THE RISING SONS - Hour Four Ms. O'Brien raised her eyes from the book, looked at the class and said, " It was during the fourth hour that a deal was struck. On a small stretch of ground, a no-mans land between two armies, an agreement was made." She returned to the book and continued reading. "The two Generals met in secret and each arrived at the meeting with empty hands. Both were well aware of the value of momentum and how at this stage of the battle both were failing. They needed to put a stop to the Blue's drive, no matter the price tag. Jayson and Ramrod were well aware that the battle would be decided in its final hours. Although the hours before sunset would be the most vital, they could ill afford to allow Gen. Bravo's forces to build up any more speed. They needed to strike together - to at least slow them down - to at least gain the supplies and territory needed. The two Generals had a common need. No one would ever know exactly what was said between them. A firm handshake between old friends would seal the deal and would seal the Blue Army's fate. It was soon apparent to all those in the area that something was different. It was also apparent to Gen. Bravo that he was now facing something more than what he had been up against during the early hours of the battle. Bravo met with Cire just outside the Minefield and reported to him what he had witnessed. Gray and Red soldiers had joined together and with simultaneous attacks they were pressing the Blue Army back. Losses had been heavy and fighting fierce as the Blue slowly lost ground to the two advancing forces. Cire was livid with rage as he digested what had happened. He paced back and forth cursing his two brothers, but knowing in his heart that at the end of this day only one would rule. Only one idea and way would remain. It had recently occurred to him that it was more than just men fighting for a leader. It was men fighting for an idea, a way of life, a direction. It no longer mattered which of the three brothers ruled, only which idea prevailed. What could not be decided through diplomacy would now be decided with brute force. Just the way he liked it. Cire was emphatic that no deal would last. Before the end of the day, Toddanson and Antony would surely turn on each other. He instructed his General to re-adjust and use the thrust and parry of combat to jockey for position. This battle was far from over! * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * |
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