The applause that followed Turik's speech was firm and respectful, echoing through the hall like the steady beat of war drums. Yet beneath the surface of celebration, every commander in that room knew this was not the end. Carles was only the beginning.
General Turik, rather, the supreme general, raised a hand silencing the room with a single gesture. His gaze swept over the Estalian and Zuran commanders—some scarred, others young, but all sharpened by war.
"Now," he said, his tone shifting from pride to command, "we prepare for the second phase."
A bulky Zuran commander stepped forward. His name was Commander Scarface, known for his blunt speech and fearless charges. The scar on his face, that run from his right to check to his right forehead made him appear scary.
"Do we march northwest to pressure Fereya's defense or strike at Hainai while their defenses are stretched thin?" Scarface asked.
