That day was full of flower scents, smiles, and laughter. I was training with my elite knights, as I was the leader of the Askari troop. The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm golden light over the training grounds, and the sound of clashing swords resonated like a symphony of steel. But the peace didn't last long. With one swift motion, I blocked the swing from the right. Manie, one of my most skilled knights, grinned at me, his eyes glinting with challenge. "I guess someone will get downed today," he said with a smirk, his confidence evident. "Well, let's see about that," I replied, adjusting my grip on the sword handle before swiftly blocking another swing from the left. The adrenaline surged through my veins as I kicked him back, the impact sending him stumbling momentarily. I looked around myself, surrounded by four of my elite knights, each holding their swords, determined to take me down. I dodged another attack, then swung my sword with precision, disarming Grog with a quick flick of my wrist. With a burst of agility, I stepped on his chest, flipping backward and narrowly avoiding Tomlin's charge. As Tomlin collided with Grog, they both fell in a heap, providing me with a fleeting moment of triumph. But my moment was short-lived, as I heard the swift sound of a blade cutting through the air behind me. I instinctively blocked Manie's sword swing, then caught his arm under my armpit, flipping him back with a force that sent him sprawling. Just as Sorin attempted to strike from my left, a sudden yell pierced the air, drawing my attention. I turned to see a messenger dismounting his horse, panic etched across his face. "Sir! Sir! Sir!" he yelled, running towards me as though he were being chased by a bear. The urgency in his voice sent a chill down my spine. The messenger, panting heavily, thrust a letter into my hands. "Sir! The king sent you this letter," he gasped, his eyes wide with urgency. My heart raced as I unfolded the letter, and the words danced before my eyes: "For the king to the leader of Aska. Some of our people in Dumine claimed an attack would be on Terin town, near the kingdom borders. Take your troop and check out this information. Greetings to you from me, Asgartia King." *Attack on Terin?* My mind raced. It was strange; Terin town had a reputation for being strong and resilient, able to withstand the test of time and adversaries. I had always believed it would be safe from threats. Well, I had no choice but to check this 'attack'. "Lads!" I called out, my voice steady despite the unease gnawing at my insides. "Get prepared! We have a quick scout on the borders! Terin, to be exact," I yelled, rolling up the letter. Manie raised an eyebrow, his expression betraying his doubt. "I'm not sure about it, sir. I mean, we should obey the orders, but I don't feel right about this mission," he admitted, discomfort evident in his voice. "Come on, Manie. We've handled worse than this," Tomlin chimed in with a smile, nudging Manie playfully. "Besides, this scout will be on Terin; we have our backs supported, so no worries about it," I reassured them with a smile, though deep down, I didn't feel right about it too. As everyone moved to prepare, I headed to the stable, a sense of calm washing over me as I approached my horse. "Hey, buddy. How are you today?" I greeted him, opening his stall. He neighed lightly, and I felt a sense of comfort in the familiarity of his presence. I gently patted his neck, feeling the warmth radiate from his body. "We have a long way to go," I said, picking up the saddle and settling it on his back. "Let's hope we get back safe; I'm not in the mood to die." I chuckled lightly as I secured the saddle, my horse letting out a soft sigh as if understanding the gravity of the situation. Once I mounted him, I trotted out of the fortress and saw my troop assembling; their determination was palpable. As I reached the gate, I gestured for it to open, glancing back to ensure everyone was ready. My knights hopped onto their horses, armed and resolute, forming a square shape behind me. Manie nodded, signaling readiness. With a firm grip on my horse's bridle, pulling it, rearing up my horse, as I raised my sword high, a rallying cry escaped my lips. The sound of hooves pounding against the ground filled the air, creating an exhilarating atmosphere as we charged toward Terin, the thrill of the race pushing us forward. The dust kicked up behind us, a testament to our urgency.