We Were Born To Lose

Two days later and we were almost there, I’d offered my horse to Sir Merrick so many times he (playfully) threatened to gag me so I’ll shut up and tie me to the saddle so I won’t get off for him. The rest of the trip had gone without a hitch, David’s leg was healing nicely and from what I could tell, he wouldn’t have a huge scar. We came up a hill to see about one hundred big tents and everyone cheered because we’d finally arrived. King Lance’s troops were already there and we all rode down the hill and handed our horses to the servants. I followed Alex into an official looking tent. Inside, a muscular man was hunching over a table looking at a map.
“King Lance.” Alex spoke. I immediately bowed my head as his came up.
“Ah, Prince Gaskarth.” He held out his hand, “Good to meet you.”
“You as well, any news on Cenrid?” He asked, shaking it.
“None, as far as we know, he has no idea we’re residing here.”
“Excellant.”
They talked about other things such as attack locations and living accommodations for a while before giving each other another handshake and exiting. The Prince and King decided to go ahead and just mix the troops as opposed to trying to keep their tents separate. It would just be easier for everyone. I followed Alex through the rows of tents. Most everyone was outside in the chilly air either, sharpening weapons, training in the field in front of us, or swimming in the river to the left of the camp. However the ones who were talking outside their tents eyed me carefully, as if they were soaking in every detail. This caused me to walk closer to my master so I was right behind him, trying not to accidentally step on his heels. He turned in front of a large tent and walked in.
“I arranged for you to share a tent with me.” He informed. I looked around but there was only one bed and I gave him a smirk which he returned. “Fortunately my order for two beds instead of one wasn’t recognized.”
“Yes because I’m sure that requests from the Prince go unnoticed.”
“You’d be surprised.” He grinned giving me a quick peck on the lips. After settling in, I grabbed the medicine bag and walked around looking for Matt. Most of our soldiers didn’t pay much attention to me but Lance’s men were a bit more attentive. They’d stare at me, as if trying to decipher who I was and what my deepest secrets were. I shrunk back and kept my head down when one of them started approaching me.
“Who are you?” He asked.
“J-Jack. I’m Prince Al-Alexander’s servant.” I spoke quietly.
“Oh so you serve the man who’s father hates us.” He sneered.

Great, another person who wants to pick on me.

“The Prince d-doesn’t share his father’s v-views.” I almost whispered but if you were in my place, you’d be frightened too. This guy stood at least six-foot-five and me being only six feet, I was pretty much standing in his shadow. He took a step towards me as he spoke,
“Well then you can tell you prince that-“
“I’m sure the Prince would love to hear what you have to say,” Sir Balthazar’s voice cut through the air, “But you honestly don’t need Jack as your little messenger do you?”
I breathed in relief as Sir Balthazar stood in front of me, shielding me with his body.
“That’s what servants are for, are they not?” He retorted.
“Not this one.” Sir Balthazar growled, placing his hand on his sword. The tall knight was smart enough to know not to pick any fights so he just glared at us and stalked off.
“Thanks.” I breathed.
“No problem. I’m sure Alex wouldn’t be too happy if you’d gotten a battle wound before the war had begun.” He said with a laugh.
“No Sire.” I grinned, “Do you know where Matt is?”
“Sir Merrick took him to his tent.” He replied.
“Thank you Sire.” I said before running off to find him, I still needed to change his dressing. I peaked through to see Matt laying on the bed and Sir Merrick was sitting beside him, helping him eat.
“Sorry, I just need to change Matt’s herbs and dressing.” I said quietly. Sir Merrick invited me in and I quickly finished, not wanting to intrude on them.
“Jack, when will I be able to walk again?” He asked.
“Probably the day after tomorrow since your leg has healed so well.”
“Will I be able to fight?”
“No, give yourself a week before you do that.” I replied. Just then Alex burt in.
“We’ve learned the location of one of Cenrid’s squads. We’re going to initiate an attack on them in an hour. Get ready, the war is about to begin.” He said. We rushed out and quickly to see the whole camp was in a rush. It was utter chaos with everyone trying to get ready to fight. We helped each other with our armor quickly and grabbed our horses and set off with the party. Alex instructed for the two of us to fall back.
“Jack, I know I’ve said it before but I’ll say it again. It’s not too late for you to back out.”
“Sire, I-“
“I’ve fought lots of battles but I’ve never met anyone as ruthless as Cenrid’s men. The horrors you will see are unequal to anything you’ve experienced. So I’m offering you… No. I’m asking you, please don’t come with us.”
“Sire I’m going.” I said firmly. He sighed at me, nodded, then headed back up to the front of the party. I was a little nervous from how anxious he was but I mean come on, how bad could it possibly be?

Notes

Title Cred: The Call by Regina Spektor

come on guys, five more ratings and we'll be at 60, pleaaasseeeee

AND ALSO THE NEXT CHAPTER IS CHAPTER 50 WHOAH HOW DID THAT HAPPEN?

so anyway, next chapter will be...Eventful..