The Next Step

“We have secured Acre, and Kerak next I believe we should take Antioch as it would secure our supply lines and provide water when we later head for Damacus,” you say, pointing at the map.

“True I see your logic and it is sound however with just our two armies we could possibly take Antioch, but Damacus is a large city and we would be hard pressed to take it even with our two armies.” Hans says as he looks over the map.

“Your correct Hans however if we manage to gather support from the Knights Templar perhaps with their numbers we could take Damacus the challenge lay in their grandmaster who I hear simply wishes to head straight for Jerusalem instead.”

“However, I believe we should be able to convince the grandmaster of St. Michael’s knights as he is a sound tactician from what I have heard.” Hans says as he leans back in his chair.

“Agreed. We should invite him at once. Messenger, if you would please?” you say to which your messenger left at once. As he left a cloaked man steps out from the shadows behind you, much to the worry of the duke and his men who quickly draw their swords.

“James, an assassin behind you!” Hans says as he stood up only for you to chuckle in response much to Hans’s confusion as he stops.

“Calm yourself Hans. This is Lord Thatcher, my spymaster and leader of the Ghost Corps.” You say calmly as the Lord Thatcher now stand next to you before speaking.

“My lord my spies have already infiltrated Damacus and Antioch as per your last orders and have begun gathering intelligence in the two cities, gauging enemy strength, fortification strength, possible methods of entry into the cities and any other potential weaknesses for us to exploit.” Lord Thatcher says before stepping back into the shadows and disappearing once more.

“I apologize for Lord Thatcher’s behavior. He is, how you say extremely focused discussing what needs to be says, and then leaving. You will understand the next time you meet him, Hans.” you say nonchalantly.

Hans only nod in response before the two of you went your separate ways for lunch.

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Hours later it was evening as you walk through the citadel you could hear running and look up to see a half-naked King Richard of England running with a half-naked woman next to him.

“Bloody hell!” Richard whispers as he gently pushes the woman inside before he dashed into the room in front of you and then popping his head out. “Look, James I know we got off on the wrong foot, but I would really appreciate it if you could keep my wife’s handmaiden away. She sent her along to make sure I can’t have any fun and well it’s hard to enjoy the carnal pleasures of the flesh with her around, so if you could please help me out?”

With that King Richard closed the door leaving you out in the hall as a loud voice yelled. “Richard, where are you?”