Hephaestion- Survivor

Chapter 24

We set up our camp in the desert a few kilometers away from the place where we shall meet the persians. The generals gathered to discuss the strategy.

"The persian king, Darius, made you great offer my king. I don't understand why you refuse it and choose war instead." An older man said.

"Because Asia can't have two kings." Alexander said.

"Ella is going to lead the archers next to Cassender. Cleitus and Hephaestion you are coming with me in the center." The king said.

"I think we should shot the arrows before anything else." I proposed.

"I think we should shot them after the battle started. In this way it would be harder for the persians to fight back. They will have to protect themselves from the swords and the arrows. It's the perfect trap." Cassander said.

"Yeah, but you risk to hurt our soldiers. You can't be sure that the arrow will hit its target. It will be a chaos on the battlefield." I said.

"In how many battles have you been, Ella?" The man asked.

"Does it matter?" I asked.

"I know what I'm doing. You are just a beginner."

"Enough Cassander. Her idea is perfect. We'll do as she says." The king stated.

The man huffed. "I know she is sleeping with Hephaestion but apparently your on her list, too."

"Why are you so bitter?" I asked. "I'm just trying to help."

"Sure. Try not to bother me." He said.

I rolled my eyes and let the king to settle the plan.

.............................................

"Ready for tomorrow, guys?" I asked Cleitus and Sirius who where standing in front of a camp fire.

"Do we have a choice, sis?" Sirius laughed and made a little space for me to sit next to him.

"Good to know I'm not the only one who thinks this is a reckless move " I said.

"But you would never cross Hephaeastion's word." Cleitus said.

"If he wants this, then I'm ready to help him. It's better than to stay home and wander when or if he'll come back." I retorted.

"Would you wonder if I come back?"

"Of course I would, Cleitus. You are also my friend."

"Friend-zoned." Sirius laughed.

"Right...We're friends." Cleitus mumbled.

"Shouldn't you all go to your tents? Tomorrow is a big day." The king joined us, accompanied by Hephaestion.

"I doubt any of us could fell asleep tonight." Sirius said.

"We are going to win. I feel it." Alexander said.

"I hope your right. I'm too young to die in a dessert." Ptolemy said.

"How are the others? How's their moral?" I asked.

"Scared." Hephaestion said.

"It's going to make them fight better. We'll come home with lots of gold and we will have new territories attached to our country." The king added.

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The morning came quicker than I've expected. I was slowly putting on my armor. Hephaestion was standing, already dressed and looked at me.