The sun barely peeked over the horizon, but the camp was already a flurry of motion. Soldiers rushed to and fro, loading wagons with weapons, water, and bundles of rice. Armor clinked, leather was strapped tight, and the air rang with the sharp sounds of readiness. Ryusoke stood in the center of it all, hands behind his back, observing as his army readied to march.
One of the lieutenants approached him. "General, the second battalion is ready. Supply carts have been checked thrice."
Ryusoke gave a silent nod, eyes scanning the horizon.
Behind him, a soft rustle made him turn. Nori stood there in a simple traveling robe, his face half-veiled in accordance with court tradition, but his eyes were stormy with worry. He walked up slowly.
"You're really going," Nori said, voice low but steady.
"I have to," Ryusoke replied. "If we wait longer, Hua Lian will fortify his position beyond our reach."
Nori hesitated before whispering, "Then take me with you."
