Kyren's blue eyes scowled as he stood atop the hill, surveying the land below. Just a few days after landing in Ardel, he and his army, along with their allies, had marched towards Narthen, the kingdom's farthest district bordering Barges.
According to the conquest plan laid out by Athillia, the Bargesian armies would take this path to breach through Ardel and begin their invasion. The district was sparsely populated, being close to the northern kingdom, leaving the people exposed to frequent Bargesian raids and threats.
The difference in soil fertility was apparent across the border. While the land of Barges appeared sandy and barren, with dried trees and scattered waste, the Ardel side was lively with grass, plants, autumn-coloured trees, and small animals.
"They should be here any moment," Kyren said as Adam approached.
