Elden Ring: Putrefaction of Gold

The Mercurial Dragon

Godwyn watched from above the old telescope as rows and rows of crimson-clad soldiers assembled in camps near Redmane Castle. Radahn often boasted about the capabilities of his "Redmane Knights." Although the knights were few, they demonstrated discipline and dedication to perfecting all aspects of warfare, from weapons to routines. In turn, the knights ensured the soldiers under them were as capable in battle, from the armored man-at-arms to the humble foot soldier. No man was forgotten when it came to perfecting his craft.

Now, Godwyn feared Radahn intended to use this scuffle to test his theories in battle, and Godwyn knew he could never match Radahn in either strategy or numbers. For him to gather, even half the same number would take days, if not weeks. His soldiers were certainly not as well trained.

Godwyn would have to pull back into Stormveil, which might leave Limgrave vulnerable to occupation by the Redmanes. And, unless he could come up with a clever counter-offensive, it would only delay the inevitable loss.

Fortissax waited for him down by the cliff where he might remain hidden from the watchmen.

"Well?" the dragon asked.

"I'll have to retreat to Stormveil," said Godwyn.

"And then?"

"I'm not sure. Anyway, if you stay with me, the Redmanes will look to target you specifically. It would be best if you left," said Godwyn.

"I wish our numbers were greater to help you, my friend," said Fortissax.

Godwyn smiled and rubbed his friend's nose, "Me too, old friend."

The road back to Limgrave from this area was straightforward, but the whole of Caelid was prepped for war. He was lucky that no one spotted him coming in on Fortissax, but he was certain leaving might present a different challenge. He needed to run swiftly, snag a horse, and then ride speedily through the various blockades and checkpoints Radahn placed along the road.

As he checked to ensure he had everything, he sensed someone watching him. He slipped his sword from the sheath.

"Wait!" said a woman's voice behind him.

Godwyn turned to see Tiche waiting in a tree. She leaped from branch to branch to land on the ground next to him.

Tiche smiled, "If you plan to go back along the road, you'll surely be spotted. You should head south and take the Gael Tunnel. Just make sure you steer away from the fort."

Godwyn nodded, grateful for the advice.

"And what are you doing here?" Godwyn asked.

"Queen Marika has summoned Lansseax, so the Communion of Dragons is postponed," said Tiche.

"Odd. My mother never cared for the dragons or their interests," said Godwyn.

"And the dragons had no care for her," Fortissax added. "Particularly not my sister."

"I have no doubt it has something to do with what's happening here. Have you called for help from your mother?"

Godwyn scoffed.

"Sorry, I asked," Tiche replied.

"She has an attitude of winning at all costs. I want to minimize casualties," said Godwyn. "If she becomes involved, Caelid is as good as destroyed."

"Then perhaps attacking that chapel wasn't your smartest move," said Tiche.

Godwyn glared at her.

"Look, I get there's tension between you and your stepbrother. And sometimes, the only way you can deal with such tensions is by show of force. I am not against that. But you need help. And, more importantly, information. I can get it for you."