Ren stood before Knight Commander Arlen, the older man's gaze assessing him with a mixture of pride and scrutiny.
The battlefield had already been cleared, and all that was left was the aftermath.
The tending of the wounded, the burning of the dead, and the acknowledgment of those who had proven themselves.
Arlen crossed his arms, his expression stern but approving. "You fought well, Terence. Lord Ross will be proud. He sent you here a boy, and in four years, you've become a true warrior."
Ren inclined his head in acceptance of the praise. "I only did what was necessary."
Arlen let out a gruff chuckle. "Spoken like someone who's seen too much of war too young. Still, you have exceeded all expectations. That is something to be proud of."
"Thank you, Commander."
The Rank 5 Knight nodded. "You'll be returning to the Ross castle in a week's time. I expect you to carry yourself with the same strength there as you have here."
