56 Dus (2/2)
”They won't hold up to a charge.” Alexis had somehow found the roasted leg of some bird to gnaw on. Gesturing with the drumstick, she waved in the general direction of the enemy. ”The problem is what to do after that. Last time their numbers never ended. Whenever we thought we'd dealt with a group, even more would pour out from the ground. That's not to say their numbers are infinite but don't forget why we're here.”
”Exactly.” Elya rubbed her scar in frustration. They couldn't afford to get bogged down in a battle. ”As far as I see it Seven is right, our priority is to break their lines to let our forces get into what's left of Galicia, locate Nikolai and bring him out. Once that's done, we surround them and wait for reinforcements so we can get rid of the threat.”
”Expected more of a plan from you Knight-Captain.” Ordan's eyes were hooded in thought, his thumb running along the hilt of his dagger as he surveyed the map.
”You need time to plan, Colonel.” Elya whispered, everyone around the table nodding in agreement. A wisp of wind caressed her cheek and Elya sighed in relief. The clouds of dust had stood in their way, stagnant and unmoving, sapping even the air of its ability to move. At least it felt that way. Even the humid breezes of this place would be a welcome change.
Uzukai jumped out of his chair and Jarek spun to stare in open mouthed amazement as the wind picked up.
”What happened?!” Alexis demanded of the Mages, the dust clouds being swept away by ever increasing gusts.
”We've run out of time.” The old Mage remarked cryptically. ”I suggest we proceed with the Knight-Captain's plan.” Without waiting for a response, Uzukai hobbled towards his supply carts, bellowing orders in his creaking voice.
Elya shielded her eyes and followed Jarek's gaze. The wind screamed around them, tearing at the pavilion and whipping loose branches and cloth into the air. Shouting soldiers ran to protect delicate equipment and supply carts, fearing an attack. The dust clouds parted and Elya heard shocked gasps from her surroundings.
The ruins of Galicia glowed, powerful strobes of light shooting into the sky. Even at this distance she could sense her Draconic Aura trembling at the power contained within that light. Giant rifts tore open in the sky above the city for brief moments before snapping shut in an explosion of colour and energy. Multi-coloured smoke seemed to be rising from every corner to form a spinning vortex that hung over the centre of the city.
”I've never felt anything so powerful.” Jarek whispered, clutching his arms and shaking at the pressure.
Taking a deep breath, Elya turned to her stunned commanders and shouted. ”Move! Move! Get everyone down on that field and formed up.”
She didn't wait for a response, sprinting for her horse and cycling her sluggish Draconic Aura to strengthen her resolve.
”Just wait Nikolai. I'll be there soon.”