Rutorith stood at attention outside my office door. When I approached, he straightened himself further, one good eye staring straight ahead, face grim. I paused next to him and nodded for him to relax his stance.

"Is your new appointment to your liking?" Despite his actions against me, I was well aware the old soldier was only doing what he thought was right. And such loyalty, even if poorly placed, wasn't to be squandered.

He bowed his head to me, iron gray hair ...