The Unfortunate, стр. 70
Banan sat behind a medium-sized desk, and he did not acknowledge the fighters’ presence. He instead continued to toy with what appeared to be a miniature dagger—passing it from one hand to the other, using his fingers to counteract the object’s wobbling, and at last placing the point against the desk and twirling the hilt.
And as the awkward silence lingered, the fighters could do nothing more than watch their leader’s unusual, seemingly futile, child-like actions, but eventually the prince inquired, “What is your opinion of the army?”
Awiergan, although surprised by the question’s randomness, promptly replied, “Strong and loyal. I think they would join with you to the Life After, Your Highness.”
Banan at last looked away from the miniature dagger, smiled, and nodded. “I appreciate your thoughts about this army’s dedication concerning the extent to which they would follow. I hope you are correct, but more so I hope you, not to mention all the fighters from Gildas’ academy, possess similar loyalty.”
The former champion immediately knew what had been implied. The commander may have emphasized all, but the target of his comment had been only Awiergan. Ever since King Beadurof’s evaluation when he had dishonored his son, Prince Banan had been nothing but cold-hearted toward the leader of the fighters. It was as if the king’s few remarks had spawned an irreversible jealousy. But despite the momentary esteem he had received, Awiergan had neither forgotten his place, nor had he ever thought himself better than the prince. In time the hard feelings would pass, and until then the fighter would do whatever necessary to prove his loyalty and gain the prince’s trust.
“We are at your disposal, willing to do whatever necessary.”
The commander again smiled, this time the gesture seemed more genuine and less forced, and he leaned over the map on the desk. “I have decided to send you and your men with the army group assigned to the eastern potential landing area.”
“What do you mean army group?” Atelic inquired rather haughtily.
“I have decided to split the army thrice. All three are minor towns, but are, nevertheless, strategic locations. One group, the one I lead, will remain here at Fallfield,” he explained and indicated the area where they were currently camped. “Although it is the farthest by sea to reach, it provides the shortest route to Yorcia’s capital, Ebordum. The second will advance west to the coastal village of Portmund.” He moved his finger to the area separated by the narrowest point of the Slender Sea. “And the final group, your group, will defend the lands to the east in Hallenport. This area where I have assigned you, being close in proximity to Drunacht’s capital, is the shortest distance by sea. As I indicated, though”—he concluded and moved his finger back to Fallfield—“I believe Aengus will prefer an easier journey by land.”
“And what if you have misjudged?” Atelic inquired still not hesitating to express his annoyance and disagreement.
“That is why I am splitting the army, so we can defend multiple locations.”
Awiergan considered the plan momentarily before nodding. He had his concerns. The foremost being what consequences would arise if the army was divided. Will they risk becoming too weak? He chose to remain silent and obedient, however, but the same did not apply to his friend.
“Would it not be wiser to keep the army together?”
“Together?” Banan asked as if he had never considered the option. “I chose to split the army as a way to maximize the area we can defend.”
And as the verbal jousting commenced the former champion could do nothing more than silently plead for the other fighter to hold his tongue. Awiergan did not want to become involved unless necessary.
“That may be your intent,” Atelic countered. “But it is a dangerous plan. It is too great a risk.”
The commander smiled, but a clenched jaw was also apparent. For a long while, he remained silent, but he finally sighed. “If my plan is dangerous and too great a risk, what would you recommend?”
“If you believe King Aengus will attack the inlet’s southern region, then send the army, the entire army, to that location.” Atelic approached the desk and used his hands to gesture to locations on the map. “True, if you split the army, you will be prepared for multiple invasion points, but do you believe a third of our men can sufficiently counter King Aengus’ forces? But even if they could hold position, it would require several days for reinforcements to reach either location.” Although he had remained calm, Atelic’s tone became more animated as he continued. “I do not believe King Aengus will divide his army. At least not initially. If they do split, it will be at a point inland. They are going to invade a specific location, and when they do, you will need all the men to counter attack and drive them back into the sea! That is what I recommend, and if you are too blind to see what I speak is true, then explain why your plan is less flawed than mine.”
“You may believe that since my father showed favor to you criminals you are somehow privileged.” The commander’s tone continued to escalate, as did his frustration. “But that does not change anything! You have no right to lecture me!”
Usually Awiergan could sense danger. He was often able to determine how his opponent would act. That is how he had become a superb fighter. But he had never expected what occurred next.
“BECAUSE THIS IS MY ARMY!” Banan screamed and lunged forward, knocking the desk to the ground. He somehow managed to avoid the piece of furniture as he hurried toward the fighter. His arm was raised, and in his hand was the miniature dagger.
As usual Atelic was quick to react, and he grasped the