Pillars of Age

The Advancing Invasion

DIHAN

The highlands in the northwest of the Elder Forest were cloaked in a perennial shroud of snow, a testament to the harsh, unyielding nature of this realm. Towering snow-capped mountains formed a natural fortress, their majestic peaks piercing the sky and casting long shadows over the land. Nestled at the foot of these imposing giants lay Bright Snow City—Lathril Glacea in the ancient Elven tongue—a sprawling settlement of stone and wood, its architecture a blend of intricate Elven craftsmanship and rugged practicality. This bastion of the north, now under enemy control, stood as a stark omen of their coming disaster.

To the south, the land transitioned into a dense, snow-laden forest. Within this frozen wilderness, a hill offered a vantage point over Lathril Glacea. It was here that a group of cloaked figures emerged, their breaths visible in the frigid air as they surveyed the city afar.

Dihan, a striking woman with fiery red hair that contrasted sharply with the snow, brushed the cold crystals from the white coat of her horse. Her breath formed ghostly plumes in the freezing air as she dismounted with the grace of a seasoned warrior. She moved purposefully towards her companions, her eyes sharp with determination and caution.

"Prince-General Taiber, this vantage point should suffice to observe Lathril Glacas. Any closer, and we risk being exposed," Dihan suggested, her voice steady yet tinged with concern. She addressed an elderly man whose imposing presence was undiminished by the weight of years and the layers of his brown cloak.

"There's no need to fret about that, Lieutenant. Faenthir's forest troops have thoroughly scouted the area," Taiber replied, his voice a gravelly reassurance.

Dihan nodded, her unease lingering. She couldn't shake her worry for the expedition's leader. The lines of age etched on Taiber's face spoke of countless battles and hard-won wisdom.

"I worry more about this bone-chilling cold on my old body," Taiber muttered, pulling his cloak tighter.

Dihan retrieved a flask from her saddle and handed it to him. Taiber took a few hearty gulps, the warmth of the potion bringing a flush to his cheeks.

"Thank you, Lieutenant Dihan. This potion works wonders," Taiber praised, a twinkle of humor in his eyes. "Now, if only you could stop looking so worried!"

"But, Prince-General, we're in a precarious situation—" Dihan began to protest.

"You're also anxious about Akron Julii leading the western expedition," Taiber interrupted, his sharp gaze piercing through her.

Dihan's surprise was evident. She hadn't expected Taiber to discern her private worries so easily.

"Ah, you may not know this, but the Julii nobles are fiercely antagonistic towards each other. Akron would be thrilled if he knew you stole Makon's prized horse!" Taiber explained with a wry smile.

Dihan almost laughed but stopped herself as the other Aurelia soldiers approached, reporting that Faenthir was near.

"Greetings, Shuri-Tavalh Faenthir," Taiber called out.

"Greetings, Prince-General Taiber," Faenthir replied, stepping forward with several Forest Elves in tow.

"It's true what they say: in the Elder Forest, Forest Elves can run almost as fast as our horses," Taiber joked, attempting to lighten the mood.

Faenthir responded with a subtle smile. "Nowhere near Aurelian horses."

Taiber's smile broadened, appreciating the camaraderie amidst the grim circumstances. He then turned serious. "Lieutenant Dihan is concerned about our proximity to the enemy's main base. Do you agree?"