As the day of the bandit raid approached, Theo felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. He had been preparing for this moment for weeks, and now it was finally here. When he descended the stairs of the castle, he was met by Ely, her fur coat brushing against his legs as she looked up at him with those piercing blue eyes.
"Master," she said, her tail swishing back and forth with excitement. "We're all ready for you."
Theo nodded, his heart racing with anticipation. The knights and soldiers of Astra had gathered in the castle's courtyard, their armor gleaming in the early morning light. They had been briefed on the mission and were eager to set out.
"Good," he said, his voice firm and resolute. "Let's move out."
