“Just stay back,” Francis said for the tenth time. “Do not follow me, understand?”Every warrior nearest to him seemed confused. They blinked constantly, many of them struggling to move, only pressed forward by the wall of troops behind. Further along the line of warriors, Francis could see grown men and others closer to his age urinating themselves as they gazed across the open grass at the large bull-kins that roared. Francis’ presence had calmed a few of those near him, but most were shaking in their armor.“But… there’s… so many,” one said, his voice trembling with every word.“There are,” Francis shouted. “But I’m going to help lower their numbers. Just stay in line and practice what you were taught. I’ll do what I can to thin out their ranks.”“Why… why rush to your death?” another called out.Francis turned and stared at the men, who realized their perilous position. Their eyes showed the fear each of them had. Turning meant dying to their allies. Going forward meant their families would earn something for their sacrifice and, hopefully, live if this foe was defeated.“Death comes to all of us,” Francis shouted. “I don’t fear it because I know that what I am doing means others will get a chance to live!”He pointed his finger toward the back of the human army.“My brother is back there. He is like you. No one but me believes he is special. I do this so he can live,” Francis roared, pounding his chest. “My love for him is what has led me to stand here before you all today. Focus on who you love and hold it tight. Let that be the fire which burns in your chest, pushing away the fear that threatens to crush you.”A few cheers came and then more as Francis drew his sword and waved it.“Wait for the orders of the King to attack! My time has come!”Francis turned, jogging toward the enemy, as a small group of men started a cheer that spread across their side of the battlefield. (...)