Eye of the tiger

Standing on the border between the knolls and the forest, Valentine tipped back his head and howled for Mercy. Recent events led to his decision to call her to him. Despite her age she was doing well in her chosen field. Her eagerness to defend Imperium impressed him, as did her desire to better her skills. To say he was pleased with Dione's rescue would be an understatement. She routinely went above and beyond her rank and it was time she was recognized for it.

Not expecting a long wait, the brute sank to his haunches anyway. He'd been making his rounds since before sunrise and while his body was largely accustomed to the constant movement it wouldn't hurt to give his paws a brief respite.