---
Standing before the big trees in a unknown forest, it was not the weight of the mission that weighed upon him but something entirely different.
He was in a hostile world, far from any allies, surrounded by an enemy force that had regrouped and grown stronger with his approach.
The orc leader's gaze bore down from the parapet a fierce and prideful warrior, not some brute.
This creature held intelligence, strategy, and intimidating strength that pulsed through the air.
Breathing deep, the mana stirred within his body in preparation for the fight that was to come.
Fen, Whity and Nyx flanked him, their eyes as sure as his set upon the orc leader, as if they, too, knew something of the weight in this coming clash.
Really, he could little afford to waste too much energy on prolonged skirmishes, not with such a formidable orc leader in waiting and watching each of his moves.
