Shadow's training is interrupted when raiders attack a nearby village. Sir Aldric leads the knights into battle, bringing the squires along to observe. Shadow, despite orders to stay back, leaps into the fray when he sees a family cornered.
With a borrowed sword, he takes down his first opponent—a moment both thrilling and horrifying. After the battle, Sir Aldric scolds him for disobedience but grudgingly acknowledges his bravery.
Shadow can't sleep that night, haunted by the face of the man he killed, but a spark ignites in him: a determination to protect those who cannot protect themselves.