The journey back to the Golden Draconian Palace had gone well. To Drake's surprise, the child hadn't complained about anything during the insane ride. Even for adults, days on horseback might be exhausting, but the boy hadn't mentioned anything.
Drake couldn't have picked a better travel companion. But it was all over now. He turned the child over to the barracks steward, who provided him with a room, clothes, and the opportunity to begin his training. Of course, Drake didn't plan to use the boy in the upcoming war. Nevertheless, he needed exercise and practice if he wanted to become a knight.
The war preparations were afoot. Men crammed the outer walls with longbows and quivers on their backs. Others trained with swords in the courtyard. Many had joined their ranks, but Drake sensed they weren't enough.
