He spent a sleepless night tossing and turning in nervous excitement. He finally managed to fall into a fretful sleep as the sun began to lighten the edge of the sky. After what seemed like only moments, he was awoken by Haran's voice,
"Whoa ho! It's time to get up Zander! You'll never make it in time if you don't get an early start!" Zander dragged himself out of bed, his mind still on the dream he had been having. It was even worse than the one the night before. "Why the long face son? Today is a happy day! My son is going to be the greatest warrior there has ever been!"
Zander laughed and the dream began slipping away, "I seriously doubt I'll be the best ever," he said. "But I will do my best."
Haran gave him a large pat on the back, "Good my boy. Now get dressed while I make you up some breakfast!" Haran left the room and Zander threw on a fresh tunic and pants. He then grabbed his old sword that lay out on his chest and returned it to its battered sheath. He clipped it to his belt and slung the dented shield across his back. He walked proudly out of his bedroom door into the main room. Haran was just setting out the finished meal when he saw Zander.
"Look at that! You're a true warrior Zander!" He exclaimed. Zander smiled, removed his shield, and sat down at the table. Haran must have started preparing diner early in the morning. He had prepared a simmering stew with a loaf of fresh bread. He must have bought in the city the day before.
Despite the delicious meal Haran had prepared, Zander ate little. His stomach churned with nervous anticipation for the trip ahead. After he had eaten as much as his stomach could handle, he stood up from the table and got ready to leave. After making sure he had everything he needed, he went outside and stood with Haran to say their goodbyes.
Although he was filled with anticipation, Zander couldn't help but feel a sadness creep into him. He had lived with Haran in this little clearing his whole life. He looked at Haran and saw the same sadness reflected in his eyes.
"Make me proud Zander. Make a name for yourself and do anything you can to defeat the Aeternam Vitium." Haran told him solemnly.
"I will," Zander replied, the determination evident on his face. He offered Haran his hand for a final goodbye, but Haran brushed it aside and embraced him in a bone crushing hug. Zander returned the embrace. After Haran released him, Zander turned to go. However, as he started walking away a question occurred to him.
"Why do you want the Aeternam Vitium to be defeated so badly?" He asked his father. Haran thought for a moment and replied,
"Do not concern yourself with my troubles. They will only lead you to misfortune. That is a question you must answer for yourself." Though Zander did not understand Haran's words, the expression on his face told him not to question him further. He nodded and turned from his father with a last wave and started down the beaten path into the trees.