“You want me to take command? Lydalia yelped, before clearing her throat of the sudden insecurity. Wasn’t this what she wanted? Command of a unit, so she could rise up in the ranks? It was one thing to want a thing, it was entirely another to have it. It was one thing to fight on the battlefield, and give her own life in glory of her country. Suddenly now, it wasn’t just her life.  Her eyes passed from Piero to Imos and back to Damon, “I, uh…is everyone okay with this?”<br/><br/>No, it made sense for her to lead. It was in her blood. The Riovanes had a legacy as proud warriors and commanders. This was her chance to restore glory to her name, and she could not waste her shot. “I accept this mantle, and hope you are all as hungry for triumph as I am.” She announced with a laugh, covering her nerves.<br/><br/>They set up camp quickly, settling down as the stars glittered above. Lydalia took position by the fire, stoking periodically to occupy herself. To distract herself from thoughts of her parents, and how they disapproved of her enlisting. She wanted to wait until she had achieved greatness before sending word home, but it had been months since she had spoken to them. Her first day had been a great success, surely that was worth a letter. Digging through her pack, she found a quill and parchment, forming her thoughts to put to paper.<br/><br/><i>Dear Mother and Father,<br/>
I hope this letter finds you in good spirits, and if it does not, may it raise your spirit with its contents. Fighting in a war with Ordallia was not you plan for me, but I still hope to make you proud with my feats. I will carry my name higher than it has flown in many years, and once more the Riovanes will be respected as true patriots to the crown, and country. <br/>
<br/>
I am afraid my betrothal to Duke Barrington will have to wait until the war is ended. If this does not suit the duke, I understand, and will not chide him for calling off our nuptials. I am sure there is no shortage of noble houses that are quite happy to offer up their daughter hands.<br/>
<br/>
Your ever dutiful daughter,<br/>
Lydalia.</i><br/><br/>Once she got back to the fortress she could send it off, and hope it would bring her family some peace. Pulling out a ration of salted meat and hard cheese, she readied herself for a long night keeping watch.