rangers apprentice · will treaty · fantasy · stealth · archery · orphan · redmont fief · strategic · young adult
“Line up! Form a line!” Martin’s voice cracked with feigned authority. The recruits shuffled, eyes downcast. “By height! Tallest first!” Horace stepped forward, looming. Alyss followed, then the gaunt George. Will and Jenny hesitated. Jenny, taller yet, gestured for Will to go ahead, sparing his pride. Will stepped up, only to be halted. “Not you. The girl first.” Martin’s tone was sharp. Will slunk to the back, shrinking under the gaze. “Smartening up! Attention!” Martin barked, but a deep, calm voice cut through. “Unnecessary, Martin.” Baron Arald emerged from the shadows behind his desk. Martin snapped to a rigid, awkward posture, bow-legged and stiff. Arald sighed, looking up as if at a peacock. “Just bring the craftmasters.”