The first light of dawn spilled over the horizon as the signal horns sounded, their deep, resonant call echoing through the valley.
The big encampment stirred like a waking beast.
Soldiers hauled themselves from their bedrolls, rubbing sleep from their eyes, while officers bellowed orders to gather their units.
The march had begun.
Kael stood outside his command tent, adjusting his armor as Gerald approached with a stack of freshly written reports.
The cold morning air smelled of damp earth and smoke from the previous night's fires.
Nearby, the thunder of hoofbeats signaled Alexander's cavalry forming up, their banners catching the early sunlight.
"How are we holding up, Gerald?" Kael asked, his tone measured.
Gerald handed him a scroll. "Logistics are sound for now, my lord. The supply wagons are moving in staggered lines as planned. Each battalion has their assigned handlers, blacksmiths, and medics. It's organized chaos, but chaos nonetheless."
