He hadn't been welcomed with open arms. Because he was a stranger from another kingdom, who bears no name or title, Cassian had faced skepticism and hostility.
But he had proven himself. His swordsmanship was honed through pain and perseverance that had silenced even the most fault-finders.
"Leader Hayes," a voice interrupted his thoughts. Cassian turned to see Orion, the young boy who had called him earlier; he was standing at a distance from him.
"What is it?" Cassian asked.
"There's a messenger from the capital," Orion replied in a serious tone.
"He says it's urgent."
Cassian's eyes narrowed slightly. A message from the capital? He wondered what mission had brought the messenger from the capital.
"Where is he?"
"In the command tent," Orion answered.
Cassian gave a curt nod and walked toward the tent, his steps light but powerful. Inside, a man dressed in the insignia of the royal court of the kingdom stood waiting.
