As you protect your soldiers, so do they protect you, says the memory of your teacher, Battlemage Ferlis. And with that, you decide to keep your attention focused on your duty and to trust the 75th to keep you safe.

From behind you hear the twang of several bows and the group of Dukesmen fall under a barrage of arrows. “Just keep your shields up, none will touch you,” murmurs Major Callis, his voice pitched steady and low. You breathe more easily and while you are growing tired, magic still leaps to do your will.

The battle for the East Gate continues, the 75th holding against the dwindling tide of Dukesmen. Some are already cheering that you have won the day when a bolt of magefire smashes into your shield. The concussion sends many to the ground and you scramble to strengthen the shields you have been holding for so long already.

“SEND THE BOY OUT TO DO BATTLE, OR I WILL BURN YOU WHERE YOU STAND,” a booming voice says.

Callis says beside you, “You can answer his challenge, or we can do it for you.”