The morning sun paints the eastern cliffs of the Midgardian Mountains with rosy light. I toe the line at the edge of a precipice, quivering with untapped potential, ready to take the plunge.
I feel lighter, younger, like a kid on Halloween. Halloween, of course, was far better than Christmas. Fantastical costumes, spooky décor, free candy. Even in my older years I loved it. When I grew up, Halloween was still Halloween, but Christmas became a barbed reminder of how alone I was.
“You have your assignments,” says Valen, addressing the generals who’ve come to see us off. “Until we return, defending the imperial city and our reclaimed territories is top priority.”
I won’t say he’s a natural leader, since he was forced into military life, but he is good. He’s trained himself to be confident.
