Journey to the Far East - A Free Company Spin-Off (2008)

[redwolf]

Inside the tavern, Amric was busy sorting out the last recruits when Chen Hui returned from his meeting with the city leaders.

Seeing Amric busy, he made his way to the officers table and got himself a drink. Not too long later, Amric was finished with the recruits and made his way to join Chen Hui.

“How did the meeting go?” Amric asked as he took a seat.

“The populace may like us but the city leaders are nothing but a bunch of money grubbing mercenaries. They demanded an exorbitant price for our stay here and suggested that it might take longer to fix our ships should we be able to meet their demands.”

“I like to see them try delaying us.” Amric said darkly. “What happened then?”

“Of course I rejected their demands. That price would have made a huge hole in our coffers and we might still need the money for later. I instead said perhaps we might be able to offer our services instead.”

“As in a contract?”

“That’s what they wanted. They wanted us to join their navy in hunting the Ottoman ships that had been plaguing their shipping recently.”

“And you agreed?”

“Of course not. That would have delayed our trip to China. Finally, we agreed on a compromise. In the next few weeks we are here, I will send a few of our best instructors to work with their army and to see how we can improve their troops.”

“That sounds reasonable. Who did you volunteer?”

Chen Hui kept quiet and concentrated on his drink. Amric suddenly realized who had just been volunteered, “You did not?!”

“Think about it, Amric. Who’s the best drill sergeant in the Free Company on this trip?” Chen tried to reason with Amric.

Amric sighed, “It’s just two weeks right?”

Chen nodded. Amric asked another question, “Any idea how good their troops are?”

“I understand their navy is top notch. Their army on the other hand, I am told, makes excellent parade ground soldiers.”

Amric waited for Chen to continue. When Chen kept quiet after that, Amric sighed once more, “Very well. I want de Bloomfield with me though.”

“de Bloomfield? What for?”

“Arthur has been a grunt for far too long. He has the potential to go far as an officer if he puts his head to it.”

“So you intend to start training him.” Chen grinned as he replied. “Very well, he is yours. So how did the recruitment of the new boys goes?”

 

[Amric]

“So you intend to start training him.” Chen grinned as he replied. “Very well, he is yours. So how did the recruitment of the new boys goes?”

“Same as always,” Amric grunted, still processing that he would have to do some training of foreign troops instead of company men.

“So there was yet another idiot to deal with?” Chen chuckled.

“Yep,” Amric nodded, “He challenged me to a duel.”

Chen gaped, “He didn’t.”

“He did.”

“I didn’t see any blood outside or in here, though.”

“I didn’t kill him,” Amric sighed.

“Are you feeling all right?” Chen asked.

“Yes, why?”

“Because you didn’t kill him,” Chen shook his head, “Tell me what happened.”

Amric recounted the story as Chen listened carefully. Chen finally nodded as the other man finished.

“Damned nice of you.”

“I thought so.”


Famagusta: Cypriot Training Grounds

Amric had spent his two weeks training the troops. Having de Bloomfield with him made it slightly more palatable. The men had been run ragged. Amric and de Bloomfield’s ability to not only run with them and beyond but seemingly be everywhere at once not only impressed them, but horrified them as well.

They had been used to being relatively lazy. Amric wouldn’t allow it and kept them moving. Running, drill, instruction. He had de Bloomfield concentrate on working with the sergeants to produce better quality drill instruction for the troops.

At first the sergeants weren’t too happy. But seeing the results starting to come about changed their minds. The men started out grumbling, but a quick example of a few malcontents ended that problem. Amric let de Bloomfield mostly handle the disciplining.

The younger man was really beginning to get into the role that Amric was laying out for him. On the last day Amric addressed the assembled troops and sergeants.

“You’ve only just begun your training,” he stated baldly, “You’re now getting into shape and you at least have a working knowledge of your weapons.”

Which wasn’t entirely true. They had already had that, but they were much better than they had been. They were also in the best shapes of their lives. But it never does hurt to leave a group thinking they could be better, and these soldiers could be better. Far better. But at least they were now a bit better than regular garrison troops.

“There is still a long way to go, however,” Amric continued, “We’ve worked with the sergeants as well to teach them better training methods and ways to keep you all in shape and ready.

You’ve been lucky with a good navy. But there may and probably will come a time where you will have to fight the Turk. We also trained you in ways to use the terrain here in Cyprus to your advantage.

You’ve worked hard. I appreciate it. I know it’s been a difficult transition. But it is one that was necessary. Before now the Turk would have rolled over you without much effort. Today and in the days ahead you’ll be so much better that you can make an invasion of Cyprus so expensive in terms of loss…not only in men and material, but in time and effort that you can make the Turk give up.

But you have to want it. You have to want to be one of the best armies in the world. To be elite you have to work on it. Not just periodically…but every day. Your price of freedom is diligence!

So listen to your officers and especially your sergeants!”

The men nodded quietly. They had started to have pride in their skills. A belief in themselves more than just empty satisfaction that they had a job, but that they had one that was necessary for the survival of their island. A belief that they could be more than just peacekeepers and garrison soldiers. A belief that they could do more and better.

“In conclusion,” Amric half smiled, “You now know what to do and how to do it. Congratulations. You’re a real army, now.”

He stepped down and saluted them briskly, Free Company style. The men repeated his motions and smiled. He turned away with de Bloomfield at his side.

“That was fun,” the younger man chuckled.

“Sure, but we lost the time we could be training our OWN troops,” Amric groused.

“There is Cyril, and Geoffrey, and Carl, and Alexander….”

“I am aware of that,” Amric snapped, “But I like to see it as it happens.”

“You just like to breath down everyone’s neck.”

“I don’t….”Amric stopped and sighed, “Okay, I do. Still….”

“I am starting to realize that as an officer or sergeant you have to worry about everything,” de Bloomfield noted as they passed through the gates of the Famagusta.

“And since you are going to be ostensibly leading the infantry you have to be ready,” Amric pointed out.

“You’ll be right behind me telling me what to do,” de Bloomfield grinned.

“Will I?” Amric shot back, “I might be busy with something else in the heat of battle. I have to trust that you know what you’re doing and won’t screw it up if I can’t be there to hold your hand.”

De Bloomfield bristled, “Hold my hand?”

“You know what I mean,” Amric snapped, “You have a habit of screwing around whenever you can. You’re an officer now. You don’t have time for it. When you aren’t in meetings with other officers you should be meeting with your sergeants to see which men are shaping up and which aren’t. You should be letting your sergeants do the drilling, but you should oversee it once in awhile. You need to learn the names of your men. You have to care about them. Not so much that you’ll hesitate to do what needs to be done, but enough to know who they are and what they can do.

You need to always be thinking of the tactical situation at hand. Even if we’re in camp. What if we are attacked? Do you know what to do and how to get it accomplished? Know how to fight on various types of terrain. Be ready with a quick ready made battle plan when necessary and know how to adapt to changing conditions on the battlefield.”

De Bloomfield sighed, “I’m getting that idea.”

“Yes, you get to grow up,” Amric snickered.

“So how do you feel knowing you’re a jumped up sergeant to second in command?”

“I was an officer in Falcon Company,” Amric shrugged.

“Really?”

“Yes,” Amric nodded, “I’ve been a sergeant far longer, though. I was only an officer for a year and a half.”

“I didn’t know that.”

“I think only Rob….Captain’s father and Lochlan knew it. Now you know it. Keep it under that damn floppy hat you like to wear.”

“You’ve always seemed to enjoy the role of sergeant,” de Bloomfield noted.

“I do. You’re closer to the men and have a better grasp of their capabilities. You know when you can push them beyond them,” Amric’s lips twisted, “Even to the point of death.”

De Bloomfield sighed, “Damn it, sir. I was enjoying being a grunt.”

“You know how it works in the company, lad,” Amric chuckled, “We recognize talent and know how to use it.”

The two men walked into the tavern and were greeted by various company men. They headed straight for Chen who was writing diligently in some kind of log book.

“All done, Captain,” Amric stated, “Can we get the hell out of here, now?”

 

[redwolf]

July 20, 1450, Docks, Farmagusta, Cyprus,

By the end of two weeks, the Free Company ships had been repaired, refitted and ready to travel once more.

On the day of their departure, a huge crowd had gathered at the docks to send them off. As the men loaded their equipment and made their way on board ships, they were greeted by cheers and well wishes from the crowd.

Chen was overseeing the loading of the equipment when he saw Jan Polak, one of the rescued prisoners from the Ottoman ships, approaching him.

“I wish I am coming along with you Chen.” Jan started to say.

Chen shook his head, “It will be a dangerous trip and you and the rest of the rescued men had already suffered much the past few years. Take a rest. I have made arrangements for you all to travel to St Malo to meet up with the rest of the Company.”

Jan extended his arm to Chen, “Good luck Sir.”

Chen took his hand and then passed a letter into Jan’s hand, “Thank you Jan. When you arrive in St Malo, pass this letter to Captain. It’s a report of how we have fared so far. I think he will be interested to how we have been doing so far.”

Jan nodded, “I will. It will be good to see the rest of the Company men again. Imagine that, John is now Captain. When I last saw him, he was still just a grunt.”

The two men spent a few minutes more catching up on old times before Amric reported to Chen that all was loaded and the Company was ready to depart.

Chen nodded and said his goodbyes to Jan and the rest of the men not travelling on to China and then made his way on board the Cristina.

This time, the fleet will not be travelling alone. Grateful to the Company for their training of their army, the city leaders had arranged for a squadron of galleys to escort the Company ships to their next destination.

As the ships maneuvered out of the docks, the Chins lit off a series of fireworks as their gesture of goodbyes into the evening sky to the cheers of the crowd.

The crowd watched as the ships slowly vanished into the horizon before they started to scatter as well. Finally only a small group of about 20 men remained. Jan Polak allowed them to watch for a moment more before gathering them around, “Well, the Company is on it’s way east. It’s time for us to make our own trip, to rejoin the rest of the Company at St Malo.”

 

[redwolf]

After departing Cyprus, the Free Company, with an escort of Cypriot galleys, sailed to the city of Beirut, where they began the overland part of their journey.

Their journey took them through several Mongol Khanates which viewed them with distrust and were at first reluctant to allow them to pass through their lands. But the influence of Lorenzo and the Mongols within the Company secured their passage and they passed through safely.

With the onset of winter, the Company decided to stop over at the city of Samarkand till spring arrives. At that time, Abdullah Mirza was the ruler of the city and he was facing an uprising at that time. Even that far east, he had heard of the Company’s reputation and he tried to persuade Chen Hui to accept a contract in his battle against the rebels which Chen Hui turned down.

By February of 1451, things had taken a thing for the worse with the rebels closing in on Samarkand. Chen Hui and Amric, fearing the Free Company might be trapped in the city in the event of a siege decided it was time to continue on with their journey.

A month after leaving Samarkand, the Company crossed the borders into the lands of the Chagatai Khanate.

March 7, 1451

For a week, they travelled through the Steppes but did not encounter anyone. It was as if the Chagatai people had totally vanished. Something was very wrong and Chen Hui was starting to get worried.

Wu’tu was worried too. It had been days since they entered Chagatai lands. Since then, the Company had continued to head east towards the Chinese borders. In the past few days of travel, the Company had not met a single soul and that was what had Wu’tu worried. This area was prime grazing area for the herds of the tribes and should be overflowing with people.

The rest of the Company had noticed the lack of people as well. Except for the sounds of the winds, there was hardly any noise and it might have been the Free Company was all that exist here.

Finally, Amric asked Wu’tu about it.

“I am not sure. By all rights, there should be many tribes in this area, letting their herds graze. Something is very wrong.” Wu’tu replied.

Chen who was also listening in on the conversation, raised an eyebrow in curiosity. Wu’tu continued, “The only reason for the tribes not to be here at this time is if something affecting the whole of the Chagatai has happened. When this happens, the tribes will gather at a certain meeting place in the heart of the steppes.”

“And you wish to go there to find out what has happened?” Amric asked.

“I may have left the steppes for a long time but I am still a mongol of the Chagatai. I am worried. Something bad must have happened for the herds to be not grazing in this area and one bad thing I could think off was war. Only in times of war will the tribes of Chagatai abandon their grazing grounds.”

Chen Hui who nodded in agreement. He too had the same suspicion but if it was war, who was it against? The Tibetians, Oirats or worse his own country of China. He had no way of knowing.

There was nothing he could do about it. He had hoped to find the Chagatai people as there was something he had to do. However with the location of the Chagatai unknown, he decided to carry on moving east to China.

Before Chen could say anything, shouts of alarm rose from the left flanks. “Something comes!”

Chen and Amric turned to see what appeared to be a dust storm heading their way rapidly, a dustorm or….

“AN ARMY COMES!!” Chen shouted.

“FORM SQUARE!” Amric shouted.

Moving efficiently, the Company quickly got into their defence formation. Infantry men formed a square with archers and cavalry units inside the square. At a command from Amric, pikes were at the ready.

By now, the dust storm had neared sufficiently that it could be seen that it was indeed an army of about 3000 horses.

“Mongols?” Amric asked

“Chagatai mongols! These are my people!” Wu’tu said in an excited voice.

“Chagatai or not, they don’t seem to be very receptive at the moment.” Chen said. Turning to Amric, he continued, “Tell the men not to attack, but be ready for battle should the Chagatai prove hostile.”

The Chagatai drew nearer rapidly. Seeing well armed men, they spread out but refrained from attacking, content to just circle the square formation for now.

From inside the square formation, Chen watched the Mongols encircle the Free Company. They moved with the ease of veterans and they outnumbered the Company men three to one. Should a fight break out, it would not be an easy battle for the Company.

Amric spoke to Chen, “I think this might be a good time to open negotiations with them.”

“I agree. How much of your Mongol do you remember?” Chen asked.

“You are not going to speak to them?”

“You might recall the Chins and Chagatai are not on very good terms. If I step out of the square, there’s a good chance they might shoot first and ask questions later.”

“That’s a good point.” Amric conceded.

“Go with Wu’tu. He is a Chagatai and might have some influence on them. Tell them we are passing by this land in peace and that we seek Huran Al’tur to return the ashes of his brother Shur’tu.”

Amric nodded, “I will do my best.”

“Try not to get into a fight this time like we did with the bandits last year.”

Amric’s answer was a grin as he and Wu’tu left the safety of the square to speak the leader of the Chagatai army

 

[Amric]

After speaking with Chen Amric started to saddle up a horse. Wu’tu was nearby already sitting atop his own mount. De Bloomfield approached swiftly. Looking at Wu’tu he leaned toward Amric.

“I think this is a very bad idea,” he opined.

“Shouldn’t you be with the infantry?” Amric frowned.

“I will be, but I think you could be in grave danger.”

“Oh, really?” Amric snapped, “You don’t say? I’d say we’re all in grave danger. My job, along with Wu’tu is diffuse it before it becomes a battle.”

“I’ll be ready…..just in case.”

“I’d expect nothing less,” Amric nodded, “Now get your ass back where it belongs!”

De Bloomfield saluted quickly and hustled off. Wu’tu sidled closer, “Are you done, yet?”

Amric cinched the last strap, “Now I am.”

As Amric swung into the saddle Wu’tu looked at him critically, “Don’t fall off.”

“Very funny,” Amric grimaced, “I DO know how to ride. I’ve just been busy the last few years.”

“Just don’t fall off.”

“Shut up.”

The two men rode through the narrow opening de Bloomfield had opened in the ranks of the infantry. The two company men rode out slowly, showing their hands to be empty. The circling Chagatai didn’t slow but two men broke off from the formation and started to head their direction.

Amric pulled up half way between the two forces and waited patiently.

“Do you want to speak first?” he asked Wu’tu.

“No, it will come as more of a surprise with you speaking first,” Wu’tu shook his head, “It will throw them off balance to have a white man speak.”

“Works for me.”

The approaching men looked both Amric and Wu’tu over. They recognized that the Asian man was of their stock, but their eyebrows rose in surprise to see a Northern European sitting next to him. They reined in and waited.

“Greetings,” Amric spoke in Mongol, “We are the Free Company and we seek Huran Al’tur, leader of the Great Chagatai people.”

The two men facing him did a double take at his words. It was Mongol, yet his accent was of further west. Understandable nonetheless. The first one moved his horse a step closer.

“Who are you to seek our great leader?”

“I am named Amric al’Aeshir. We seek to return the ashes of Shur’tu, brother of Huran Al’tur, to his people.”

“Shur’tu? You have his remains? Give them to me.”

“I don’t have them in my possession,” Amric admitted, “However it would be less than honorable for us to not give them directly to Huran Al’tur.”

“Why bring such a large force to our lands?”

“Protection,” Amric shrugged, “We have traveled a very long way, through much hostile territory before we reached your domain.”

“You, why do you not speak?”

Wu’tu smiled, “It is good to be home. However this man is my superior officer. It is right to let him speak first.”

Wu’tu spoke flawlessly in his own language.

“Do you really bring the remains of Shur’tu?”

“Yes,” Wu’tu nodded once.

“Why do you travel with barbarians?”

“They are my comrades in arms,” Wu’tu grinned wolfishly, “Our leader wishes to speak to Huran Al’tur.”

“You are not the leader of these men?” toward Amric

“No,” Amric admitted, “But then you are not Huran Al’tur, either.”

The other Chagatai nodded sagely and turned to speak to the first man.

“We shall escort them to the meeting place, my friend,” he said softly, “Let them seek Huran Al’tur. If he does not like what they say the entire force of the tribes can be brought against them rather than just us.”

The first man looked toward the ready company and his own men and nodded quickly.

“Very well,” he stated, “We will escort you to the meeting place. Let Huran Al’tur decide your fates.”

“That is all that we ask,” Amric bowed slightly in his saddle, “That and to return his brother to him.”

 

[redwolf]

March 7, 1451, Meeting Place of the Chagatai

Under the watchful eyes of the Chagatai Mongols, the Free Company formed up and started marching north.

The atmosphere remained tense though as men kept weapons close to their sides, ready to draw at a moment’s notice should the other side decide to fight.

Some of the Chagatai had noticed the Chins in the Company’s midst and already they were voicing to their leader that this was a Chinese trick to find out where the Chagatai camp is. The Chagatai commander, whose name was Tolei however ordered his men to be silent and to keep moving.

Li Tie rode beside Chen Hui, glancing at the Chagatai warriors uneasily. “Are you sure it is a wise idea to follow them? We are already close to the Chinese borders. Is there a need to waste time to seek out Huran?”

“Yes there is. His brother Shur’tu served with us and died in battle. It is only right we return his ashes to his brother.”

Li Tie shook his head, “He is just a barbarian. Who cares if his ashes are returned to his brother or not?”

Wu’tu stirred at the word barbarian but Chen raised a hand, “Enough Li. You have spent many months with us but you seemed to have learnt nothing about the outside world.”

“I don’t give a damn about the outside world. My only concern is the fate of the Emperor and the Empire and this, this Mongol’s ashes is wasting our time.”

Chen shook his head, “I think I heard enough from you for one day. Zhang, why don’t you take Li to the rear of our formation?”

As Li rode off angrily, Amric chuckled, “He just doesn’t learn does he?”

“It’s not easy to overcome a lifetime of learning.”

“You did well enough.” Amric pointed out.

“You joined up a few months after me. Before you came, you should have seen the number of times the Chins and Mongol contingents nearly came to a swordfight. There were times when Captain considered letting us go.”

“I am glad he didn’t.”

“I am glad too.” Chen replied. In front, the Mongols had came to a halt. The Free Company stopped as well, weapons at the ready.

Wu’tu approached Tolei to find out what is going on. “This is as far as we will allow your company to come. We will bring you, your commanders and a small escort of 10 men to see Huran but the rest will stay here.”

Wu’tu nodded and rejoined Chen Hui and relayed the commander’s message. Some of the officers started to protest but a glare from Amric silenced them. They waited in silence while Chen considered his decision. Finally he told Wu’tu he will agree to Tolei’s demands.

“Are you sure about this, Chen? After what you did back then?” Zhang asked in a concerned voice.

Amric eyebrows rose slightly at Zhang’s comments but kept silent.

“It’s been 15 years since Turfan. I doubt he will be holding this grudge after such a long time. And this is something I must do. I have my decision. Do not stop me.” Chen replied.

He ordered the Free Company to set up camp at the current location they were in. Then Chen, Amric, Wu’tu and 10 Company men prepared to set off with the rest of the Chagatai.

Tolei hesitated a moment when he first saw Chen Hui. He turned to Wu’tu, “Friend Wu’tu. I said I will allow your commander and a small escort to follow us but we will not permit a Chin to follow us to our camp.”

“This is my Captain, Tolei. He is Chen Hui, a former Imperial Guard and now Captain of this army heading to China.”

Tolei muttered under his breath about Mongols serving under a Chin before giving a reply, “You will vouch for him?”

“I do.”

“Very well, I will bring him to our camp but be warned; any treachery on your part and you will pay dearly.”

Tolei shook his head once more in disgust before turning around and returning to his group.

The Free Company quickly set up camp while the rest of the mongols continued to surround the Company. Tolei and a small escort of men quickly took Chen, Amric and Wu’tu to meet Huran.

For hours, they travelled swiftly. Finally, they arrive at a great grass plain where the tribes of the Chagatai had gathered. Yurts filled a major part the grass plains. Many different banners, each representing a different tribe flew proudly in the wind. In open areas, soldiers of the Chagatai trained for battle as the commanders debated their next moves. Further area, herds graze on the grass, under the watchful eyes of the herders.

“There must be at least 30,000 soldiers here.” Amric whispered to Chen.

Tolei quickly led the men through the massive camp. Many turned at the sight of a Chin and barbarian in the camp. A few warriors drew knives as if to slay the Chin but was stayed by the glare of Tolei.

They reached the middle of the camp where a great Yurt had been pitched. “Wait here.” Said Tolei as he got off his horse and into the yurt.

“You ever met Huran?” Amric asked Chen.

“Several times and all on the battlefield. Speaking of which, you might want to get ready to break up a fight later once we meet him.”

“I thought we weren’t going to fight.” Amric said in a curious voice.

“I don’t want to fight but I am afraid Huran might not control himself once he sees me.”

“This sounds bad.” Amric remarked. He was going to probe further when Tolei emerged from the tent.

Lifting the flap of the yurt, he invited the men inside, “Huran awaits.”

Wu’tu led the way inside, flanked by Chen and Amric. On the sides of the yurts sat many men. Khans of the various tribes, Chen realised from the garbs they were wearing. Some of the Khans looked at Amric in amazement. They had never seen a man such as him before. Most of the others were however looking at Chen, many with openly hostile looks on their faces. At the end of the yurt sat a man that Chen had met several times on the field of battle many years ago when he was still a Imperial Guard, Huran Al'tur.

His once black shoulder length hair, tied in the back in a long warriors queue had now turned gray. So had his moustache. Huran had also apparently grown a goatee since the last time Chen Hui saw him. If anything, the goatee along with a long battle scar along his left cheek gave Huran an even more intimidating appearance.

“Dian Wu’tu! Is that really you?” Huran had stood up upon recognizing the sworn brother of Shur’tu.

“Yes it is.” Wu’tu replied even as Huran stepped up to him and engulfed in a fierce bear hug.

“Where is my brother?” Huran asked as he let go of Wu’tu.

Wu’tu stiffened as he replied, “He died nine years ago, Lord Huran.”

Huran’s face showed his grief momentarily before it asserted itself into the stone cold expression once more, “It was a good death, I hope.”

Wu’tu nodded, “It is. He died in battle, killing many enemies before he finally fell.”

“A fitting death for a warrior indeed. We will talk more later but first, I want to meet your companions and find out why Chagatai Mongols are serving under a Ming Imperial Guard.”

Huran turned to face Chen Hui then and for a moment both eyeballed each other. Finally it was Chen Hui who broke the silence, “It’s been a long time hasn’t it, Huran?”

Huran now looked confused, “We met before?”

Chen took a deep breath, steadied himself before drawing a line on his left cheek.

Huran immediately recognized the meaning, “YOU! It was you who gave me the scar on the face!” The other khans now looked at Chen in surprise and shock. Guards had hands on their sword hilts but were not sure if they should draw their weapons.

Amric’s face had a shocked expression as well as he turned to Chen Hui, “Is that true?”

Chen nodded, “Fifteen years ago at the Battle of Turfan. I got a clear shot at him which I took. Unfortunately my arrow only grazed his cheek which became that scar.”

He turned back to Huran, “We are not here to fight, Huran. We come in peace.”

Huran had drawn his sword by now and was advancing on Chen Hui, “Tell that to your gods after I killed you.”

Chen took a couple of steps back but refused to draw his weapon. If he drew his weapon, the other Mongol guards will interpret it as a sign of hostility and will draw their weapons as well.

He glanced at Amric who was beside him, “You better have some tricks up your sleeve cause I don’t think he is going to listen to any of my reasoning at the moment.”

Wu’tu was trying to stop Huran only to be pushed aside as Huran continued his advance on Chen Hui..

 

[redwolf]

March 7 1451, near the city of Turfan

Map of Chagatai in 1450. The name for Chagatai in this map is the Moghuls but it's referring to the same kingdom

The mass of Chinese soldiers marching into Chagatai for as far as the eye can see but yet Chang Lo knew what he can see is but a proportion of the army he and Yu Qian had brought into the Chagatai.

Minister Yu rode at the head of army followed by the rest of his officers. Directly behind them 100 men wide and 10 ranks deep rode 1000 men of the Imperial Guards, the Empire’s finest soldiers.

Further behind them were three columns of soldiers with each column made up of many 1000 men blocks of soldiers. Each block carried their own distinctive banners and flags, identifying their unit and place of origin. On the flanks of the marching soldiers in loose formations rode thousands of horsemen from the Chinese Cavalry protecting the flanks of the army as well as scouting for potential trouble.

All in all, Yu Qian had brought 100,000 Chinese soldiers into the land of the Chagatai and even though Chang Lo knew the killing and destruction will start soon, he could not but help feeling a sense of pride at the spectacular sight of the army marching behind them.

At this moment, the Chinese Army was not far from the city of Turfan. The last time the Chinese invaded the Chagatai, the Chagatai army had put up a fierce resistance at Turfan and Chang Lo expect the same this time round.

“Have you ever been to Turfan, Chang?” Yu asked.

Chang Lo nodded, “Once, fifteen years ago when we last campaigned here.”

“You fought at the last Battle of Turfan?”

“Yes I did. It was my first battle and a fierce battle it was. The Chagatai knew the walls of Turfan would not be able to withstand the might of our army and so they decided to meet us head on in the field of battle. The terrain around was not in their favor but yet they put up a fierce battle and the battle could have went any way if not for Chen Hui’s arrow.”

“I remember the story. An Imperial Guard fired an arrow at the Chagatai commander Huran. The arrow missed but it knocked him off his horse.”

“Yes, when Huran fell off his horse, the Chagatai thought he had been killed in battle and they lost heart. That was then the tide of the battle changed in our favor.”

Yu nodded as Chang Lo completed the story, “You can say it was luck on our side but if I was Huran, I would never have fought a battle anyway near Turfan where the terrain is unfavorable for their horses.”

As Chang Lo prepared to reply, the Chinese scouts came riding in from their reconnaissance of Turfan.

“What did you find? Yu asked the scouts.

“An almost deserted city, Minister. We scouted the city and the area around it. It seemed that the Chagatai had totally deserted the city. We even managed to ride into the city without any challenge.”

Yu rubbed his hand against his chin, “Well, it seems that even a barbarian such as Huran can learn from his mistakes.”

“What do you mean, Minister?”

“Fifteen years ago, he fought a battle at Turfan and he lost. He knows if he stands at Turfan again, he will still lose the battle so he decides to give up the city and find a better battlefield.”

“But where can he go?”

"Southwest of Turfan where the steppes are. There the terrain is perfect for his horsemen. If we fight a battle there, it will be a difficult battle. But that is a discussion for another time. Since Huran has gifted us Turfan, we should be polite and accept the gift. Order the army to advance into Turfan. We will use the city as the staging ground for our next phase of the invasion.”

As the commanders moved off to carry out his orders, Chang asked Yu, “Is there no way we can avoid this battle?”

“If there is, I will have done it. But Emperor is JingTai is right about one thing. We cannot allow a tributary state to not pay its tribute and get away with it. It will set a bad precedent and let the other tributaries states think we do not have the might to impose our will on them”

“Can’t we negotiate with the Chagatai?”

“I am told the Emperor has tried but the Chagatai had rebuffed our messengers and on top of that had raided across our western borders. Hence the military expedition to teach them a lesson.”

“And how far will you go to teach them this lesson, Minister?”

Yu’s face turned cold, “As far as it takes to make them pay their tribute and to learn the folly of attacking our Empire!”

 

[Amric]

March 7, 1451, Meeting Place of the Chagatai


Chen took a couple of steps back but refused to draw his weapon. If he drew his weapon, the other Mongol guards will interpret it as a sign of hostility and will draw their weapons as well.

He glanced at Amric who was beside him, “You better have some tricks up your sleeve cause I don’t think he is going to listen to any of my reasoning at the moment.”

Wu’tu was trying to stop Huran only to be pushed aside as Huran continued his advance on Chen Hui…..

Huran’s eyes widened slightly as the barbarian stepped between him and his chosen prey. Amric stood there with his arms crossed lightly, a twisted smile on his lips. Huran stopped in midstride.

“I have no problem killing you.”

“You might find that harder to do than you think,” Amric replied in Mongol.

“You would sacrifice yourself for a Chin?”

“Absolutely,” Amric nodded slightly, “Of course your men would kill me, eventually, but you wouldn’t live to see it.”

Huran’s sword was only a foot from Amric’s chest. He laughed, thinking it would un nerve the barbarian. Amric stared back at him, his grey eyes colder than the northern steppes in winter. Huran shook his head.

“You would die needless for him?”

“He is my Captain,” Amric shrugged, “I took an oath. I will honor, even unto death.”

“You exhibit great loyalty to one who is not of your race.”

“We fought together for years now,” Amric replied, “We have saved each other’s lives on more than one occasion. What is one more between good friends?”

“You consider him a friend?”

“I consider him family,” Amric countered, “His nephew is my son in law.”

There were gasps from the assembled men. A Chin marrying a barbarian? It was unheard of, even to these Mongols. Huran looked at the white man and tried to gauge his temper. He seemed supremely confident and not the least bit afraid. Wu’tu was busy whispering to the men who were holding him tightly.

One of them scuttled to Huran and began whispering in his ear. Huran’s face was a study in puzzlement, and then amazement.

“You killed the greatest assassin in China?” he demanded.

“Among other assassins, yes,” Amric nodded slowly.

“In one on one combat?”

“Yes.”

Huran stepped back and sheathed his blade, “I can respect the prowess of a man who can do that. I’d gladly kill Chen Hui where he stands right this minute. But I do not wish to lose mine in the process.”

“Good choice,” Amric bowed slightly, “I have heard of your prowess and your skill. You are a great leader of your people. I would not wish to deprive them of you.”

Huran laughed, dissipating the tension in the great yurt.

“Glad to hear it,” he sighed gustily, “What am I to do with you and your people?”

“Allow us to continue on our way,” Amric suggested, “We only wish to go to China and restore the proper Emperor to his throne.”
“My brother’s ashes?”

“Will be given to you freely,” Amric responded quickly, “We all respected him and have only the wish that he be given unto you.”

“Thank you,” Huran replied softly, “What happened to your face?”

Chen Hui stepped up next to Amric and opened his mouth to speak….

“The assassin,” Amric shrugged, “A small price to pay to remove such a man from this mortal coil.”

“Chen Hui,” Huran said quietly, “I would take your life. But I have been forced to consider things a bit differently.”

 

[redwolf]

March 7, 1451, Meeting Place of the Chagatai

“Chen Hui,” Huran said quietly, “I would take your life. But I have been forced to consider things a bit differently.”

Chen Hui stepped up next to Amric and opened his mouth to speak, “I was confident that you would. My friend here Amric had always been good at persuading people.”

That got a laugh from the people in the yurt. As the tension disappeared, the Mongol guards also started to relax.

Wu’tu spoke up then, “Tell me Lord Huran, why have the Chagatai gathered here? It must be something bad for such a grand gathering of tribes.”

“It’s bad indeed. The Ming Empire has invaded us once more.” Huran replied, all the time staring at Chen Hui.

“What?!” Both Chen Hui and Wu’tu exclaimed together.

“That’s impossible! The Empire will never break a treaty!” Chen Hui added.

“Tell that to the 100,000 soldiers who are now marching into Turfan as we speak. I do think they are here for just a holiday.” Huran retorted.

Wu’tu now turned to Chen Hui urgently, “Chen, whatever the reason it is for the Ming invasion, the fact remains that 100,000 Ming soldiers are on Chagatai soil. I will not allow them to ravage my homeland. The Free Company must aid the Chagatai in repelling the Ming.”

It was now Chen Hui’s turn to exclaim, “Are you crazy? Do you know what you are even suggesting? I will not take up arms against my own people!”

“So what will you do then? Will you instead join your countrymen and lead the Company against the Chagatai. The Mongols in the Company will not stand for it. If need be, we will leave the Company to defend our homeland.” Wu’tu shouted.

Chen Hui growled in frustration, “Calm down Wu’tu. I did not say I will not help the Chagatai. I only said I will not take up arms against my people. Before I can do anything, Huran, can you tell me what has happened to cause this conflict?”

Huran began telling his story, “As you know, we pay a annual tribute to the Ming. But last year we were hit by a serious draught and as a result, our herds suffered greatly and we were unable to pay the tributes. We sent an emissary to Beijing to negotiate a delay in payment or perhaps to pay in installments.”

“How did the Emperor reply?” Amric asked.

“He had my messengers arrested and sent to the north as slaves. He then ordered raids into our orders to capture able bodied Mongol males. JingTai said since we can’t pay our tributes, he will take our males and convert them into slaves as payment. Of course we can’t allow that. So we responded by raiding across their borders to rescue our people.”

Amric now look puzzled, “Chen Hui. You told me your Empire built the Great Wall to keep out raiders. How then did the Chagatai manage to cross the Great Wall?”

Now Chen Hui looked slightly embarrassed as he replied, “The last ruling Dynasty allowed the Wall to fall into disrepair. Now there are gaps in the Wall where raiders can cross into China.”

Huran nodded as he continued, “Anyway, our actions infuriated the Emperor who had now ordered his army into our lands to teach us a lesson.”

As Huran finished his story, Chen Hui was deep in thought, considering what he should do next. Finally he asked Huran, “Tell me, who commands the Ming Army?”

“The Minister of War, Yu Qian.” Came the reply.

Amric turned to Chen Hui “Do you know him?”

“My father knew him and I have him on several occasions. Whether he remembers me is another matter. But Li Tie will certainly know him. Huran, may I?”

Huran nodded. Chen Hui left the yurt and headed to where his escort waiting and order one of them to fetch Li Tie over to Huran’s Yurt.

Li Tie arrived shortly later and Chen Hui repeated Huran’s story to him. When he was finished, Li Tie did not look pleased, “Chen, I will tell you now I do not care much for the Chagatai. But I agree with you that a war with the Chagatai will not be good for the Empire, especially with the Oirats poised on our northern borders. I will help you to try and stop this battle.”

“Thank you Li. The invading Ming Army is led by Yu Qian. What I propose is for both of us to write a letter to him to propose a meeting to negotiate peace. He might not listen to a barbarian but he might listen if the letter comes from the Commander of the Imperial Guards and the son of a Governor.”

Li Tie looked doubtful, “I am not sure how much influence I have over Yu but it’s worth a shot. Let’s do it.”

With Huran agreeing to allow a letter to be sent to the Ming Camp at Turfan, Chen and Li quickly got down to work. The Free Company set up camp about 20 minutes away from the main Chagatai camp. Wu’tu would have preferred to have set up camp alongside the Chagatai but many of the Khans were suspicious of the Chin thus Chen agreed to set up camp some distance away.

After Chen and Li had spent some time writing a letter strongly urging their former friend Yu to start peace talks with the Chagatai, the letter was delivered to Huran. Huran read the letter once to ensure that Chen did not have some trick planned and then had his cousin Bugidai deliver the letter to Turfan.

Bugudai, with an escort of 20 men, rode swiftly to Turfan. They were intercepted some distance out from Turfan by a Chinese patrol. Upon learning that they bore a letter to Minister Yu, the Chinese patrol quickly escorted Bugidai to the city.

Arriving at the gates of the city, Bugidai was met by General Wang Le, who was second in command of the Ming Army.

“Peace talks?” General Wang scoffed when he heard the reason for Bugidai’s arrival at Turfan. “Give us the tributes owed us and we will then talk peace.” Wang sneered at Bugidai.

Bugudai flared at the comment but kept his temper in check. “That is for your commander to decide, not you. I bear a letter for your commander, Yu Qian. Please bring me to him so that I may present this letter to him.”

“A letter from Huran? What make you think Minister Yu wants to have anything to do with him?”

Bugidai shook his head, “This letter is not from Huran. It’s written by two of your former Imperial Guards. They know your minister and writes to him in the hope that this war can be averted.”

“Imperial Guards?! Impossible! Show me this letter, you liar!” Wang demanded.

Bugidai shook his head again, “No. I have orders only to show this letter to Minister Yu.”

Wang shouted in Bugidai’s face,” You will show it to me or you will not show it to anyone. I am second in command here and anyone wanting to meet the Minister must go through me first!”

Bugidai considered rejecting the demand but fearing the letter will not reach Yu, he reluctantly handed the letter over.

Wang quickly opened the letter and scanned it. After reading it, he looked at Bugidai, “Very well, come with me. I will bring you to Yu. But your escort stays behind. I will not have Mongol warriors within my camp.”

Bugidai nodded and ordered his escort to stay at the entrance while he meets Yu. Wang brought Bugidai to an empty house. “Wait here. I will inform the Minister of your arrival.”

After some time, Bugidai was starting to get impatient when armed Chinese soldiers rushed into the house and grabbed him. He was quickly overpowered and disarmed.

Wang entered the tent then with a sneer on his face. “Fool! Do you think I will let you meet Yu and end this war. You are dreaming! Chief Eunach Wang Zhen has given me orders that there is to be no peace talks until all of Chagatai lands lie under the control of the Ming Empire!”

Outside the city, Tolei awaited anxiously the return of Bugidai. After what seemed like an eternity, General Wang returned to the entrance.

“Where is Bugidai?!” Tolei demanded.

Solemnly, Wang said, “Your leader met Minister Yu just now. Unfortunately, Yu got into a frightful rage and had him executed after reading the letter. He told me to return you Bugidai’s head and a letter from him to Huran.”

Behind Wang, a soldier approached carrying Bugidai’s head covered in a silk cloth and a letter. Tolei gasped when he saw Bugidai’s head. “You Chinese Bastards! I will kill you!”

Even as he drew his weapons, Chinese soldiers quickly poured out of the city, surrounding the small Mongol party.

Wang shook his head in sympathy. “One man has already been killed today. I don’t wish for more lives to be taken. Go, take your leader’s head back and report to Huran.”

Tolei considered attacking anyway, but finally decided that reporting the death of Huran’s cousin was more important than dying needlessly.

“We will have our vengeance. Tell Yu to beware!” Tolei shouted before turning back to the Chagatai camp…

 

[Amric]

March 10, 1451: Outside Turfan

Amric and Kincaid lay atop a small hillock overlooking the Chagatai city of Turfan. The Chinese army had taken over and the officers and Imperial Guard had taken it for their own quarters. The rest of the army surrounded the city in a massive tent city that dwarfed the real one.

Amric still remembered the conversation he’d had with Chen two days earlier.

“I don’t see why I can’t go alone,” Kincaid had said.

“Because I want to see the landscape between the Chagatai and the Chin,” Amric snapped, “We may need to fight and I want to make sure I know the lay of the land so we can pick the most advantageous spot.”

“I think I can do that.”

Amric shook his head, “Probably, but as second in command I need to see it myself.”

“I told Huran I wouldn’t fight my own people,” Chen reminded him.

Amric rounded on him, “You lied.”

“I did no such thing!”

“Actually, you just didn’t realize it,” Amric shook his head, “You aren’t thinking rationally. JingTai will not just lay down and let his brother return without a fight. At some point you WILL have to fight your fellow Chin.”

Chen opened his mouth to reply, then closed it with a snap. He sighed deeply and then nodded.

“At some point, you’re no doubt right,” He growled, “But it would not bode well to fight this army on the side of the Chagatai.”

“I realize that,” Amric sighed, “But we have to be prepared to do just that if we have to. You know that.”

Chen nodded slowly, “I do. I don’t have to like it, though.”

“Can’t blame you,” Amric clapped him on the shoulder, “But we still have to be prepared.”

“Fine. Don’t get caught,” Chen advised him.

“I have no intention of being captured,” Amric lips twisted in his now familiar half grin.

“Glad to hear it,” Chen smiled, “Be careful.”

“I intend to,” Amric turned to Kincaid, “Let’s go.”

“I’ll make sure he comes back,” Kincaid chuckled.

“I’m going to pretend I didn’t hear that,” Amric growled.


He shook his head and peered down at the beehive of activity down below. Cavalry units swept the area for a mile beyond the camp. Infantry units drilled in the afternoon light.

“That’s the biggest army I’ve ever seen,” Kincaid muttered.

“Yep,” Amric agreed, “I was thinking of snooping around the outskirts of the camp….”

“You’re kidding!” Kincaid exclaimed softly.

“No, but I changed my mind,” Amric sighed, “There are just too many men moving around down there to make a realistic run at it.”

“Thank God.”

“Plus we’re the wrong damn color. Neither of us is Chin and we’d never pull it off,” Amric grimaced.

“They look pretty competent,” Kincaid observed.

“The cavalry is good,” Amric admitted, “But the infantry….”

“What?”

“They’re sloppy,” Amric grunted, “They march pretty enough, but their maneuvering….”

“What do you mean?”

“They have gaps that are too large at the edges,” Amric pointed them out, “It isn’t that big….but if you can get some swordsmen in there while the pikes hold them they’ll crumble from the edges inward.”

Kincaid nodded sagely, “I’ll take your word for it. I can’t really tell, it’s a long way from here to there.”

“True,” Amric agreed, “But you can tell with the way the pikes are moving and how the men react to each other.”

“So you think…”

“Oh, hell no,” Amric barked out a soft laugh, “We’d need ten times our number to break them. Even if we folded them in one or even two places, they’d just surround us and roll over us like waves on a beach.”

“Then….”

“We need a hill, much like this one,” Amric shrugged, “We’d need a good source of water. Ditches, stakes, the whole thing. We’d still die. But we’d make them hurt. A lot.”

“That’s depressing.”

“I have no intention of fighting them, if I can avoid it,” Amric reminded him, “I just need to see them. Wrap my mind around the sheer volume of their manpower and martial skills.”

“You know,” Kincaid sighed, “You’re a scary guy sometimes.”

“I know.”

“Wasn’t there two emissaries from the Chagatai?” Kincaid asked.

“Yeah, why?” Amric was watching some cavalry sweeping toward the hillock.

“Because only one is leaving.”

“Oh?” Amric looked toward where Kincaid was indicating.

“Yes, sir.”

Kincaid was right. Only one emissary, surrounded by an escort, was galloping away from the Chin encampment. Amric shrugged.

“Perhaps he goes to give a message to Huran while the other stays as surety.”

“Maybe.”

“I want to watch the Chin for awhile. I need to see what their endurance is like,” Amric turned his attention back to the infantry.

He did just that. For hours. Kincaid spent his time keeping his eyes on the cavalry and making sure that they weren’t being noticed. Finally as the sun started to slide down past the horizon Amric started to slither down the hill away from the Chin.

Kincaid loped beside him as the made their way five miles to the west toward where they’d hidden their horses.

"They're getting ready to move," he chuffed.

"Not all of them," Amric replied softly, "But more than enough to be a real problem."

 

[redwolf]

March 10 1451, Free Company camp

“… so if Huran does that, there is a good chance it will draw the Ming Army out from Turfan and into the steppes, terrain favorable to the Chagatai.” De Bloomfield finished with a flourish.

Chen nodded in approval, “A very good use of the stratagem “luring the tiger from the mountain. Now if instead you are Yu Qian of the Ming Army, what will you do to win this war?”

“Why are you making you do this, Chen? I am only a grunt. I don’t have to learn all this. You tell me where to go and I will go.”

“As Amric told you before, we believe that you have the ability to be an officer. That is why we are training you to be one. Look at the officers in the Free Company. Lochlan is 55 this year. I am 41 and most of the officers are in their 40s as well. In a few years time, we will retire. So before we do so, we must make sure the next generation of leaders is well trained to help Captain lead the Free Company. Now stop complaining and tell me your strategy.”

Arthur let his eyes wander around the tent as he considered his answer. Before he could answer, Li Tie entered Chen Hui’s tent, “Chen, an emissary from Huran.”

“Bring him in.” As Li went to fetch the emissary, Chen turned to Arthur, “Look like you got extra time now to think of an answer. Go think about it and let me know your answer later.”

A few moments after de Bloomfield left the tent, Li led a Mongol in Chen’s tent. The Mongol bowed to Chen before addressing him, “Captain Chen Hui, we have a reply from the Ming camp regarding your message and Lord Huran will like to invite you and your officers to the Chagatai camp to discuss the matter.”

“Alright, I will inform my officers. Any idea what was the reply from the Ming?” Chen asked.

The Mongol shook his head, “I have no idea. Huran said that all will be revealed once you have arrived.”

“Very well.” Chen thanked the Mongol and then sent for the other officers. He noted that Amric had yet to return from his scouting of Turfan.

Along with Lt Glendower and Lt Keswick, he had asked some of the senior Imperial Guards, Li Tie, Zhang Xiang and Zhang Gao along with Wu’tu and Sebutai to come along to the Chagatai camp. All of them had been involved in past Ming – Chagatai conflicts and Chen felt their input will be valuable as well. With almost all the officers and senior sergeants coming along for the meeting, Chen decide to let De Bloomfield take charge of the Free Company camp, another test for the would be officer.

Escorted by some of the Light Cavalrymen, Chen Hui and his officers made their way to the Chagatai camp which was about twenty minutes ride away.

Chagatai Camp

Arriving at the camp, Chen ordered the escort to stand down until he and his officers returned. They were escorted into Huran’s tent. Huran was seated behind a table. He had a grim look on his face. A parchment lay in front of Huran. Beside the parchment was something circular which was covered by a silk cloth.

Chen and his officers bowed to Huran, “We have arrived as you have requested, Lord Huran and we are most interested in what Minister Yu have to say to our message.”

Huran stared daggers at Chen, “You said your Minister was a reasonable man and will not resort to violence readily. Tell me then, what is the meaning of this?” Huran removed the silk cloth to reveal the bloodied head of Bugidai. Chen and his officers stared in shock at the head on Huran’s table.

Before Chen could react, Huran flung the parchment at Chen Hui’s feet. Chen picked up the parchment and read it with shock and horror.

There will be no peace talks with Mongol Dogs. Pay the Tribute owed to the Ming Empire or die like the dogs you are on the battlefield. This is the last warning you will receive. Perhaps your emissary's head will convince you to pay. Either that or you will die.

Yu Qian

Huran barked a command then and suddenly scores of Mongols poured into the tent. Chen Hui did not hesitate. He flung himself at the two nearest Mongols, sending them to the ground. Zhang immediately made a dash to the tent’s exit. A Mongol tried to catch him but was tackled by Li Tie.

Zhang sprinted out of the tent and saw the Free Company men who were waiting nearby. They had already been uneasy when they saw the scores of Mongols charging into Huran’s tent but then the sight of Zhang being chased by the Chagatai Mongols drove them into action.

Three Mongols came charging at Zhang. Zhang avoided the first Mongol but the other two Mongols forced him onto the ground. Zhang shouted to the advancing Company men, “Treachery! The Chagatai have captured the officers! Fall back to the camp and warn the others.”

Some of the Company men turned back to their horses but others continued their reckless charge to attempt to rescue Zhang Xiang. They too were soon subdued by the overwhelming numbers of the Mongols.

Others had gotten on their horses and were now racing to the camp, but they were under pursuit by the Mongols.

One of the Light Cavalry men shouted to his companions, “Chuluun! Make your way back to the camp as fast as you can. We will buy you the time!”

Chuluun nodded and spurred his horse on even faster while the rest of the Light Cavalrymen turned back to engage the Chagatai horsemen in a desperate attempt to buy time for Chuluun.

It worked. Chuluun broke free of the pursuing Mongols and he quickly made his way back to the Free Company camp.

Back in the Chagatai camp, the Free Company men had all been captured and tied securely except for Wu’tu and Sebutai. Huran turned to the two of them, “I have not treated you two the same way because you two are fellow Mongols. But you must decide for yourself if you will stand with me or with the Free Company.”

Wu’tu and Sebutai exchanged looks with one another. Sebutai seemed to be rather agitated as he moved his hands in random motions, unsure which side he should take. Finally Wu’tu answered, “We may have serve with the Free Company for several years but we are still Mongols first. We will stand with you, Lord Huran.”

Huran nodded in approval, “Very good. Guards, take them away. I will deal with them later. Tolei, gather the tribes. We ride for the Free Company camp. We must eliminate them before they flee to the Ming Army. Wu’Tu and Sebutai, you will ride by my side and advise me how best to defeat the Company. ”

Meanwhile, Chuluun had arrived back at the Company’s camp. His frantic ride back had been spotted by the Light Cavalry and the Rangers. By the time he reached the camp, a huge crowd had gathered, many fidgeting uneasily. They knew he was one of the escorts with Chen Hui and the officers. Seeing him return alone and in that manner did not seem to bode well.

The crowd parted to let Chuluun through to the interim commander of the camp, de Bloomfield. de Bloomfielde, flanked by Cyril and Geoffrey waited for Chuluun to dismount before demanding to know what had happened.

“Treachery! Huran lured Chen and the officers into his tent and then had them arrested! We must go to their rescue at once!”

There was a moment of stunned silence at the news before the Company men started to react angrily. The men started to shout furiously, calling for de Bloomfield to order a march against the Chagatai.

De Bloomfield was stunned. He had not expected that to happen. With Chen and his officers captured and Amric not back, he was in charge and he was not sure what to do. The Company men were baying for blood and he knew leading a march against the Chagatai was suicide. But at the same time, he knew they will march regardless of what he says at the moment. The Company blood was up and nothing could deter them.

Finally he made his decision, “Our Captain has been captured and we cannot stand by and do nothing. Gather your weapons! We march on the Chagatai camp!”

With a huge roar, the Company men quickly moved to prepare for battle. As the men prepared to march, de Bloomfield took Alyssa aside, “Alyssa we cannot stand against 30,000 Chagatai but nothing I say now will dissuade the men from marching on them. All I can do now is to move as slowly as possible to try to buy you time.”

Alyssa looked puzzled, “Buy me time? For what?”

“You must find your father. Amric is the only man now who can stop this fight from happening. If you do not find him in time, the Company’s mission to China will end here today on the steppes of Chagatai.”

 

[Amric]

March 10 1451

Alyssa rushed to find her mount. Quickly putting the saddle on she reined in and watched as RongTai and Alaric readied their own mounts. Alaric waved to his sister as he moved to join the rest of the heavy cavalry. RongTai rode closer to her as she dismounted to check a strap.

“I will meet you with the rest of the light cavalry,” he shouted.

She waved noncommittally. He turned his mount and raced for where his unit was forming up. She jumped back into the saddle and galloped away out of camp away from her new husband and the rest of the company, looking for her father. She knew what direction he had gone but needed to be out of sight before the company finished getting into formation to march.

She leaned low and urged her beast to greater speed. The animal had been a gift from Chen and it was very quick. Soon she was beyond sight of the camp and racing eastward over the slightly undulating steppe.

The company itself was already marching toward the Chagatai camp. Their legendary speed already coming into play. The pack train followed in the wake of the main force, unwilling to be left behind in the now hostile territory.

Alyssa felt very alone as she slowed her mount to a light cantor. She had no idea if she could find her father, but she had to try. She rode at a walk, cantor, and gallop before reversing to a cantor and then walk. She continued to repeat the cycle as she went further and further away from her companions.

The sun was bright in her eyes as she looked as far ahead as she could. So far nothing but a tree here and there along the waves of grasses that would soon enough be taller than a man’s height. Fortunately it was still early Spring and it made her job a bit easier.

She heard nothing but the muted thunder of her horse’s hooves. She began to despair of finding him in time to prevent the tragedy about to unfold. She knew de Bloomfield would do what he could, but the company’s ire was great and their training would allow them to make great speed toward the Chagatai. Her need to find her father increased with each mile she traveled.

Finally she saw two dots moving toward her, moving to the south of her, but still heading east. She strained her eyes trying to figure out if it was Kincaid and her father, or two random riders. She ground her teeth as she realized she just couldn’t tell at that distance. She kicked her beast into greater speed and moved directly toward them. If it wasn’t them she could be in trouble, but she had little choice. The sooner she found Amric, the sooner he would find a way to get control of the situation.

She had great admiration for his strength and his ability to make the rest of the company do what he wanted. She’d watched him ever since they had finally met at Belgrade. His ability to inspire and lead his men had impressed her then and that feeling had only grown over the intervening years. If anyone could get the company to stop, it would be he. He’d find a way to get Chen and the other officers back as well.

Her hair streaming in the wind she galloped hard toward the two riders. They started to ride hard for her as well. She saw that it was indeed her father and Kincaid. They met quickly and she turned to fall into line with them.

“What the hell are you doing out here?” Amric demanded, “Alone of all things?”

“Huran has captured Chen and the officers, other than de Bloomfield,” she explained the situation as quickly as she could.

“The company is on the march?” Amric growled.

“They were already starting when I left. He said he would keep them moving as slow as possible,” she admitted.

Amric grunted in irritation, “That is just bloody wonderful. Kincaid, we’ll have to hurry.”

“I suggest we take a more northwesterly route,” he replied.

The sun had already reached it’s zenith and now it was in their faces as they moved at a cantor. Soon enough they would reduce speed to a walk before going at speed again. Amric wanted to go faster but realized that he had little choice. Destroying the horses in an attempt to head off the company would be foolish. What if they didn’t get there when the beasts finally gave in to terminal exhaustion? He kept his impatience in check as best he could. Kincaid kept silent, as did Alyssa as the coursed over the steppe.

It was late afternoon when a plume of dust rose ahead of them and to the north east. They looked at each other and by silent agreement they urged greater speed from their mounts. As they got closer they could see that it was the company marching along with the heavy cavalry riding behind the pikemen to give some protection to the pack train struggling along behind. The light cavalry ranged in front keeping a lookout for Chagatai.

Further north Amric saw a larger dust plume approaching. It had to be the Chagatai. He sighed with relief. There was still time. Fortunately it hadn’t rained in awhile and therefore the dust was an excellent indicator of movement. Amric turned to Kincaid.

“Get the heavy cavalry ready to move. Tell them they’ll be in the square. Make sure they stop where they are and surround the pack train,” Amric then turned to his daughter, “Tell the light to move back and get around the heavy cavalry.”

Both spurred their horses forward and Amric angled toward the head of the infantry. The men saw him and started cheering enthusiastically. De Bloomfield saluted smartly as Amric reined up.

“Get the men back!” he shouted, “The Chagatai come! We’re going to form the egg around the cavalry and pack train!”

“You heard him!” de Bloomfield bellowed, “Reverse march! Form the egg around the cavalry! Archers behind the cavalry! Make it move!”

The infantry ground to a halt and with bellowed orders from the sergeants reversed direction and quickstepped back to the pack train and the already formed lines of the heavy cavalry. The light swept by on the right and left and began dressing their lines in front of the heavy. The infantry flowed around both and the form of a square started to appear, then the edges blurred somewhat so that if it was looked upon from on high it would look more like an egg. The smallest portion was aimed right at the Chagatai approaching like the point of an arrow.

Amric approached de Bloomfield again, “Why didn’t you keep them from marching?”

“I had no way to do that,” the other sighed, “The men wanted to go. I couldn’t stop them.”

Amric shook his head, “You and I are going to have a little chat after this.”

“Yes, sir,” de Bloomfield echoed Amric’s sigh.

“Prepare the archers!” one of Glendower’s men shouted.

“Do NOT fire unless I order it!” Amric bellowed, his voice easily carrying to the whole army.

Alyssa and RongTai were arguing nearby. Amric glared at them.

“Would you two bottle it?” he demanded, “The approaching Mongols should have our entire attention, don’t you think?”

The two colored slightly, but turned their eyes toward the fast moving horde. Amric peered at the galloping horsemen. It wasn’t the full force of the horde. But it was a good six or seven thousand men. Several Chin were breaking out their rockets and placing them in the firing wagons. Amric shot a look at them with a warning shake of his head. They continued to work feverishly, but they knew they weren’t to fire either, unless the Lieutenant ordered it.

“I’ll go and meet them,” Amric informed de Bloomfield.

“It’s suicide, sir!”

“It would be dishonorable to kill a man sent out to parlay,” Amric reminded him.

“Do you think they are overly concerned with that?” de Bloomfield inquired.

“They’d better be,” Amric growled, “If they cut me down, you hold this position. You have the archers and racketeers cut loose in one section in front of the nose of our egg. Once you’ve created chaos you let the light and heavy through to punch them while they are disorganized. Make sure both groups know to return after they do their initial foray. Keep the egg whole, Arthur. I’m counting on you.”

De Bloomfield nodded silently as the older man rode out a couple of hundred feet in front of the company formation. The Chagatai began to spread out into what would be two circling units to surround the Free Company. Amric sat on his horse with his arms spread wide to show that he came in peace. The Mongols continued to encircle the company but one man rode out toward the company officer.

He reined up to him and studied him carefully.

“You are the one who speaks our language.”

“Yes,” Amric agreed.

“I saw you in Huran’s tent that first day.”

“Then you know who I am and that I am the second in command of this company.”

“We are here to eliminate you and your company.”

Amric shook his head sadly, “You might do it. But I promise you that you’ll lose most of your command.”

“We outnumber you.”

“Been there, done that,” Amric chuckled, “It wouldn’t be the first time someone underestimated the Free Company.”

“You’ll all die.”

“So will much of yours,” Amric promised, “And I guarantee that you will be one of them.”

The Mongol blinked at the bravado of the barbarian. Usually there would be pleading and begging for some kind of terms from an enemy so greatly overmatched. He remembered that this was the man who had killed China’s greatest assassin in one on one combat. Were the rest of the men in this company just as skilled? He looked at the company formation and frowned. Even from where he sat his horse he could see it wasn’t a typical pike square. He’d never seen the like. He noted the cavalry within it and what looked like foot archers in the very middle with supply wagons. They were well prepared.

“I should kill you where you are.”

“You’ll be dead before you hit the ground,” Amric shrugged, “Then I’ll have to talk to someone else.”

“My men would kill you before you could escape to your men.”

“Perhaps,” Amric agreed, “But if they come within reach of my blades they will die in droves.”

“I have my orders.”

“I want Captain Hui and the rest of my officers returned,” Amric demanded.

The Mongol goggled at his temerity.

“Dead men can’t make demands.”

“I still live. I still breathe,” Amric countered.

“Not for long.”

The Mongol turned to go. Amric’s voice stopped him and his blood ran cold.

“The Chin are moving. This way. Not all of them, but a good thirty thousand of them. What do you think will happen while your people are busy trying to kill us and focused on us instead of the much larger and more dangerous threat?”

The man spun back to face Amric. His eyes searched that of the westerner. He saw no signs of duplicity, only sincerity and determination.

“Why should I believe you?”

“Because I’ve just come from scouting them and when I left they were in the process of moving out.”

“It is none of your concern.”

“My duty is to my Captain. He accepted a contract to return the rightful Emperor to the throne,” Amric shrugged, “JingTai has no interest in doing anything other than what makes him happy. He isn’t interested in compromise when he believes he can do whatever he wills with impunity.”

“That is not my problem.”

“Oh, but it is,” Amric retorted, “The rightful Emperor would have allowed for installments on your tribute. As a ruler he knows about such things and why they need to happen. JingTai may rule China, but he is not a ruler. He is a despot eager for his own gain. He doesn’t care about the people. Any people.”

The Mongol cocked his head and considered, “I could send riders back to warn Huran and still kill you all.”

“Certainly, “Amric half smile was wry, “But why fight the Chin if you don’t have to?”

“We will fight them.”

“You aren’t listening,” Amric rolled his eyes, “I do not know what happened to have Huran take my captain and officers. But I will find out, and I will make sure something is done about it.”

“You make boastful promises you can’t possibly deliver.”

“Ask Wu’tu, or Subatai, or other Mongols with us,” Amric glared at the other, “I don’t promise something I cannot deliver.”

His eyes were now narrowed and aimed directly at the Mongol’s. They were dark and stormy looking. It reminded the Mongol of approaching winter storms that savaged and ravaged the steppes, with killing temperatures and deep snows. He repressed a shudder and looked away from the westerner.

“We will escort you to our camp,” he proclaimed, “You can tell Huran yourself of what you claim.”

“Good,” Amric nodded, his eyes warming slightly.

He turned his mount back to the company. De Bloomfield looked at him askance.

“Well?”

“We will be escorted to the Chagatai camp.”

“How do you do that?”

“Do what?”

“Get people to do what you want?”

“Practice,” Amric shrugged, “Plus a healthy dose of intimidation.”

“I…..see.”

“Get the men ready to march,” Amric barked, “In this formation, if you please.”

“Sir?”

“I don’t think I stuttered,” Amric snapped, then raising his voice, “We’re marching! In this formation! Face LEFT! Forward! March!”

The infantry’s training came to the fore and they immediately swung into position. The cavalry turned their mounts and the supply wagons were already in the right position. The men began to march, careful to stay in the proper formation. The Mongols circled them as they moved closer to the Chagatai encampment.

 

[redwolf]

March 10 1451, Chagatai Camp

Dian Wu’tu sat in the tent that Huran had given to him. Outwardly he appeared calm but he was worried. What had happened earlier was totally unexpected and now over a third of the Chagatai army had been sent to eliminate the Free Company. He could not allow it to happen but yet he was not sure what he could do to stop it.

Sebutai walked into the tent. “How are preparations going?” Wu’tu asked in a loud voice.

“All is well, Wu’tu. Soon Huran will be ready to lead another 10,000 Chagatai against the Free Company.” Sebutail replied.

The two Mongols spoke loudly for any would be eavesdropper but their hands were telling a different story.

“I found the man you asked me to find. He was doubtful about it at first and was reluctant to help. But after I reminded him of the time you saved his life, he agreed to help.” Sebutai said.

“You are sure that Chen Hui saw your message?” Wu’tu asked.

“He did. After Huran captured us, I moved my hands and looked as if I was agitated but I was telling him in the secret language we were pretending to join Huran but in reality we are working from the inside to try to rescue Chen and the other officers.”

“Well done Sebutai. Now we can only hope my friend can help Chen Hui.”

“In the meantime, what shall we do then?”

“We must stop the Chagatai army from engaging the Free Company.”

“How are we going to do that?”

“I am not sure at the moment. But we will be riding close to him as we move to meet the Free Company. We must try to persuade him that engaging the Free Company is a foolish thing to do.”

“And if that fails?”

“Then we will have to use force. We will be close enough to Huran that we might be able to take him hostage and try to force him to let Chen and the Company go.”

“You are talking about sacrificing our lives? Even if we manage to get Chen and the Company away, Huran won’t let us go.”

“I know but two lives to allow the Free Company to carry on with it’s journey, in my opinion, is a worthwhile sacrifice. Don’t you think so?”

Sebutai looked at Wu’tu for a long moment before nodding in agreement, “I agree. Let’s do it then.

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Chinese Camp, Turfan

General Wang Le waited impatiently as frantic preparations of a army going to war buzzed around him. Soon they will be ready to march and the Chagatai army will be crushed.

He allowed himself a smile as he remembered how he managed to find the location of the Chagatai camp.

He had been surprised when the Mongols first showed up bearing a letter written by two former Imperial Guards. He did not recognize the name of Chen Hui but Li Tie did. He was the one wanted by Emperor JingTai and Wang Zhen. He was not sure Li Tie had done to warrant a death sentence from the two most powerful men in the Empire but whatever he had done, he knew that if he helped this wanted man achieve peace, he will also be probably signing his own death sentence.

He had managed to think of a plan as he had escorted Bugidai to an empty house which he can use to find the Chagatai’s location and at the same time ensure there will be no peace treaty.

He has had Bugidai executed and his head returned to Tolei. Wang had ordered some of his men to follow Tolei in the hope that he will lead his men to the Chagatai camp. As he had expected, Tolei had rode straight to the Chagatai camp with the news to report to Huran. Wang’s men had followed him and had relayed the location of the camp through carrier pigeon to Wang Le.

With the location of the enemy found, he had requested Yu for 30,000 men to lead a quick strike at the Chagatai army. Yu was curious how Wang had located the location of the Chagatai army but he kept quiet as Wang was a veteran officer and to ask him such will be to doubt him.

Yu had given his consent and had given him an additional 20,000 soldiers to aid Wang in defeating the Mongols. Now at the head of 50,000 soldiers, Wang Le was ready to crush the Chagatai army.

The Chagatai camp was about a day’s travel away and with the lack of supplies anywhere around the steppes, the Chinese army would have to use their own supply trains to supply the army. It would not be easy to protect the supply but Wang believed that the Chagatai will be too worried about his army than to bother about the supply train

His officers finally reported that all was in readiness. Wang gave the order to set off. To the beating of Chinese war drums, the 50,000 soldiers set off to battle.

 

[redwolf]

March 10 1451, Chagatai Camp

Chen Hui’s hands and legs were securely tied to a pole inside one of Huran’s tents. With him was Li Tie. For some reason, the rest of the officers were taken somewhere else.

Chen Hui was deep in thought. His mind played Yu Qian’s message over and over again. It just did not make sense. He did not Minister Yu well, but what he knew did not seem to indicate that Yu was a person who would kill a messenger in cold blood.

Nearby, Li Tie was struggling with the ropes that secured him but it was no use. The knots just refused to come loose.

“So much for the Free Company’s bonds of brotherhood! Wu’tu and Sebutai has just betrayed you and your Company just like that. What do you have to say about it?” Li snarled at Chen.

Chen Hui kept quiet. He knew that was not the case but he did not say it aloud. Who knew if anyone was listening in on them? He turned his attention back to the message from Yu. Something just did not seem right.

Finally he turned his head to Li Tie, “Li, have you ever seen any parchments written by Yu Qian?”

Li nodded, “I did. Why?”

Chen ignored Li’s question and asked another question of his own, “Is there anything distinctive about his handwriting that stands out when he writes?”

Li frowned at the question but he kept quiet as he turned his attention back to recall the messages he had read that was written by Yu. “I remember now. The last stroke in his name, the Qian word. He always gives the stroke a little hook when it should be such a straight line. We always wondered why he did that.”

It was Chen Hui’s turn to frown, “I don’t think I saw that hook in Yu Qian’s name in that parchment.”

“Are you saying that the message may not be written by him?”

“That is possible but I need to see the parchment again to be sure.”

“And how are we going do that when we are securely bound?”

“Be patient.” And with that Chen Hui closed his eyes and went back to what ever thoughts he was thinking earlier. Li Tie stared in frustration before continuing his struggles with the ropes.

Some time later, a Mongol, a commander by the looks of his dressing, escorted by two guards entered the tent.

He stared at Li Tie for a while before turning to Chen Hui. Nodding to himself, he addressed Chen Hui, “You are Chen Hui, Captain of the Free Company?”

“Yes I am. And you are?”

“I am Batu, Commander of 3 Minghan (1 Minghan is 1000 soldiers). I am an old friend of Wu’tu. He sought me out and asked me to help you. Tell me Chen Hui, if I let you go now, can you really stop the coming battle between the Ming and the Chagatai.”

Chen Hui looked straight into Batu’s eyes, “Batu, I cannot say I will definitely be able to stop the fight but I will do my best to prevent it or else die trying.”

“Wu’tu said you are a man of honor. I believe you will keep your word. Very well I shall help you.” Batu gestured to his two guards who stepped forward and unbound the two Chin.

“Now I need the two of you to exchange clothing with my guards.” Batu said to Chen and Li.

Once the four men had exchanged their clothing, Batu had his two guards tied to the posts and then he led Chen and Li out of the tent. Once they were safely clear, Batu said to the two of them, “At the end of the camp are two horses which has been saddled. Take them and ride to rejoin your Company.”

Chen shook his head, “We can’t leave yet. I need to see the parchment that Yu sent to Huran again.”

“Why?” Batu asked.

“Because we suspect the parchment was not written by Yu at all but rather by someone else who did not want peace between the Ming and the Chagatai.” Li Tie answered.

Batu thought for a moment, “From what I know, the parchment is still in Huran’s tent.”

“Can you get us the parchment?” Chen asked.

“Let’s find out.” Batu said in a grim voice.

The three men walked to Huran’s tent. Batu approached the guards standing watch outside Huran’s tent, “Huran instructed me to get something from his tent.”

“What is it that Huran order you to get?” One of the guards questioned Batu.

“The parchment sent by the Chin minister to Lord Huran.” Came the reply.

“What does he want it for?”

“How would I know? Lord Huran only asked me to get the parchment. He did not tell me why. Now are you going to let me in or shall I return and tell Lord Huran that his guards did not let me in?” Batu snapped at the guards.

The guards quickly stepped aside and allowed Batu to enter. After a few moments, Batu came out of the tent with the parchment and gesturing to Chen and Li left the vicinity of the tent.

Once they were out of the sight of the guards, Batu passed the parchment to Chen who quickly opened it. Li Tie stood beside him as they examined the document, “There is no hook in the last stroke of the Qian word!” Li Tie shouted.

“So it is a fake after all. We must inform Huran at once before it’s too late.”

Batu said in a doubtful tone, “Will Lord Huran believe what you said? It’s hard to believe based on what you have just said.”

“We have to try at least.” Chen said in a determined voice.

Batu kept silent for a moment as he considered, “Very well then. I shall bring you to Huran. But we must hurry. Huran had left earlier with a Tumen (10000) of soldiers to engage the Free Company.”

“How about the rest of my officers?” Chen Hui asked in a concerned voice.

“Don’t worry, they are safe. I have my men watching over them.” Batu replied.

They moved swiftly to where Batu had already earlier saddled some horses. Mounting them, they rode swiftly out of the Chagatai camp, hoping that it’s not too late to stop the battle between the Free Company and the Chagatai army.

 

[Amric]

March 10, 1451: On the march to the Chagatai Camp

As the company marched, surrounded by the Chagatai, Amric made his way inward to the supply wagons. He paused next to one driven by Phil and Henrik.

“Lieutenant,” Henrik nodded respectfully.

“I need my chainmail,” Amric said softly.

“I thought you might,” the other grinned fiercely, “I have it right here in the front.”

Amric stepped over, off his horse and into the wagon itself. He balanced himself precariously until he sat down on a box. He pulled off the leather armor he was wearing and allowed the Henrik to help him into his chain mail. On the front was an image of a skeletal wolf. He shrugged his shoulders as the mail settled over him. Leaving the coif off of his head he cursed as he realized he hadn’t taken off his sword belt. Quickly readjusting things he stood up and whistled softly for his horse which came back up toward the wagon.

With a careful step he settled back onto his horse. He waved to Henrik in thanks as he cantored back to the front of the company. The infantry lines rippled as he made his way through and de Bloomfield adjusted his floppy hat to block out the sun’s light as he made note of the change in Amric.

“You’re looking like you expect to fight,” de Bloomfield noted.

“I like to be prepared,” Amric shrugged.

More horsemen were galloping toward them at high speed. A rider sped ahead of the Chagatai surrounding the company.

“I think we will stop here,” Amric suggested.

“Company halt!” de Bloomfield shouted.

That shout was echoed by the sergeants and corporals. The men stopped marching and pikes were grounded at the ready. Horses from the light and heavy cavalry snorted as some stomped at the ground. The archers made sure that their bowstrings were in good repair. The Chin in charge of the firewagons loaded rockets into them and readied strands of fuses for their lighting.

Amric rode out ahead of the company a hundred yards and sat there patiently for Huran to arrive. The approaching Chagatai slowed and started to intermingle with those already surrounding the Free Company. A rider, flanked by two others, broke off and approached the veteran Lieutenant.

It was Huran, who wore a rather angry expression on his face. Amric returned his glare with a stoic expression and his hands carefully placed on the pommel of the saddle.

“What makes you think I care what you have to say?” Huran demanded as he stopped in front of him.

“Because you are the leader of your people,” Amric replied softly, “and you don’t want to lead them to disaster.”

Huran’s eyes bulged slightly, “You dare to threaten me?”

“Not what I’m doing,” Amric shrugged, “I come with news and a warning.”

“I’ve been told that you claim the Chin are moving on our camp,” Huran snapped.

“It is true.”

“I still have time to destroy you before they arrive.”

“It would cost you greatly,” Amric half smiled, “and I promise you that you will not be done by the time the Chin arrive to obliterate you.”

“You are greatly outnumbered.”

“Been there, done that,” Amric waved his right hand lazily, “I’ve been threatened by many. I’m still here. Most of them…..are not.”

Huran bit back an angry reply. He remembered that this was the man who had killed China’s greatest assassin. He took note of the black flag flapping in the breeze. The death’s head with a rose in it’s teeth. He looked closer at the chain mail on Amric and saw the skeletal wolf. An atavistic shiver was ruthlessly suppressed.

“What do you suggest?” He asked.

“I want my officers back,” Amric demanded.

“Impossible.”

“I will entertain nothing less,” Amric snapped, “I have an idea on how to defuse the situation between the Chin and yourselves.”

“What is this plan?”

“You don’t mind if I say I don’t trust you?” Amric shook his head, “You took my officers, after all.”

“The Chin murdered one of my emissaries!”

Amric sat stock still a moment, “So that is what has you all in a tizzy.”

“I don’t know what a tizzy is,” Huran growled, “But I want blood.”

“So do I,” Amric smiled thinly, “The East Squad killed quite a few of my friends and company mates trying to kill Li Tie and Chen Hui. I go to punish them.”

Huran’s eyebrows rose in surprise, “I believe I was told you were going to rescue the true Emperor of the Chin?”

“That is the obvious mission,” Amric smiled thinly, “MY mission is to make sure that the East Squad is eliminated. Or failing that, so severely wounded that they never again dare to set foot in Europe or meddle in the affairs of the Free Company.”

Huran looked into Amric’s eyes. A cold fierce look greeted his gaze. He refused to flinch, but he recognized the look of a man who had every intention of accomplishing his goal, regardless of the cost.

“I still want to know what you plan is,” Huran demanded.

“Chickens wish they could fly high in the sky like ducks,” Amric shook his head.

“What?”

“Let me kill him,” the man on Huran’s left asked suddenly.

Amric turned his head, showing the man a heavy lidded gaze of a viper. The man grunted but didn’t look away.

“Shut up, Bura,” Huran snapped.

“I want my officers,” Amric growled.

“I don’t trust Chen Hui,” Huran barked.

“Seems we’re at an impasse,” Amric sighed.

“So it appears.”

“Well we can spend more time jacking our jaws,” Amric grimaced, “and letting the Chin arrive to attack you.”

“I have sent scouts to check on your story.”

Amric looked back at Huran, “Congratulations. What you should be doing is preparing your people to fight.”

“I thought you said you had a plan?”

“I do,” Amric replied thinly, “But it is still tactically sound to be ready in case I fail.”

Huran turned to Bura, “See to it the men in camp are ready for battle.”

“As you command.”

Bura wheeled around and rode off at a gallop. Amric gazed deep into Huran’s eyes.

“I have no reason to lie to you,” Amric informed him, “If I am, you can certainly still attack us and try to kill us.”

“True.”

“So what do you lose by giving me my officers and letting me try to stop the Chin from attacking you?” Amric suggested, “You can always be at our backs when I parlay with them, you know.”

“Also true.”

“So what do you have to lose?”

“The respect and admiration of my people.”

“Bullshit,” Amric spat, “You’re blinded by pride.”

“How dare you!” the man on Huran’s right snarled.

Huran held up his right hand. The man broke off whatever words he was about to speak.

“You’re tongue will get you killed if you are not careful.”

“Probably,” Amric admitted, “But it won’t be right this moment.”

Huran admired the European’s audacity to speak to him this way. Knowing he was surrounded by Chagatai warriors eager to spill his blood and that of his companions he refused to back down.

“I’m not giving you Chen Hui and the officers,” Huran finally responded.

“You make my job more difficult,” Amric frowned.

“You have little choice.”

“True. For now.”

“You may try to stop the Chin,” Huran shrugged, “It might be entertaining to see you fail and watch you get swallowed up by them before we strike them down.”

Amric half grinned, “You may be doomed to disappointment, Huran.”

“Perhaps.”

“I shall start moving my company toward the East,” Amric informed him in reply, “I know of a hill I wish to invest to prepare for the Chin.”

“By all means,” Huran shrugged again, “We shall be following you.”

“I would expect nothing less,” Amric wheeled his horse and cantered away.

“He is a dangerous man.”

Huran nodded, “Yes. But I think I may let him go to China.”

“Why?”

“Because I would enjoy seeing them humbled and the East Squad cast down,” Huran admitted, “It would create great chaos and disorder for the Chin.”

 

[redwolf]

March 10, 1451

As Amric led the Free Company towards the hill he had selected earlier, the Chagatai followed behind, near enough to keep the Free Company in sight but far enough such that should any fight break out with the Chin, it will be the Free Company that bear the brunt of the attack.

Huran rode at the head of the Chagatai army. His expression said nothing but inwardly he was worried. The first of his scouts had returned with news of a Chin army 50,000 strong advancing on them. Even with the combined strength of all the Chagatai tribes, Huran can only field an army of 30,000 at most. It was not going to be an easy battle and even if the Chagatai won this battle, there is still another 50,000 Chin soldiers in Turfan.

So focused was Huran on the upcoming battle he did not notice the messenger riding up to him until he was greeted, “Lord Huran, Minghan Commander Batu requests an audience with you. He says it is urgent.”

Batu? Isn’t he supposed to back at the Chagatai camp? Had something happened back there? Huran nodded and ordered Batu to be summoned to his presence immediately.

A few minutes later, Batu escorted by two guards was ushered into Huran’s presence. “What is this urgent news that you have for me, Batu? Has something happened back at the camp?”

Batu shook his head, “The camp is alright, my Lord. But there are some people who wish to speak with you. They say they can stop the conflict with the Chin.”

Huran now looked confused. Other than Batu and his two guards, there were no one else. Huran turned back sharply to the guards behind Batu and took a deep breath when he realized who the two guards were. It was Chen Hui and Li Tie.

Chen Hui spoke up first, “Huran, we need to speak. The parchment with the message from Yu Qian is fake. We can still prevent this conflict.”

Huran growled, “You caused me the head of one of my emissary and now you still expect me to believe you? Guards!”

Huran drew his sword. At the same time, the guards around Huran also drew their weapons and started to advance on Chen Hui, Li Tie and Batu.

It was then Huran felt a cold sharp tip on his neck. Behind him, Wu’tu spoke, “I will listen to Chen Hui if I am you.”

“I do not fear death.” Huran said quietly.

“I am sure you don’t but you know you can’t die cause if you do, the Chagatai loses it’s greatest general.”

“Why, Wu’tu? I trusted you.”

“It’s for the Chagatai people. You know as well as I do if the Chagatai meets the Chin in the field of battle, we will be defeated. There are just too many Chin and too few of us. If Chen Hui says he can stop the conflict, then at least listen to him. It might just save the lives of our people.”

“I don’t trust him. He might just betray us to his own people.” Huran snapped.

“Your brother Shur’tu trusted him. Do you not trust your own brother’s judgement?” Wu’tu asked gently.

Huran remained silent for a long moment. His guards still held their positions, weapons drawn but not making any sudden moves. By now more guards and some of the Khans had arrived on seeing the commotion. Some gasped when they saw Wu’tu with a dagger on Huran’s neck.

“Let him speak.” Batu urged Huran.

A elderly khan stepped forward towards Huran and Wu’tu. “Wu’tu, you will release Huran if we let Chen Hui speak?”

Wu’tu nodded, “You have my word.”

“Why should we trust the word one who puts a dagger to his own dagger?” A younger warrior in the crowd taunted.

“Shut up!” The elderly khan snapped at the warrior. He turned back to Wu’tu, “Very well, we will let Chen speak. Guards, stand down your weapons.”

The guards turned back to Huran who slowly nodded his head. The guards put away their weapons but kept their hands close where they can be drawn quickly.

The khan turned to Chen Hui, “Chen Hui, you may speak now and I sincerely hope you have a plan to stop this conflict.”

Chen Hui made a motion for Li Tie to speak. Li Tie started to describe Li Tie’s unique style of writing and how this style was not present which was why they believe that the parchment and the killing of the Chagatai emissary was not done by Yu Qian.

When Li Tie was done speaking, he looked around. The Mongols did not seem convinced. A Chagatai warrior started laughing, “You want us to believe that this is a false parchment on just one stroke in a Chinese word? Do you think us fools?”

“Listen you barbarian. I know most of you are illiterate and know nothing about writing. But let me tell you this, a person’s style of writing is developed from the time he is young. Once he has developed a certain style of writing, it is very difficult to change later.” Li Tie replied hotly.

The elderly khan stroked his beard as he considered Li’s word, “He might have a point there. It’s the same reason why we make sure we teach our young ones the proper art of archery from a young age. If he learns the wrong things when he is young, he will carry it with him to his manhood.”

“Even if Li Tie is right and it was not Yu Qian that killed our emissary and sent this message, it does not mean Yu Qian will agree to meet us for peace talks.” Huran pointed out.

Chen Hui admitted, “That is true. There is no guarantee that Yu will agree to peace but if there is a chance will you take it, Huran?

“Your words mean nothing, Chen Hui. My scouts report that Yu Qian is still in Turfan which is a day’s travel from here. But there is an army of 50,000 soldiers marching on us even as we speak and they are only a few hours away. There is no way that you can reach Turfan before the Ming army engages us.”

Chen bit back a curse. He had heard that a Chinese army was advancing on them but he had no idea that it was that close. He pleaded with Huran, “Then give me the time. Do not engage the Ming army in battle.”

“You want me to retreat from battle? I am not a coward! And beside, this terrain is favorable to Cavalry. I am not about give up this advantage” Huran snarled.

“Even if this is favorable terrain, do you really believe you can defeat the Ming army? Even if you defeat this army, do you think you will have enough men to defeat the next wave of 50,000 men? Why not give me a chance instead to try and secure peace bloodlessly?” Chen said in an earnest voice.

“Even if I choose to withdraw, the Ming army will surely pursue us and I am not sure if we can outrun them.” Huran retorted.

“If you agree to withdraw, the Free Company will make sure the Ming Army will not be able to catch you.” Chen said.

That got a laugh from Huran and the other Mongols around. “You are surely joking. You and your men number barely a thousand bodies. What can you do to stop an army 50 times your size?”

Chen started steadily at Huran, “You have met my second in command Amric. He is one of the finest commanders in Europe. If I tell him to hold the Chin army for a week, he will hold a week. You can be assured of that.”

The Mongols around Chen Hui and Huran were now discussing the matter among themselves. Some wanted to fight, others wanted to give Chen Hui a chance. It was not an easy decision to make. Fighting now will give the Chagatai the advantage of terrain. Choosing to give Chen Hui a choice might mean the Chagatai might have to forfeit their advantage should Chen Hui fail. Many were not sure whether to take the gamble or not.

Huran stood still, silently hearing the comments being made. The fate of the Chagatai people rested on his decision and he was afraid he would make the wrong choice.

Finally Huran made his decision. He turned to Chen Hui, “I will give you three days to try and get Yu Qian to agree to peace talks.”

“Three days? In order to avoid the Chin army, I will have to make a large detour to get to Turfan and that will already take two days. Give me one week.” Chen exclaimed.

Huran shook his head, “One week is too long. The most I can give you is five days. Any longer and I will not be able to hold back my men from deciding to fight the Chin.”

Chen let out a sigh. He had expected no more than 5 days anyway. It was less than what he would like but it would have to do. Anyway, inwardly he wasn’t sure if Amric could really hold off the Chin army for a week. Five days might still be a achievable target.

“And your officers will stay with me.” Huran finished.

“What? How am I going to hold off the Ming army without my best officers?” Chen protested.

“That you will have to figure out for yourself. I have already compromised a lot by even giving you another chance. I do not trust you Chen Hui. The Chins have proven that they are not worthy of trust. But my brother Shur’tu trusted you and on that trust I will take a gamble. Do not make me regret it, Chen Hui.”

“I can’t guarantee you peace Huran, but I will do my best. That’s all I can say.” Chen said.

“Then go rejoin your Company. Take Wu’tu and Sebutai with you. While they may have put a knife on me for the good of the Chagatai, I cannot forgive them at this moment.” With that Huran turned around and ordered the Chagatai to withdraw.

Chen Hui was left with Li Tie, Wu’tu and Sebutai. Wu’tu asked, “Are you really confident Amric can hold off 50,000 Chin soldiers for a week? And how are you going to sneak past another 50,000 soldiers into Turfan to meet Yu Qian?”

Chen shrugged, “I will think of something.”

Sebutai eyes widened, “You mean you have no plan and yet you said all that to Huran?”

“I do know Li Tie and I have to somehow get inside Turfan and the rest of the Company must hold off the Chin army for five days. The details of how we are going to do that I am still working on it. If I don’t say that just now, the Chagatai will be at war with the Chin in a matter of hours. At least now, we have another 5 days to try and resolve the matter.” Chen replied.

The Chagatai army was now slowly turning around to head off in the opposite direction. Chen Hui said to his three companions, “Let’s go. We have only 5 days to stop this conflict and there is lots’ of work to do. It’s time to rejoin the Company

 

[Amric]

March 10, 1451

Chen Hui, Li Tie, Wu’tu and Subutai all galloped to catch up to the company which was quick marching to the east. He made a bee line to Amric who was at the van on his own horse. Amric did a double take when Chen swung in beside him.

“I see you managed to escape,” Amric grinned wryly.

“I also spoke to Huran,” Chen motioned Li Tie closer and turned to Wu’tu who was riding behind, “Have the company halt for now.”

“We go to that hillock,” Amric pointed, “To dig in and meet the Chin.”

“Change of plan,” Chen outlined his conversation with Huran quickly and succinctly.

Amric shook his head slightly, “One of the best commanders in Europe?”

“I didn’t say how many men you commanded,” Chen shrugged with a sly smile.

“Point,” Amric nodded slowly, “So you want me to lead the Chin on a merry chase.”

“The cavalry will engage the Chin cavalry and make them give chase,” Chen reminded him.

“How long do you think the Chin cavalry will chase after ours when they can’t catch them?”

Chen sighed, “It will mean keeping close enough so that they believe that they have a chance to overtake. It will mean casualties. For them and us.”

“Ugly.”

“Necessary.”

“And you expect you and Li Tie will be able to steal into Turfan and speak to Yu Qian?”

“I have little choice,” Chen reminded him, “We cannot fight this army. Together with the Chagatai we cannot defeat the entire Chin army arrayed against them.”

Amric nodded in agreement, “True. But you take a great risk. Li Tie is a wanted man. You were banished. If you are caught you can expect to be executed almost immediately.”

“It is a risk we must take.”

“What of the rest of our officers?” Amric growled.

“Huran would not release them,” Chen sighed, “We will have to do without them for the time.”

“So both you and he expect miracles of me.”

“You got the gates of Nissa open, remember?” Chen reminded him.

“With the help of you and some of the light cavalry,” Amric pointed out.

“You’ll think of something.”

Amric sighed, louder this time.

“I’ll get it done.”

“I know,” Chen leaned over and clapped him on the back.

He motioned to Li Tie and the two of them headed toward the supply wagons. Amric trotted up to de Bloomfield and motioned the temporary commanders of the light and heavy cavalry to him. He also had Kincaid and the leader of the supply train attend the meeting. The men gathered around him as he laid out his plans. There were groans as the plan was laid out.

“So the supply train is the head out now after supplying each man with trail rations for two days. Some of the Rangers will accompany the supply train to obscure their trail. Five Rangers are to stay with the infantry to scout ahead and make sure that there are no surprises in front of us. The rest will hide and wait for the Chin army to pass so that they can disrupt their supply lines.

The cavalry is to lightly engage the Chin cavalry and entice them to chase them. Most of them anyway. A small contingent will swing wide and meet back up with the Rangers who hide to help disrupt the supply lines. Another small contingent will stay with the infantry to make sure that there are plenty of hoofprints for the Chin to believe that we are the main Chagatai army. They will also be our way to resupply with our own supply train.

The infantry will march and leave a wide trail for the Chin army to follow. With our endurance training I see no problem staying ahead of them. But not so far as to make them give up chasing us.”

De Bloomfield groaned, “This is overly complicated, Lieutenant.”

“We have little choice,” Amric grimaced, “We have to give Captain and Li Tie the time to reach Yu Qian and convince him to stop this war with the Chagatai. We cannot outrun the Chin cavalry. Ours must keep them occupied to the point that they cannot rejoin the rest of their infantry chasing us. If we also manage to disrupt their chain of supply it will slow them down as well. An army marches on it’s collective stomach. Slice that slender trail and we are in control of their destiny. We can’t possible fight them toe to toe. You know it as well as I do.”

“I hate running.”

“You did just fine in training and drill,” Amric reminded him.

“Gee, thanks, Lieutenant.”

“Kincaid, you’ll lead the Rangers tasked with disrupting their supply lines.”

“Very good, Lieutenant. One question.”

“Yes?”

“How will we be able to send you a message?”

“You won’t. We’ll be traveling northward generally. You’ll know that Captain was successful when messengers have the Chin army break off pursuit and start returning to Turfan. The same will be true for the cavalry. Your job will be very difficult. You’ll have to keep the Chin interested, which means you will have to not only dish it out, but you’ll probably take some casualties as well. If the Chin cavalry tries to break off pursuit you’ll have to persuade them otherwise.”

The cavalry officer nodded slowly in understanding.

Amric continued, “You’ll have to take what supplies you can and live off the land as well as you can for at least five days. Probably closer to a week or a week and a half.”

The supply officer cleared his throat, “So we’re to be left hanging in the wind?”

“You’ll have some Rangers with you, and walking wounded that we have from illness and such,” Amric shrugged, “You should have little trouble. The Chagatai will be west of us and the Chin army chasing the infantry.”

“True….”

“I can certainly leave you fifty men if that would make you feel better.”

“I’d like that, sir.”

“You’ll have them. De Bloomfield, see to it.”

“Yes, sir.”

“That’s it, gentlemen,” Amric saw Chen Hui and Li Tie gallop away to the east, “Time to get moving.”

 

[Amric]

March 10, 1451

James, Kincaid, and most of the Rangers were hidden on the same hillock that Amric had originally planned to use as his base of operations. They watched as the Chin army swung north of it as they caught sight of the light cavalry covering the company’s retreat deeper into the steppe.

The Chin cavalry rode out in pursuit of the company cavalry, which angled further west of the quickly moving company infantry. The main Chin army started to double time as they hoped to catch sight and eventually overtake what they presumed to be the fleeing Chagatai.

The Rangers had arranged to take many arrows and stones for their bows and slings. They had enough food to last them for a few days in trail rations. However they fully intended to live off of Chin supply wagons. What they didn’t take they would burn to keep the Chin army from using it.

It was hours before the various forces were fully out of sight. The Rangers gathered together to palaver.

“Should we use this as our base of operations?” James inquired of Kincaid.

“I suppose we could,” Kincaid nodded slowly, “The Chin will likely have supply wagons passing relatively near here. It will also be high ground to spy out any messengers from the Chin to their comrades in Turfan and vice versa.”

“Sensible,” James agreed.

“We’ll stay mostly here and when we spy something to go after we’ll make for the target,” Kincaid sighed.

“This would be easier with horses,” James opined.

“We’ll confiscate horses from the Chin,” Kincaid reminded him, “There was no way we could hide horses up here while the Chin passed by, as you well know.”

“I do. Just wishing is all.”

“Does everyone have their mirrors?” Kincaid inquired.

Each man nodded and pulled out a small mirror to show him. Kincaid nodded in satisfaction.

“Each day there will be two men up here as main lookouts,” he continued, “The rest will be out and about. Ostensibly hunting….but be sure to keep an eye on the summit. There could be a message at any time.”

More nods from the assembled men.

“We need to dig our fire pits on the lee side of the hill,” Kincaid informed them, “It will keep anyone from hopefully noticing anything. Make them deep, gentlemen.”

The veterans needed no real reminder, but there were a few men who had joined the company in Cyprus. It never hurt to make sure everyone was on the same page.

James spoke up, “I found a cave.”

Kincaid’s eyebrows rose in surprise, “Really?”

“I stumbled upon it,” James grinned, “It’s a narrow opening and it only goes about three hundred feet at most deep. It does open up slightly. About ten paces wide for awhile before petering out.”

“Good to know,” Kincaid smiled, “We can hide our supplies there and any loot we take.”

“About the hunting….”one man trailed off.

“Yes?”

“Shouldn’t we be careful of taking down anything large?”

“Absolutely,” Kincaid nodded, “Don’t do it. Keep it small. Hares, small antelope, nothing too big.”

The men nodded once more in agreement. The sky was obviously darkening. It would be a very short time before night fell.

“Let’s get those pits dug. It will be night very shortly.”

The Rangers fell to work with a will. There was little chance that they would be doing any fighting that night, but that didn’t mean they wouldn’t set pickets and be prepared in the event they had to do so.

The next day they would be setting traps and preparing the hill as a death trap for anyone who wasn’t one of them.

 

[redwolf]

March 10, 1451, the Steppes

Squad Leader of 10 horse scouts Yang Jian was out on patrol with his men when one of his scouts found something. With the rest of his squad, Yang Jian went to over where his man had indicated to investigate.

It was hoof prints made by horses. How many Yang Jian could not tell. He had heard many stories of how the Mongols rode in columms to make their forces appear smaller than it was really was. The hoof prints in front of Yang Jian could mean 200 horses or 2000. The only way to be sure was to track the prints and see for himself.

The prints led to a nearby ridge and beyond. Snapping orders to his men, the squad rode towards the ridge where the prints led. As they neared the top of the ridge, Yang Jian thought he heard some noises from beyond the ridge. A glance at his men told him he was not the only person hearing it. And the noises were getting louder too. Whoever was on the other side of the ridge was coming closer. Yang and his men quickly drew their weapons, anxiously waiting for whoever was beyond the ridge to appear.

Moments later, a squad of fellow Chin soldiers appeared at the top of the ridge and rode towards them as fast as they could. They appeared to be in panic as they spurred their horses on from whatever was pursuing them.

The fleeing Chins saw Yang and his men in front of them and they started calling them to turn back and run as “They are coming!”

Yang was baffled. Who was coming? The answer appeared then. Cresting the top of the ridge at top speed was almost 200 Chagatai Mongols horsemen. Yang cursed and quickly ordered his men to turn about.

By the time Yang and his men had turned around and picked up speed, the other group of Chins had caught up with them and the merged group rode as fast as they could towards the safety of their main army.

The Mongols were not giving up the chase though as they followed the Chins close behind. Some of the Mongols fired a few arrows but they fell short of the Chins. By now, Yang knew they were near the army and so they were. Sweeping in from the north were several hundred Chin cavalrymen. They had saw their scouts being chased by the Mongols and they were now racing to the rescue.

Seeing the reinforcements arriving, the Chagatai abandoned the chase and turned back to where they came from originally. As Yang sighed in relief at the close shave, the leader of the other group of Chin scouts who had merged with them said, “It’s not over yet. Come, we need to see the General. I got grave news for him.

Yang and the other Chin was quickly brought into the presence of General Wang Le and his command staff. Yang reported the hoof prints he had found and how as they were following the tracks when they were intercepted by the Chagatai.

The other scout leader spoke up then, “Sir, it is as Yang Jian said. My scouts saw the tracks as well and we followed them until we came across a force of almost 3000 Mongols. They were keeping well wide of our patrols but they were heading northwards behind our lines.”

General Wang frowned. 3000 Mongols was 10% of the enemy force. What were they planning and where were they going? Then it hit him; his supply lines! The Mongols must know they can’t fight the Chin army that was advancing them and so the only the thing they could do was to sneak behind their lines and harass their supply lines. Cut off the supply lines and the Chin would be forced to retreat. A cowardly but brilliant plan, Wang got to admit. In Huran shoes, he would probably do the same thing.

He turned to his Cavalry Commander, “We cannot allow the Mongols to get behind our lines and wreck havoc on our supplies. Take half the cavalry and pursue the Mongols. Do not let them reach our supply train.”

The commander nodded and he quickly moved off to prepare to set off. Yang and the other scout leader was dismissed as Wang turned his attention to other matters.

As the two men left the officers, Yang commented to the other scout, “It is lucky that you manage to spot the Mongols. Had they been allowed to sneak behind us without us knowing, the consequences would have been unthinkable. Without fresh supplies from Turfan, our advance will grind to a halt.”

The other scout smiled, “We were lucky. The Mongols were obviously in a hurry to get past our lines that they hardly even noticed us following them. By the time they did, we had a good count of their numbers and had a good head start back towards the main force.”

Yang nodded, “Still, it was good work on your part and your men. By the way, I still do not know your name. My name is Yang Jian.”

“My name is Rong Tai.” Rong Tai replied as he resisted the urge to offer a hand. Chins do not shake hands, he had to remember that. Instead, he put his right fist over his open left palm in the traditional Chinese greeting.

After a few more minutes of small talk, Yang made his leave and RongTai made his way to where the rest of his squad, all Free Company Chins waited for him. The first part of the plan was completed. They had managed to infiltrate the Chinese Army. Now they wait…

 

[redwolf]

March 11, Just before dawn, Chin Cavalry camp

Dawn was breaking soon. Visibility of the surrounding area was starting to pick. The Chin camp below has yet to stir though.

Sebutai allowed himself a wolfish grin. After RongTai had infiltrated the main Chin camp yesterday, the Chin general had sent out 5000 of his cavalrymen after the “Chagatai Cavalry” that appeared to be heading towards the Chin supply train. In reality it was only the 300 horses of the Free Company Cavalry who was drawing the half the Chin cavalry away from the main Chin army.

For a day, the Light Cavalry had moved fast keeping out of sight of the Chin cavalry but leaving enough clues and tracks to ensure the Chin cavalry will follow them closely. As the sun set that evening, the Chin commander had called it a day and they had set up camp.

The first few hours of night, the Chin guards had been on high alert as they waited for a raid on their camp. But no raid came and as the hours went by, the Chin had started to become relaxed. By the time dawn approached, even a couple of the sentries were asleep and that was what Wu’Tu was waiting for.

Ahead of the Light Cavalry, a few Rangers were steadily approaching the unsuspecting sentries. A few more moments and the sentries had been eliminated. No alarm had been raised and the camp was not open to attack.

Wu’Tu gave a silent signal and the Light Cavalry advanced on the Chin Cavalry camp in total silence. As they entered firing range, the Light Cavalry fired arrows with flaming tips into the Chin camp.

The arrows landed on the Chinese tents and fires started breaking out. Chin soldiers were startled out of their sleep as cries of “fire” reverberated around the camp. Soldiers, many still in their sleeping garments grabbed pails and whatever they could grabbed as they rushed to the water barrels to get water to fight the fire. Others grabbed spades and started throwing sand and soil onto the fire as well.

Then more shouts of alarm came from one of the entrances. The camp was under attack. With Wu’tu in the lead, the Light Cavalry charged into the Chin Cavalry camp, burning torches in one hand and swords in the other. They rode through the disorganized camp, killing and burning all in their paths. A few Chin soldiers grabbed weapons and tried to resist but was easily brushed aside.

The Light Cavalry then split into two groups. One continued to wreck havoc on the Chin Cavalry camp while the other group rode to where the Chin had kept their horses for the night and started to release their horses. The released horses started to run in all directions, some outside the camp and others inside camp, adding to the chaos that were already in the camp.

In the rear of the camp, the Cavalry commander was rallying his soldiers and now they prepared to engage the raiders.

However, by then, Wu’tu had decided that they had caused enough damage for the night and he snapped a command. The Light Cavalry dropped their torches and they rode out the same direction they came in from.

The raid was done in a matter of minutes but in that time, the Chin cavalry horses had been released and most of the camp was left in flames. But luckily for the Chin, the raiders had not hit their supplies and water. Had they done that, the cavalry would have been forced to retreat back to their main force.

Unknown to them, Wu’tu had deliberately not attacked their supplies. Wu’tu wanted the Chin Cavalry to be kept away from the main Chin force as long as possible to give Amric and the rest of the Free Company a chance to wreck havoc on the main Chin force.

Even as the Light Cavalry rode off, Wu’tu was already planning his next move…