On the border between the Strathlade Kingdom and the Ambrezet Kingdom, several shield soldiers in white leather armor crouched behind a makeshift fortification, smoking tobacco that had recently become popular in the Ambrezet Kingdom.
"This tobacco from the distant Violet Kingdom is really good. It's just a little expensive. A month's pay only buys me three boxes. If only they'd lower the price."
"If it were cheaper, we wouldn't be able to get any." Another shield soldier rolled his eyes at his companion. This "grass" was hugely popular in the Ambrezet Kingdom. Even at its current price, shipments often sold out almost as soon as they arrived. If the price dropped, he couldn't be sure he'd get any. The thought of going without tobacco was terrifying.
"True." The first shield soldier held a cigarette between his lips. He blew a smoke ring, then grinned. "I hear they're mustering troops back home. We'll be going to war with the Strathlade Kingdom soon. I'd better take a few extra heads on the battlefield and trade them for cash, or tobacco will drain my savings dry. Damn Pattia. That bitch charges way too much for it..."
"Let's hope the Strathlade Kingdom holds out a while instead of surrendering the moment we attack. I won't make much money otherwise."
"Same here..."
As they spoke, a thick dark cloud cast a shadow over their position, just large enough to cover them.
The change in light made the shield soldiers tense. They turned their heads one after another, searching for its source.
Two or three seconds later, they finally spotted the cloud overhead. They straightened and made the same choice: get out of its shadow.
Countless battles had taught them to be wary of anything unusual.
As soon as they moved, the thick cloud swelled, engulfing