- A contract -

On the next morning, warden sent an alert. There were thirty-one soldiers going to the village.

When they stopped, one soldier got off his horse. He stepped forward and started reading a letter:

“King’s official statement: Those, who grabbed Jamil Gabriel’s knight squad, I am amazed by yours might. I want to offer you join my army.”

Owen left his cover. After few seconds, he started speaking:

“My name is Owen Aston. My troops are defending this village. We do not want to spill blood. I also have an offer for you. Your captain will battle with me, if you win, you will lead us to king, if we win, you will join us.”

Somebody of the army approached to Owen on horseback.

 My name is Laurence Bering. I am the captain. I agree your offer, Owen Aston. First, I want to see the squad that you grabbed.

The squad was taken out.

 I did not expect any dignity from you, Jamil.

 Let’s get started, Owen.

Laurence has got off his horse. He and Owen unsheathed their swords. Owen started to run. However, Laurence has been staying, waiting for the opponent. He was ready to block every hit. When Owen got too close to Laurence, he started moving very fast. He was coming from every side to Laurence, so Laurence could not block his attacks. Laurence’s armour was destroyed into the dust. Everyone, who was on the battlefield, died away. Laurence was staying in shock, out of breath.

 Unreal.

Owen looked on his comrades. They started to acclaim.

Laurence knelt in front of Owen. All soldiers knelt too.

 Actually, we have not sworn to the King. That means we can swear to you, Owen. We hope you will govern us sensibly to bring this country to the best.

He and soldiers stood up. Laurence started to pronounce the oath. Everyone, except the minority, was repeating his words. It caused a strange feel in Owen is heart.

 Why do they think that I want to lead the whole people? Maybe I really want it deep inside…

All villagers returned to their houses this day. All intruders were sent to king. The day that brought a new hope in people lives. Owen did not realize what he is going to reach.

Villagers organized a celebration this day. Elder spoke about their new governor – Owen Aston and asked him for coming out on the public. Owen came out without any idea what to say them. He started his speech:

 Good evening everyone, my name is Owen Aston. I am glad to know that you want to help me on the way of reviving this country. All people know that we could live better lives, but the King do not want it. Moreover, nobody of regular people know who is he. This fool does not know how it can disserve him! I want to interchange him on this post to stop his inanity! Therefore, I suggest you myself as the new leader. Thank you for your great choice. We will improve our lives!

Owen greeted and retired under ovations.

After this, he had an important discussion with his ‘generals’: Laurence Bering, Wallace Duty, who was the leader of bandits, and Eliza Shelton.

 Now, we have sixty-two soldiers in our active.

 What we will do with them? What are our priorities? What is our mission?

 Good questions, Eliza. I shall get answers on them: Our mission is to improve people lives in the country. Priorities are simple: First and general is to introduce opposition in its best way. Second is to keep everyone motivated. Third is to add new members.

 What about my first question?

 Laurence is going to answer.

 Hmm. As for me, I think that we need to split out on some parts. I wish we got more warriors by this way.

 I agree Laurence.

 What about you, Eliza?

 I agree.

 Good. We are splitting on three parts. Laurence with twenty-seven people will go on North, because he has some experience in keeping large squads. There you may meet bandits and other nasty things, so be careful. Wallace will go on South with eighteen people. South is more safety than North, I think you will get it without problems. Eliza and I will pick last seventeen people and go on East. I need to meet one wise old man there.

 Roger that! – together

The morning was spent on preparing for the journey.

Everybody is ready. Some people said goodbye to their families. Generals congregated their squads.

 Do not die!

 You too!

Great plans are becoming true. It is hard to believe, but few days ago, this man, Owen Aston, was a typical wanderer without friends.