Morning came.
In the meeting hall, a wide map of Liraeth's territory was spread across the long table, inked lines tracing roads, rivers, and enemy positions. Liraeth and Lumberling sat side by side, their gazes steady as they studied the map.
Across from them sat Lucian, golden hair catching the light, his smile calm and unshaken as if none of this weighed on him. To his right lounged Daigo, posture lazy, fingers drumming idly against the table. In the corner, Silas sat quiet, sharp eyes half-hidden in shadow, unreadable.
Around them stood several officials and True Knights, waiting for orders.
"Thank you all for coming," Liraeth began, her voice firm but measured. "We are here to decide our move against the Sengolio army, led by General Lafuente. Now that our forces are ready, we must choose our path carefully. Do we defend, or do we strike?"
Lucian leaned forward, smile never leaving his face. "Why don't we attack them first?"
