As the Barbarian forces withdrew one after another, James and the others breathed a sigh of relief. They had never been confident they could fight them.
The reason became clear when the imposing cavalry force arrived to reinforce them.
These riders were the remnants of the Blood Scorpion Tribe and the Iron Hoof Tribe. They had changed into standard Two Rivers County equipment, which made them look impressive, but their fighting ability was far from certain.
"My lord Marquis, what do we do now? Should we withdraw?"
Victor shook his head. "No. The Barbarians have retreated for now, but they still outnumber us. If we withdraw first, we'll only show them that we're afraid.
"The Barbarians won't think any further than that. Once they see us retreating, they'll turn around and attack.
"Even if we drive them off, we'll take heavy losses—though they don't look nearly as strong as the Iron Bone Tribe elites we encountered before."
James nodded. "There are a few exceptional units among them. The rest look like a rabble."
One cavalry unit in the opposing army was particularly well equipped. It numbered only a few thousand, but its bearing made it clear it was not to be trifled with. Ordinary Barbarian Cavalry could not compare.
Just then, Horne and Zaro, who had brought the cavalry reinforcements, came to Victor and bowed to him and the Two Rivers County nobles.
"Sorry we're late, my lord Marquis. Changing equipment took longer than we expected!"
"You arrived at just the right time. If you'd come earlier, those Barbarian forces might not have retreated so easily. If you'd come later, we might already have been fighting. Your timing was perfect.
"How are your troops? They must be in much better shape than before, aren't they?"
"Thank you for asking, my