Blood King

Chapter Forty Four

"Osaay Tower is guarded and maned by several thousand men. The fields are vast and have much in regards to open space. For the past three years, we have been trying to find the best solution in to getting a hold of the Tower, but as of yet, each plan that we have come up with has failed greatly." Otharon explained to that of the Elves as Xavier looked to the battle plans map.

"What about recognisances?" Strikerius asked. "Having a small team go under the cover of darkness and overtake the Tower from within?"

"We've already attempted that," Xavier explained. "Needless to say, it didn't work. Lost a few good men because of that. We couldn't bring ourselves to try a second attempt."

One of the Elven men that Strikerius had brought gave a scoff. "Giving up after one attempt? No wonder you've been here for three years."

Xavier cut the man a look that spoke volumes of what he would do if the Elven man did not hold his tongue. "If we were able, we could break their defences here," he indicated to a portion of the map that showed a shallow area. "Then we would have a greater chance at breaking through the wall and entering the tower." He then looked to Strikerius. "The question is, will your men be able to work with mine?"

The Elven man looked to the two that had come with him before looking back to Xavier. "You have my word, let us end this war once and for all."

Xavier looked to Otharon who then spoke. "It looks as though your words ring truth My Lord, there's hope for us to end this war."

The King smiled. "Then let's not waste it."

They went on to explain the divisions, one of assault with long rang weaponry, another for ahead on attack to both antagonise and distract the enemy, and the third and final division would be that for infiltration, getting in past the defences of the Tower and take it from within.

"For long rang assault it would be best to use the Forest Folk, their skills with hand to hand combat is great, but they are far better marksmen then when taking up the sword." Xavier looked to Strikerius. "We will need at least one hundred of your best archers, think they'll be up for the task?"

The elven man smirked. "Your Majesty, have you ever met an Elf that didn't want to shoot an enemy in the arse with an arrow?"

The King gave a faint smile while a number of other Elven men, and a few of the women laughed at Strikerius's response. "I'd take it a few, very well then, instruct your best archers of our plans. William, I would like you to be prepared to enter the small division. You and a skilled few will venture the wall to take the Tower."

Hearing this Strikerius paused on his leave while William spoke. "Pardon, Your Majesty, but what do you mean?"

Xavier looked away from the battle plans to William. "I mean as I say William, you will be leading the force that will infiltrate the Tower from the weakened part of the wall. You have the capabilities to do this. I know you do, and I will also send Samson along to play it safe. Is this something that you believe that you are incapable of completing?"

"No, my Lord, it is just. I had assumed that you would be leading the men, and women to take the tower in the night."

"And make our enemy question where I am? During these past three years, I have constantly been seen on the battlefield, fighting along side you and my men. If they don't receive a report that I am not there they may suspect something. Though in all likelihood they will merely assume that I have fled the fight. Too young and inexperienced, that is probably what they will think, but it is something that I do not want. Hence, I, Erik and Ares will be the main diversion and attack the enemy. With the assistance of the Elves we should be able to truly win this blasted war."