Ambush!

"If you don't have any weapons, we can lend you a few that we originally used as reserves."

After Maxime's words, the new mercenaries dispersed to get ready.

Maxime remained in the same spot for a while, admiring and contemplating the beauty of nature.

Evening soon arrived.

The mercenaries shared a final meal with the villagers, in a much more subdued atmosphere than the day before. Everyone seemed to sense that the tranquility of this village might be the last they would experience for a long time to come.

In the early hours of the morning, as the first rays of sunlight barely pierced the horizon, Maxime roused his men in a firm voice. 

They silently donned their gear, feeling the growing tension as they prepared to set off into the unknown.

The twelve new recruits, just turned mercenaries, exchanged glances full of determination and excitement.