The council chamber was colder that evening than usual.
Candles flickered along the long oak table where the king and his advisors had gathered.
Cassian entered quietly.
King Aldric regarded him with measured calm.
"You have my condolences, Prince Cassian. Your parents served this kingdom with great honor."
Cassian bowed slightly.
"They would have considered it their duty, Your Majesty."
Lord Cedric Valmont stepped forward.
"Our spies confirm that Noctyra's influence continues to spread. Their mages have begun constructing hidden outposts within the eastern valleys."
General Roland Ashford spoke grimly.
"Scouts report unnatural phenomena during skirmishes. Entire units vanish without wounds."
Lord Beaumont added quietly
"Their magic distorts the battlefield itself."
The king leaned forward slightly.
"This war will not resemble any conflict Aurelion has faced before."
Cassian studied the map before him.
"And yet we must fight it."
King Aldric's gaze lingered on him.
"You possess your father's resolve."
Inside the king's mind another thought surfaced.
And perhaps his troublesome sense of honor as well.
He spoke again.
"The northern legion now lacks a commander."
The room grew silent.
Cassian understood immediately.
He bowed his head.
"I will lead them."
A flicker of satisfaction passed through the king's eyes.
"You will depart at dawn."
Inside Cassian's thoughts another voice whispered.
Maria…
Yet war allowed no time for sentiment.