After Markus’ and Selenor’s departure, the gravity of the king’s imminent arrival and the reasons for his coming rushed back. The defectors in the camp may have been dealt with, but the militia, who had been silent in the past two weeks, and the defectors who abandoned the garrison were still at large and the danger of further conflict was still high. And if either were aware of the king’s coming, the hours before the kings arrival may yet be the most dangerous of all for the garrison. We needed to depart and return as quickly as possible with the king.

Turning back to Barrak, I spoke, “Commander, you are to be commended for your diligence and work here in the face of daunting challenges and tasks. You have honored the king well and I know he will be pleased upon his arrival. We will return by sundown this evening with the king and reinforcements.”

In response, he saluted. We returned the gesture.

Mounting our horses, I looked back over the garrison, over the commander and the soldiers standing with him. The honor of the king was evident here. These men, their devotion, their work, it all testified to the person of the king. Our King. Our Banner. In this moment, I understood why my father enlisted me. In this moment, I understood why Damian would take a sword the gut for this king. The glory and honor of the king, of our banner was larger than any of us. The greatest joy any of us had was being privileged to be part of a purpose larger than ourselves. My father knew this. He knew my life was too small and too comfortable. He knew I needed to see the king for who he was and to revel in the banner he was for us.

Unfolding the banner, mounting it on the pole, and preparing the ride, I knew that the real banner was not this piece of fabric, but was the king himself. Greater pride than I had ever known while bearing this banner welled up in me. This particular banner held great significance for it was constructed from the men who proudly and humbly served this king. This banner was truly representative of our king, the true banner, and I counted it a high privilege to bear it to the king who’s worth and value was worth any cost or sacrifice.

Though I knew not the outcome of this conflict or what the days ahead would hold, I knew that I could trust this king. I knew that I would serve and die for this king if necessary. Looking out over the soldiers gathered here, I knew I was not alone.

With that, I saluted the commander, turned, and headed out to meet the Banner, the true banner who’s coming was joyfully anticipated.