"Enough!“ my voice boomed inside the council‘s tent, making some of the zebras standing around shiver. This meeting before the battle wasn’t taking the course I would’ve liked. Too much hesitation from appointed advisors who have never seen any battle. And even some voices to withdraw. What a bullshit. All these advisors meeting were good for was to give me a headache.

"I don't understand why you would like to wait, Lekan, our forces are assembled and all preparations finished, no need to halt the attack any longer,“ I pointed my front hoof at the voice of the weakness that infested our campaign like a plague. He was an old coward who got his place only thanks to some ties in higher places; never lead in any battle, probably didn’t even know how to fight, and now he was sitting here like a virulent tumour; dressed in fine clothes to mask his fat body. He’d been preventing a decisive strike against buffaloes for ten days now. He and other advisors were more dead weight to pull than any help. “Not to mention pegasi “peace” keeping forces could arrive to hamper our situation. I am not willing to endanger our soldiers any more!”

“Buffalos gathered the remaining tribes, their army now counts more hooves than ours currently does. They have also got a high morale, plenty of supplies and don't forget how well they are fortified on the White hill. Attacking now would be if not suicidal at least a colossal waste of our assets in a battle that doesn’t even need to be fought,” he finished with a smug grin on his face. One slice of a blade and most of my problems would be gone. Just one… “

The idea was so tempting; I realised my hoof was reaching for my sabre on it’s own. With a sigh I pulled the eager hoof back.

After that coward was done with his speech a wave of approval rose in the tent. The same wave I had to cut short many times before. I looked at those zebras who were too afraid, too weak or just too comfortable at the posts given to them. Their faces made me almost throw up. Sons and daughters of wealthy families always find a way to a higher ranks in any army. And these were so pompous, so full of themselves they didn’t see the opportunity which revealed itself in front of us; dancing and giggling just waiting for us to reach and grab it with our hooves.

No, all they saw was a danger to their career, to their social status. For every day they have spent near the battlefield or at least five miles away from it, their social status rose as well as their treasury. They disgusted me, and the way Lekan has spoken… Our assets, like this was some kind of company!

"I’ve had enough of your cowardice Lekan! Our Great leader send us here to deal with the buffalos. Now we have them in one place! One place where we can kill them all! I am not letting this opportunity slip away!“ I hit a table in front of me with a hoof venting up my frustration; splitting the wooden desk in two.

To my amusement some of his numerous chins shook like a grass in a wind as he opened and closed jaws without saying anything.

"Terona speaks truth, we must attack as soon as possible. Schmatrag wills it!“ Zorxa, my second in command stood up; earning a respectful nod from me. She was always first to follow me.

"Schmatrag wills it,“ hesitant murmur sounded in reply after advisors found their voice and rose it on behalf of our leader, not convinced to attack but not wanting to sound unloyal.

"So it is settled, we will attack immediately,“ I looked around the table; not expecting any opposition. To my surprise it still arose.

"You can’t make this decision on your own Terona, we have to vote,“ Rieth spoke up. If there was one zebra worse than Lekan then it would be her. While he was arrogant and pompous he was still a coward, unlike him, Rieth had a spine and could fight to some degree. In addition to that she was unpredictable.

"What?!“ I roared shaking with suppressed rage.

"We need to vote,“ she repeated calmly, unaffected by my outburst.

I narrowed my eyes; glaring at her with hate. "Why?! We didn’t need to vote before when we assaulted other buffaloes tribes!“

She didn’t lower her eyes, repaying my glare with a serenity of an iceberg. "This is going to be a last stand of buffaloes as you said and we must be prepared for every risk. We wouldn’t want to trip right before the finish line would we?“

"But I am the warmare here! Our Great leader chose me to lead his army to victory!“ my hoof shifted again to the hilt of the sabre.

"Of course and we are here“- she waved her hoof in a circle-" to make sure you achieve it in the most efficient way. So I propose a vote: whoever is for immediate attack on the well fortified buffalo's lines on the White hill raise their hoof,“ she turned her head from me to look over rest of the advisors. Heh, at least some victory, even if only in a staring contest.

I couldn’t believe this! From a quick glance it was obvious my proposal wouldn’t get enough votes. Too little(few) hooves were in the air and too much(many) remained down. But we couldn’t afford to wait! The risk of pegasi strike force interfering was too great. Slowly, I left my place at the front of the table and made my way behind Rieth.

The snobby, stupid bitch. But her mindset wasn’t always like this. When she joined our conquest at the beginning, she showed some promise. Rieth wasn’t afraid to get her hooves dirty, unlike the other useless advisors. No, when the buffaloes attacked our camp she valiantly defended it, fighting bravely and risking her life. Then to my surprise she asked for a place in the counter attack to avenge her friend who was killed in the buffalo assault. From the reports, she charged the buffalo lines without hesitation, screaming a fearsome war-cry; truly, a warrior's spirit burned brightly inside her that day.

It's a pity she got injured in the counter-attack. While it wasn't life-threatening, it did make her spend more time with the rest of the advisors like Lekan; parasitic leeches who only wanted to grab as much as they can. From then on, she became a thorn in my side; tossing sticks under my hooves whenever she got the opportunity. I couldn’t tolerate it anymore; I tried many times to talk some sense into her, but to no avail. She needed to find out that no zebra stands against the warmare for so long. No matter how brave they were.

The simplest solutions are usually the correct ones, right?

Who needs these advisors anyway?

"And those who would rather wa…“ Rieth bemoaned as I stabbed her in the back; plunging my sabre deeper, making the blood gored tip burst out from her chest. Credits where credits due, the weakling tried to grasp it and push it out before I let the hilt go and punched her to the head. Rieth feebly fell on a side; badly wheezing for air, blood gushing from the wound and trickling from mouth stained her white-black coat. The sabre must have pierced one of the lungs on it’s way; red bubbles gurgled around the edge of the wound.

“You are hereby relieved of your duty as an advisor,” I put a hoof underneath her chin and turned it towards me so I could look her in the eyes. The light of life was quickly fading away from them. In a final act of defiance, Rieth spat a mouthful of warm, dark blood on my muzzle followed by a quiet curse I didn’t understand. A heartbeat later she stopped breathing and I unceremoniously dropped her head on the ground with a soft thud. Underneath the corpse a dark red puddle was growing, fed by a thinning trickle of blood.

"And those who would rather wait?“ I pulled my sabre out from the corpse with a squelching sound as some of the blood held by it quickly flowed out. "No?“ I aimed my ( now crimson) sabre at every advisor, each of them hastily looking down. "Thought so.“

"Zorxa, it looks like our front lines just got some reinforcements,“ my lips curled into a cruel smile. "Make sure they are equipped accordingly,“ I waved the sabre at the paler than usual advisors; some of them getting splattered by Reith’s blood. They flinched nicely when the still warm drops hit their face; forming interesting patterns. Heh, maybe I should try getting some canvas and paint a few pictures with this special colour after the battle.

"Will do, warmare,“ Zorxa saluted and immediately kicked the advisor closest to her in the barrel, sending him to the floor. "You heard your orders, get up and move! You will follow corporal Barbed like he is your good uncle and do everything he tells you. Is that understood?!“ her voice which could shout down a storm rumbled in the tent; waking the advisors from their stupor; making them stand up.

Still shaking Lekan tried to argue, but when he opened his mouth a well aimed punch from Zorxa broke his jaw with a loud crack, after that he quickly followed the rest of the advisors out of the tent. In a short time only I and Zorxa remained inside.

"There will be consequences,“ Zorxa said in annoyed tone, pointing at the dead body.

"No there wont,“ I wiped the sabre into Reith’s fur, getting rid of the blood. "Today we are going to win. Nothing else matters. Did the pegasi scouts report anything new?“

"Lekan pretty much summarized it, the buffalos fortified their positions on the White hill with enough supplies to last them for months, they are in no rush to get us. Just a question if I may, the pegasi were surprised that we don’t rhyme when we talk, what kind of crap is that?“

"Apparently one of our shamans who lives in the Everfree Forest likes to screw with ponies, so everything he or she says rhymes. That’s all I know,“ I shrugged; turning to face Zorxa so I saw how she rolled her eyes.

"And they expect us to rhyme as well? Those pegasi are really featherbrains,“ Zorxa smirked mockingly.

"Invaluable featherbrains,“ I rose my hoof. "Don’t forget that thanks to them we know where the buffalos are.“

"I am surprised that they are willing to scout for us. One would think all ponies would put their hooves away.“

"Mercenaries. Their goddess is gold, they would do anything for the right price,“ I walked towards the exit. "Let's go prepare the troops for the upcoming battle.“

"And what about the body?“

"Dispose of it. I don’t want this tent to stink of death. Also make a banner for our newest recruits. It would be shame to have them march into the battle without it.“

Zorxa grimaced. "It will be done, warmare. I will take care of it.”

Immediately when I left the cover of the tent a strong gust of wind blowing around tossed a shitton of sand to my face, making me close my eyes; some of the little grains found their way inside my nostrils and mouth; making me sneeze. God fucking- hep-čí! - damn it! And the bland sand got between my teeth! I tried to fish out the small grains with my tongue but it proved totally futile. At least someone would get a good chuckle out of watching me. Horrible weather. Even in the morning the sun was doing everything it could to drain all life from me. It’s rays ruthlessly scorching my coat made me sweat like a pig, small beads of it already trickling from my brow. The freezing nights (not so freezing thanks to one lovely mare) were not any better. The conditions of the desert are something I probably won’t ever get use to. And this was the plain beneath the White Hill; it must be even worse on top of it.

“Bless you,” a few steps in front of the tent stood a couple of couriers (who had to see me impersonating a toothless dog with a piece of toffu); wearing light armour with scarves tied around their muzzles. I cursed silently; the worries of the upcoming battle made me completely forget about this little piece of cloth which could make all the difference in comfort around here.

“Thank you, Imari,” I sniffed, wiping my nose. “If I remember correctly it was common habit to greet your superior rank by a salute. But I guess I was wrong,” I smirked.

“Sorry, ma’am,” a pair of hooves shot up in unison as they stood at attention. “But if you pardon me you don’t look exactly as a warmare. Or even an officer. More like a sloppy murderer with all the blood stains” Imari laughed nervously.

“At ease,” I saluted them back. “Sloppy, Imari? That hurts. You know I am not sloppy when it comes to murder.” I grinned at him. “Our dear advisors needed some persuading to see the bigger picture.”

“Does that mean..?” Imari’s ears perked up.

“Yes, we’ll attack the buffaloes. Go to the officer’s tents and tell them to assemble the army as soon as they can. Get the message around quickly. I would like to have this battle over before lunch. There was talk of having mushroom burgers for one of the chef’s birthday today. It would be a shame to miss it,” I confidently smiled at Imari.

“Yeah, I heard they got some fine beer to go with it as well,” Iimari scratched back of his head. “Permission to speak freely warmare?”

“Go ahead,” I nodded. What was so dire he needed to ask for permission?

“Ehm, warmare with all due respect, shouldn’t the officers and commanders gather first? For a meeting before assembling the army? This is all rather sudden.”

“You are right. This is a bit sudden but don’t worry, as opposed to our lazy advisors we were busy with creating the best plan of attack. All officers and commanders know what to do, all they are waiting for is the order to go. The Buffaloes won’t know what hit them.” At least something good came from the all the delays the advisors have caused. They gave us enough time to come up with couple of plans and backup possibilities. Shame they didn’t know when to stop… “Now please go and deliver the message, I am sure they are eagerly awaiting it. And while you are at it, send some creative zebras here, Zorxa has a job for them.”

“As you wish, warmare,” Imari and the second courier briskly saluted and left in haste.

It probably would be good if I visited some of them personally. But all of them were competent zebras on the right places and since the plans for attack have been been prepared some time ago and discussed through and through; there was no reason to run around while they had their hooves full. And I would see them after the assembly anyway.

Soon the air was filled with clean tones of trumpets; shouting of sergeants and corporals who were cursing angrily at soldiers seeking refuge from the sun and dust inside tents and now were taking too long to gather their weapons, armour and other equipment. After a brief moment the tent city resembled a wasp hive; zebras quickly moving through narrow paths between walls of canvas trying to avoid bumping into each other but sometimes a loud thud followed by jingle of chain mail echoed here and there.

After a few officers passed by in haste the path towards my tent was clear. Not a lot soldiers in this part, mostly just couriers running around. With a light trot I headed to my little canvas home; it’s not much but at least the sand wouldn’t get in.

Two guards were standing in front of the entrance to the tent in full combat armour; indifferent to the weather. A matte white, bulky plate armour with black stripes , reliable chainmail underneath and cotton overalls as the last layer of defense. With a plate helmet covering the head and muzzle, every zebra who was was wearing it was protected from the bottom to the top. Even though I told them they don’t have to wear it; no need to let the weather drain more strength from you than is necessary. But one look at them and any intruder would think twice about attacking.

The guard on my left rose a hoof to his chest and bowed slightly; shadows casted by his helmet made the face behind drowned in a darkness with only azure eyes brightly shining through. "Does the sound of trumpets mean we are attacking soon, warmare?“ The eagerness in his voice tingled in my ears.

"Yes, I have dealt with the advisors, there is nothing between us and our victory now, Gralen,“ with a quick move he pulled the canvas away, opening the entrance for me.

Once I entered my chambers I let out a sigh of relief as the blistering heat died off only to be replaced by a breathtaking sultriness. Still it was better than the scorching sun.

At once I emptied a lukewarm pot of water that stood on a small wooden table near the entrance on my head. That felt good. My wet mane clung to my face and small streams from it trickled down my muzzle. Some drops found their way in my mouth and brought… a very diluted taste of Rieth’s blood. Damn. Wiping my lips with a foreleg I clicked my tongue. Not a bad vintage. I grabbed the tablecloth and dried my muzzle before tossing it away.

The inside of my tent was dominated by a ponyquin wearing the plate parts of my own armour. It was similar to the armour of the guards and soldiers, the only exceptions being some golden embellishment around the edges and a masterfully crafted golden motif of a hyena’s head grinning widely on the helmet. Not only did it look impressive, but intimidating as well.

The rest of the tent was mostly a mess with pieces of clothing strewn about, and papers lying where I dropped them. A pile of reports and recommendations from advisors, which started to look like a white tower atop my desk now sat on a half rolled up map with dried brown circular stains adorning its surface.

I had to tidy this place up a little, otherwise Zorxa would go crazy on my plot, and I would rather avoid that.

Carefully I navigated through the mess on the floor, overstepping a wooden training sword and shield on my way to the ponnyquin. Gently, I dragged a hoof over the warm iron; feeling every dent, every scratch it received from previous battles. When my hoof reached a recently repaired crack I froze, my eyes examining every little detail of it.

The blacksmiths did an amazing job of putting it back together, it would have been much easier for them to just give me a new one but I didn’t like the idea of some zebra fighting without it; just because I was so pretentious and over confident which ended in damaging my armour and almost got me killed. I hated the thought of losing even one life thanks to my own stupidity and recklessness.

Slowly I ran my hoof further towards the chest piece until I felt a familiar chainlet and heard the softest, sweetest jingle I knew. A jingle so sweet that it caused my lips to curl up in a warm smile.. Zorxa’s locket. I sat down and in a haste pulled it from the ponyquin and marveled breathlessly at the artwork she had put into it. Made from silver, shaped like a symbol of a heart with a pair of beautifully engraved curved swords, overgrown with fern. It was the only piece of jewelry I would ever wear. Not just because it was beautiful, but because of what was inside. A precious memory.

I sat down on my haunches and opened the locket with care; a big lump forming in my throat as I saw the contents. An old, worn-out piece of yellowing paper rested inside.. The smile on my face widened as I gingerly unfolded it, bend by bend, making sure not to tear it at any place. A sudden gust of wind forced me to hug both of my most prized possessions close to my chest.

“You don’t have to hide that masterpiece from me,” a silky voice whispered in my ear as Zorxa’s cheek nuzzled mine. There was no trace of viciousness in her words.

I instinctively nuzzled her back, comforted by her touch “I know, I was just afraid it would get lost in this mess,” I looked around, eyeing the less-than stellar interior of my tent with a sheepish smile.

Zorxa sat down next to me, resting her head on my shoulder. “And whose fault would that be?” she smirked, her hoof nudging me as a silent rebuke.”Want me to go away so you can reminisce in peace?” she asked with concern, shuffling her legs to stand up.

“Stay, please” I nuzzled her once more, conjuring up a soft smile from Zorxa. “You have already seen it plenty of times, no reason to hide it now,” I brought the still folded paper in front of us and motioned Zorxa to spread it. “Would you do me a favor?”

"With pleasure." Carefully, she unfolded the last bend, revealing a crayon drawing.

I tried to swallow the lump, which grew uncomfortable when my eyes drank in the image.. Drawn in black crayon there stood a smiling mare with a proud stallion next to her. In front of them sat a small filly wearing a tiny crown, alongside a slightly larger colt. All of them were in front of a big castle with numerous towers and spires reaching out to the skies. In the corner of the paper there was an obligatory sun grinning widely as it looked down on the family.. To anyone else it would have looked like a foalish scribble as the drawing mostly consisted of indistinguishable knots of lines.. To me it was the most beautiful picture ever.

“They all look so happy. I guess it shouldn’t be a surprise with a mom like you,” Zorxa said softly, her leg wrapping around me in a tight hug.

“Th-They just-”I gulped down the lump in my throat again, blinking to fight back the tears that were burning in my eyes”- got their new home where they can play all day and don’t have to work,” I pointed my trembling hoof at the maze of lines. “Only fun and…”

“Games for the rest of their lives,” Zorxa finished the sentence for me. “With nothing to fear because daddy and mommy will make all the evil things go away,” she continued in a wistful tone.

I sniffed as the floodgates of my memories opened and the warm tears trickled freely down my cheeks. “She told me that when she gave it to me,” my hoof pointed towards the filly. “I miss them,” I sighed, hanging my head low. “I miss them all so much.”

“I am sure they miss you too,” Zorxa pulled me closer to her. “Wherever they are.”

“Thanks,” I pressed my cheek against her chest, the calm heartbeat and warmth radiating from her stopped my waterfalls.

“Ooh, look at you”-Zorxa patted me on my head, making me blush in embarrassment -” such a big softy you can be. I hope you don’t mind me asking but… why now? I know you look at it when you are feeling kinda down, but now?” her head rose up from my shoulder and I could feel her gaze on me.

I let out a long sigh before I looked at Zorxa. Her piercing green eyes were full of concern and...was that worry too? I must have been looking rather down to damp her usual upbeat attitude. ”I just wanted to see them and say my farewells if-”I chuckled bitterly”-I die and I won’t see them again.”

“Like that is going to happen,” Zorxa smirked, the worried expression replaced with a mischievous grin.”No need for farewell when a goodbye is enough. I know you are going to meet them again.”

“Heh, thanks but they are old enough now to stand on their own hooves, they don’t need a mom anymore,” an idea of my foals growing up filled my mind and I smiled. I imagined them (as I often did) going through puberty and into adulthood with all their dreams and wishes they wanted to fulfill. I broke into soft sobs again, this time quite happily.

“Everybody needs a mother,” Zorxa nuzzled me, kissing my cheek. “And now your bigger family needs theirs to lead them.”

“Yeah, you’re right,” I nodded and gave the beautiful drawing one last look, engraving the image in my mind. “Goodbye,” I murmured wistfully, putting my hoof on the aging paper. I almost gave a lurch when Zorxa placed her hoof on top of my own. When I looked at her she smiled at me encouragingly.

“May I?” she motioned towards the painting with her muzzle. As I rose my hoof she folded the paper more carefully and quickly than I ever could and closed the locket with a soft click. “There we go,” Zorxa slipped the the chain with the locket around my neck. “Now we only have to get you into the armour. In comparison to folding your drawing this will be much easier,” she stood up and chuckled but I could hear a trace of sadness in her voice. “It might even be fun... I can even get rough with you,” Zorxa turned around to face me, her signature smug/playful grin plastered on her face.

Except now it was not completely sincere. Now it was just a facade with tiny cracks that began to show. A quivering bottom lip and one of her ears half way down was a giveaway what was going to happen.

“Zorxa,” I spread my frontlegs wide and she nearly jumped into my embrace, almost crushing my ribs as she hugged me tightly. “Y-you s-softie,” I managed to say between my wheezing. Luckily she realised I needed some air and released the death grip around my chest.

“Shush you,” she snuggled up against me, pressing her face on my chest.

I opened my mouth but closed it without saying anything. Instead I decided to caress her mane as we hugged there in silence, enjoying the heartwarming company of each other. I felt Zorxa’s heart fluttering quickly yet slowly calming down the longer we remained in the hug. The instant I burrowed my muzzle in her soft coat I knew that I couldn’t be happier.

The silence was only interrupted by Zorxa’s occasional sobs. After a moment I felt dampness spreading on my chest as the lovely mare in my hooves broke into tears, shaking like a leaf in the wind. Immediately I brought her as close to me as I could and held her.

“Better?” I whispered in Zorxa’s ear once the trembling subdued and she was only sniffing softly.

Zorxa nodded, wiping tears from her eyes. “Heh, what a pair of silly mares we are,” she neighed.“There is going to be a big battle and what do we do? Cry like little fillies.”

“You are the only one crying like a little filly,” I smiled and got a nudge back for my teasing.

“Maybe but when you cry you can flood the entire desert. Look at me, I am completely soaked! And not in the good way,” she smirked. “But it seems I am not the only one who is wet am I?”

To Zorxa’s amusement I groaned loudly and rolled my eyes. When she chuckled afterwards I knew she had most of her grief out of her. “And who made me this wet in the first place?” I growled at the mare who was now shaking with suppressed laughter.

As I hoped she eagerly jumped for the opportunity to embarrass me further. “Oh I made you wet just by hugging you? My my you have no restrain if that’s all it takes to push you over the limit.”

“B-but you said you are soaked too,” I stammered.

“And who soaked me like that?” Zorxa pulled out from the hug. “Care to tell?”

“Ugh! You are horrible, always twisting everything I say against me!” I huffed in faked irritation and turned my head from her. “There is no winning when you do that,” I crossed my forelegs in front of my chest. “You wet looser.”

“Oh you are right there, there is no winning against me,” she smirked as she leaned from me. “It would be nice if you could finally recognize it, and make it easier for me.”

“Huh? What do you mean?”

Before I could get any answers Zorxa pressed her hooves to my shoulders and pushed. I tried to remain sitting upright but without my forelegs to keep balance she effortlessly tipped me over on my back.

The moment I hit the ground Zorxa was already straddling me, a predatory grin revealing her teeth. Yep. She got definitely got better.

“What do we have here,” she cooed softly, pinning my forelegs firmly to the ground alongside my barrel.“A completely defenseless warmare who called me a wet loser. It would be a shame if something happened to her,” the now ‘completely in charge’ zebra leaned closer, snapping her teeth close to my neck.

“Z-Zorxa?” I looked her in eyes and saw a playful spark she always had when… Oh no. “I-I am sorry?”

“You will be that’s for sure,” she breathed a hot steamy air on my neck, making me shiver in delight. She couldn’t be serious, she just couldn’t! Didn’t she now there is a… I let a moan escape my lips when Zorxa (cowardly) assaulted my ear, nibbling it passionately. Damn her! “Look at you, enjoying being put to your place. Beneath me” she tittered, obviously pleased with herself. “Who is a wet looser now, hm?”

“Y-you are!” I spat out and tried to free my forelegs. To no avail. They might as well be glued to the ground. To my dismay Zorxa sit down on me. Not with her full weight, but just enough to prevent me from trying to escape. “Get down you fatty!“ Looking at it now from retrospective, that was a very poor choice of words on my part.

“So rude. I think some punishment is in order,” her tail swished against my belly making me gasp for air audibly. “You know it is not a punishment when you enjoy it right?” another hit, this time with more strength behind it elicited a high pitched squeak from me, my body tensing with anticipation. “Heh, like a finely tuned instrument.”

I was panting like I’d just ran a marethon. Zorxa knew exactly how to push my buttons and to my infinite ire she knew precisely when to stop! Just when I opened my mouth to tell some nasty curse on behalf of the top mare she dove down and silenced me. Quite effectively. And pleasantly.

“That’s enough for now,” Zorxa said after our lips departed. She deliberately ran her tongue over my muzzle, leaving a wet trail behind. “Come on, don’t look at me like that. I have to save something for the night,” the succubus in zebra body raised up and stood beside me “And don’t think I forgot about how you called me, there will be consequences. So don’t get killed otherwise I will have to find some other, much younger mare. Do you understand?” her hoof smacked my exposed belly and left a fine red imprint on it.

Biting my lip I suppressed a yelp depraving Zorxa a small victory. “You are a vile temptress!” I groaned in exasperation and stood up myself. “I wanted to keep my head clean before the battle and now…”

“And now what?” she asked with an innocent smile.

“I will get you for this later,” I growled at her. “Care to help me to my armour? ” I quickly changed the subject.

“Sure, if I can find the pieces in this mess,” Zorxa looked around, eyeing the inside of the tent. “How did our army got so far with a pig for a warmare, the world might never know.”

“Hey! I was gonna clean this but I was… busy!”

“Yeah, right,” she chuckled,”Better to put the armour on you so nobody can see what a chubby softie you are. Once the buffaloes find out we will have to surrender our sweets to them,”Zorxa sneered.

I slumped to my haunches, head in hooves. “One. One moment alone with you when you wouldn't drive me mad. Is that too much to ask for?” The answer was obvious but one can still hope.

“Nah, it more fun like this. You know, when you are not all so serious and you loosen up a bit.”

“Zorxa, there is going to be a battle, you know that right?” I asked in a disbelief. “A huge one nonetheless.”

“Uh-huh, so?”

“Zebras might die. I might die. This is not a moment to…”a slap that nearly send me to the ground cut my speech short.

“I swear, I will smack the shit out of you if say anything about you dying again!”she hissed at me. “You know how much I-” Zorxa gulped audibly”- love you but stop talking about your death. Can you do it for me? Please?”

“Y-yeah,” I rubbed my burning cheek. “I mean you wouldn’t have so much fun with a corpse no matter how sexy it would be.”

“Glad you caught my drift,” Zorxa leaned closer and kissed the stinging spot on my face.”I’m so sorry for that slap but you have left me no choice.”

“Don’t worry, at least it cleared my head on what is important, I smirked. “And Zorxa, I love you too,” I blushed. No matter how many times I have told that I still feel like a little filly while doing so.

“Of course you love me, I am awesome. Now we better get you into the armour,” she turned around looking for the missing pieces. “You are not off the hook for calling me fat though.”

Maybe she was right I need to loosen up and… my linen coveralls landed squarely on my head and muzzle. Followed by Zorxa pecking a kiss on my cheek as I was just sitting there, grinning underneath the fabric.

Soon, worries in my mind vanished as quickly as a steam over a pot when an epic cloth throwing battle inside the tent took place.

Even with the time we have spent tossing various objects against each other we have arrived before the army was assembled. Some units were not present or had a few stragglers missing. Soldiers were still gathering while I stood on a small wooden stage, sweating like a pig in my armour thanks to the merciless sun. All in front of me me I could hear the rattle of the armour and weapons, banners softly flickering in the wind, voices rising to join the others around them to form a thundering indistinguishable chorus. Even though the heat was beating me down I could feel a cold shiver in my spine when the brisk tones of trumpets cut through the hot air, calling for the latecomers to hurry up. The buffaloes would have to be deaf, blind and stupid not to notice this.

When I looked at the army a feeling of pride overwhelmed me. An army of battle-ready zebras spread far and wide like a black and white sea with forests of spears jutting towards the sky. The sun rays were reflecting from any polished surface they touched, casting bright gleams everywhere around, resembling shards of glass in the desert. I looked at the faces below (at least at those which were not covered by helmet). Most had a resolute, hard expression and eyes full of confidence without a trace of fear. Some had proud smiles as they were standing, chatting while they waited for the rest of the troops. A pang of sadness shot through me. How many of my soldiers wouldn’t return back? Dozens? Hundreds? A steep price to pay. I would be the one sending them into danger and… to death .The air around me suddenly got much colder. Still, they were soldiers, my soldiers; they know how to handle themselves on the battlefield. And I must go as an example.

I tapped an amulet on the stand in front of me. It blinked a few times before emitting a solid green light. Thanks to this enhanced gem even soldiers in the back would be able to hear my speech.

“Soldiers! I can’t say how much I am proud of you. You have proved countless times that you are the best in the world when you have stood unyielding and true against everything the buffaloes have thrown at us. I ask you now to do the same once more. To go and finally win this bloody war!“ I roared at top of my lungs. “The buffaloes think they are safe up there, hiding like cowards and waiting for the pegasi to save them. We can’t and we won’t let that happen! We are going to plow through their ranks to the top of the hill! The time has come for us to deal with buffaloes once and for all! Nothing will stop us! For Schmatrag!”

“For Schmatrag!” thundered back as soldiers cried out in unison. “Death to buffaloes, no mercy, kill them all,” were the most prominent of shouts I managed to catch in the boiling sea.

The storm subdued when I raised my hoof. “All of you know me,” or at least I hoped so. “I have fought alongside you in every battle I could. From the brutal skirmishes when the blood of zebras have been shed to give birth to our united nation to this campaign against buffaloes. This battle won’t be any different. Together we will claim the victory we have been waiting so long for! Now make no mistake, the buffaloes are not going to roll over and die. They will fight desperately like a cornered beast by teeth and hoof, kicking wildly all around. It won’t be easy. I have not lied to you before and I won't start now, this battle will put us through pain and death, there is no way to sugarcoat it. All I ask is don’t play heroes, the graveyards are full of them and I’m sick of having to bury more. Fight with strength, courage and honour. Not for me but for your brothers and sisters next to you. Together we will wipe out the buffaloes and anything they have prepared. Together we will show the whole world how zebras fight. Together we are unstoppable! Together. WE. WILL.WIN!” I ended my speech, shouting out the last few words and deactivated the amulet on the stand.

Once more the air was filled with loud shouts as the army kept chanting, rattling with their weapons wildly. This went on for a while until the brisk sound of trumpets soared above the voices. In a short time the army began to move, led by the officers to their places for the the upcoming battle. A cloud of sand had risen behind them as they went, covering their armour with a thin layer.

Only after the troops had walked some distance I heard a soft jingle. My chainmail was ringing while my body was trembling from the excitement. It took me a few breaths to calm down a bit.

“Encore!” a lone pair of hooves was clapping behind me as Zorxa’s voice rose to taunt me. “But I know at least one battle you didn’t participate in because you were… indisposed?” she sneered.

“Zorxa,” I turned around and glared at her. She was wearing an elaborate dark orange scale armour made out of a basilisk. The armour covered pretty much the entirety of her body save for her head and a bit of her neck. The only few pieces of plate armour she has put on were dark red bracers around her legs. A pair of scimitars was strapped on her back, the hilts in a comfortable reach. Even though Zorxa was smiling playfully she gave an impression of a compressed spring, ready to unleash its force. Still, no matter what her main objective was to torment and embarrass me. No surprises there.

“I know, I know,” she waved her hoof dismissively a soft smile playing on her lips. “Only important stuff now. Well this is important. First, the new unit is ready and second, the commanders are going to gather soon at the flag there,”she pointed towards a banner fluttering behind the last line of the soldiers. “I dare to say you should see our advisors, they are quite spectacular,” Zorxa’s lips curled into a cruel grimace.

She wasn’t exaggerating in the least and I couldn’t help but smirk when I saw what advisors turned into. Guards must have gathered the rest of them as in front of me stood about forty - fifty zebras who looked rather lost. I felt almost sorry for them. Gone were the days of luxurious cloths and perfectly styled manes and coats. Instead the has-been advisors wore unfitting pieces of any left over armour the armourers were willing to part with. Some of them had vivid bruises on their faces and probably on their bodies too. The guards certainly weren’t gentle while rounding them up.

“It is good to see all of you are willing to join the upcoming battle,”I gave the newest recruits a wide grin. Normally I am not a gleeful zebra but seeing them huddling close together, terrified of the future made me smile.

“Y-you can’t be serious,” Senga stammered. Her voice trembling with anger. “We demand to be released at once!” she added, stomping her hoof. A quiet chorus of agreement rose from the rest of the unfortunate advisors.

I took one look at her and it was clear she had only tried to look tough. Her eyes gave out the fear she was trying to hide in her bold behaviour. Eyes are the window to the soul of everybody. Or so they say.

“You are not in a position to demand anything” I replied to Senga calmly and walked towards her. She took a couple of steps back until she bumped into a guard behind her. With nowhere to back off Senga stood at place, shivering until I stepped in front of her. “The times where your word meant anything are gone. Better get used to it,” I glared at her and she quickly casted her eyes at the ground.

“Please, let me go,” Senga sobbed, the mask of haughtiness broken. “I didn’t do anything to deserve this,” a first tear dropped on the ground. “I only wanted to help.”

“You only helped yourself,” I snorted, disgusted by the selfish mare in front of me. “All of you are parasites that would suck this army dry. You have stolen supplies, buffalo relics and artifacts. Delayed our campaign so your companies can profit on it longer. Also appealed to Schmatrag to get me replaced because I am unfit to lead,” I growled at the zebra in front of me that was now openly crying. “And you say you didn’t do anything to deserve this.”

“Lies!” Senga blurted out and raised her red eyes at me. “We wanted to be sure with every decision you have made. It is not our fault information took so long to get to us,” she said with a hurt pride. “The accusation of us wanting you to relieve you of your duty is just an accusation! We were concerned about your health and asked for a temporary replacement. And regarding the stealing, all of it was done by the soldiers. You were just too blind to see i…”

Senga didn’t get a chance to finish her sentence as I punched a side of her muzzle. She yelped in surprise and pain as she fell down. “How dare you blame the soldiers?! You lying piece of shit!” I roared at the zebra sprawled at the ground. The has been advisor closed eyes as she cried uncontrollably, a tiny rivulet of blood running from a corner of her mouth. “I should just kill you at the spot,” I hissed at her, trembling with hate.

“P-please, no,” Senga shielded her head with forehooves and curled into a fetal position. She was whimpering loudly while she lied down.

I was breathing heavily, anger threatened to overwhelm me. This pathetic mare tried to lie her way out, willing to accuse anyone to shift blame. Yet if there is a sliver of truth… “Do you have any evidence of your claims? ” I took a deep breath to calm down. “And don’t lie to me.”

Senga shaked her head. “If we did we would get it to you right away. But we didn’t steal anything, you have to believe me!”

“Stand up,” I ordered her. I didn’t like talking to her like this. Timidly she obeyed, watching me with cautious eyes to see if I would hit her again. The side of her muzzle I hit was getting swollen, a dark purple bruise setting in. “I have a proposition for all of you,” I swirled around, the previous advisors closest to me taking a step back. “If you fight and survive I will allow you to investigate the thefts to clean your names (of course I would have someone doing the investigation as well, just to be sure). If you hide, avoid or run away from the fight I will have you executed as deserters. With all the consequences of being sentenced as such. And if you die, well I will consider your debts paid. Sounds fair no?” I grinned at the mortified crowd surrounding me. All of them wore an expression of absolute terror. At least those who didn’t see me kill Rieth. Those few accepted the news with sighs of resignation.

“We only wanted to help,” Abioye shook his head in disbelief. “Not to fight in the front line.”

“If you don’t want to fight I will kill you right here,” I shrugged. It would take me some time to carry out the executions if more of them decided to throw their lives away like that. “But in the battle you can earn your life back. You might end up wounded, close to death yet still alive. Giving up won’t do you any good.”

A silence fell upon the crowd once more. The advisors were considering their options as they looked at each other warily. A certain painless execution on one hoof and a possible painful death on the other. With a slim chance of surviving the whole battle. They deserved nothing less.

“So what it is going to be?” my hoof reached for the hilt of the sabre. “Anyone who wants to give up now?”

“No,” Senga’s low voice broke the silence. “Your options are cruel but I will fight. And survive. Just to prove your opinions about your soldiers are wrong,” she said in a determined tone.

“Be my guest. Just don’t be disappointed when you fail to find anything,” I smirked, amused by her statement. “How about the rest of you?”

For a second time no one said a thing. All of them lost in their own thoughts.

“You are too soft on them,” Zorxa sneered. “Atte-ention! Listen up you poor excuses for soldiers. Everyone who wants to fight line up behind me! Rest of you pathetic maggots who don’t have guts for it can stay and wait for their death. What are you waiting for?! Move, move, move!” she shouted at them.

That broke the stupor. In a few moments the advisors were trying their best not to bump into each other as their surged behind Zorxa, sprung to action by the authority in her voice.

“I would manage that myself,” I turned around to face my second in command and blinked a few times. “Oh, that is terrifying.” During my talk with Senga she sneaked away and got the banner for the new unit.

“Impressive isn't it?”she chuckled. “It is the best we managed in the short time. I think we have outdone ourselves.”

She was right. On top of a five meters tall pike rested Rieth’s head, carelessly cut away from the rest of her body. From the jagged tatters of flesh that once was her neck occasionally dripped blood. Beneath it, nailed to a piece of wood a banner made from patches of Rieth’s hide was hanging. The banner itself was sewed together by large crude stitches that cut into the unusual canvas they were used on. And to be sure her previous friends would recognize the unfortunate donor of materials without a doubt, a set of glyphs (still on their pieces of hide) resembling a hut was stitched in the center. The previously white stripes were now dark red and the banner was surrounded by a sharp scent of caked blood. Every time a gust of wind leaned against it, the banner fluttered with meaty slurp, slurp, slurp.

“Not bad. It reminds me of the flags the barbaric tribes used to make,” I blinked again to tear my eyes from her creation. Zorxa could use her creative talent for everything if she had put her mind into it. Sometimes with frightening results.

“I was inspired by them. Though to make it in their traditional way it would require a lot more work. Now it is just a rather sloppy design I was able to put together. It lacks any finesse or sophistication,” Zorxa clicked her tongue in exasperation. ”But what it lacks in those features it atones rather well with the sheer brutality and viciousness,” she explained like an artist describing a new painting. “Alas, time was against me and this will have to do. Afterall it is just for one battle,” she shrugged.

“It will work I am sure,” the more pale than usual faces behind Zorxa confirmed my words. “I thought I said something about disposing the body but now I am glad you didn’t do it.”

“Well, there are still some leftovers if you would like,”Zorxa smiled at me and one of the advisors behind her threw up when a couple of blood drops hit his nose.

“Maybe later,”I repaid Zorxa’s smile and looked at the crowd that huddled behind her. An idea popped in my mind. “Lekan, come here!”

On uneasy legs a distinctively fatter zebra separated from the group and hobbled it’s way forwards. It must have been difficult to find any piece of armour that would fit the overweight sloth since he wore only a tattered loin coveralls. If Lekan wasn’t so fat I probably wouldn’t be able to recognize him as his face was a mask of pain, fresh bruises and cuts covering most of it. His eyelids were opened only on tiny slits as they were swollen and puffy; it must have been a miracle for him to see anything. Lekan probably tried to talk his way out and corporal Barbed didn’t take it kindly, judging by the teeth the advisors was missing.

“Lekan, since Rieth was your close friend I will grant you the honour of carrying her into battle,” I pointed towards the banner and some bruises on his face went a shade lighter. “Make your unit proud.”

“Phleashe nho,”Lekan lisped and shook his head.

“I am not going to discuss this,” I turned towards the leader of the guards. “Jabari, lead this unit fifty or so meters in front of our lines. If they try to run away break their legs so I can punish them later accordingly. And make sure Lekan carries the banner,” I glared at the whimpering knot of nerves. All of the pompous, haughty attitude was gone replaced by fear.

“As you command, warmare,” Jabari saluted and went to instruct his soldiers. On his way he casually hit Lekan’s left hindleg and shoved into him sending the terrified zebra down onto the ground.

“Jabari, don’t hurt them too much. The buffaloes would like to have fun with them as well,” I reprimanded him with a mocked seriousness. Though it would be a shame not to give them a chance to prove themselves, a punch or two from the soldiers the advisors tried to steal from couldn’t hurt. Not too much at least.

“Yes, ma’am,” Jabari briskly shouted back and a blow that would hit Lekan’s face harmlessly hit the sand next to it.

“Once they are at the front give them weapons. Not some worn out garbage nor training ones. Normal weapons. Hopefully they won’t hurt each other with them,” the advisors might have been completely untrained, poorly armoured but they would atleast have a fighting chance. Small but still better than none. I turned around and walked towards waiting Zorxa who was waiting on me. Together we have trotted to a commander's meeting leaving the newest unit behind to Jabari’s command.

“Do you expect any of them to survive?”Zorxa asked with a sneer after we have put some distance between us and the frightened group. There were no doubts about her opinion.

I neighed. “No, I would be surprised if at least one of them doesn’t try to run away.”

“Wanna bet if anyone actually survives?” she chuckled.

“Isn’t this a little grim? Even for you?” I looked at her and raised my eyebrow in a mock seriousness. “Betting on lives of zebras like that…”

“Who? Me? Nah,” she waved her hoof dismissively, an innocent smile adorning her muzzle. “But this way they might actually be useful. So are you up for the game?”

With Rieth dead I knew there was no zebra with any actual combat experience. Nearly all of the advisors got their posts thanks to their wealth or relations. But there could have been some who would try to save their life… “Senga, she at least has some reason to survive. If only to try in vain to blame other for the thefts they did. You?”

“Heh, knew you would pick her when she tried to stand up for them. You can’t deny you were impressed by her behaviour,” Zorxa laughed.

“Until she wanted to blame the soldiers, sure,”I huffed in exasperation. “How could she even believe that argument would work. If that was some form of a trump card it was a poor one.”

“True, but you know what they say ‘there is no smoke without fire’. She might be right about our soldiers trying to improve their quality of life,” Zorxa looked at me with a serious face that hinted no signs of a joke.

“If that was a joke it was one of your poor ones,” I glared at my dearest. When she didn’t say anything and continued to repay me my stare I gulped. “You can’t be serious.”

“Think about it. Every time we tried and set up a trap the supplies arrived intact. And I am not talking about the artifacts that just vanished after the battle. Someone well informed has to be warning whoever is behind this.”

“I know,” I sighed in frustration. “But no one has seen anything, heard anything or wasn’t there at all. It was like chasing a wind!” I closed my eyes and took a deep breath to calm down. The whole affair was casting a bad light on the army as whole. “I guess I will have to try and get to the bottom of this once the war is over. If there would be any clues left.”

“Even though you might end up with a conclusion you don’t like?” Zorxa asked me and frowned.

“Yes,” I replied firmly. “You know there is no other way, if the soldiers did it, they have to be dealt accordingly. It would ruin my reputation for allowing such a thing to happen but if that is the price to pay to have the army free of that kind of scum I would gladly do so.”

“Soo grim,”Zorxa rolled her eyes and shook her head. “Are you sure you are not turning into a martyr with all the things you are willing to suffer for your soldiers? I know you are a glutton for punishment already but this is taking it a bit too far,” she sticked her tongue at me while I blushed faintly.

I appreciated how she tried to lighten the mood but my mind has been already wandering on a path of self blame. “It would be only fair. I am the one responsible for their actions, I am the one who let the thefts grow into a larger problem instead of cutting it at the beginning. I should have had… ,” I wanted to continue with my list of blunders but Zorxa interrupted me.

“Should have, would have, could have, she groaned grumpily. “You are talking like it would be your fault if the soldiers were stealing the supplies. You need to stop with that stupid attitude of yours, honestly, you can’t blame yourself for this,” she continued in persuading me. “I know you care about the soldiers and they look up at you for it but if there are some who would steal from the army to become rich it is something the soldiers decided to do. You can try your best but this was something you couldn’t influence so stop beating yourself over it.”

“Do you really think the soldiers could be responsible?” I asked her directly, hoping my desperation about the matter wouldn’t seep into my voice.

“It would make sense, but I think you got the thieves now,” Zorxa motioned with her head behind us. “If the thefts stop after they are dead there is a good chance they were behind it, if not we can focus our attention amongst our midst. Either way the new unit is a win - win situation,” she snickered.

“Killing two birds with one stone,” I sneered. “At least the advisors would be finally good for something.”

“Heh, as a small bump to slow down the buffaloes before they reach our lines,” Zorxa laughed.

“If they don’t try and run away,” I smirked. “After the battle I will lead the investigation I want to be sure that this whole thing is resolved.”

“From a warmare to a spy? I see, you want to return back to your roots,” she nodded solemnly. “But don’t you think the soldiers will be able to recognize you instantly? It might be better to send someone trustworthy to do it instead?”

“No this is something I want to deal with personally,” I shook my head.

“Not a good idea to be honest. You are kinda recognized around here. Still if that is what you want to do be my guest,” Zorxa shrugged.

“I would be surprised if some shaman wouldn’t be able to help with that.”

“Hm, maybe they might be able to improve your face as well,” she snickered. “Nah, I think flying pigs are more probable.”

“Focus on the important things, Zorxa,” I said somberly. “The upcoming battle, the thefts, these sort of things.”

“Well, the way you look is quite important for me. I am the one who has to look at you all the time, it is no small deal you know.”

“Will you ever stop with the teasing? The investigation is going to be a difficult one and sooner we start with the planning the better. And you are not helping at all,” I grumbled and swallowed a curse . Sometimes she really doesn’t know when to stop.

“Neither are you. Right now you can’t do anything about the thefts so better stop worrying about them” she explained calmly. “And we already have a plan for the battle and unless you have come up with a serious change of strategy stop worrying about it as well. If not all you have to do is to concentrate on the fight itself. We will deal with the thefts in due time so stop thinking about it and focus.”

“Shouldn’t I be saying that to you?” I muttered, ashamed of myself for shifting my attention so much. “You are right though, I should focus,” I shook my head in attempt to sort my thoughts and clear the proverbial garbage. Without Zorxa I would probably tried to solve it at the spot. The looming battle ahead or not. How blind can I get… “You know you still haven’t told me who do you think will survive.”

“None of the advisors is really any good, all of them are equally incompetent. Though I think Abioye might have a chance. From what I gathered he at least knows where to point the sharp end of a spear. Not that it matters in actual combat anyway,” Zorxa shrugged, not bothered in the slightest by the upcoming fate of the advisors.

“Heh, I am sure Senga will try the hardest to survive. After all, she wants to clean her name.” It could have been a truth, she looked rather determined to get a chance to do so.

“Yeah, you might have picked a better option to win the bet,” she drawled.

“Woah, one of the few rare occasions I will win? I must be dreaming.”I blinked in a pretended surprise. “Is it too much to believe the usual winning conditions apply?”

“Sure, no reason to come up with something else now,” she grinned at me and a very familiar feeling of warmth spread in me.

“Then we have a deal,” I smiled back at her, confident in my victory.

“Awfully eager like always. If only the advisors would share this trait with you. We would have to bet on something different.”.

“And lose this opportunity to win over you? No way! If I knew I could win this way I would have send them to battle long time ago.”

“And you accused me of being grim,” Zorxa snorted, her features softening as a smile played on her face. “Maybe I should go with the advisors, to ensure Abioye survives.”

I neighed, not believing her for one moment. “Oh I forgot you are a sour loser. Well, you can go make friends with them and I will excuse you from this meeting.”I felt a bump strong enough to make me stagger and nearly lose my balance, even though I was wearing my plate armour. After a couple of unsure steps I stopped and glared at Zorxa who was wearing a mask of complete innocence as she walked past me.

“Oh my what happened? Are you feeling sick? Maybe I should excuse you of the meeting and battle as well. To make sure nothing happens to you. Wait, I had to do that one before hadn’t I?”Zorxa asked with a mocked concern, sounding like a mother worried about her foal. She was right about me having to skip one, one battle. But that was long time ago, before I had the rank of warmare.

“Oh, you are so done when I win,” I leaped forward to tackle Zorxa down but she easily stepped away and I missed my attack completely.

“Too slow,” she sticked her tongue at me and galloped towards the commander’s meeting after I whirled around and tried to snatch her tail between my teeth.

“Oh, you are so gonna get it,”I murmured and galloped after her. There was a small chance I could catch her but I was willing to give it a try just to get some of my revenge back.

Author's Note

Thanks for reading the first chapter of my story I hope you have enjoyed reading it. The first few chapters follow Terona, the warmare of Zebra's army before switching to the perspective of Lucent Flare. Don't worry the switch will happen only once.

Woah, first chapter done, never thought I would end up publishing anything so, please comment as much as you would like. The feedback you can give me so I can better myself is invaluable for me.