narn mounted his horse as he spoke and his voice was tinged with a wary concern, “The army here is nearly double the size we expected. I think our Sorcerer friend is more cautious than we gave him credit for and he’s gathered up nearly everybody he could after his original army was defeated. And they are only 1 weeks march from the castle if they chose to push it.” He turned his horse and the rest of his scouts fell in behind him. “We’ll ride throught he night, we should be able to make it to the castle by tomorrow if we do. And we will need to know when this army begins moving again. So no delays.” The horses set off, while the two squads, 20 men total, split off to set up separate camps and begin watching the enemy encampment.