Aurelia: The Fanatical Story of A Girl

Chapter 71

Eilonwy's POV

The first light of dawn had yet to crest the eastern hills, but Eilonwy was already awake, her mind a whirlwind of strategy and anticipation. She sat at the edge of her makeshift bed, the map of the region spread out before her. The dim light of a single candle flickered across the parchment, casting small dancing shadows upon the inked terrain that depicted the lands she had sworn to protect.

Her fingers traced the paths and markers that signified the movements of her troops and the known positions of the enemy. Each day brought new challenges, and each decision carried the weight of countless lives. As a commander in the queen's army and a close confidant to Lady Alanah, Eilonwy felt the dual burden of her rank and her loyalty to her friend.

A soft rustling at the entrance of her tent pulled her from her contemplation. She looked up to see Sir Cadoc, her second-in-command, his face etched with the fatigue of a night spent on watch.

"Commander," he greeted, nodding his head in respect.

"Cadoc," Eilonwy responded, her voice firm yet not unkind. "Report."

"The night has been quiet, for the most part. Scouts report no significant movement from the enemy. They seem to be holding their position, likely waiting for reinforcements or planning their next assault."

Eilonwy nodded, absorbing the information. The lull in battle was both a blessing and a curse—it allowed her forces to rest and regroup, but it also granted the enemy the same opportunity.

"Have the sentries been rotated, and the wounded tended to?" she asked, her mind already moving to the next set of tasks.

"Yes, Commander. The healers are with the wounded now, and fresh sentries have taken their positions at the perimeter."

"Good. Have you sent word to Lady Alanah?"

"I was about to, Commander. She should still be at the northern ridge overseeing the fortifications."

"Send a runner. Tell her we need to discuss the day's strategy. The enemy won't remain idle for long."

"As you command." Sir Cadoc bowed slightly and turned to leave, his armor clinking softly with his movement.

Once alone again, Eilonwy returned her gaze to the map. Her thoughts drifted momentarily to the queen, so far from the front yet always present in the hearts and minds of her soldiers. Eilonwy had known the queen for many years—had seen her rise to power and take the reins of leadership with a grace and determination that inspired all who served her.

The bond between the queen and Lady Alanah was no secret, and Eilonwy had often witnessed the strength it gave both women. In the darkest times, when defeat seemed but a breath away, it was the thought of their reunion that bolstered their spirits, that reminded them of what they fought for.

A soft sigh escaped Eilonwy's lips. She, too, knew the pain of separation, the longing that came with love unspoken and yet so palpable it was as if it were another soldier in their ranks. But now was not the time for such thoughts. Now was the time for action, for vigilance, and for the hard decisions that would pave the way to victory or defeat.

She extinguished the candle and stepped out of her tent, squinting as her eyes adjusted to the burgeoning light of day. The camp was stirring as soldiers emerged from their tents, the scent of breakfast cooking over open fires wafting through the crisp morning air. Eilonwy's gaze swept over the camp, taking note of the disciplined routine that unfolded before her.

She made her way to the command tent, where her advisors and officers were already beginning to gather. As she entered, the murmurs of conversation ceased, and all eyes turned to her.