I really am wanting to get to later chapters so I’ve kind of rushed through this one. I’m a little disappointed in it but I still think it’s post worthy. Sorry it’s so short.

Don’t worry, the next chapter will be better. It is what it is, but it is not what it shall be. 😜

1 year later

Helmer rushed up the steps gasping for breath, he ran into a large hall. Seeing the large door, he composed himself then knocked politely. “Helmer, my friend.” Said the familiar voice of Harlen Seer. “I’m glad you could come, Luteiniant.”

“Of course.” Helmer responded. He had become Lutieniant after Harlen took the position of Captain. He wasn’t sure why he had been called here, but he knew it must be important. “I have summoned you for a very important reason.” Harlen said rubbing his brow. “Sit,” Helmer sat awkwardly in the chair across from the Captains desk. “I have some bad news, well you might take it badly.” Helmers heart beat faster, pounding in his chest. “Sadly Both Lord Lancastor and Alpin were killed in a battle not far from here.”

“What!” Helmer exclaimed. He had thought that these two bucks were invincible. But that was stupid, childish. “Yes, I’m afraid so, you are the first Lieutenant to know, because I have a favor to ask from you, Perkin is becoming a Lord Captain in Lancastors place. And I will be taking Alpins.” Helmer felt unsteady, thoughts swirled through his brain, what was Harlen saying?

“Therefore you are the new Captain.” He paused letting the information sink in. Helmer didn’t move, stunned. He couldn’t believe this was happening. Him Captain? He wasn’t ready! But then again… “I have even more news,” Harlen said, a sad smile on his face. “Wilfred will become Captain for Pekin. Shanks got promoted to elite archers, and Carl is retiring, settling down with a doe.” Helmer sighed, putting his hands to his head. This had to be a lie, it was just him and Snoden then. He looked up at Harlen intently, his expression was anxious, waiting for his reaction. “Okay.” Helmer said. Harlen looked at him in surprise “But I do have a question, if almost everyone is leaving, then what am I Captain of?” Harlen grinned “You will get new bucks, who will follow your orders, I spoke with King Jupiter and he deemed it best that you trained them to be ready and stealthy. You will train them to do certain missions that are decided for your group. This is a very important role in the army and I trust you will do your best.” Helmer was unsure of how to react. He didn’t feel prepared for such an important role, he wasn’t sure he could do it. But he would have Snoden, and he was sure that would be enough. The other part of his mind wanted to refuse, go home and continue his old life. However, that was not possible, and he knew it. He had sworn that he would fight for Jupiter, until all of Natalia was conquered. He felt immense pride swelling in himself, he was worthy and others thought so. Not everyone got this opportunity and he was. He made up his mind, he had somewhere to be, and this was the right decision. “I promise I’ll do my best, and I’ll fight, until the green ember rises”

“Or the end of the world.” They finished together. Helmer stood, pushing his chair back. He strutted out of the room, a large smile on his face. As soon as he was out of sight, he burst into a run, scrambling to the village. He ran through the courtyard and past the statues of Flint and Fay. He skidded to a halt at the sight of two rabbits standing, and holding hands.They stood next to the gallant tree which Daggler had been under so long ago. The humid air caused rabbits to hide under umbrellas and the green grass was slowly yellowing. “Sno! Arien!” He called. Airen spun, dropping Snodens hands. She shrieked, a smile on her face and ran at him, arms open. They collided with each other, embracing. “Oh, Helm!” Airen cried, breaking free from his grasp. “I have some great news!”

“Really, me too!” Helmer said, his pride growing. Airen stepped back closer to Snoden, linking arms with him. “Okay, you go first.” She said. Helmer inhaled, his smile widening to it’s limit. “I got promoted to Captain!” He said. “Really!” Snoden yelled. He clapped Helmer on the back, nearly sending him to the ground. “That's amazing!”

“Oh my goodness! Helm, that’s great!” Airen said, hugging him once more.

After a brief explanation of what had happened they sat at the foot of the tree. “So,” Helmer said, “Tell me your news.” Airen glanced nervously at Snoden, but she quickly turned it into a smile “Okay, well, Snodens coming home!” She exclaimed, gripping his arm. “We’re going to start our life together, he asked me this morning. We're getting married!”

The world went silent. Helmers mouth fell open. He knew they were at the age to settle down but it just didn’t seem right. He would have to continue on his own while Snoden lived his life. Bitterness mixed with surprise filled him and his focus wavered even more. A hand was laid on his arm, and he could feel the humid droplets against his skin again. Airen was looking at him, her face practically glowing. Helmer just couldn’t bring himself to ruin this moment for her. So he smiled wide, saying. “Wow, that's great!” Airen’s eyes filled with happy tears. “Oh, I’m so glad Helm. I don’t think I’ve ever been this happy!” Tears fell down her face and Snoden hugged her. He looked back at Helmer, his bright green eyes full of excitement at what would come. Helmer stood. “I think I’m gonna go get ready for a thing…” He said. Then without looking back he headed to the bunkhouse. When he arrived he sat heavily on the squeaky bed, sighing. He rubbed his head, hoping to get rid of the headache that had just come to him. He flopped on his side and without taking off his scabbard he fell into a deep sleep.