Sharpened tooth, sharper mettle

The tension in the air was unmistakably noticeable as members of Nightshade ran to and fro in their hidden passageways. Arms and armor to account for, magical accessories in need of documentation, this and many more tasks were at hand to accomplish to prepare for the incursion. Assignments barked and received in short, snappy orders, and I listened to each one, taking in the experience, the effort to prepare. To some, they would disguise themselves as those in need and wait alongside the travel routes used by the people protected by the Guard. This disguise would allow them to take out soldiers stationed in critical areas heavily defended by the Crystarium. To others, blades were whet and arrows were fletched, making sure that all implements of war would serve their purpose when the time would come. I saw it all, the energy of the cause, to prepare ourselves with the means to cut off the Guard on their primary defense and secure a holding for our own. I internally balked, of course, at the idea we had to go to such lengths to fight for a land that was rightfully ours for generations. We were born here, raised here, and our elders laid to rest beneath the soil, nowhere else. And yet, we had to prepare to fight as if this was a genuine act of war against nations. How infuriating it was to see the blatant robbery of our way of life. I knew how terrible the Crystarium was. I needed to make sure that when this fight was over, I would be able to show to my friend the same crimes I understood so well.
 
When the leader of the march came to me with a specific request, I found it quite simple to accept. "You will take the rearguard. If we get forced back, I need you and the others to finish the assault."
 
Simple enough, I had thought, as the tactical aspects gained further highlight. The following request was the one I knew not how to respond:
 
"You're going to be preparing to learn the binding. We need you to tame the wargs."
 
I did hesitate slightly. The works of magic were indeed one I heard much about, but I was not one well versed in the method. Still, I had to prove to Lowri that the cause was just. I couldn't show weakness. If I lost this chance to prove to her the problem of the Crystarium, I would never forgive myself for losing her should she decide to join them.
 
I could quickly figure it out. If others could do it, why not me?
 
So I accepted the assignment. I was to learn the ancient method to command the wolf within.
 
Dare I hope it is so soon I have a chance to make my case? I haven't seen her in so long. It anguishes me that she could still entrap herself in those fabricated promises of protection that the Crystarium had no right to offer us. Once again, I remind myself this is for our people, even as I received orders to meet with the cabal to prepare myself for the rites. I would give what was necessary.