I keep seeing it in my head over and over again. The sword entering Heath's body. It replays again but I stop, focusing on this moment right now, where Heath is on the floor. I need to say goodbye but I can't. I don't want to accept it.

He's crying. I've never seen him cry before. "Kid," he says, coughing. "Remember what I've taught you."

"No," I demand. He's my mentor but most importantly, my best friend. He just can't die.

"Seth! I'm the one dying, okay? I'm the one that should be upset. But you? You aren't dying. Because you are young, talented, brave-"

"I'm not brave," I shake my head.

"You can be. Right now, you can be the bravest warrior in this field. But you have to stand up. Stand up and fight!"

I look at him one more time, seeing him finally go, and stand. As I look on at the battlefield, I feel something awake inside. A fire, roaring to kill the people that killed Heath. To fight for him.

I pick up my sword and run into the crowd, sure that whatever happens, I did the right thing.