When the field finally quieted, Lindarion turned to the commander. "You train well. But next time, I want to see what happens when the forest is gone. No roots. No branches. Just you, your mana, and your will."
The commander hesitated, then bowed deeply. "As you command, Prince Lindarion."
As Lindarion walked away, Ashwing stretched across his shoulder with a lazy flick of his tail. "You're terrifying when you do that 'no emotion, just wisdom' thing."
'And yet you stay.'
"Because you feed me," the dragon said cheerfully.
Lindarion almost smiled. Almost.
He paused at the terrace's edge one last time, looking back at the soldiers beginning to regroup. Sunlight danced across their armor like ripples on water. They were strong in spirit, but spirit alone would not be enough for what was coming.
