As they prepared for the confrontation, the dragon returned, landing gracefully beside them. "I have seen his forces," it said, its voice grave. "He has gathered many, but he lacks the heart of the people. We can use this to our advantage."
"What do you mean?" Evelyn asked, intrigued.
"The king's loyalists may be numerous, but they are not united in purpose. Many follow him out of fear or obligation rather than true loyalty. If we can show them that their future lies with us, we may turn the tide without unnecessary bloodshed," the dragon explained.
Kael nodded, a spark of hope igniting within him. "We could send envoys to speak directly to his soldiers. If they see that we offer a better path forward one where they can live freely without oppression they might abandon the king."
Evelyn felt a surge of determination. "Let's do it. We have to reach out to them before the battle begins. We can't let fear dictate the narrative any longer."
