Fall 964 MC
An ominous mist covered the open terrain before them as the Mercerians plotted their next move. The forest had been a mixed blessing, giving them an ample supply of berries, plants and the occasional stream to fill their water skins. Hunting had been challenging, armed as they were with swords and axes rather than bows, but they had made do, bringing down a couple of deer by chasing them with their horses. Now, however, they must leave the protection the woods offered to make their way south, to the land they called home.
The chill in the air made all aware that winter was almost upon them. Beverly sent the Guard Cavalry out first, scouting the area for any sign of the enemy. They soon returned, declaring the area safe, at least until the mist cleared, for they were hampered
