#denyara

Dolraan marched with speed through the open yard, nodding at the crusaders running to and fro as he passed. Mounts were being tended, supplies checked and rechecked, and sleep was being taken wherever it could; his own order to ensure that the Crusaders wouldn't be dead on their feet as they marched. His gaze met Alynore's as she oversaw crates of medical supplies being loaded into carts, and returned her nod as she angled her head towards the stables.

Pushing the door open, his eyes set upon his next, most unenviable task. Denyara, his Kaldorei squire, brushing down her charger, only recently bonded. He closed his eyes, taking in the moment of pride over her accomplishment, then called to her. "Squire!"

She started, but quickly spun and snapped to attention, saluting with an arm across her chest. "Master Dolraan, sir! Just tending to the readiness of our mounts, sir!"

Dolraan returned her salute. "At ease, squire. I've got orders for you."

Her golden eyes all but glittered with anticipation. "It's begun, sir? I'm ready to ride at your side!"

Dolraan shook his head. "Not this time, thero'shan. You are being placed in command of Northpass Tower. Your first command," he noted, hoping to soften the blow, "an important step on your path to Knighthood."

"Shan'do?" she faltered, then regained her poise. "Permission to speak freely, Master Dolraan?"

"As always, Squire."

"Why are you sidelining me?" she asked, her stance falling into a more casual, upset pose. "Have I upset you? Have I failed a test? Have I-"

"Denyara, stop. You have been the best student I ever could have asked for. And that is why I am trusting you with this command. Even diminished as they are, the Scourge of the Plaguewood will be eager to take advantage of any weakness in our defenses. Like the one created by having half the Crusade march against the Void's attack."

He approached Denyara, and with as much poise as he could, hopped on a nearby crate so he could put a comforting hand on her shoulder. "It's because I trust you that I am giving you this task. I need to know that things here are in good hands, so I can fight to the best of my ability on the new front."

Denyara sniffed, and slumped her shoulders. "I thought I was going to be at your side, bringing the Light where it's needed."

"Not this time, kid. But someday soon. I promise." Dolraan said, pulling her into a hug. "Now, stand to attention Squire, here are your orders, you ride out within the hour to take command of the tower. Make me proud, and Elune light your path!" he declared, snapping a salute. To Denyara's credit, she straighted and returned the salute immediately.

"Sir, yes sir! I won't let you down. Light be with you, Sir!"