Kellan's day began like any other, with the usual routine of training and patrols around the Arlyn estate. The sun was high in the sky, casting a warm glow over the courtyard where the knights sparred and honed their skills. Kellan was in the middle of a training session, practicing his swordsmanship with Alden when a messenger approached.
"Sir Kellan, you are to report to the courtyard immediately," the messenger said, his tone urgent.
Kellan exchanged a curious glance with Alden before nodding. "I'll be there right away."
Kellan arrived at the courtyard to find a group of knights already assembled. He wasn't the last to arrive, though, as Loras jogged in moments later, slightly out of breath. The knights stood in neat rows, murmuring among themselves. At the front, Strategist Maxwell stood with a scroll in hand, accompanied by Lady Elara Arlyn.
Maxwell stepped forward, unwrapping the scroll. The knights fell silent, their attention focused on him.
Maxwell's voice was clear and authoritative as he began to speak. "Knights of House Arlyn, we have received reports from the Sniffers. The Galdorians have been excavating throughout the captured territories, searching for something. It appears they have found it, as their security has intensified significantly."
A ripple of unease spread through the gathered knights. Kellan felt a knot form in his stomach. The Sniffers were an elite scouting troop, and their information was always reliable.
Maxwell continued, "The council has decided to form a special unit of 300 knights to infiltrate the Galdorian territory, understand their findings, and report back. If necessary, you will hold a position or disrupt their progress. Each household is required to send a minimum of One Unit."
Maxwell began calling out names, and Kellan's heart raced as he listened. He glanced around, noting the concerned expressions of his fellow knights. House Arlyn barely had 30 knights to give; sending out 1 Unit which consists of 12 knights, would seriously weaken their defenses.
"Kellan," Maxwell called.
Kellan stepped forward, joining the other selected knights. He recognized most of them as young, recently knighted warriors. It seemed House Arlyn was keen on protecting its more experienced knights.
To Kellan's surprise, Loras's name was called as well. Loras moved to stand beside him, giving Kellan a reassuring nod.
Maxwell looked at the group and announced, "You will act as a Unit, with Loras as your captain. Remember, safety first. This may seem like a high-risk mission, but I have chosen the fastest among you. I expect all of you to come back in one piece."
Lady Elara stepped forward, her gaze sweeping over the selected knights. "Your families have served House Arlyn for generations. I believe in your skills and your ability to return safely. Everyone except this unit is dismissed."
The other knights filed out of the courtyard, leaving the selected group behind. Kellan felt a mixture of pride and apprehension as he stood with his fellow knights.
Maxwell's expression turned serious as he addressed the unit. "From here on, anything I say is top secret. If any information is leaked, you will be executed on the spot. Pack up your gear and report to the central barracks at the king's palace before sunset. The man leading this mission is Samuel Alanor, the high mage as well as uncle to the king."
The tension in the courtyard was palpable. A royal himself leading the mission spoke volumes of how important and dangerous this is going to be. Maxwell's voice was grave as he added, "A piece of advice: mages are highly egocentric and unpredictable. Do not ask questions unless your life is at risk. Understood?"
The knights nodded solemnly. Kellan felt the weight of the mission pressing down on him, but he was determined to rise to the challenge.
As the knights dispersed to prepare for the mission, Kellan found himself walking beside Loras.
"Looks like we're in this together," Loras said, clapping Kellan on the shoulder.
Kellan managed a small smile. "Yeah. Make sure to keep me alive, Captain."