19. The Protectors' Tale

The city hall was filled with sorcerers; officers of each regiment were invited to receive special commendations from the Mayor and Captain.

The courtroom was lined with fully occupied chairs. Malk sat alongside Sergeant Stephran, Veeko and Major Britton in the front row. Two crutches sat beside Malk’s chair, he was only just beginning to feel his legs and sides again. The pain in his head was still immense.

Officers were lined up on the stage before them. Mayor Crucillo took turns thanking them one by one while placing a gold medal around their necks, handed to him by Captain Fishrual.

Kelsic was not among the sorcerers in the large room. The Mayor recalled her mentioning something about four children, “Thank you Left Lieutenant Tannen of the Kings’ Men,” he said as he rewarded the last woman at the end of the stage.

“You may all be seated,” said Captain Fishrual, the soldiers left the stage and took up their seats behind Malk.