It was a nice day. The sun was covered by lazy clouds. A soft breeze cooled the air. I lay under the comfort of a large oak. I sipped mead from a clay cup. The wheat taste wasn’t the best, but I enjoyed it. My Sevlow uniform was hot, but these comforts helped to cool me down. I found it hard to care about The Elders and their decision when the day was going so well. Worrying about them would only dampen my spirits. Besides, I was as good as the other assassins with every weapon. Except the bow, I was never that good with a bow.

I couldn’t wait. I’d earned every piece of black leather, every sheath, every dagger. I was only missing the cloak and gauntlet. I was excited that I would finally be attaining the cloak. I loved the gray color, the soft cotton used to make it. It would almost complete me. All I would need after that was the gauntlet. Its gold plate was something to be coveted. I desired to be that well ranked. Nothing would stand in my way.

“Ocifer!” I heard a young voice shout.

Tuwa came bounding toward me. His cropped hair smacked him in the face as he ran. I couldn’t help but laugh. He looked like a fool. I finished my mead and stood. He slowed and knelt before me. Before he could say a word I handed him my cup.

“Here,” I told him.

“Oh, thank you.” Tuwa took the cup.

“I think I’ll go for a walk. It’s nice out.” I decided.

“But Ocifer, you’re wanted by The Elders. You shouldn’t keep them waiting.” Tuwa cried.

“Don’t be such a milk drinker.” I told him. “If The Elders wish to see me so badly they would have sent someone with some importance.”

Tuwa bowed his head. “Y—yes Ocifer, of course.” His voice cracked.

I stood there without speaking. Tuwa would look up every few seconds, realize I was staring at him, and quickly bow his head again. I started to laugh at the fool.

“Come now, Tuwa. I was your age once. Let’s go see The Elders,” I told him.

He smiled as he turned to follow me, “Yes, Ocifer.”