The night was deep, and the silver moon hung high.
A simple encampment had been set up by a lake where several bonfires sent tendrils of smoke skyward.
Suddenly, the previously tranquil lake stirred into ripples.
The knights spring into alarm, donning their armors, clutching their weapons, simultaneously huddling around the two most prestigious individuals at the center of the camp.
After listening to the ground for a moment, Knight Erich exclaimed loudly:
"About a thousand cavalry, coming from the east!"
On hearing this, everyone else relaxed somewhat.
After all, Orcs do not ride, and anyone coming from the east should be an ally.
Queen Midela appeared to have realized something and murmured:
"The Blood Knight Army?"
Marquis Garcia silently nodded, confirming Queen Midela's guess.
Soon after, a horse rider wearing the armor of the Blood Knight Army arrived in the camp, saluted the queen, and said:
