A vast, unending expanse stretched out before Roy, the Leader of the Pherae army. Sand dunes rose and fell in an undulating sea of gold, the sun casting long, dramatic shadows across the barren desert. He had led his troops into what seemed to be the middle of nowhere, in pursuit of a rumored enemy encampment that was said to be hidden within the desert's harsh expanse.
Even though the map showed nothing but a blank expanse, Roy wasn’t deterred. His blue eyes stared out into the distance, a mixture of determination and apprehension. The Sword of Seals felt heavy at his side, a physical reminder of the responsibilities that rested on his young shoulders.
His red hair, usually vibrant, was dulled by the dust of the desert. His skin was parched from the relentless sun and his clothes clung to his body, soaked with sweat. Despite the harsh conditions, he maintained a steady demeanor, showing no signs of faltering in front of his troops.
He felt a pang of self-doubt, wondering if he had led his troops astray. But he quickly pushed it aside.
"I can't afford to doubt myself,"
he muttered under his breath, his hand instinctively gripping the hilt of his sword. His friends, his family, and his people were relying on him.