The soldier approached Tyrhallan and gave a short bow as he continued, "Orders from the king, sir. The enemy vanguard is near and their scouts are following the refugee ships crossing the border, presumably using them as a shield to prevent us from using our guns. You're to gather reinforcements and move to intercept immediately, engaging by boarding action. The dropship will be at your disposal."

Overhearing the conversation, Leo sheathed his sabre as he called out to the soldier, "What are their numbers?"

"Three frigates, sir."

The news caused a ripple of murmurs among the soldiers, but Leo only smiled cheerfully as he turned to Tyrhallan and said, "Looks like we get to be first in the fray. Lucky us."

And he meant it too. Only the Silver Spider could be so earnestly delighted by the prospect of an impending battle.

"So asides from me, who else will you be taking?" Leo asked as he jerked his head towards Arn. "Him?"