The Green Knight

Chapter 10

The Seven Saints, the Lionguard, and the Iron Eagles had been traveling across Arthurian Isle for half a week now, with Sir Bedivere as their overall leader. The journey was steady, though the weight of their mission ahead loomed in the distance. The land around them stretched wide and open, a mix of rolling hills, dense forests, and the occasional village dotting the horizon. The soldiers rode in formation, with Mr. Armstrong handling the reins of their horse-drawn carriage, his seasoned hands guiding the horses over the uneven terrain. Despite the gravity of their task, the atmosphere was lighter than expected.

The clopping of hooves and the creaking of wooden wheels filled the air as the group made their way down a winding dirt road. Every so often, a soldier from either the Lionguard or the Iron Eagles would ride up beside the Seven Saints, exchanging casual conversation. It was a break from the tension they all knew was coming. Drake, leaning back lazily in the carriage, cracked a wide grin as he glanced over at Captain Axton, who was riding beside him.

Drake: *chuckles* So, Captain Axton, tell me something... Who's the better one at sword righting, you or Captain Carlisle? I've got word from the soldiers here that you two have a bit of a rivalry.

Eamon: *smiles a bit* It's not much of a contest, really. *glances over at Captain Carlisle* The Lionguard's captain might have the leadership skills, but when it comes to swordplay, I'm your man. Ask anyone in the Iron Eagles.

Captain Carlisle: *turns slightly in his saddle* Heh, is that so, Eamon? I recall a little bout we had a year back, and I didn't see you walking away with the prize. If I can remember well, I was the one with the better arm that day.

Eamon: *scoffs* A lucky day, Captain Carlisle. I wasn't focused that day. Next time, we'll see who really is the better sword fighter.

Natalie: Huh, I'd like to see that. You both seem pretty confident, but I've seen the way you fight, Captain Axton. I wouldn't be so quick to count yourself out, Captain Carlisle.

Otis: Maybe we should have our own little contest while we're out here. You know, lighten the mood. Could be a good distraction on this long ride. *chuckles*

Mr. Armstrong: Aye, now there's an idea! Let's see which one of you is the best, and I'll bet on it. *laughs*

Captain Carlisle: Hmph, very well. *smirks*

Drake: Otis We should get in on this. Maybe I'll shock 'em all and take the prize.

Otis: *smirks* Drake, you with a sword? That I'd pay to see.

The group shared a laugh, and the tension of the past days seemed to ease slightly as the soldiers around them joined in. One of the Iron Eagles trotted up beside Natalie, curious about her archery skills...

Eagle Soldier #1: So, Natalie, they say you're quite the archer. Ever had any formal training, or are you just a natural?

Natalie: Well, a bit of both, I guess. My father taught me when I was young. He was a hunter, so I learned early. But I've had to hone my skills on the road with my friends here. No better teacher than experience, right?

Eagle Soldier #2: Sounds like you've had quite the journey. Maybe I'll learn a thing or two just by watching.

Alice, riding alongside the carriage, caught sight of some of the Lionguard joking amongst themselves. She couldn't help but overhear them, and soon enough, they turned their attention toward her...

Lionguard Soldier #1: *grins* So, Alice, right? Tell me, what's your role in all of this? Don't look like you're cut out for the frontlines. What are you here for, patch us up when we get a little scratch?

Lionguard Soldier #2: *chuckles* Yeah, seems to me you're one with herbs and remedies, huh? Not exactly what I'd call battle-ready, if you ask me. Might wanna keep those soft hands of yours clean.