At a nod from Ludwig, they struck as one. The archers took a step forward, sending their arrows flying through the windows. One rider went down immediately, an arrow digging into his collarbone from above. The other two missed the riders but hit a horse, causing the poor creature to rear up in pain. Simultaneously, Sigwulf led a group of men around the corner of the building, and they were soon amongst the enemy, their swords and axes glistening with blood. It was all over in a matter of a few heartbeats.
Ludwig turned to Hagan. “Go,” he said. “Get the men moving as quickly as you can. We won’t have much time.”
Beornoth appeared at his side. “I have an idea.”
“I’m listening.”
“You need time to make your getaway,” said the Therengian. “Leave me some spare spears, and my men and I will hold them off to buy you some time.”
“That’s suicide. You can’t hold off an entire army with only a dozen men.”
“True, but I can slow them.”
“At the cost of your lives?”
“You’re a good man, Sir Ludwig. The Petty Kingdoms need more like you, but the truth is the time of the Therengians has passed. We must make way for those who follow.”
“I don’t suppose I can change your mind?”
“No,” replied Beornoth. “Let us make this last stand and remember us for it. I pray our sacrifice this day will change the duke’s opinion of my people.”
Ludwig felt the weight of this decision on his heart. “Very well. Fight well, Beornoth the Therengian, and may the story of your heroism be remembered in the annals of history.” He turned away, unable to meet the gaze of the doomed man.
They gathered spears and placed them around the building, their tips extending past ruined walls to give the illusion of more men. To this, they added some helmets, standing on sticks and visible from windows and such.
All the while, Hagan began moving the men eastward towards what they hoped was the approaching army of Erlingen.
Ludwig looked at Sigwulf. “Can you ride?”
“Of course,” he replied.
“Then gather those enemy horses, and put that poor injured creature out of its misery.”
“Wait for me,” called out Cyn.
“You can ride?” said Sigwulf.
“I don’t know, but I’m willing to try. How hard can it be?”
Ludwig dismissed the archers, watching them climb down to ground level. “Bring up the rear,” he ordered, “and look for any signs of the enemy. I’ll be along shortly.
He turned his attention back to the window. Off in the distance, he saw a grey line. As he waited, it grew more distinct, revealing the soldiers of Andover, their footmen in the lead, with what Ludwig guessed were light cavalry on the flanks. They appeared to be moving southeast towards the road, but then someone must have spotted movement, for they changed direction, heading instead for the ruined building.
Ludwig turned to Beornoth. “Good luck,” he said.
“Goodbye,” the Therengian replied. “We shall not meet again.”
“Then I shall drink to the memory of your deeds.”
The Therengian smiled. “As it should be.”
Ludwig climbed down from the upper floor and mounted Clay, waiting while Sigwulf and Cyn joined him. Turning eastward, they rode off, the spare horses in tow, galloping as fast as Cyn could manage. Ludwig resisted the urge to look back, knowing he would waver in his resolve. Would Beornoth’s ruse work, or was it folly? Only time would tell.
* * *
The retreat was swift, for no one wanted to fall into the hands of the advancing enemy. They found the duke's army on the road outside of Chermingen, having taken up a position on a slight rise before a relatively clear field, determined to deny the invaders access to the city. Only the presence of an old farmhouse disturbed the weeds that dominated the area.
The duke had deployed his army in a long line that stretched across the road, using the height to his advantage. Ludwig had to admit it was an imposing sight with its gaily coloured banners rising above the men's heads. However, upon closer examination, he came to the conclusion it was not as impressive as he first thought, leading him to turn to Sigwulf.
“I don’t like this,” he said.
“Like what? The army is massed and ready for action. That’s good, isn’t it?”
“Yes, but with no thought to tactics. The cavalry is all over the place, and where are the archers?”
“In amongst each noble's retinue, I should think.”
“Is that how it’s always done?”
“It is,” said Sigwulf. “What other way is there?”
“I thought the duke was going to mass his cavalry.”
The sergeant shook his head. “The barons would never agree to that. They value their independence far too much.”
“Even at the risk of losing the entire kingdom?”
“You’ll be a baron yourself one day. Would you willingly give up control of your own warriors?”
“For the good of the realm? Of course.”
“Then you are the exception, my friend. Most nobles in the Petty Kingdoms would resist such an idea.”
“If that’s true,” said Ludwig, “then how in the Continent did they defeat the Old Kingdom?”
“My understanding is things weren’t as rigid back then.”
“And so we’ve weakened ourselves over generations to the point we're at now? It feels like such a waste.”
“The system works," said Sigwulf. "One has only to look at the Petty Kingdoms to see how effectively.”
“Yes, but the Petty Kingdoms are constantly fighting amongst themselves. It makes them ripe for being conquered.”
“Does it? I would've thought just the reverse. Constant warfare leads to a professional army, doesn’t it?”
“I would have thought so too,” said Ludwig, “but looking at the troops arrayed before us this day, I have to wonder.”
“You’d best ride ahead. You’ll want to be there when Hagan reports to the duke.”
* * *
Lord Deiter Heinrich’s tent was easy to find, for even from the outside, Ludwig could hear the voices of dissent within.
“I say we withdraw into the city,” Lord Rengard was saying. “It’s much more defensible.”
Hagan stepped through the doorway first.
“Your Grace,” he said by way of greeting. “I trust you received our report?”
The duke wheeled around, a smile creasing his lips. “Yes, Lord Hagan, I did. You’ve done a magnificent job these past few days. I must congratulate you.”
“We only did what we thought was best, Lord.”
“Come, join us. We were discussing how we should handle the army of Andover. Lord Rengard here says we should withdraw into Chermingen.”
“I believe that a mistake, Your Grace,” offered Ludwig.
Lord Rengard turned his icy glare to the knight. “I hardly think your opinion matters.”
“Let him speak,” said Lord Hurst. “It would serve us well to hear a fresh take on things.”
“Very well,” said the duke. “Sir Ludwig? Your observations?”
“The enemy is numerous—” started Ludwig.
“We know,” interrupted Lord Helmer. “Lord Hagan’s report said as much.”
“Let him speak,” insisted the duke, his irritation plain for all to see.
“The city has no walls,” Ludwig continued, “and we would have to defend every street, fortify every building.”
“What of it?” demanded Lord Helmer.
“Most of the buildings there are wooden, my lord. Easy targets for fire.”
“Are you suggesting they would burn the city?”
“To dislodge an army? I’m sure of it.”
“Well,” said the duke, “we can’t allow that. It appears our decision is made for us. We shall make a stand here, as I have already suggested.”
“They shall rip us to tatters,” said Helmer. “Can you not see that?”
“They outnumber us, that’s true,” continued the duke, “but we cannot let them advance unopposed. To do so is to concede defeat.”
“So, instead, we shall let most of our noble lines end in a catastrophic failure?”
Ludwig felt his anger rising. “Would you so easily abandon your liege lord?” he demanded.
“It's easy for a foreigner to make such an accusation,” Helmer replied. “It’s not your family who would be wiped out.”
“I stand with the duke, as should you. Where are your loyalties, sir? To your rightful leader, or your own wealth?”
“Enough,” roared the duke. “The decision has already been made. We shall fight. The only thing to discuss now is how we shall conduct the battle.” He gazed around the room, but his barons avoided his gaze. “Have none of you any thoughts on the matter?”
His eyes once more fell on Ludwig. “What of you, Sir Knight? Have you anything you’d like to contribute? Other than insulting my barons, that is.”
“I noticed the old farmhouse, Your Grace. Have you any warriors stationed there?”
“I have not. The position is too exposed.”
“I would suggest you change that.”
“To what end?” asked Lord Anwald. “Wouldn't such an act only be throwing away good men?”
“On the contrary,” said Ludwig. “The building is needed if the enemy is to advance unhindered. It is, therefore, a strategic location. A single company could hold off their attack for half a day at least, longer if we fortified it.”
“Fortified it?” said Lord Rengard. “With what? We have no stone with which to build new walls.”
“True, but we could cut timber; even logs can impede the enemy. Stakes would be even better.”
“How far behind you are they?” asked the duke.
“Half a day, maybe less.”
“Then send word. I want trees felled and the logs brought to that house. Sir Ludwig, you’ll oversee the construction of the defences.”
Hagan stepped forward. “It is my command, Your Grace.”
“Good, then you can do yourself a favour and listen to your knight.” His eyes scanned the barons. “I want a dozen men from each of your retinues to head to the trees, gentlemen. We need those logs cut and dragged into place by sundown.”
There was grumbling but no real argument.
“Good, this meeting is adjourned. Now, get out there and get to work. There’s much to be done.”
* * *
Hagan decided to visit his father, leaving Ludwig to return to the company alone. He was halfway there when Rosalyn appeared.
Ludwig halted, turning to face her. “My lady? What are you doing here?”
“I’m here with my father.”
“This is a battle, Rosalyn. It’s no place for a woman.”
She bristled. “My place is by my father’s side. Would you deny me that?”
“No. My apologies. I merely meant, as you’re not a warrior, it might be safer for you to stay in Chermingen.”
“I may not be trained in the art of weapons, but I can at least inspire the men.”
“And how do you intend to do that?”
“These men are fighting for their families. By showing myself, I remind them of that.”
“Very well,” said Ludwig. “Let me take you to them.”
“Is Hagan there?”
He noted the hint of a smile and decided to have some fun. “Lord Hagan?”
“Or course Lord Hagan. Who else would I mean?”
“I have no idea. Hagan may be a popular name amongst your people.”
“My people? What’s that supposed to mean?”
“You know, your countrymen. I’ve heard tell some names are used a lot. Take William, for example…”
“That’s enough already,” said Rosalyn. “Now, is he there or not?”
“Not, I’m afraid. He wandered off, seeking his father, Lord Gebhard.”
“A pity,” she added. “I was hoping to have words with him.”
“That sounds ominous.”
“Why? Merely because I wish to speak with him?”
“Having words with someone sounds more like they’re in trouble. Is that your intention?”
Ludwig could tell he’d hit a sore spot, for she pouted.
“I’m a little curious as to why he didn’t accept my invitation,” said Rosalyn.
“Invitation to what?”
“Why, dinner, of course."
“And when did you send this invitation?”
“The day before yesterday. Would you believe he didn’t even deign to answer? How rude can a man be?”
Ludwig couldn’t help but laugh.
“What’s so funny?”
“Lady Rosalyn, there was no way Lord Hagan could even have received your letter. The entire company has only recently returned from scouting out the enemy. Did your father not inform you?”
“He most certainly did not!”
“Ah, well, doubtlessly for good reason. I don’t suppose he wanted you worrying about anything.”
“Was it dangerous?”
“Very,” said Ludwig, “but Hagan acquitted himself quite well.”
“Hagan did?”
“Yes, why? Does that surprise you?”
“I suppose it shouldn’t, yet the more I learn about him, the more fascinating he becomes.”
“Are you going to tell him?”
“Tell him what?”
“That you’re in love with him?”
Rosalyn reddened. “I never said any such thing!”
“Maybe not in so many words, but your face lights up at the mere mention of his name, not to mention you’re full of energy when he’s around.”
“I…”
“Don’t try to deny it, Rosalyn,” said Ludwig. “You know it’s true.”
“Does he feel the same?”
He smiled. “You mean does his face light up like yours does?”
“Stop teasing, Ludwig. You know what I mean.”
“I believe he does, my lady, but the influence of his father is still strong. I have, admittedly, been chipping away at that exterior. In time, I think, we’ll see more of the relatively decent fellow who’s buried beneath the rough exterior.”
She chuckled. “You make him sound like a statue.”
“And so he is, to an extent. Men like Hagan are shaped by those around him, and he has led a somewhat sheltered life.”
“Unlike you?”
“Precisely.”
Her face grew serious. “You must consider me frivolous to speak of such things the eve before battle.”
“Not at all,” said Ludwig, “but make no mistake, there will be a battle tomorrow, or possibly the day after, and men will die. There are no guarantees in war, Rosalyn. If you wish to tell Hagan of your love, you should do it now, before it’s too late.”
She paled. “And if he were to die?”
“Then he would do so knowing he is loved. Can a man wish for more?”
“And what of you? If you were to die tomorrow, would you be content?”
Ludwig thought of everything he’d experienced these last few months. “I would,” he said. “For all I’ve been through has brought me here, to this spot, at this time. You may laugh at the idea, but I’m beginning to sense I came here for a purpose.”
“Yes, to win a joust, remember?”
“No, it’s more than that.” He looked her straight in the eyes. “It’s my destiny.”
“Or the will of the Saints?”
“Perhaps. Who can say? In any event, for the first time in my life, I feel as though I’m exactly where I need to be.”
41
The Battle Begins
Summer 1095 SR
* * *
Ludwig crouched behind what was left of a low stone wall. At some point in the past, there must have been a pathway leading south, but it had long since become overgrown with weeds. To his right sat the old farm, packed with men of Lord Gebhard’s
company along with the Grim Defenders. To their front, they had dug in sharpened stakes to dissuade the cavalry from closing, but there had not been enough time to complete the task, and the northern portion had been left unfinished.
Hagan Stein was in the building, commanding its defence, while Ludwig led those behind the low wall. Though the stones afforded some protection, he still felt exposed and was well aware that should cavalry bypass them, they would be cut off from any help. To that end, he had stolen Sigwulf and Cyn, leaving Captain Ecke with the rest of the mercenaries inside. It had been a difficult decision, but the group outside would have to adapt far faster to the changing battlefield, and he needed his best sergeants for the task.
Lord Hagan looked more than satisfied with the arrangement. Clearly, the poor fellow was out of his depth, but Ludwig was careful to make it look like the troops' dispositions had been his commander's idea.
By late in the day, Ludwig could take solace in the fact there would not be enough daylight left to determine the ultimate victor. Instead, this battle would likely last two days, with initial contact occurring sometime before nightfall.
He walked along the wall, checking on his men. They were nervous but ready, determined to do their best.
Sigwulf nodded westward. “Here they come.”
A wall of men filled the horizon. The enemy appeared to be keeping their horsemen in reserve, although Ludwig doubted that would last long. They would likely close the distance, then take up a line opposite, ready for the morning's battle. Only then would they be able to discern the enemy's true intentions.
“What do you make of them?” asked Sigwulf.
“They’re hiding their horses,” said Ludwig. “A wise move, considering what they’re up against.”
“Yes, the Knights of the Sceptre are a fearsome bunch, the best warriors in all of Erlingen. By rights, you should be amongst them yourself, but I suppose this little command of yours is more important.”
“Are you objecting to my presence?”
Sigwulf grinned. “Not at all, but I imagine the duke’s knights will play a decisive role in the coming battle.”
“If he doesn’t waste them,” warned Ludwig. “You know what some of his barons are like.”
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