It’s been a long morning of trials. It’s never been easy to be Commander of the Jatalian army but with the Prince at my side it’s at least bearable. Before the Prince can usher in the next request, a soldier tentatively approaches us.

He half-covers his snout, “Sire, Commander, we’ve also heard rumors of a potential attack by the—“ he suddenly closes his mouth as though he’s too mouse-hearted to speak.

I say, “Well, out with it.”

He whispers behind his paw, “The Shadow Fox of Zutaom.” There are a few quiet gasps around the room, but it seems most of them haven’t heard.

The growing shadow reports have been enough to keep me up at night. But now this rumor of the Shadow Fox potentially heading for our borders? It’s enough to make me never want to sleep again. It’s bad enough he has been loose in his own country.

I half-growl and shake away the dark trajectory of my thoughts. It matters not. The Magic of Jatali always has a plan and will keep his beings safe. And I’m experienced enough to know how to handle one measly fox.