The war room of the Kaiser estate had filled quite quickly with 25 guests.
Maps covered every available surface, weighted down by daggers and stones.
The table at the room's center was scarred from decades of use, its wood bearing the marks of countless planning sessions.
Around that table stood representatives from five major houses, each one wearing their house colors with the pride of families who'd earned their positions through blood and politics.
House Veyra's emissary stood with her arms crossed, silver and blue dress immaculate despite the tension in the room.
House Arydn's representative leaned against the wall, crimson and gold marking him as a warrior who'd probably rather be drilling troops than discussing strategy.
His broad shoulders and scarred hands showed he'd earned his position through hard fought battles.
