A flourish of violet banners followed by the frenzied beating of battle drums, announced that the Prince had accepted the challenge. Cecilia Marlaine marched outside the gates, dressed in silver plate armor and armed with her enchanted sword and shield. Ten thousand loyal knights rode at her back, trampling the grass under their horses’ hooves. The King’s men were outnumbered 10 to 1.
Cecilia surveyed the army of King Johannus and scoffed arrogantly, “You don’t even have mounted units.” The grin on her face gradually changed to a frown as she spotted Emily, standing beside the King. “So, you have managed to acquire an elven mercenary. Don’t tell me that’s your trump card,” she went on in her usual mocking tone.
“Before the day is over, you will find out that I have quite a few aces up my
