The Enemy

[Wolf]

The dew glistens in the light of the rising sun.  The warriors breath, frosts the morning air. With a practiced hand, he jostles his sword in its scabbard, keeping the blade free should he need to draw it.

Wolf reads the missive he had received from the Emperor, its contents of no surprise to him.  They had walked this path before and he knew all to well what was required.

The old warrior places the note inside his cloak and waits.

Wolf doesn't wait long as he sees the mounted figure break through the morning mists.

"Senator" he calls out. "Thank you for meeting me on such short notice".

Rand climbs down from his horse and clasps the old warriors hand. "I wish it were in better times" he states.

Wolf nods and pulls the note from his cloak and hands is to him.  "It is from the Emperor. The current strife that plagues the land must be pushed back."

Rand takes a moment to read the note.  "I understand" he says simply.

Wolf turns and looks out at the shimmering waters in front of Olympus.  "As Senator of War, the Emperor calls you to active duty. As in the days of the Orc Wars and the Stand of Trinsic, the Empire must be prepared.  As Senator, the Emperor grants you all rights and authority over the Legion. You answer only to Him. These are trying times. You are surrounded by able bodied commanders.  Use those that will mould the cohorts to stand against the growing opposition.  You speak with the Emperor's voice and he will brook no argument."  The old warrior looks back towards the Senator. "Guide them witha firm yet just hand Rand.  They require discipline and focus to keep them alive in the coming days.  There is strength within the ranks.  Draw it out.  Tap their energy.  Show them what it is to be an army."

Rand looks from the old warrior to the note in his hand.  "Very well" he states.  "The Legion will be ready.".  With that he mounts the horse and pulls the head about.

"Rand" Wolf calls out, stopping the Senator's mount. "Remember, you speak with the Emperor's voice. Keep them alive."

Wolf watches as Rand  disappears into the mist.

What an age we live in.  Thinking to himself...they will learn,  they will listen...or what?....they will die.

For Honor and Empire