While he was relaxing after his training, Korv took some time to read the words of his fellow villagers. This was always an enjoyable portion of his day, as he often found inspiration, creativity and topics of deep thought to ponder.
First, he read the words of Sir Edward the Guardian. Sir Edward was a warrior of great tenure, and a seasoned commander known throughout the realm for his dedication to leadership and education. His moral compass was strong, and his words were wise. He was also a proponent of the arts, and often spent his days transcribing the poetic works of his beloved wife’s father, a great warrior in his own right, to share with his fellow denizens of the realm. Korv also discovered that he had fine taste in music and relished his conversations with Sir Edward. Indeed, this was a man to be admired and learned from.
Next, Korv read the writings of the very wise philosopher known to all as Mr. Philo. He was a keen observer of humanity, and his observations originated from the visual. Mr. Philo could look deep within an image and glean the true meaning of the existence around him. He could breathe life, love and humor into the most plain of images. Where others perhaps saw a mere picture of a king on a throne, Philo could see the weariness in the eyes; the cost of a thousand battles, or perhaps the gleam of a naughty royal who had just tumbled off a chambermaid before holding court. He saw the beauty and the absurdity in the mundane, and through his writings, enlightened his fellow villagers. Now, if only Korv could figure out what those strange devices he carried were. Perhaps Philo was a mage, and not just a simple philosopher?
Finally, Korv read the latest offerings from Princess Pooja. When Korv first came to the village following his exile, Pooja was one of the first people he had met. Korv found her to be a kind and supportive soul, treating both friends and strangers with equal amounts of respect. When Korv met her, he had no idea she was royalty! She later explained to Korv that she came from a far off realm, and was in the current one as an ambassador of goodwill. She was often very busy, as Korv assumed most royals were. In addition to poems and short stories, she was also writing a full-length tome. In the spirit of goodwill, she often invited other citizens of the realm to share their views as guests in her house. She was a fine example of friendship and cooperation, which Korv found to be highly admirable.
Finished reading for the time being, Korv headed out of the village to conduct his daily tasks. He must procure sustenance, purchase feed for his horse, and inquire if any merchants had need of a strong sword arm.
While he was out and about, he ran into a friend with whom he had served in many a battle. It was grand to see his old comrade, indeed! His friend, Balaji, had left the old unit some time ago to find fame and fortune elsewhere. Korv relayed his own recent misadventures, and Balaji chided him in good-natured fashion. Balaji had told Korv many times in the past that he could not sustain the frantic pace of battles on multiple fronts. He reminded Korv that this was exactly why he had left the old unit himself. Korv grinned slightly and agreed that Balaji was quite right. They made an agreement to meet soon and exchange more war stories, and Balaji said he would keep his ears open for solid work. Korv gave his deepest thanks and they parted company for the time being.
Korv finished the remainder of his tasks and took up the journey home. When he arrived there, he found a message from another old friend awaited him. The one was from Kyle, the Armsman.
Korv and Kyle had also served together in the same unit. Kyle was a fine armorer, and had built many of the arms and fortifications that Korv and his comrades carried into many a battle.
It was his steel that had helped them conquer the giant Red Hawk of the South, the Army of the River Manecc, and so many other foul foes. Aye, some of the finest steel in the realm!
Korv read the message intently, as he scanned it line by line, a smile crept across his face. Kyle had left the unit as well. He said it was no longer the same since Korv, and so many others he held in high regard, departed. He said the commanders had become foolhardy, and if they were not careful, they would be the architects of their own demise.
Korv rolled the parchment back up and sat back contentedly. He was happy for his friends, but he was equally happy to know that indeed, there was life beyond the one he’d once known. Now, Korv knew beyond the shadow of a doubt, there were even greater lands to conquer. And conquer them, he shall.
The Beginning At Last 
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