The Last Aayu: Book 1 - Ashes

Chapter 19: The Song of Steel

As the army of House Aayu marches towards its destiny, Utahis cuts an impressive figure at the head of the column. His armor gleams in the sunlight, and his bearing is that of a seasoned warrior, belying his relative youth. The sight of the young Patriarch leading his forces inspires confidence and respect among his troops and the people they pass.

As they journey through the lands leading to Keem, Utahis' reputation and the call to arms spread. Villages and towns they pass through contribute warriors to their cause. Seasoned veterans, eager young fighters, and even skilled volunteers from allied houses join their ranks. The army swells day by day, a testament to Utahis' growing influence and the respect commanded by House Aayu.

On the 8th day, they reach Keem to resupply. The brief respite allows Utahis to reorganize his growing forces and ensure they are well-provisioned for the battles ahead. The town bustles with activity as supplies are distributed and new recruits are integrated into the existing units.

By the end of the 14-day march, Utahis finds himself at the head of a formidable force of five thousand men. The responsibility weighs heavily on him, but he carries it with determination and growing confidence.

As they near their destination, Utahis calls a council with Utidass and Zalish. They gather in his tent, maps spread out before them.

Utidass, ever practical, begins the discussion. "My lord, with our numbers now at five thousand, we need to reassess our supply situation. Have we enough to sustain this force through the coming engagement?"

Zalish nods in agreement. "Indeed. And we must consider how this affects our original strategy. Our ambush plans were based on a smaller force."

Utahis leans over the maps, his brow furrowed in concentration. "Valid concerns, both of you. Utidass, what's the status of our supplies?"

Utidass consults a ledger. "We're stretched thin, but if we're efficient, we should have enough for a week of intense campaigning. Any longer, and we'll need to forage or receive additional supplies."

Utahis nods. "Then we must make this quick and decisive. Zalish, what news from our scouts?"

Zalish points to several locations on the map. "Our latest reports confirm the Avarian army is still on course. They should reach the ambush point in two days' time, assuming they maintain their current pace."

"Good," Utahis says. "And our revised numbers – how do they impact our strategy?"

The three leaders spend the next hour discussing adjustments to their plan, accounting for their increased numbers while maintaining the element of surprise.

As the meeting concludes, Utahis stands, looking at his two trusted advisors. "We've come far, and our strength has grown beyond what we initially hoped. But let's not become overconfident. The Avarians still outnumber us, and they're seasoned warriors. We stick to our plan, use the terrain to our advantage, and strike hard and fast."

Utidass and Zalish nod in agreement, their faces showing a mix of determination and respect for their young leader. 

As dawn breaks the next day, Utahis begins mobilizing his forces. The army moves silently into the dense forest north of the road, a mix of oak, ash, and pine providing ample cover. The air is thick with anticipation as each unit takes its assigned position.

Utidass and Zalish, commanding the vanguard and rear attacks respectively, each lead 1,200 men. Utahis' aunt and Utidass' brother, tasked with pinning the enemy's flanks, command 800 warriors each. Utahis himself leads the central force of 1,300, comprised of the most experienced and well-trained fighters.

As the troops settle into their hidden positions, Utahis walks among them, offering words of encouragement and bolstering morale. He refuses any extra rations, insisting on sharing the same provisions as his men.