It was the next day.
The day Ezra would go on his first mission after five years.
For some reason, his heart was beating louder than it should. Each step toward the meeting point made the sound echo in his chest.
Beside him, Lior walked quietly.
"I'm nervos," Lior whispered.
Ezra glanced down at him.
"I'm scared."
Ezra tilted his head slightly. He had to resist the urge to reach for the boy's hand. They were out in public, surrounded by knights and soldiers moving through the palace grounds.
"Why are you scared?" Ezra asked gently.
Lior frowned at the ground as he walked.
"What if… someone takes me when you not there?" he said slowly. "What if the Dark Ones also come?"
Ezra's expression softened.
"Don't worry, Lior," he said, keeping his voice calm. "The reason I'll be there with the other knights is to make sure no Dark Ones get anywhere near you."
Lior looked up at him.
