“Move out, we will be there within twenty minutes. Have no fear, fight for yourself, fight for a girl, fight for your children, and win this battle.” The soldier’s deep voice boomed. Everyone stood and grabbed their weapons. What was a few paladins in armor now appeared to be over one hundred. But Black Shadow and the others knew the truth, they were no paladins, they were mercenaries.

They began their march, walking in a big group together, following the five paladins leading the small army. The men would quickly grow tired, they were not used to this heavy armor. They would have to stop often, and what was a twenty-minute journey became well over an hour’s march.

The road was a winding one, with plenty of obstacles. Fallen trees often caused delays, and small patches of water that would need to be crossed would wash away the path and create confusion. The men were not ready for this journey, and when the time came for battle, many would not be ready.

Black Shadow stayed near the back, watching and listening for any danger. Most of the journey did not have any problems, yet at one point Black Shadow heard a noise from his right. He drew an arrow and fired it, killing a man in a tree. His lifeless body fell from the tree and onto the cold forest floor. Black Shadow examined the body, noticing it was pitch black, almost skeletal.

“That is a scout for our enemy.” Paladin Erin said, coming up to examine the kill as well. “These filthy creatures will pay for what they have done.”

Black Shadow reached down and grabbed the bow of the creature, a black bow made of bone.