With Alric"s army finally across the river, they marched to the west, effortlessly capturing the town of Waldstock. Warned of their approach, the Kurathians withdrew southward, taking as much with them as possible. The garrison had consisted of Prince Tarak"s forces—that much was gleaned from the townsfolk, but more surprising still was that they withdrew in good order.
With estimates putting the opposition at close to six hundred souls, the pressure was on to bring them to battle before they could seek the refuge of Southport.
Thankfully, the marshal had seen fit to send Lanaka"s brigade south with the prince, giving him access to a fast scouting force familiar with Kurathian tactics. It turned out to be a good choice, for Tarak"s men kept up a rearguard action that hampered the advance
