all things to dust return but you keep on

The Warlord chuckled, happy to be distracted with his thoughts, and pleased that Hazel saw where he was nudging her. “Your Warlord grants you permission” He said gruffly, bringing them to a halt at the bottom of the pass to his den. The area of the Cole was wide and flat, and familiar beneath his paws. “Let's see what you have learned, Hazel.” He said.

He was a tough old Warlord, and cocky enough to know the chances of her beating him were slim. It wasn’t about winning, though he would not grant her General if she lost. It was about showing what you learned, and having the courage to try. For making this challenge, and if he judged her abilities worthy, her loss would still grant her a move upwards. Lieutenant perhaps. But really, it all depended on what happened next. “The opening move is yours”

"Sirius Fatalis"