Xavier released Mia's hand and stepped towards the soldier. The weariness in his eyes still lingered, but he pulled himself through it.

"Soldiers, you can stand at ease," he ordered, and the soldiers immediately obeyed. "I have heard of your diligence, dedication, and perseverance in the training course and how intense they are. I know you may never see me again—at least not until the war begins—but I want you to remember why we fight and who we fight for. You do not fight for only the king and queen; you fight for Wahala. Remember, you fight for your home; you fight for your mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters. You...