It looks so peaceful, he thought as he stood gazing upon the distant city, his standard fluttering in the evening breeze. But peace is only temporary. There are always battles to fight, always dangers from which the world must be protected. His eyes, partially hidden behind his helm, swept from one end of the valley to the other, seeing not just the city but the lands beyond and the roads he must yet walk.

Still, it matters not. Every man has a purpose, a destiny set before him. Even if I could choose to walk away, what kind of man would I be if I did?

He lifted his head and glanced at the banner he held. No. My path is set among the stars, and I will not rest until I have reached it. He smiled and lightly touched the silken cloth at his belt. Then and only then will I return to my Lady. Not before. He drew a deep breath of night air, then took a firmer hold of his banner and shield and strode toward the city in the distance, the moon lighting his path.