Before Frank could finish, Ryan Lancaster gripped his shoulder firmly. "This is his personal failing, not yours. Every scar you bear honors your duty as a soldier of Eldoria."
"But as a general," Ryan continued, his voice cutting through the tension, "you must act with precision. Survey the battlefield, plan your strike—then move. Understood?"
"Your wisdom guides me, sir."
Frank Hartley's head dipped in shame. Had he scouted the situation first—had he noticed Ryan standing there—today's brawl would've been avoided.
Ryan gave his shoulder a reassuring squeeze.
"Ryan—you're from the Southern Warzone. Does that mean you're—?"
Mariah Radiance (Kevin's sister) stepped forward, her eyes alight with starstruck admiration. Ryan cut her off with a raised hand. "Does any of that truly matter?"
