Even from a distance away, Garren could see that the ambiance of Chepstow had changed. A heavy blanket of smoke hung over the castle and he knew that could only mean one thing; either Chepstow was under siege or there was an army in residence. Fortunately for him, it was the lesser of the possibilities. Many of the men at arms recognized him as he pounded into the bailey, as they were loyal to the Marshall and had fought under Garren’s command many a time. Somewhat perplexed as to the purpose of the amassing army, he tried to appear as if their presence was nothing new to him as he stowed his horse and made his way, somewhat wearily, into the keep. He was increasingly apprehensive of what he would find. It was busier than usual inside. Commanders and noblemen that he recognized greeted him. Garren had to admit it was good to see the familiar faces. The Marshall was found in a sea of officers, clustered two deep around his table in the solar. There were plans on the table, and a map.
