At dusk, the vanguard of Strongson's Dragon Cavalry arrived at the outskirts of Whitehold, only a few kilometers from the capital. The dense forest that surrounded the area was illuminated by the setting sun, its rays piercing through thin clouds and casting light on the rugged woodland trails ahead. Leading the cavalry was Karl Front, a commander whose name was synonymous with ferocity and undefeated triumph. The arrival of his troops felt like an overwhelming force, shaking the very air around them. The thunder of hundreds of hooves reverberated through the forest, breaking its tranquil silence and filling it with unease.
In Whitehold, panic rippled through the court and the populace alike. Whispers suggested retreating to Lahos for refuge. However, King Edmond of Eldenia understood that the situation was far too precarious for such measures. Resolving to stabilize morale, he made the bold decision to personally lead Arthur's Silver Wolf unit and Mathur's archery forces to intercept the Dragon Cavalry outside the capital. To inspire confidence, he introduced Mathur's chief marksman, Yuri Karlsson—a legendary archer said to have fought in countless battles, with the uncanny ability to strike an enemy's heart from a hundred meters with unerring precision.
That night, Arthur, fully aware of the cavalry's inability to move swiftly through the narrow forest trails, commanded the Silver Wolf unit to lay traps along the Dragon Cavalry's path. Simultaneously, Yuri and Mathur's archers quietly set up massive ballistae. Ingeniously crafted, the ballistae required minimal effort to fire but could launch bolts powerful enough to pierce heavy armor. Under the shifting moonlight, time seemed to halt in suspense.
When the first wave of Dragon Cavalry charged into the trap, cries of anguish erupted. Sudden volleys of bolts struck down dozens of riders, throwing their formation into disarray. Yet Karl Front remained undeterred. Like an enraged beast, he dismounted and launched himself into close combat against the Silver Wolf warriors. In the chaos of clashing blades and flying spears, Front tore through his enemies with unmatched ferocity. His longsword cut down one warrior after another, leaving no room for resistance.
But the tide of battle shifted under Arthur's calm and calculated command. Observing Front's relentless advance, Arthur ordered a strategic retreat, creating a massive opening in their lines. Without hesitation, Front and his men surged forward, their eyes blazing with confidence and the promise of victory.
At that crucial moment, Arthur signaled his rear forces. Moments later, the massive bolts of Mathur's archers streaked through the dense forest like lightning. One bolt struck Front squarely in the chest, its force so immense that it toppled him to the ground, nearly impaling him entirely. The battlefield erupted in chaos. News of Front's death struck the Dragon Cavalry like a thunderclap, shattering their resolve.
The archers of Mathur unleashed a relentless volley, their bolts raining down like a storm and scattering the remaining cavalry. Leaderless and demoralized, the once-formidable Dragon Cavalry broke ranks and fled, leaving behind a field littered with bodies and shattered formations. Arthur ordered the attack to cease and focused on securing the battlefield. Seeing their commander slain, the surviving cavalry lost all will to fight, retreating in utter defeat.
The battle was a testament to the flawless coordination between the Silver Wolf warriors and their allies. The Dragon Cavalry's immense power was rendered futile against superior strategy and the natural advantages of the terrain. As victory banners soared high once more, the people of Whitehold poured into the streets to celebrate, their cheers echoing in jubilation.
Yet Arthur remained solemn. He knew this battle was but the beginning. Strongson's great wolf still prowled, its fangs aimed at the heart of Eldenia. The true test was yet to come.