Awaiting

((Prequel to 'Battle')) The men sat in wait beyond the hill, The outline of the enemy fortress Just able to be seen. Their candles flickered in the distance Amongst the downpour of God’s tears For the sorrow that was to come. The night drew on, The dark clouds passed over the castle. Pale moonlight was finally allowed to fall. With the rain gone, the men were left Cold of body, and of heart. Final pieces of armour were strapped in place, Helmets lowered onto heads. And as the shields were taken up, Bearing the emblems of the families they fought for, The trials they had endured for their king, Silent prayers were sent out. A banner was raised high And the soldiers marched on beneath it, The imposing rhythm of their steps Reaching the castle long before them. Men behind fortress walls grew alert. Horns sounded on both sides, Implements of war were put into place. And when the banner crested o’er the hill, The first arrow was released.