Fort Dollem - Part 2

A thick forest grew on the right-hand side of the valley as they descended. The second that the road began to run alongside it, the soldiers had grown considerably quieter. The thick pine trees of the woods created a green barrier that was impenetrable, even in the heart of winter as they were. It was the perfect spot for an ambush, if that was what the enemy wanted to do.

Even the horses were moving faster. The wagons were being driven at the very back of the marching men and Petyr had been relegated to joining them, though he seemed particularly nervous about doing so.

The soldiers had offered to take over the driving of his carriage in his place, at least until the battle was done, allowing him to stand somewhere more protected, but Petyr had reluctantly refused. Oliver had noted with amusement that the man had his own sort of honour, like a captain going down with his ship.

He paused suddenly.