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Eerie Silence

  Several days later, in Asmorg, a delegation of ten men arrived, bearing a message from the recently deceased King Ajeer. These emissaries presented the missive to the war director, Ulfur, who promptly summoned the army and set out for Straya with all due haste.

  The kingdom of Osna was a small but mighty realm, home to a proud and fierce Viking people. Nestled amongst the rolling hills and towering mountains of the north, Osna was a land of rugged beauty and unforgiving weather.

  The kingdom was home to around 10,000 people, all of whom were fiercely loyal to their leader, Queen Astrid. The Osnans were a hardy people, accustomed to the harsh realities of life in the north. They were skilled warriors, renowned for their bravery and ferocity in battle, and their flag was a symbol of their strength and pride.

  The flag of Osna was a simple but powerful design, featuring a golden eagle set against a field of deep blue. The eagle was a symbol of strength and courage, and it was said that those who flew under the banner of Osna were blessed with the favour of the gods.

  The Osnans were a wealthy kingdom, thanks in large part to their thriving trade routes. They exported high-quality furs, metals, and other valuable goods to the south, where they were in high demand. They also earned a reputation as skilled blacksmiths, and their weapons and armour were sought after by warriors across the land.

  In addition to their trade and crafting skills, the Osnans were also skilled farmers and herders, and they were able to sustain their kingdom with the fruits of their labour. Despite the challenges they faced, the Osnans were a proud and self-sufficient people, and they had no intention of bowing to any other kingdom.

  Queen Astrid was a formidable and respected ruler, known throughout the kingdom of Osna for her wisdom, strength, and fairness. She had ascended to the throne after the untimely death of her husband, King Halfdan, and she had proven herself to be a worthy successor.

  Before ascending to the throne, Astrid had been a warrior in her own right, renowned for her skills with a sword and her fearlessness in battle. She had fought alongside her husband in many campaigns, and she had earned the respect and admiration of her fellow warriors.

  Despite her formidable reputation as a warrior, Astrid was also known for her compassion and her ability to listen to the needs of her people. She worked tirelessly to ensure that all of her subjects were treated fairly and with respect, and she was greatly loved by the people of Osna.

  Under Astrid's leadership, the kingdom of Osna flourished. She oversaw the expansion of the kingdom's trade routes, and she worked to strengthen its defences against potential threats. Astrid was a wise and fair ruler, and she was deeply loved and respected by her subjects.

  Upon arriving at Osna, Hamza was confronted by the sentinels stationed at the gates of the kingdom. "State your purpose and identity," they demanded.

  Hamza dismounted from his steed and declared, "I am Hamza, dispatched by King Basil of Straya."

  The guards scrutinised him sceptically. "Provide evidence of your claims," they commanded.

  Hamza gestured to the emblematic garments and banners he bore, stating, "Are these not sufficient proof?"

  The guards remained unconvinced. "What is the nature of your visit? Why did your monarch send you?"

  Hamza replied gravely, "I bear a crucial message for Queen Astrid."

  The guard nodded and declared, "You shall await further instruction here. I shall inform Her Majesty of your presence."

  As he waited, Hamza couldn't help but observe the efficiency and order of the small yet well-organised kingdom of Osna.

  Inside her tent, Queen Astrid was relishing the pleasant weather while indulging in a drink. She was startled by the sudden appearance of a guard, who proclaimed, "Queen Astrid!"

  Queen Astrid greeted the guard with a smile, inquiring, "What brings you to me?"

  The guard informed her, "We have a visitor claiming to have been sent by King Basil, requesting an audience with you."

  The queen asked with interest, "Where is this individual?"

  The guard replied, "He awaits on the ramparts, accompanied by one hundred armed men on horseback."

  Queen Astrid raised an eyebrow in surprise. "That is rather peculiar. Do you not agree?"

  The guard nodded gravely. "That is why I deemed it necessary to apprise you of the situation."

  The queen nodded approvingly. "Your judgement was sound. Allow him entry alone, but dispatch additional guards to secure the walls."

  Hamza was advised that he was to enter Osna sans both his military and personal weaponry, which he acceded to in the pursuit of an audience with the queen. As he approached Her Majesty, he proffered a cordial smile, which she returned in kind.

  "You appear quite fatigued," the queen remarked. "What is the source of your weariness?"

  Hamza replied with laboured breaths, "It has been a considerable time since I have traversed such a distance by foot."

  The queen chuckled and invited, "Please, do join me. Take your seat."

  Hamza accepted with gratitude and settled himself across from her. "Thank you," he expressed.

  Queen Astrid poured a libation and offered it to Hamza. "Sate your thirst with this," she said amiably.

  Hamza glanced at the drink and declined it with regret, explaining, "I apologise, but I must abstain from such beverages due to my adherence to Islam. May I request a cup of water instead? I fear that anything stronger may cause me to lose my balance. My tolerance for spirits is quite low."

  Queen Astrid chuckled at his response and inquired, "Are you certain that King Basil sent you on a serious matter?"

  Hamza replied with conviction, "Yes, I assure you. I bear grave news."

  The queen asked with interest, "And what news might that be?"

  Hamza explained, "King Basil has dispatched me to your kingdom to provide protection. He has received word that King Ajeer is amassing an army and marching towards Osna."

  Queen Astrid's eyes widened in surprise. "Are you certain of this information?"

  Hamza replied sternly, "Why would I arrive in your kingdom with one hundred armed men, seeking peace, if this were not true? Do you believe this to be some sort of jest?"

  The queen hesitated before asking, "But why would King Ajeer seek to attack us?"

  Hamza replied, "I am not privy to such information. King Basil only imparted these details to me, and instructed me to inform the King of Ugor so that we may unite our forces and defend against the impending threat."

  Queen Astrid inquired with confusion, "Ugor? Do you refer to King Ulf?"

  Hamza nodded gravely. "Indeed, it appears that King Ajeer has become deranged and intends to obliterate both our kingdoms, starting with the more diminutive Osna before progressing to Ugor with the assistance of Ubel."

  The queen's brow furrowed as she ruminated upon this information. "Ubel? How is he implicated in this intrigue with King Ajeer?" She paused before exclaiming, "So it was King Ajeer who was colluding with Ubel all along!"

  Hamza nodded in affirmation.

  Queen Astrid considered this for a moment before querying, "What if you are fabricating this tale for me?"

  Hamza replied, "You have three options. Firstly, you may dispatch a messenger to verify whether King Ajeer's army is, in fact, marching towards us. Secondly, you may journey to King Basil yourself and seek confirmation. Thirdly, you may remain here and await the arrival of Asmorg's forces to conquer your kingdom."

  The queen smiled wryly, but remained concerned. She resolved to send two of her guards to ascertain the veracity of Hamza's assertions about King

  Ajeer's movements. It was evident that Ubel's scheme was well-conceived, with Hamza as his puppet, particularly since Straya, Osna and Ugor were proximate and shared a common border.

  As night fell, Hamza was engaged in a meal and drink when a guard approached him, informing him that he was summoned to visit the queen in her tent. Hamza was puzzled by the covert nature of this summons, but had no choice but to oblige. When he arrived at the queen's quarters, he found her reclining on her bed, her naked body partially covered by a woollen blanket. Hamza immediately knelt and said, "You requested my presence?"

  Queen Astrid commanded, "Yes, close the door."

  As Hamza complied, he remained standing, his gaze fixed on the ground.

  The queen inquired, "What is the matter? Why are you so shy?"

  Hamza struggled to find the words, stammering, "It's just that I cannot, I do not..."

  The queen interrupted him, rising from the bed and revealing her naked form to him. Despite his efforts to avert his gaze, she took his hand and placed it on her breasts. Hamza took a deep breath and tried to protest, "I believe there are more pressing matters at hand, such as the ongoing war..."

  But the queen silenced him with a passionate kiss, tossing him onto the bed and taking the lead in their ardent lovemaking. Afterwards, as they lay tangled in the sheets, Hamza asked, "Do you typically engage in such behaviour with all who bring you warnings?"

  Queen Astrid replied, "No, but I couldn't help but feel a certain desire upon laying eyes on you."

  Hamza asked, "Are you not concerned about the impending war?"

  Astrid replied nonchalantly, "Do you think I truly fear death? What could be more desirable than entering Valhalla?"

  Hamza replied ironically, "Nothing."

  Queen Astrid asked, "Did you not enjoy our time together?"

  Hamza admitted, "I did, indeed."

  Queen Astrid declared, "Good, because you are not leaving my chambers tonight."

  She then began to kiss him again, signalling her desire for more intimacy.

  As Ubel sat upon the darkened shores of Straya, his focus unwavering as he watched the flames dance before him, he was lost in thought. With a stick clutched in his hand, he absently stirred the fire as he drifted in his own musings. It was then that Hilda approached, her footsteps drawing Ubel's attention even before he turned to see her standing beside him, the dagger he had left on the table in King's Basil Hall held firmly in her grasp. Despite the shadows that engulfed the landscape, Ubel's gaze remained fixed on the endless expanse of the ocean as he spoke softly to Hilda.

  "You know, you could have revealed my actions and spared your husband's life, had you chosen to betray me at that moment."

  Hilda remained silent for a moment, studying Ubel with a look of curiosity. She then approached and took a seat beside him, placing the dagger between them. Ubel glanced down at the weapon and gave a small smile. Hilda spoke, her voice laced with disbelief.

  "Why are you so confident in your assessment of my motivations?"

  "It is a matter of veracity, my dear Hilda, that you harboured a desire to be rid of your husband," Ubel replied, his gaze still fixed on the flickering flames before them.

  Hilda looked at him in surprise, and then a realisation seemed to dawn upon her. "Ah, I see now. Your success is rooted in your ability to discern the true desires of those around you."

  Ubel chuckled, "My father imparted upon me the wisdom that in order to attain control and shape the world to my own desires, I must be swift to study those around me, to understand their true nature."

  "Your father was a man of great repute," Hilda said, a note of admiration in her voice. "I have heard many tales of him. He was perhaps the most renowned man in our lands."

  "Yes, he was," Ubel replied, a sense of pride in his voice. "I am pleased that he is able to witness the work I do in his honour."

  There was a moment of silence between them, and then Hilda spoke again, her voice tinged with inquiry. "I have a question... What was the purpose of the apple?"

  Ubel smiled at Hilda, "I had assumed that you were sagacious enough to deduce the function of the apple."

  Hilda replied, "Ubel, there is no one living who is more sagacious than you."

  Ubel chuckled and replied, "As you have already stated, I possess the ability to discern the true desires of those around me. However, sometimes it is necessary to employ methods to verify one's suspicions."

  Hilda looked at him quizzically, "Pray tell, what do you mean?"

  Ubel explained, "Would you partake of something offered to you by someone you do not trust?"

  Hilda shook her head, "No, I would not."

  Ubel nodded, "Precisely. And yet, all of you ate the apple, a clear indication that you trusted me. But let us not forget, I am not your ally. Your trust in me has granted me a position of power over you."

  Hilda nodded in comprehension, "I understand."

  Ubel continued, "But that is not all..."

  Hilda looked at him expectantly, "I eagerly await your explanation."

  Ubel explained, "Note that you did not all consume the apple at the same time. Each of you partook of it at a different moment. For instance, King Basil ate it when he knew that you would be ruling."

  Hilda inquired, "What do you mean by that?"

  Ubel replied, "It means that Basil holds some affection for you. He wants you to rule."

  Hilda asked, "And what about Jeffery?"

  Ubel replied, "Jeffery desires to rule, and he was afraid of being deceived by me. When I gave him hope for his future, he gave me his trust."

  Hilda inquired, "What about the counsellor?"

  Ubel replied, "He desires to go to England, and has no desire to alter our interests there."

  Hilda was silent for a moment, not inquiring about her own motivations. Ubel spoke again, "But you... you desired your husband's demise, and to take over Asmorg."

  Hilda gave a small smile and said, "I am a young woman, and I believe I am deserving of it."

  "Indeed, I say," Ubel had said, "but you, of all people, have another purpose."

  Hilda had looked at him, her eyes filled with curiosity as she inquired, "Pray tell, what might that be?"

  As Ubel spoke, a raven alighted near him and began to croak. Ubel regarded the bird with a moment of contemplative silence, as if he were deciphering its message. He then rose to his feet and set off, his steps purposeful as he searched for Trevor and left Hilda alone on the shore. Hilda was struck with surprise and trepidation at this unexpected development.

  As Ubel scoured the premises for Trevor, he eventually stumbled upon the latter tending to his equine companion at nightfall. Upon noticing Ubel's harried and irate demeanour, Trevor inquired, "Pray tell, what ails you? Why the palpable sense of urgency?"

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  Ubel replied, "I must return to Vok posthaste. Something feels amiss, and I can feel that I am needed back home."

  Trevor countered, "But why now? We are in the midst of a pressing matter, one that requires our undivided attention."

  Ubel explained, "I cannot explain it, but I just know. I must go back."

  Trevor persisted, "Ubel, when was the last time you indulged in a moment of repose? Perhaps some rest would do you good before embarking on such a potentially perilous journey."

  Ubel remained mute, opting not to offer any further clarification. After a moment of tense silence, he inquired, "Where, pray tell, is Basil?"

  Trevor replied, "I believe he is slumbering at present. Shall I rouse him from his slumber?"

  Ubel demurred, "No, no. Send some of our soldiers to Vok instead."

  Trevor questioned, "How many soldiers do you wish to dispatch? We have already sent one hundred men with Hamza."

  Ubel instructed, "Send another hundred to Vok. I have a feeling that their presence will be required there."

  Trevor hesitated, "Are you certain this is a sound decision? It seems like a significant allocation of our forces."

  Ubel affirmed, "Yes, do as I say."

  Trevor refrained from offering any further commentary, simply mounting his steed and departing to fulfil Ubel's request. As he left, Ubel couldn't shake the feeling of unease that weighed upon him. A raven alighted upon a branch of a nearby tree, croaking loudly. Ubel glanced in the bird's direction before dismissing it and seeking solace in slumber.

  On the following day, a messenger sent by Queen Astrid to confirm rumours of an Asmorgian army marching on Osna returned in a hurry and hastened to report to the queen. As she cleaned her sword, the messenger approached and declared, "Your majesty, Queen Astrid, it is true that the Asmorgians are en route to our kingdom. They appear to be coming with conquest in mind."

  Astrid looked surprised and asked, "How many men are we dealing with?"

  The messenger replied, "Their numbers are formidable, my queen. It is clear that they mean to conquer Osna."

  Astrid commanded, "Fetch Hamza at once and bring him here. Then go to Ugor and inform them of the Asmorgian army. Have King Ulf mobilise his forces as swiftly as possible."

  The messenger bowed and said, "Very well, I shall attend to these tasks without delay."

  Hamza made his way to Queen Astrid and found her pacing worriedly within her tent, deep in thought as she weighed her options. When she noticed Hamza's arrival, she said, "You were right. The messengers have confirmed the approaching army. What do you propose we do?"

  Hamza replied, "I have already prepared for this eventuality. Gather your forces and make all necessary preparations. I will leave my men here and inform King Basil as he commanded me to do."

  Astrid asked, "I had assumed you would fight alongside me. Are you not going to do so?"

  Hamza explained, "I will, but King Basil ordered me to inform him as soon as the army is within striking distance. He may choose to send additional troops."

  Astrid nodded, "I understand." She then approached Hamza and kissed him before he took his leave, mounting his horse and setting off for Straya.

  Upon arriving in Straya, where King Basil was seated with his son, Jeffrey, in the hall, Ubel entered and greeted them, saying, "I see you are enjoying your day despite the tumultuous changes that may soon befall our kingdoms."

  King Basil replied, "We are indeed concerned about the potential shifts in the balance of power."

  Ubel queried, "What is it that causes you such worry?"

  Jeffery replied, "Do you not see how rapidly events are unfolding? It is disconcerting to behold."

  Ubel responded, "Time is of the essence. Delaying actions will only make matters more difficult for us in the long run."

  King Basil asked, "Why do you speak with such confidence, as if you are certain your plan will be executed without flaw?"

  Ubel replied, "I do not simply trust in my plan's success. I know it will work. I do not make mistakes."

  King Basil countered, "You are not a god, Ubel. Only the gods do not make mistakes."

  Ubel replied, "That is true, I am not a god. However, I like to think that I reason in a manner similar to them."

  Jeffery and King Basil regarded Ubel in silence before he added, "Come, we must begin preparations for your army. Time is of the essence."

  King Basil inquired, "Now? Is it not too soon?"

  Ubel explained, "The Asmorgian army will arrive tomorrow. We must unite our forces and organise them before we clash with Ugor's army. Every moment counts."

  King Basil queried, "Pray tell, who apprised you of these events?"

  Ubel responded tersely, "Do not waste time with inquiries that are inconsequential. Jeffrey, come with me. We must hasten to take action."

  Jeffrey gave his father a fleeting glance before complying with Ubel's request, while King Basil sat in contemplation, frustration causing him to pound the table with his fist before joining his councillors.

  Ubel, Jeffery, and King Basil approached Trevor as he organised the troops. Ubel blew a whistle to attract Trevor's attention, not wanting to reveal his identity in front of others. Trevor looked at him, and Ubel said, "I will leave you in the capable hands of these two. Allow them to assist you with the organisation of our forces."

  Trevor led Ubel to a secluded location, where they could converse undisturbed.

  "What if our allies were to turn against us and betray us?" Trevor inquired.

  Ubel dismissed the notion with a wave of his hand. "Do not concern yourself with such trivialities. If necessary, I can convince the Asmrog army that it was they who assassinated King Ajeer."

  Trevor raised an eyebrow. "Why would they believe your claims?"

  Ubel glanced over his shoulder to where Hilda was approaching. He gestured towards her with a nod. "We now possess a formidable weapon."

  "Where are you headed?" Trevor asked as Ubel made to leave.

  "I must examine the battlefield," Ubel replied.

  "Are you going alone?" Trevor queried.

  Ubel turned to face Hilda, a small smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "No, not alone.

  As Ubel approached Hilda with a smile, she stood there, awaiting his words with expectant eyes. Eventually, Ubel spoke, saying, "I see you are savouring the delightful weather we are experiencing. It is quite a pleasant day, is it not?"

  Hilda replied, "Indeed, it is. And I must say, I am quite enamoured by the way the Strayan settlements are arranged. They have a certain charm about them."

  Ubel raised an eyebrow in surprise. "I must admit, I had expected you to be confined to your bed, consumed by grief over the loss of your husband."

  Hilda chuckled softly. "Perhaps that would be the expected response, but I choose to view his passing as a gift. It is all a matter of perspective, after all."

  Ubel nodded, his lips turning upward into a smile. "Well, I am off to inspect the battlefield. Would you care to join me? It would be my pleasure to have your company."

  Hilda hesitated before responding, "I would love to, but I fear I am not proficient in horsemanship. I fear I would be a liability if I were to ride alone."

  Ubel chuckled. "Ah, but a ruler of a kingdom should be able to ride a horse with confidence. Perhaps we should work on that. It would be an invaluable skill for you to possess."

  As the two conversed, King Basil looked on with palpable hatred, but said nothing. Eventually, Ubel assisted Hilda in mounting her horse before climbing atop his own. And with that, the two set off on their journey.

  The kingdom of Ugor was a land of fierce warriors and skilled traders, located on the rugged coast between the kingdoms of Straya and Osna. Its flag, a golden ship sailing on a rough sea, was a symbol of Ugor's seafaring heritage and its many trade routes.

  At the heart of Ugor lay its bustling port town, where merchants from far and wide came to trade their wares. The people of Ugor were known for their hard work and ingenuity, and their kingdom was rich in resources, with fertile farms, bountiful fisheries, and abundant forests.

  But Ugor was more than just a peaceful trading kingdom. Its people were also fiercely independent and fiercely loyal to their rulers, and they had a long tradition of defending their land against raiders and invaders. The kingdom was ruled by a just and wise king or queen, with a council of noble advisors and a well-trained army to keep the peace.

  Despite the many challenges they faced, the people of Ugor were a proud and resilient people, with a strong sense of community and a deep appreciation for their rich cultural heritage. They lived their lives with honour and courage, and their kingdom flourished under their care.

  The kingdom of Ugor had always enjoyed close ties with the neighbouring kingdom of Osna, ruled by the wise and fair Queen Astrid. Both kingdoms shared a strong seafaring tradition and a deep appreciation for trade, and they had long benefited from their close economic and cultural ties.

  The people of Ugor and Osna had a great deal of respect for each other, and their rulers often worked together to solve common problems and defend their lands against outside threats. Queen Astrid was known for her diplomatic skills and her ability to forge strong alliances, and she had a particular fondness for the kingdom of Ugor and its people.

  Under Queen Astrid's guidance, the kingdoms of Ugor and Osna had formed a strong alliance that benefited both sides. They traded with each other regularly, exchanging valuable goods and resources, and they often consulted each other on matters of trade and defence.

  In times of trouble, the rulers of Ugor and Osna stood together, offering each other support and protection. This strong bond of friendship and cooperation had helped both kingdoms to thrive, and their people enjoyed a peaceful and prosperous life thanks to the close relations between their rulers.

  King Ulf was the wise and just ruler of the kingdom of Ugor. He was a strong and decisive leader, with a deep sense of honour and a fierce loyalty to his people.

  King Ulf was born into a noble family and had been groomed from an early age to lead his kingdom. He was well-respected by his subjects and admired for his fairness and his unwavering commitment to the welfare of his people.

  As king, Ulf worked tirelessly to strengthen the kingdom of Ugor and ensure its prosperity. He was a skilled negotiator and a savvy businessman, and he worked closely with the merchants of his kingdom to expand trade and increase the wealth of the realm.

  But King Ulf was more than just a ruler focused on economics. He was also a fierce warrior, trained in the ways of the Vikings and always ready to defend his kingdom and its people. He led his army into battle with bravery and determination, and his kingdom was respected and feared by its enemies.

  Under King Ulf's wise and capable leadership, the kingdom of Ugor prospered and grew. Its people were happy and content, and they knew that they were in good hands with their just and fair king.

  King Ulf had a strong and enduring trust in Queen Astrid, the ruler of the neighbouring kingdom of Osna. The two leaders had a history of working together to defend their lands against outside threats, and they had forged a close bond of friendship and cooperation over the years.

  King Ulf respected Queen Astrid for her wisdom, her diplomatic skills, and her unwavering commitment to the welfare of her people. He knew that she was a fair and just ruler, and he trusted her judgement completely.

  In times of crisis, King Ulf and Queen Astrid stood together, offering each other support and counsel. They worked closely to develop strategies to defend their kingdoms and protect their people, and they were always ready to lend a helping hand to their ally.

  The strong trust between King Ulf and Queen Astrid was a testament to the enduring bond of friendship between their kingdoms. It had helped to keep their lands peaceful and prosperous, and it was a source of great strength and security for both rulers and their people.

  When Queen Astrid's messenger arrived at the court of King Ulf to inform him of the approaching army of Asmorg, the king was quick to respond. He knew that the threat was serious and that he needed to act quickly to defend his kingdom and protect his people.

  King Ulf immediately summoned his council of advisors and discussed the situation with them. He listened carefully to their counsel and weighed the options before him. In the end, he made the decision to gather his army and march to meet the invaders head on.

  The king knew that the kingdom of Asmorg was a formidable foe, but he also knew that the people of Ugor were brave and skilled warriors, and he was confident that they would be able to hold their own in battle. He sent word to Queen Astrid, informing her of his plan and offering his support and assistance in defending their shared lands.

  King Ulf then ordered his army to mobilise, and within one day they were on the march. He led them himself, riding at the head of the column with their flags flying high. The people of Ugor were proud of their king and rallied to his banner, eager to defend their kingdom and protect their homes and lands.

  Ubel and Hilda reached a place where It could be possible for the all marching armies to meet, Asmorg, Osna, Ugor and his army as well. He went off his horse then helped to get off it as well, Ubel then walked and started looking around the location, looking at the trees and space.

  Upon arriving at the designated location where the armies of Asmorg, Osna, and Ugor were likely to meet, Ubel dismounted from his horse and assisted Hilda in doing the same. The pair surveyed the surroundings, taking note of the verdant trees and the expansive space available. Ubel strode forth, his eyes scanning the area as he considered the potential of the location as a battleground.

  The location that Ubel had found was truly a sight to behold. The three mountainous outcroppings rose up on either side of the flat plain like sentinels, their peaks shrouded in mist and their slopes covered in dense forests. The mountains were a riot of colour, with the autumn leaves turning gold and red in the cool air.

  The flat plain between the mountains was a vast expanse of grassland, dotted with occasional stands of trees and babbling streams. It was a peaceful place, with the only sounds being the rustling of the grass in the wind and the distant call of a bird.

  But despite its tranquil appearance, Ubel knew that this location had the potential to become a place of great violence and bloodshed. He could already see the armies of Asmorg, Ugor and Osna gathering on opposite ends of the plain, their banners fluttering in the breeze. And he knew that his own army would soon join them, ready to finish the battle.

  As Ubel surveyed the location, he couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the majesty of the mountains and the vastness of the plain. He knew that this place would soon be a stage for one of the greatest battles in the history of their lands, and he couldn't wait to see how it would all unfold.

  Hilda observed Ubel's visage, noting the delight that seemed to radiate from him as he surveyed the location. She approached him and inquired, "Do you think this is a suitable location for the impending conflict?"

  Ubel responded with enthusiasm, gesturing expansively with his arms as he declared, "I cannot envision a more favourable spot in the immediate area. Look at the majesty of these mountains, the expanse of this plain. It is a veritable paradise for battle."

  "Pray, what is your intention, Ubel?" Hilda inquired, her curiosity aroused. "Do you possess any particular stratagems in mind?"

  Ubel chuckled at her query, responding, "You are most inquisitive, are you not? I am sorry, but I cannot divulge all of my secrets to you."

  Hilda persisted, "I simply desire to understand your perspective. It is always enlightening to consider the viewpoints of others."

  Ubel's demeanour grew grave as he replied, "I can tell you this much: my army will not engage in combat. As for the rest, it remains to be seen."

  Hilda was taken aback by his response. She gestured to the sprawling plain, saying, "But you have selected a most ample space for only two armies."

  Ubel chuckled again, a sly grin crossing his face as he replied, "Who said that there will only be two armies present here? Oh, I failed to mention it? Osna will be vanquished today as well. I am planning to rid ourselves of that kingdom once and for all."

  Hilda was stunned by his words. "Are you planning to vanquish Osna? How do you propose to achieve this? you have not yet confronted them, and you were only speaking of Ugor."

  "Ah, but do you not see the reason for my success?" Ubel replied with a sly smile. "I am not one to engage in frivolous discourse. Rather, I prefer to let my actions speak louder than words. It is this decisive and measured approach that has allowed me to outmanoeuvre my foes."

  Hilda's eyes widened in comprehension. "So, in effect, you had planned for all of this to transpire?"

  Ubel nodded in affirmation. "Precisely. I always have a plan in place, and I am not one to be caught unawares."

  Hilda marvelled at his cunning. "Five kingdoms were plotting to vanquish you and seize control of Vok, and yet now it is you who will emerge victorious and hold sway over all. Ubel, son of Than, you are truly a paragon of strategy and cunning."

  Ubel favoured Hilda with a smile, and then his attention was drawn by the sound of avian wings flapping in the air. He turned his gaze towards the source of the noise, and beckoned for Hilda to follow him as he set off in that direction.

  As they made their way towards the source of the commotion, Ubel caught sight of a rider atop a horse, galloping towards them. He recognized the figure as Hamza, and called out to him so that he might be heard over the sound of the horse's hooves pounding against the earth.

  Upon spotting Ubel, Hamza altered his course and rode towards him. As he drew near, Ubel could see the determination etched on his face, and he knew that important news was imminent.

  As Hamza approached, he dismounted from his steed and approached Hilda, inclining his head in deference. "My lady," he intoned.

  Hilda returned the gesture with a slight inclination of her own, and then Hamza turned to Ubel. The latter chuckled and remarked, "You appear reinvigorated, did you find repose in the arms of a paramour last eve?"

  Hilda smiled at the jest, but Hamza was all business. "There is no time for such frivolous discourse, Ubel. The Asmorg army is but hours behind us, and Queen Astrid has sent word that the conflict is upon us. Your stratagem has worked flawlessly, and the time for action is nigh."

  Ubel's countenance grew serious at the news. He placed a hand on Hamza's head and kissed him on the forehead, saying, "Let us make the Gods happy and emerge victorious."

  Hamza replied, "But there is only one true God."

  Ubel waved off the comment, saying, "We can discuss theology later. For now, we have a war to fight." With that, he turned and set off, with Hilda and Hamza following closely behind.

  Ubel, Hilda, and Hamza returned to Straya. Ubel began his search for Trevor, and upon finding him, he approached and grasped his hand, leading him away for a private discourse. "Osna and Ugor will soon unite their forces," he said gravely. "Asmorg's army will arrive within hours. Have you completed the organisation of our own military?"

  Trevor nodded in response to the momentous news. "Given this development, I believe it would be judicious to commence our march immediately. If Asmorg's army reaches this location, they may pose inquiries about King Ajeer."

  Ubel nodded in agreement. "I concur. Do so," he said.

  Trevor: What are you to do now?

  "I wish to hold a private audience with Basil before we depart," Ubel said. "However, you may commence preparations for the marching."

  As Queen Astrid dismounted her equine mount, she approached King Ulf with ominous tidings. "I have just returned from inspecting the army of Asmorg, and I must report that their ranks are numerous and imposing," she declared.

  King Ulf, however, maintained a stoic demeanour. "With the combined might of our own forces, we need not fear defeat," he replied.

  Queen Astrid nodded, but added a caveat. "It is possible that King Basil may dispatch additional troops to join us in battle, this could prove advantageous.

  King Ulf meditated upon this for a moment before posing his own question. "How did King Basil come to know of our marching army, and why should he be so solicitous of our fate?" he inquired.

  "Queen Astrid elucidated, "King Basil must have been apprised by his numerous scouts and messengers. It is likely that they forewarned him of our impending conflict."

  King Ulf inquired, "But why do you surmise that King Basil would dispatch additional troops to aid us?"

  "It is possible that he is cognizant of Ubel's presence in Asmorg's ranks," Queen Astrid replied.

  "King Ulf spat on the ground in disgust upon learning the news. "So it was King Ajeer who had been conniving with Ubel all along," he exclaimed in outrage.

  "Are all preparations complete for our march?" Queen Astrid asked. "I would prefer to engage in battle in a location where we can avoid causing harm to any settlements or civilians."

  King Ulf nodded in agreement. "You are a sagacious woman, Astrid. We shall depart within the hour. Make sure all preparations are made."

  Queen Astrid could not suppress a smile as she scoured the assembly for Hamza's arrival. He had avowed to return to her, but he had instead repaired to Ubel and had not yet reappeared.

  Ubel repaired to King Basil's hall, but upon arriving, he discovered that the king was not present. He spent almost an hour searching for him, eventually discovering him among his troops, engaged in a fervent speech to invigorate and elevate his soldiers before the impending battle. King Basil stood atop a wooden dais, with Jeffrey and Beylon standing below him. Ubel lingered at the periphery of the throng, listening attentively to the king's oration.

  King Basil speech

  "My fellow warriors,

  Today we stand on the threshold of a great battle, one that will challenge our fortitude and perseverance. But let us not shrink from death, for we are warriors of Odin, and he awaits us in Valhalla to feast and drink as brothers. The doors of Valhalla are open to us, but they do not admit the craven. We must be hardy and steadfast, for Valhalla does not welcome men with fear in their hearts.

  We have trained and prepared for this day, and now is the time to demonstrate our valour. Remember the honour and glory that await us if we emerge victorious. Let us go forth with courage and strength, and let our enemies quail at the sight of us.

  This is our moment to make our mark on history, to leave a legacy that will be remembered for generations to come. Let us embrace this opportunity with all our might, and let our victory be the stuff of legend.

  But let us not forget that this battle is not just about us, it is also about the people we fight for. The families, the children, the innocent lives that depend on us to protect them from harm. We are not just fighting for our own glory, but for the future of our kingdom.

  So let us march forth with confidence and determination, knowing that we are not alone. The gods are with us, and so are the spirits of our ancestors who fought and died for this land. Let their strength and courage guide us, and let us make them proud.

  For Odin! For Valhalla! For Straya!

  As the soldiers began to raucously cheer in veneration of their regal leader, King Basil, they were invigorated and eager to embark upon the impending battle. Meanwhile, Ubel observed the scene with a frigid grin, biding his time until the King had finished his oration. Jeffery noticed Ubel lingering in the periphery, and apprised King Basil of his presence.

  The King approached Ubel, who stood with his back against the wall, arms crossed nonchalantly. When the monarch reached him, he inquired, "Pray tell, Ubel, what is the nature of your request?" Ubel replied coolly, "Your speech was quite stirring, sire. It has only increased my fervour for the coming conflict."

  King Basil remarked, "It has been some time since we last engaged in armed conflict. We have enjoyed a period of tranquillity in recent memory."

  Ubel concurred, "Indeed, and we shall be able to maintain a more enduring peace once we set sail for England."

  The King expressed his hope that this would be the case, to which Ubel responded, "We must depart for battle immediately, rather than delaying until the morrow. There is no time to lose."

  "Why do you suggest this sudden departure?" the King queried. "Have there been any new developments?"

  "It has come to my attention that the Ugor army is approaching this location," Ubel divulged.

  King Basil was taken aback, "How could they have gained knowledge of our whereabouts? Have rumours been circulating?"

  "It is possible," Ubel admitted, "though I cannot say for certain. It is also possible that they have dispatched messengers to confirm their suspicions."

  The King's demeanour grew more stern as he warned Ubel, "Do not attempt to deceive me. If they had heard mere rumours, they would not be so bold as to march upon us without verifying the veracity of the information."

  As Ubel's countenance underwent a transformation from one of amiability to one of rage and malevolence, King Basil could not help but recoil in fear. Ubel, standing tall with his arms crossed, fixed his gaze upon the trembling monarch. Jeffery and Beylon looked on, sensing the tension between the two men.

  "You would do well to remember your place when addressing me," Ubel spat, his voice dripping with contempt. "I am not your servant to be spoken to in such a manner."

  King Basil attempted to speak, but was swiftly interrupted by Ubel's venomous words.

  "If you dare to address me in such a way again, I shall not hesitate to rip out your tongue and offer it as a feast for the ravens," Ubel declared, his eyes blazing with fury.

  King Basil remained silent, cowed by his fear of Ubel. As the imposing figure prepared to depart, he issued a warning to the trembling monarch.

  "We shall march forth soon," Ubel declared, his voice cold and menacing. "If I do not see you there, I shall leave without you." And with that, he turned on his heel and strode out, leaving King Basil to quiver in fear.

  As Hamza and Trevor traversed the rows of army tents in Straya, ensuring that all was in readiness for the impending campaign, a conversation sprang up between them.

  "Does it not irk you, to have your face covered by a scarf at all times?" Hamza inquired as they walked.

  "I have been using a scarf in this manner for years," Trevor replied, his tone matter-of-fact. "I have become accustomed to it."

  Hamza hesitated before posing his next question. "If I may be so bold, why do you think Ubel chose you, of all the people who serve him, to be his lieutenant?"

  Trevor raised an eyebrow at the suggestion. "Are you feeling envious?" he asked, his voice laced with amusement.

  "Why should I be jealous?" Hamza replied, looking taken aback.

  "We were raised together, Ubel and I," Trevor explained, a hint of nostalgia in his voice. "We were like brothers, closer even than Ubel and Godwin. I have always had his back, and he has always had mine. When he began to engage in battle, I was inspired by his ambition to become the true king of all Vikings. It is for that reason that I stand by his side now."

  "I must confess, I am still at a loss as to why Ubel insists on concealing your face with a scarf," Hamza said, a hint of curiosity in his voice.

  "Years ago, those who served as Ubel's counsellors were frequently abducted in an attempt to learn of his plans," Trevor explained, his tone grave. "But the perpetrators of these crimes were ignorant of the fact that Ubel rarely divulges his decisions to anyone other than myself. It is for this reason that I keep my identity hidden."

  Hamza looked sceptical. "But I have seen your face many times," he pointed out.

  "I cannot say for certain," Trevor replied, a hint of confusion in his voice. "Ubel seems to trust you, which is something I struggle to comprehend."

  As Hamza cast his gaze skyward, he saw that it would soon rain. As he scanned his surroundings, he could not shake the feeling that something dangerous and malevolent was impending. It was as if some unseen force had signalled to him that danger lurked nearby.

  Trevor, noticing Hamza's worried expression, asked him, "What is the matter?"

  "I cannot shake the feeling that something ill bodes," Hamza replied, his voice laced with concern.

  Trevor felt a shiver run down his spine. Ubel had recently shared a similar premonition with him, but he chose not to mention it. Instead, he watched as Hamza lifted his hands to the sky and began to pray in Arabic, his words carried away in the wind.

  Hamza Prayer:

  "Oh God, I place my faith in You, entrusting all of my affairs to Your divine will. Grant me the favour of Your mercy, and let my supplications be heard and answered. I beseech You, oh Lord, to spare me from suffering in my body. Ease the burdens that weigh upon my soul, and grant me Your aid and guidance. I trust in Your protection, oh God, and pray to You with all the might and majesty of Your being. Do not make my needs too great for me to bear, or reveal secrets that may be too difficult for me to understand. Above all, do not break my spirit or bend my will. I turn to You in desperate hope and faith."

  As Hamza finished his prayers, the winter sky began to weep with icy tears, each drop accompanied by the fierce clap of thunder. The birds, sensing the impending turmoil, flew in panicked, erratic patterns. Ubel, never one to be caught off guard, had already prepared his armies for battle. He divided his forces, entrusting control of one portion to King Basil, while reserving the rest for his own command. Unknown to Basil, Ubel had also enlisted the help of the Osna in the coming war, a detail he kept hidden from the unsuspecting king.

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