The captain and guards moved out of the man's way as he hobbled passed them, exchanging a few odd looks due to his personality. It was clear he had no idea who, exactly their commander was, and he was no woman supporter. That may change in the coming days.
The men directed him to a wagon outside the library, and hopped on board as the driver set the horses in motion. "We'll be joining up with a supply caravan being sent to the camp as well. Fear not, it's well protected." He said, attempting to put any nervous feelings at ease. If he had any. By this point the captain could not tell however.
A few hours of riding later, they reached the caravan in question. The line was very large, transporting a few dozen new recruits, along with various siege weapons and other supplies for the camp. Ludwig's wagon rode near the back of it.
Later that evening, the rising smokestacks over the trees could indicate the camp was getting nearer, and sure enough the glow of fire could be seen as they exited the treeline to witness the large encampent ahead. As they entered, it was clear the establishment was very busy. Patrols of swordsmen rushed back and forth as multiple knights did the same. Many were attending to their tents, some blacksmiths were sharpening steel, and a few were transporting mage prisoners in large caged wagons. It was here when the caravan began to split off, as many different soldiers began directing the different shipments to their intended locations. Ludwig's wagon however was directed towards the center of the camp. There was a considerably larger tent here, the obvious HQ for this encampment. "Follow me." The captain said finally, stepping off the back of the wagon and entering the large tent. Inside it was scarcely decorated to what one might expect from a commander's residence. There wasn't any fancy beds, decorations, or any evidence that anyone even slept in this tent. Instead the tent held a long wooden table with multiple chairs situated around it. On the surface of the table was a long piece of parchment. It seemed to be a detailed map of the Hollow. The captain directed Ludwig to an empty chair and then went to speak to one of the cartographers attending the map.
"She'll join us momentarily.. She's just dealing with some rebellious prisoners." He told Ludwig, sitting down across the table.
Only a few minutes passed however, before the sound of heavy armored footsteps could be heard outside the tent. Then the tent flaps parted. Stepping into the laternlight was a MASSIVE being, clad head to toe in full body armor. Nothing about their physical appearance could be seen through the thick metal armor cover, not even their face through the thin slits of their faceplate. On their back was a long spear like weapon.. Still red and dripping. The soldiers stood at attention. THis was Battalion commander Annerith Rivere. She said nothing, but gestured with her hand and they understood to sit. The commander didn't even look at Ludwig, she simply walked passed him, the chain of her armor echoing with every step. She then stood on the other side of the table, gazing at the map before turning her helmet straight towards the old man.
"Ludwig Von Musel, the military tactician and historian I assume." She spoke bluntly, her voice cold and sounding almost mechanical through her armor.