by John Graham

Created on: July 01, 2008

He and Retter headed through the woods for Daun but before they were half way there he realized that more recruits were headed across their path for the army, whose ever it was. Eventually, a horseman trotted up and answered Jacobus' shouted question.

"Our army is marching for Prince-Bishop Everard de la Marck, of Luttich (Lige.) You can tell us by our red and yellow banners. De la Marck has declared war on the Archbishop of Trier, Lothar con Metternich, for not buying his arms from Luttich. Apparently, Metternich said they were faulty and not worth buying and that's a lie that De la Marck could not live with."

The knight was armed to all rights. He wore a short haubergen mail shirt to his waist and an armet helmet. He carried a half sword and Jacobus could see a martel tied to his saddle. His horse too was partly armored so that it couldn't have been happy riding at any speed.

He continued, "I've ridden all night for this battle today. I hope that I am in time otherwise I will not be able to collect my mercenary pay."

Then he added, "Do you want to join me? It should be a good battle and your horse looks a worthy animal," he smiled at Jacobus.

Jacobus very quickly said, "I'd love to but I have to reach my home today, in Cochem," he said, lying. "My father is dying and his soul will not rest in peace unless he sees me. Anyway, as you see, I'm not armed."

"God be with you then," said the knight and with that he put spurs to his tired horse and disappeared into the distance.

Jacobus, muttered to himself, God be with you too, and I hope that your horse will not be too tired to dodge the lances that it will meet. He continued on his way hoping to bypass the battle on the east.

Their path took them along the eastern heights.

The first time his eyes saw the valley he realized immediately that this was to be the site of the battle. It was the ideal location for warrior bishops to sit their horses on the valley rim while watching the battle below.

Along the western heights opposite, rank upon rank of soldiers stood or sat waiting. Knights accompanied by red and yellow Luttich banners rode through their ranks stopping occasionally to talk to one of the men or to laugh at a joke. From his position on the eastern edge of the valley he could almost hear the hum of nervous chatter among the soldiers. They were being kept alert and in line, for the battle.

In the far distance on the southern heights, another army waited. He recognized the red and white banners of Trier and although

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