The war room of the Sunspire Palace was dimly lit, its walls covered in shifting maps and glowing markers showing troop movements. Bao Bao stood at the center, conferring with his generals while Saku lingered quietly near Naelith at the far wall.
Torren Wyemfall bowed once. "Scouts confirm Pyronis has fully retreated. But this wasn't a surrender. They withdrew in formation, protecting their high commanders."
Kaelis Stonehide crossed his arms. "They're planning something. Something coordinated."
Raijin Sarurama studied the markers, eyes narrowed. "Their forces didn't break. They regrouped. The next strike will not be reckless."
Kuro leaned against the table. "Their pride's wounded. They'll come back for blood."
Rana added, "And they'll come smarter."
Naelith rested a hand on Saku's shoulder. "Watch," she whispered. "Listen. This is where victories are shaped."
Saku nodded, eyes wide. Here—surrounded by generals, strategists, and his father—he felt the weight of destiny pressing close.
Bao Bao traced several Pyronis movements on the map. "They're shifting their forward camps. Their scouts are too quiet. And the Conclave's shadows…" His eyes hardened. "Something is stirring."
Lyrin approached with a sealed scroll. "A message, sire. Intercepted. Pyronis is attempting to provoke the Conclave."
A hush spread.
Veylara's expression turned sharp. "If the Conclave joins them—"
"They won't," Bao Bao said. "Not willingly. But Pyronis doesn't need allies. They need a distraction."
Raijin lifted his head. "An attack meant to divide us."
Bao Bao nodded. "Divide us… or weaken me." He looked at Saku, voice steady. "War isn't only fought with armies. It's fought with fear, misdirection, and shadows."
Saku swallowed. "Then… what happens now?"
Bao Bao turned back to the map, Sunfire glinting faintly across his fingertips.
"Now, Saku… we prepare for the moment Pyronis strikes from every direction at once." His voice deepened. "And we meet them with more than force. We meet them with unity."
He placed a hand over the entire map of Firelonia.
"Because Firelonia does not fall."
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