Chapter One
Rivers had not stopped the Atrophane Horde before and today would be no exception. The loss of some men and horses could be expected, but the Atrophane would have their victory. Dreibrand Veta was glad to lead the first wave of soldiers across the water even though officers of his rank did not usually put themselves at the forefront of danger.
But Dreibrand differed from the other lieutenants of the Lord General Kwan. He needed to try harder if he was going to be successful. His exploits and bravery were meant to counteract the disgrace that burdened the Veta name.
The breath of horses and men steamed in the pre-dawn chill of the spring night. The water would be cold, but Dreibrand knew he would soon have the heat of battle to keep him warm. He could feel the nervous agitation around him. Although Atrophane soldiers had complete confidence in their abilities, each man knew he would be vulnerable while in the middle of the river.
Their only protection would be the darkness. The blare of trumpets and thunder of drums that usually heralded the onslaught of the Atrophane would not be used tonight. Quiet and darkness would usher the conquerors into the Bosta heartland. The dawn would come, and the Bostas would see their existence as a free people end.
Calmly, Dreibrand gave the order to advance. Lord Kwan had honored him by allowing him to coordinate the crossing and decide the correct moment to start.
The hooves of Starfield, the dappled gray warhorse that Dreibrand rode, plunged first into the flowing water. Dreibrand liked being first. The splashing of hundreds of riders and the snorting of displeased horses warned the Bostas lining the opposite bank that the crossing began.
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The Rysamandby Tracy Irwin © 2000 |
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