"Anders, you're intelligent and gifted in both warfare and strategy, with a promising future," Seamus said. "One day, all my authority and assets will be handed to you.

"You're more than ready to handle things on your own now. I trust you know what you should and shouldn't do.

"I'm getting old, and there's nothing much I can do for you. However, I must remind you to think twice before acting and never outsmart yourself. Understand?"

He looked at Anders and offered his heartfelt advice.

"I'll never forget your words, Godfather," Anders said respectfully..

"Good. Make your arrangements, and I'll play my part in staging this falling-out. From here on, you'll have to tread your own path," Seamus said and waved him off.

"I won't let you down," Anders promised, then turned to leave.

As soon as he walked out the door, his lips curved into a faint smirk.

Though he was known throughout Oakvale as the Veros Warrior, he had always lived in Seamus' shadow. No matter how many victories he'd