Meanwhile, in the headquarters of the Franc army, a map of Espona lay spread out on the table, illuminated by flickering candlelight. Three generals huddled around it, their brows furrowed in deep concentration. Among them stood the fourth prince, Richard, known for his rebellious nature and strategic brilliance.
A messenger had brought news that Espona was fortifying its defenses, but Richard remained undeterred. With a confident gleam in his eye, he proclaimed that the numbers favored them, despite being on foreign soil. Espona's advantage in terrain was undeniable, but Richard saw an opportunity in their opponent's defensive stance.
Turning to his fellow generals, Richard declared that it was time for direct action. With the guard around Lisbon weakened, it presented the perfect opportunity for an assault on the capital. It was the quickest route to the heart of Espona, and Richard was eager to seize the advantage before it slipped away.
In Lisbon, ten days had passed since my arrival at the palace, and I had grown accustomed to the routines and rhythms of life within its walls. However, any sense of normalcy was abruptly shattered when an urgent message arrived in the count's presence. The message bore grim tidings: a formidable army of ten thousand soldiers from Franc was advancing towards Lisbon fort, poised to seize control.