Before the Battle
As soon as the sun’s rays hit my window, I awoke to begin another day as a knight of the Kingdom of Cloverfield. As usual, my day began with my daily prayers and then a quick breakfast of meat and bread. During my weapon’s practice, I was interrupted by my squire, who told me my lord wished to see me. I immediately raced to the great hall, where my lord, Makenzye was waiting. Bowing, I asked, “My liege, you requested my presence?” My lord nodded, “I have just spoken to one of my trusted scholars about his opinion on attacking a neighboring kingdom. He has told me the many benefits of this kingdom and I have decided to declare war on this kingdom. Gather my troops and prepare for war.” Bowing once more, I exited the great hall and headed for the stables; there, I called for the stable boy to saddle two horses and for both steeds to be ready when I returned. Weaving between the numerous artisans and serfs who populated the courtyard, I knocked on my lord’s and lady’s chamber and waited for my lady to answer. When she opened the door, I bowed quickly and began talking immediately, “My lady, your lord has declared war on a neighboring kingdom and has ordered me to gather the serfs to prepare for war. Will you come with me to gather the women and children and bring them to safety?” She nodded and exited her chamber and followed me to the stables. There, I helped her onto a horse and then climbed onto my own. We both rode out of the stables and into the village to call upon all the serfs working on the field and in the homes. When we had reached the last edges of the land, I escorted my lady back to the great hall and led the serfs waiting at the entrance of the castle to the armory. There, I equipped each with minimal leather armor and handed each a small wooden shield. I then bade them to return to their homes, arm themselves, and await the trumpet calls to head to battle. The sun had long since set when I had finished and I realized that I had not reported back to my lord yet. The great hall was not a long way from the armory and when I arrived, my lord was eating with his lady. I bowed, “My lord, I have done as you asked and every male on this land is prepared to go into battle whenever you wish.” He seemed pleased and waved me away. I left my lord’s presence and returned to my room; if we were to go to battle soon, I must be ready.