*A week later…*

I sprinted out of the castle as Velador rode in on horseback with a host of his men. I was happy and elated to see him after my taste at leadership. While rewarding, I enjoyed it much better at his side.

“Welcome back, my lord!” a guard yelled.

“It is good to be home but there is much yet to be done in the north!” Velador yelled as more guards and castle workers looked on. He dismounted and an aide took the reins of his horse.

“My ...