After dispatching the messengers, the urgency in Roderick's heart did not fully subside.
He knew it would take time for the main force to receive the warning, while a possible Sauron attack could descend at any moment. He needed eyes. He needed to know exactly where the enemy was, how many there were, and which direction they would come from.
Though he knew sending out scouts was extremely risky, perhaps even a one-way trip, he had no choice.
"You, you, and you three!" At the gates of the fort, Roderick picked out five of the sharpest young cavalrymen with the finest horsemanship. They were all skilled scouts from the battalion, their faces still carrying traces of youth, but their gazes were keen.
"Mount up. Head north and scout along the main road and the ravine by the eastern stream. Do not engage. The instant you spot any sign of a large enemy force, turn back and report! If small groups of roaming cavalry harass you, shake them off if you can. Do not get drawn into a fight! Understood?"
"Understood, Battalion Commander!" the five cavalrymen answered in unison. They quickly checked the short carbines at their saddles and the sabers at their waists before swinging into the saddle. They knew full well how dangerous this mission was, but there was no fear on their faces—only the focus of men carrying out their orders.
"Go! May God watch over you!" Roderick gave a heavy sweep of his hand.
"Hyah!"
The five riders shot out through the fort gates like arrows loosed from a bowstring, their hooves smashing through the mud and flinging droplets of muck into the air.
They did not stay together. Instead, they swiftly split into two groups. Three headed north along the main road, while the other two