"Give the order."
"Yes, My Lord," He calls up four recruits; Leon, Percival, Bianca and Amerai, and he briefed them of the commands I gave; departing quickly but not before sharing some nervous glances between themselves.
"You, recruit, what's your name?" I pulled one of the advance party aside to talk as privately as we can without leaving the party; he reins his horse beside mine; his face about as young as mine, appearing to have seen less combat than I have; his short brown hair waving only slightly in the wind, his blue eyes young and keen to explore the wilderness.
"Leon Perry Sir, I've only been in this squad for a few months." He responds nervously.
"Relax, Leon; there is no need for these formalities." I smile, both to relax him but also to cover my own nerves, "Call me Dmitri."
"But Sargent E'lion calls you My Lord, sir?" The fresh faced recruit inquires, some nerves lifted but still reluctant to say anything.
"Yes, but I've given him plenty of opportunities to drop the title; he has, however, continues to stand by protocol on every occasion; isn't that right, E'lion?" I jest.
"Yes, My lord."
"See what I mean?" I smile, Leon's posture revealing his newfound comfort.
"Yes, Dmitri." He relaxes further, sitting comfortably in his saddle, "I only just transferred here from the 8th Battalion."
"Right, Godspeed on your mission; but be careful, I have a feeling we aren't the only people on this road."
"Yes, sir… I mean Dmitri." He corrected himself; "I'll be careful, you too, I'd hate for something to happen to you all."
