Cost

“Then why is he the key to stopping the Empire?” the young goshawk asked, “Is it just because he won against that warrior of the Shrine? I can do it too!”

“Nonsense! One’s ability on paper is much different from real battle experience. Even your best expectation against Krangma would be a draw.”

“Then he might be a little better. You’re always right.”

The older goshawk sighed helplessly, “I really should send you out to practise. You’re starting to think you’re far more powerful than you are. When you are defeated by someone who isn’t yet a grand mage, you will finally learn ”

……

The two goshawks hovered over Richard’s head for an entire week, while Richard had his eyes locked onto them for a majority of his own journey. He knew that he was being followed, but a kilometre into...