The army moved steadily along the well-worn road, the rhythmic clinking of armor and the soft thud of boots against packed earth filling the crisp morning air. Banners fluttered in the gentle breeze, the falcon of Yarzat standing proudly against the pale blue sky. Soldiers marched in ordered lines, their faces uplifted by the thought of returning home and finally getting hold of their due payment . Supply wagons creaked under the weight of provisions and spoils, while the occasional neigh of a horse punctuated the steady cadence of the march.
Jarza, towering and broad-shouldered, rode beside Alpheo, his deep voice breaking the relative quiet. "So, your grace " he said with a crooked grin, "are you excited to finally be home?
