Shield

    "The scouts have confirmed it: General Memnon leads them. The very same who forced our route at Magnesia," Ptolemy's voice cuts through the tension as they strategise. Under the tarp, they were sheltered from the afternoon light, yet amidst their hushed discussion, one thing stands out - the radiant presence of Achilles' shield. Unrightfully stolen from his peaceful shrine, and oh, how it enrages me, but how he gleams in the afternoon rays of sunlight which embraces every part of his intricately detailed imagery on his famous surface, there is no imperfection! It is a stark reminder of the contrast between his divine craftsmanship and my simple yet humble wooden frame. I will never forget the honour of being able to fight alongside him tomorrow at dawn; he is a celebrity among us shields.

    "Two of his divisions are already in formation on the opposite bank of the Granicus river, here," Ptolemy points with a knife on a map laid out before them, but I am on the floor and unable to see. Phillip is sharpening his sword for tomorrow. "40,000 men, the scout reports. 5,000 of them..." he looks to Alexander, "Greek mercenaries,"

I can see the frustration pinching at Alexander's features as he sighs deeply to contain his anger yet he still slams his fist against the wooden table, "Those traitorous rats. Led by the biggest rat of them all!"

    "Parmenion, how could this happen? How could they intercept us so fast?" Hephaestion's eyes widen slightly with worry as each direct their reactions and attention to Parmenion; but Cleitus is still and doesn't make a move to join the conversation, he just observes. He was always like that, funny to see that he hasn't changed much over the last 19 years.

    "He's had spies watching us since we left Macedon," Parmenion says, precisely moving the map markers to different locations, his efficient military-like self does not allow his opinions nor emotions to seep through - I've often noticed that about him. I have no idea what he is thinking. "Ptolemy, tell the men to make camp. Let's reassess. We go again tomorrow." Ptolemy starts to leave, following Parmenion's orders, but Alexander interrupts his movement.

    "Or we attack now. We catch them by surprise. We're swifter, more manoeuvrable," Shock consumes me, I cannot believe he just suggested that. Ptolemy is stopped by his words and even Cleitus looks up.

    "We've also been marching for four days. The men are exhausted," Parmenion persists, I agree. Philip most certainly needs rest! He should not march into this battle tomorrow in this fatigued state, what would Nikolai think if I allowed this to occur - it's futile.

    "The men only care about victory," Hephaestion scoffs.

    "I think the general's right here, Alex. Give the men the night. Attack at dawn." Ptolemy tries to reason.

    "And our current formation leaves us entirely exposed. Sir, I do have experience fighting Memnon." Parmenion adds.

    "I understand, General. But that experience was a defeat was it not? I am the King now. Ready your troops. You'll attack from the left while I drive towards their centre," He moves the map markers to show his plan. He looks over to Cleitus and receives a short nod. "I said now, General," Alexander slams the table. Parmenion unwillingly leaves, he knows it would be dangerous territory for him if he persists.

Cleitus begins to scan his surroundings, and as his eyes fall lower to the ground, he notices me. I know he does. There's a glint of recognition in his usually emotionless state. His gaze flickers to Philip, desperate to see who has brought me here, and I know he sees the all too familiar eyes, ones he had seen convey laughter and pain, the ones he looked into as the colour faded away... he sees Phile's nose and Nikolai's hair. He knows it's him. I see his face grow pale and the unsteady gulp in his throat. I hope he will catch sight of Phillip's slower movements, the bags stretched under his eyes, and the great yawns that are much more frequent. I hope that he will reason with Alexander and if not at least ensure that he can be watched with one of his eyes during battle, I have heard many great things about his rising in ranks.