Francis couldn’t help but stand in awe of the man before him. Baxter had looked intimidating since the first time he had seen the behemoth of a man. Today was no different.Standing in a black set of plate armor with red wolves etched into it, the King shifted the shield that was taller than Francis with ease. Baxter’s sword hand was free right now, but Francis had seen the blade the king had displayed for a moment and the sight of that red blade with black lines had sent a shudder down his spine.I can only imagine the kind of magical equipment Baxter has on.“You ready for this?” Stenson asked.Nodding at the older man next to him, Francis gazed at the battlefield, which was preparing for a fight that would not be held back. “I’ve been ready for a while,” he replied. “Everything I’ve been doing, all those deaths… it all comes down to this moment to see if we can win.”He felt the general’s only hand grab his shoulder and squeeze.“I want you to know, Francis, that I am grateful you’re the man you are,” Stenson said softly. “You have proven yourself to be a true ally of the kingdom. Whatever happens today, the next time we speak after it, know that even if I can’t voice it then, I’m proud of you.”Francis cleared his throat and smiled. “Thank you. That means a lot.”The older man nodded and clapped his shoulder once before walking off to join the king and a few of the other officers.I’m not sure what’s worse… hearing those words from him or wanting to believe he actually means it…Movement from his other side caught Francis’ attention, and he turned to see Priscilla beckoning him with a finger.“Mage,” Francis said, giving a small wink after checking that no one was able to see what he had done.“Sage Francis,” Priscilla said softly, bending her knees. “Your words the other day… I am… excited.” Her lips were curled up into a grin that Francis couldn’t recall ever (...)